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.
9. Sherwood Pines
Sherwood Pines is a popular choice for a Boxing Day walk in 2025, offering extensive trails and family activities. The forest features three main waymarked walking trails suitable for a winter stroll: Archer’s Stroll: A short, 1.2 km (0.75 mile) easy trail perfect for families and accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Castle Walk: A moderate 4.5 km (2.8 mile) circular route through various woodland landscapes. Ranger’s Path: The longest trail at 7.2 km (4.5 miles), which takes you into the quieter, more secluded areas of the pine and heathland. Photo: Google Maps
10. Spa Ponds Nature Reserve
Spa Ponds Nature Reserve, also known as Gara Ponds, is a historic and tranquil community-owned wildlife site near Mansfield that is open 24 hours a day, making it fully accessible for a Boxing Day walk. Connecting Trails: The public bridleway known as Packman's Way runs through the reserve, and the area links to several longer walking routes, including sections of the Maun Trail and routes to Vicar Water Country Park and Kings Clipstone. Terrain: Paths vary from firm tracks to more sandy or earthy surfaces, some of which can be boggy or steep in places. Appropriate footwear is recommended. Photo: Google Maps
11. Thieves Wood
Thieves Wood, managed by Forestry England, is an easily accessible and peaceful woodland located between Mansfield and Ravenshead. Terrain: The trails are generally well-drained and suitable for most conditions, though some trails are unsurfaced and may require appropriate footwear. Photo: Google Maps
12. Maun Valley Park
Maun Valley Park is a series of interconnected local nature reserves following the River Maun through Mansfield, offering peaceful walks that are accessible to the public 24 hours a day with free admission. Quarry Lane Nature Reserve: A "hidden gem" close to the town centre, with walkways alongside the River Maun and small ruffles (waterfalls). The Oakham Nature Reserve: Features a mosaic of wet willow woodland, ponds, and flower-rich grassland. A well-maintained boardwalk allows seamless pedestrian access from Kings Mill Reservoir to the town centre via the Quarry Lane LNR. The Bottoms: Another connected reserve that forms part of the extensive Pleasley Trails network. The Maun Trail & Other Connections: The park is part of the longer Maun Trail, which can link you to the medieval Spa Ponds Nature Reserve and Sherwood Forest, offering routes of varying lengths and difficulties, including some potentially muddy or boggy areas. Photo: Google Maps