Attractions and Places To See around Thurgarton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Thurgarton include historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor trails. This historic village, situated on the edge of the Trent Valley in Nottinghamshire, features a conservation area with numerous listed buildings. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks, enjoy scenic views, and discover various routes for outdoor activities. The area offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Thurgarton
- The most popular attractions is Gunthorpe Riverside and The…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Oxton Bank Climb
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Southwell Minster
Highlight • Religious Site
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Watchwood Berms MTB Trail
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St. Michael's Church, Farnsfield
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Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel
Highlight • Settlement
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The first mention of Farnsfield emerges in 956AD in a document in which King Edwy of Northumbria gave the Danish Archbishop of York, Oscytel, the manor of Southwell, which included the farmstead of Farnsfield. Farnsfield was a small community of farmsteads scraping a living from agriculture in a clearing at the edge of Sherwood Forest. By 1520 Farnsfield was the responsibility of Southwell Minster under the Archbishop of York, Cardinal Wolsey. Most people were farmers and poor land, bad weather, disease and starvation were constant hazards. By the 1600s more specialised trades were developing in Farnsfield including bakers, tailors and shoemakers. By the late 1700s sheep rearing was the main source of income from outside.
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The church dates from the 15th century but was rebuilt between 1859 and 1860 by Thomas Chambers Hine and Robert Evans following a fire. Only a fragment of the tower from the 15th-century building survives.
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The earliest church on the site is believed to have been founded in 627 by Paulinus, the first Archbishop of York, when he visited the area while baptising believers in the River Trent. The legend is commemorated in the Minster's baptistry window. In 956 King Eadwig gave land in Southwell to Oskytel, Archbishop of York, on which a minster church was established. The Domesday Book of 1086 recorded the Southwell manor in great detail. The Norman reconstruction of the church began in 1108, probably as a rebuilding of the Anglo-Saxon church, starting at the east end so that the high altar could be used as soon as possible and the Saxon building was dismantled as work progressed. Many stones from this earlier Anglo-Saxon church were reused in the construction. The church was originally attached to the Archbishop of York's Palace which stood next door and is now ruined.
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Features now restored in the middle of the wood, including small gap-jumps with chicken line, flowing great (April 2022).
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Unfortunately the Forestry Commission have been into Watchwood and removed all the man-made features (jumps) from the downhill runs. However the trails are still rideable & fun, plenty of berms still in place. (July 2021)
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Lovely location on the Trent. Lots of easy, flat, traffic-free roads around here. Regularly use this as a lunch stop on rides in the southern half of the Vale of Belvoir. There is an easy 30 mile loop to Newark and back, going through quiet lanes up one side of the Trent and back down the other. I have used the riverside Unicorn pub as an overnight base for cycle-touring in this area.
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Very nice village next to the Trent. Easily accessed by the cycle way. Suitable for all riders.
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A lovely riverside village with a pub and a nice pier - ideal for taking a good photo of your machine!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Thurgarton?
Thurgarton boasts a rich history. You can visit the site of the ancient Thurgarton Priory and the restored St Peter's Church, which dates back to around 1130. The village also contains the site of a Roman Villa, an ancient stone sheep-wash, and Castle Hill, a Scheduled Ancient Monument believed to be an Anglo-Scandinavian power center. For another significant historical site nearby, consider visiting Southwell Minster, a cathedral with history dating back to 627 AD.
Are there any natural features or viewpoints to enjoy around Thurgarton?
Yes, Thurgarton is situated on the edge of the scenic Trent Valley. You can enjoy panoramic views from Castle Hill, which, despite its modest height, offers great vistas over the village and the valley. The River Trent is also about a mile away to the southeast. For a charming riverside experience, visit Gunthorpe Riverside, which is ideal for enjoying the views and taking photos.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Thurgarton?
The area around Thurgarton is excellent for outdoor activities. For cyclists, there are numerous routes, including those featured in the Road Cycling Routes around Thurgarton and Cycling around Thurgarton guides. Mountain biking enthusiasts can head to Watchwood Berms MTB Trail for a fun experience with berms and optional jumps. Walkers and cyclists can also explore the Southwell Trail, a converted railway line north of the village.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Thurgarton area?
Absolutely. Several attractions are suitable for families. Southwell Minster is a historical and architectural marvel that can be interesting for all ages. The village of Gunthorpe Riverside offers a pleasant setting for a family stroll by the water. Additionally, St. Michael's Church, Farnsfield, located in a pretty red-brick village, is another family-friendly historical site.
Where can I find challenging cycling or walking routes?
If you're looking for a challenge, Oxton Bank Climb is known as one of the biggest hills in Nottinghamshire, featuring a 12% gradient that offers a rewarding effort for cyclists. For mountain biking, the MTB Trails around Thurgarton guide includes routes of moderate difficulty, such as the 'Outlaw MTB Trail Start – Hellfire Alley Trail loop'.
What is the Southwell Trail and where is it located?
The Southwell Trail is a popular path for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. It's a former railway line that has been converted for recreational use and is located to the north of Thurgarton village. It offers a pleasant way to explore the local countryside.
Are there any pubs or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, Thurgarton has the historic Red Lion Pub, reputed to be a 16th-century inn. Additionally, Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel offers a charming village setting with a pub by the river, perfect for a snack or a meal. The village of Farnsfield, near St. Michael's Church, also boasts a couple of pubs and a village bakery.
What is the significance of Thurgarton Priory and St Peter's Church?
Thurgarton Priory was a powerful Augustinian institution founded around 1130. While much of the original monastic buildings are gone, the Priory Church of St Peter remains, featuring a richly decorated north-west tower. The current Thurgarton Priory mansion stands over the undercroft of the original priory, showcasing centuries of history.
Can I find mountain biking trails in the area?
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy the Watchwood Berms MTB Trail, an intermediate trail located in a forest. It's known for its numerous berms and optional jumps, making it a great spot to practice cornering. You can find more routes in the MTB Trails around Thurgarton guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Thurgarton?
Visitors often highlight the charm of places like Gunthorpe Riverside, noting its beautifully maintained village and good photo opportunities. The architectural significance and rich history of Southwell Minster are also highly appreciated. For active visitors, the fun and challenging nature of trails like Watchwood Berms MTB Trail and the rewarding climb of Oxton Bank Climb are frequently mentioned.
Are there any ancient Roman connections in Thurgarton?
Yes, Thurgarton parish holds the site of a Roman Villa. Archaeological findings, including Roman tiles and pottery fragments, indicate a Roman presence and a well-populated countryside during that period, offering a glimpse into the area's ancient past.
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