You don’t have to travel far either – as this exclusive guide to things to do and places to go in the Mansfield, Ashfield and Nottinghamshire area proves.
There are events at Mansfield Market, Mansfield Museum and the town’s Palace Theatre to get stuck into this weekend.
You can find out more about the legend of Robin Hood, pick up gifts at a courtyard market at Thoresby Park and even enjoy a Peroni tasting session.
If you collect antiques, if you’re a sucker for musical memories, if you remember Mansfield’s old Granada venue, if you’re fascinated by bees, if you love classical music or if you’re a fan of the Kate Shackleton murder mysteries, then read on because there’s something for you!
Before you set off, please remember to check the websites of the individual venues for opening times and admission prices.
Have a great weekend!
9. Classical music concert at Southwell Minster
Southwell Minster is the perfect setting on Saturday night for a concert of classical music featuring Nottingham Harmonic Choir. The highlight will be the choir performing Britten's mesmerising cantata, 'St Nicolas', with amazing tenor soloist Christopher Turner and choristers from the minster. The concert will also include a favourite by Elgar, a rarely performed gem by Vaughan Williams and haunting music by Arvo Part and Max Richter. Photo: Submitted
10. Meet author behind Kate Shackleton murder mysteries
If you're a fan of the Kate Shackleton murder mysteries, then you'll be aware of the author, Frances Brody. Well now is your chance to meet her when she gives a talk at Sutton Library next Tuesday (2 pm) about her writing career and her time with theatre groups in Nottingham. Also known as Frances McNeil, she has written historical novels too and for TV and radio. Photo: Mark Bickerdike
11. Beat the drum for kids under seven
Mansfield Museum. always the place to go for children's activities, is warming up for the next school half-term holiday. And an event not to be missed for kids under seven is a free workshop with the BeatFeet drumming group, which was advertised to take place on May 20 (this Saturday), but is actually on Tuesday, May 30 (10 am to 11 am). The fun and engaging workshop will explore rhythms from around the world using hand drums. Photo: Submitted
12. Celebration of late Queen and new King
Shows by local dance schools are always popular at Mansfield's Palace Theatre. So packed audiences are expected on Saturday and Sunday for 'A Royal Reign', a show by the Believe Academy based in Hucknall and run by highly respected teacher Simone Witherden. The two-hour show celebrates the reign of the late Queen and coincides with the recent Coronation of King Charles II. Photo: Submitted