The cost-of-living crisis and the plight of Ukraine might be playing on our minds. But the Easter holiday represents a golden chance to have a break for a few days to enjoy ourselves, especially as the forecast says the weather is going to be warm and bright.
Many of you will have made plans already. But for those still seeking last-minute inspiration, here is our weekly guide to things to do and places to go in the Mansfield and Ashfield area and further afield within Nottinghamshire.
The theme is Easter everywhere you look, with family attractions and activities ranging from trails to hunts for eggs, chicks and bunnies.
But there are also special events at places such as Papplewick Pumping Station and Mansfield’s Palace Theatre to get your teeth into.
Before you set off, please remember to check the individual websites of each venue for opening times and admission prices.
And if you know of any upcoming event that could be featured in this weekly guide, please email me at [email protected]
Have a great weekend!
5. It's showtime!
Sing and dance your way into Easter with the Sarah Patrick School of Dance, based in South Normanton. For a cast of more than 100 (pictured) is staging the school's latest show at Mansfield's Palace Theatre for four consecutive nights, starting tonight (Wednesday). Singing and dancing from all genres of music will help to raise money for the John Eastwood Hospice in Sutton. Photo: Submitted
6. Easter chick hunt
Bilsthorpe Heritage Museum, which is dedicated to keeping alive the mining and social heritage of the area, is hosting an Easter chick hunt on Easter Sunday and Monday (10 am to 4 pm). Entry is free, with a hot drink included, and prizes of Easter eggs are up for grabs. Photo: Submitted
7. Circus fun at the castle
Roll up, roll up for four days of circus-themed Easter fun from Good Friday to Easter Monday at Nottingham Castle. A short train-journey on the Robin Hood Line will take you to the castle, where you will find circus entertainers, a stilt walker, live music, circus workshops, face-painting and Easter egg hunts with prizes. There will also be a trail of beautiful owls, providing the chance for selfies. Photo: Submitted
8. Let off steam at pumping station
Enjoy a fascinating day out at Papplewick Pumping Station in Ravenshead, Britain's finest Victorian waterworks. The station's first steaming dates of the year are being held on Easter Sunday and Monday (10.30 am to 4 pm) when a model submarines and spring fair is also taking place. Under-12s are allowed in free. Photo: Submitted