For 2025, Mansfield and Ashfield offer an exceptional variety of landscapes, from the historic ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest to the tranquil wetlands of Brierley Forest Park.
Whether you are looking to work off the turkey with a challenging hike or seeking a gentle, pushchair-friendly stroll for the whole family, our local trails are ready for you.
With most parks, including Sherwood Pines, reopening their gates from 8am on December 26th, you can enjoy a peaceful morning amidst nature before the holiday festivities continue.
Below is your 2025 guide to the top-rated routes and hidden gems across Mansfield and Ashfield.
1. Blow away the cobwebs with these Boxing Day walks
Take a look where you can walk off those Christmas calories around Mansfield and Ashfield on Boxing Day. Photo: gray-clary-9eU9t4vxQVk-unsplash
2. Brierley Forest Park
Brierley Forest Park is an excellent option for a Boxing Day walk, as the park and its free car park are open 24 hours a day, providing flexibility for your festive schedule. These routes are ideal for families, those with pushchairs, or individuals seeking a relaxed pace after the previous day's festivities. Park Boundary Walk: A circular route of just over 3.5 miles (90 minutes estimated duration) around the perimeter of the park. It features a largely flat, compacted red-ash surface, making it suitable for most wheelchairs and scooters in dry weather. "High Level" Walks: Explore the eastern half of the site known as Rooley Tops for longer and steeper paths. Photo: Google Maps
3. Poulter Country Park
Poulter Country Park is a quiet, peaceful green space located near Langwith, Mansfield, known for its scenic views, varied wildlife, and art installations. It is an excellent location for walks, dog walking, and picnics, with surfaced paths that are largely accessible. Waymarked Trails: There are several well-surfaced limestone paths to follow, including a 1.5-mile (2.5 km) sculpture trail that features various artworks inspired by the area's industrial and natural history. "Top of the World" Viewpoint: A notable feature is the park's highest point, offering panoramic views across the countryside to Creswell, Langwith, and on clear days, even Lincoln Cathedral. The climb can be steep but is considered rewarding. Photo: Google Maps
4. Yeoman Hill Park
Yeoman Hill Park is a Green Flag award-winning community park in Mansfield Woodhouse that is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it a flexible option for a walk at any time. The park features a combination of open grassland, ornamental gardens, and a mix of young, maturing, and mature trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is often described as a peaceful and well-maintained area. Photo: Google Maps