History & heritage in Newark and Sherwood
There is a wealth of rich history & heritage in Newark and Sherwood at your fingertips. Learn the glamorous histories of heritage sites, or peak into the lives of people who walked the same cobbled streets and shaped the district into what it is today.
The legend of Robin Hood
Discover timeless tales of the most iconic rebel, whose legendary adventures are still told today.
Walk in the footsteps of Robin Hood! Head over to Sherwood Forest and admire the mighty Major Oak. Marvel at the scale of this iconic landmark, where legends say the heroic outlaw and his band of merry men hid to evade the Sheriff of Nottingham.
If you’re keen to visit more attractions associated with the hooded rogue, St Mary's in Edwinstowe is supposedly where he and Maid Marian were married.
Learn incredible stories
Dive into the 17th century English Civil Wars deep history with a range of museums and heritage sites across Newark and Sherwood.
The National Civil War Centre and Museum brings the past to life with a tremendous collection of historical objects which tell the stories of peoples lives during this time, from beautiful clothing and fashion pieces to inscribed jewellery and instruments of war.
Beyond the objects, you can immerse yourself through interactive galleries and activities, letting you get closer to the past than ever before.
The centre features much more beyond the Civil War, such as the Newark Gallery which focuses on the local history, going as far back as the Ice Age travellers who once walked the ground.
Historic market towns
Newark and Sherwood is home to many picturesque market towns, all bursting with local character. Discover the incredible stories of historic buildings and heritage sites which call them home.
When near Southwell, The Workhouse and Infirmary is one of the best-preserved workhouses in England. Built in 1824, this site offers unrivalled insight into the difficult life experiences of this period.
Between Southwell and Ollerton is Bilsthorpe Heritage Museum. For those with connections to the mining industry, you can appreciate the most diverse collection of mining items and documents in all of Nottinghamshire.