Experience real English traditions in Notts

Media release: Nottingham, 21 March 2014

Nottinghamshire invites you to experience real English traditions

If you want to escape the busy city lifestyle, then fear not because within a few short miles of Nottingham you can admire hidden spots of scenic beauty and enjoy traditional experiences in rural Nottinghamshire.

Rural Nottinghamshire attractions

Explore North Nottinghamshire and you will find the small village of Laxton, near Newark, which is the only village in England that still operates the medieval ‘open field’ farming system.  The village boasts a well-preserved motte and bailey castle which dates from the late 11^th century as well as a village visitor and heritage centre.

Over at Forest Holidays, in the heart of Sherwood Forest, visitors can partake in some quintessentially English experiences, such as archery in the forest made by Robin Hood, clay target shooting and falconry experience.

The Dukeries is a beautiful area nestled in North West Nottinghamshire encompassing some of the county’s finest former Ducal estates and countryside. Welbeck Abbey, Thoresby Hall, Clumber House and Workshop Manor are all steeped in prestigious history and there is so much to explore and enjoy around the surrounding areas in the Dukeries region too. Enjoy local tastes and delights at the Welbeck Farm Shop, visit a time capsule of a local grocer’s house from the 1920s at Mr Straw’s House or receive some Downton Abbey styled cookery experiences on one of the School of Artisan’s numerous courses.

Nottinghamshire also boasts numerous country parks and nature reserves. Go for a leisurely stroll, get active on a bike ride, spot wildlife in their natural habitat or kick back with a picnic with the family at Rufford Abbey Country Park, Attenborough Nature Reserve or Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve.

Fancy a tipple? Try the locally produced Bramley Apple Martini

The Bramley Apple Martini, which was created by the Ned Ludd, has been chosen by VisitEngland to celebrate English Tourism Week (29th March – 6th April 2014).

The Bramley Apple Martini has its roots in the 19th century – the first Bramley tree grew from pips planted by a young girl in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. The juice and puree come from local purveyor John Starkey, whose family has grown the fruit on the Norwood Park estate for nearly 100 years.

Try the delicious new drink at The Ned Ludd, www.thenedludd.com.

Nottinghamshire County Show, 10 – 11 May 2014

www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com

Set in the market town of Newark, at Newark Showground, the event is a fantastic traditional show promoting farming, food, rural life and heritage in Nottinghamshire and beyond, and attracts around 50,000 visitors a year.

From dog displays to show jumping and the traditional equine and livestock showing classes, there will be plenty to explore. Make sure you do not miss the Food Experience where you will be greeted with delicious local produce and learn about local food and drink specialities.

If you have a bit of spare time, why not combine the Show with a trip to the picturesque town of Newark and discover its rich heritage? A stroll within the ruins of Newark Castle will take you back to the English Civil War when the Castle was badly damaged due to its key position on the banks of the River Trent. A Civil War Trail is also available from the nearby tourist information centre.