Attractions and Places To See around Mapperley - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Mapperley include a mix of natural features, historic landmarks, and local points of interest. Located in northeastern Nottingham, Mapperley is the highest area of Nottingham, offering expansive views. The region features significant outdoor spaces and architectural sites. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes and historical locations.
Best attractions and places to see around Mapperley
- The most popular attractions is Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), a cave that was carved by Cornelius, a local baker, who lived there in solitary prayer. This intriguing cave features an arched doorway and is a notable local historical feature.
- Another must-see spot is Dale Abbey Arch, the ruins of a former Premonstratensian abbey. Visitors can expect to see the magnificent arch of the east window, a dramatic reminder of the abbey's past.
- Visitors also love Mapperley Reservoir, a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands and farmland. It is known for wildlife spotting, particularly bird watching, with species such as coot, moorhen, and kingfisher present.
- Mapperley is known for its natural features, historic landmarks, and local points of interest. Visitors can explore a mix of outdoor spaces, architectural sites, and community hubs.
- The attractions around Mapperley are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and more than 80 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
All Saints Church, Dale Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
See also SDR churches site
Tip by
Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby)
Highlight • Forest
In around 1130, he was led to this spot after a vision of the Virgin Mary. She told him to come to this spot and live a life of solitary prayer. Later, he also built a small chapel on the site, one of the smallest churches in England.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Dale Abbey Arch
Highlight • Religious Site
Today, the magnificent arch of the east window is a dramatic sight. It is a poignant reminder of the faded grandeur of the monasteries.
Tip by
Nutbrook Coffee Shop
Highlight • Cafe
Open Fri: 9:30 - 14:30.
Sat & Sun: 9:00 - 16:00.
Tip by
Belper Volunteer Battalion Target Wall
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Mapperley.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
One of England’s smallest and most unique parish churches, measuring just 25 by 26 feet. Dating back to the mid-12th century, it is literally semi-detached, sharing a roof and a wall with a private, historic farmhouse. Originally functioning as the infirmary chapel for the neighboring, now-ruined medieval abbey, the adjoining house was later used as a pub called the "Blue Bell Inn". Legend has it the vicar used to change in the pub's bar and nip through a gallery door to preach. Despite its size, the interior houses well-preserved, late 13th-century wall paintings depicting the Annunciation, Visitation, and Nativity. The chapel is packed with historic character, including a prominent 1634 pulpit placed behind the altar, tiered gallery seating, and 17th-century box pews. The surrounding village and abbey ruins are famously known in folklore as the site where Allan-a-Dale married his sweetheart in the Robin Hood legend.
0
0
Nice cafe with friendly staff. Good mid walk stops while exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. Open Fri: 9:30 - 14:30. Sat & Sun: 9:00 - 16:00.
1
0
"The wood contains the Hermitage which was made around 1130 AD by a Derby Baker called Cornelius who had a vision to worhip God here at Deepdale, as the area was formely known."
1
0
A really beautiful spot full of history! Make sure you were good hiking shoes, as there is a lot of steps on routes nearby, which can be treacherous with a mix of recent rain and wet leaves!
2
0
end 2021 update: The cafe has created a new area outside to extend the number of picnic tables with umbrellas - probably to meet the demand for outside eating due to Covid. The cafe remains a great destination for a bike ride or walk (or even horse ride).
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Mapperley?
Mapperley offers a variety of natural spaces. You can visit Mapperley Reservoir, a peaceful spot known for wildlife spotting, especially birds like coot, moorhen, and kingfisher. Nearby, Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve features mature oak woodland and is beautiful with bluebells in spring. Mapperley Plains, as the highest point in Nottingham, also offers expansive views.
Are there any historical landmarks to visit near Mapperley?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), a unique cave carved by a local baker for solitary prayer. Another significant site is Dale Abbey Arch, the dramatic remains of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey. The former Mapperley Hospital, built between 1875 and 1880, also stands as a notable architectural landmark.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Mapperley?
Mapperley is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For hiking, consider routes like the 7 km 'Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Reservoir loop' or the 11 km 'Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve loop'. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Mapperley guide. Mountain biking options include the 'Manor Floods Nature Reserve – Nutbrook Coffee Shop loop', detailed in the MTB Trails around Mapperley guide. Road cyclists can explore routes like the 'Mapperley Village Church – The Old Black Horse loop', available in the Road Cycling Routes around Mapperley guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Mapperley?
Absolutely. Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful spot for walks and wildlife spotting that families can enjoy. Nearby, Woodthorpe Grange Park offers lush gardens, a play area, and a tropical house. Elvaston Castle and Gardens, a short drive away, provides extensive parkland, woodlands, and historical gardens perfect for family exploration.
Where can I find cafes or places to eat near Mapperley's attractions?
Mapperley offers several options for refreshments. The Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a popular stop, especially for those exploring local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. In Mapperley Top, you'll find a collection of shops and eateries, including local pubs and cafes like Bluebell Café, known for homemade cakes, and restaurants such as The Crimson Tree.
What is Mapperley known for?
Mapperley is known for being the highest area of Nottingham, offering expansive views. It features a unique blend of natural beauty, such as Mapperley Plains and Mapperley Reservoir, and historic landmarks like the former Mapperley Hospital. The area also boasts Mapperley Park, a conservation area with distinguished Victorian and Edwardian properties.
Can I see wildlife around Mapperley?
Yes, the natural areas around Mapperley are great for wildlife spotting. Mapperley Reservoir is particularly noted for bird watching, with species like coot, moorhen, mallard, and kingfisher. In summer, you might hear chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and blackcaps. Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve also supports a variety of birds.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots in Mapperley?
Beyond the main attractions, the Moated Site in Mapperley Park Wood, locally known as Mapperley Castle, is a Scheduled Monument with visible remains of a 14th-century moated platform. Exploring the tree-lined avenues of Mapperley Park itself can also reveal charming Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
What is the best time of year to visit Mapperley for outdoor activities?
Spring is particularly beautiful, especially in Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve, which is known for its vibrant bluebells. Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and cycling. Autumn provides scenic views with changing foliage. While winter walks are possible, some routes might be muddy or slippery, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
What are some popular cycling routes near Mapperley?
Cyclists have several options. For mountain biking, routes like the 'Nutbrook Coffee Shop – Mapperley Reservoir loop' from West Hallam are popular. Road cyclists can enjoy the 'Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge – Swan Lake (Straw's Bridge) loop' from Ilkeston. More routes and details can be found in the MTB Trails around Mapperley guide and Road Cycling Routes around Mapperley guide.
Is there a good place for a leisurely walk or picnic near Mapperley?
Woodthorpe Grange Park, adjacent to Mapperley, is an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or picnic. It features lush gardens, including a Victorian Walled Garden with seasonal flowers, and ample green space. Mapperley Reservoir also provides a tranquil setting for a stroll and enjoying nature.
Most popular routes around Mapperley
Most popular attractions around Mapperley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
