From the historic, ancient canopy of Sherwood Forest's borders to the sweeping panoramic views atop transformed heritage trails, the colder months bring a unique, quiet magic to our countryside.
So lace up your boots, wrap up warm, and head outside. This is your ultimate guide to Mansfield and Ashfield’s best autumn and winter walks.
9. Oxclose Wood
Managed by Forestry England, this 143-acre country park sits directly on the edge of Mansfield Woodhouse. Despite its natural appearance, it is a fascinating piece of industrial history: the wooded hill is actually the restored former Sherwood Colliery spoil mound Photo: Google
10. Thieves Wood
The name itself dates back centuries, referencing the highwaymen and outlaws who used to hide in the dense treeline to ambush travellers traveling along the old Nottingham-to-Mansfield turnpike road. More recently, walkers have reported 'ghostly' sightings, and there's a local legend that alleges a UFO crashed there in the 1980s Photo: Google
11. Brierley Forest Park
Reclaimed from the old Sutton Colliery, this park features a gorgeous mix of open parkland, a wildlife-heavy fishing pond (Brierley Water), and sculpture trails Photo: Google
12. Portland Park
If you want to lose yourself under a blazing canopy of gold and orange, this is the place to be. A former limestone quarry turned Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), located in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, it features ancient woodland paths dating back to 1600 Photo: Google