Rufford Abbey: A Journey Through Time
Discover the historic charm of Rufford Abbey, a majestic heritage site surrounded by beautiful gardens and nature trails in the heart of England.
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Ollerton, Rufford Abbey is a stunning historical landmark and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of England's past. Explore the majestic ruins, tranquil gardens, and enjoy a variety of activities that make this site a perfect day out for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Rufford Abbey
- Rufford Abbey Country Park, Ollerton, NG22 9DF, GB
- +441623821338
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the abbey's fascinating history.
- Don't miss the beautiful gardens, especially in spring when flowers are in full bloom.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park; there are plenty of scenic spots to relax.
- Check the events calendar for seasonal activities and special exhibits before your visit.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Ollerton, Nottinghamshire. From Nottingham city center, take the A60 towards Mansfield. After about 10 miles, merge onto the A614 towards Ollerton. Continue on the A614 for approximately 8 miles until you reach the roundabout. Take the 2nd exit onto the B6030 and follow the signs to Rufford Abbey Country Park. The Abbey is located at Rufford Abbey Country Park, Ollerton NG22 9DF. There is free parking available at the site, but be sure to arrive early during peak season as spaces can fill quickly.
-
Public Transport
For public transport, take the bus from Nottingham city center. You can catch the 'Mansfield' bus (service number 1 or 11) from Nottingham Broadmarsh Bus Station, which runs regularly. Get off at the stop for Ollerton (approximately a 40-minute journey). From the bus stop, it is about a 15-minute walk to Rufford Abbey Country Park. Follow the signs along the path leading to the park entrance. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary, especially on weekends.
-
Taxi
If you prefer to take a taxi, you can book one from Nottingham to Rufford Abbey. The journey by taxi will take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately £30-£40. This option is more comfortable and can be convenient if traveling in a group. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Rufford Abbey
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Things to do in Nottinghamshire
22.8 km
Explore the enchanting Nottinghamshire, where history, nature, and adventure await every traveler.
The Spot
25.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
25.5 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
The Belgrave Rooms
25.7 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
King's Walk sign
25.7 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Watson Fothergill's Office
25.7 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Bunkers Hill
25.7 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Hockley Arts Club
25.8 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Speakers' Corner
25.9 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Scale Space Nottingham
25.9 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
16 Stoney Street
25.9 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
The Left Lion
25.9 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
25.9 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
26.0 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
The Tokenhouse
26.0 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Go Ape Sherwood
3.5 km
Experience thrilling high ropes, ziplines, and forest adventures amidst the ancient pines of Sherwood Forest’s iconic Go Ape site.
Dukes Wood Nature Reserve And Oil Museum
5.4 km
Discover the serene woodland where Britain’s first onshore oilfield meets vibrant nature and rich industrial heritage.
Southwell Minster
12.4 km
Explore Southwell Minster, a magnificent Gothic cathedral in Nottinghamshire, rich in history, stunning architecture, and serene beauty for all visitors.
National Trust - The Workhouse, Southwell
12.4 km
Step back into Victorian England at Southwell’s best preserved workhouse, where history, hardship, and hope come vividly to life.
Museum of Timekeeping
13.7 km
Discover centuries of horological heritage and craftsmanship in the historic Upton Hall, home to the Museum of Timekeeping.
Papplewick Pumping Station
14.0 km
Britain's most spectacular Victorian water pumping station, where original steam engines still roar to life.
Creswell Crags
14.3 km
Explore Britain's only Ice Age cave art and ancient refuge nestled in a stunning limestone gorge with rich archaeology and natural beauty.
Newstead Abbey
15.1 km
Medieval priory and Lord Byron's ancestral home set within 300 acres of romantic gardens and lakeside grounds.
Idlewells Shopping Centre
16.2 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and market centre in Sutton-in-Ashfield with over 45 retailers and a lively traditional market under a stunning glass roof.
National Trust - Mr Straw's House
16.3 km
Step into a perfectly preserved 1920s grocer’s family home, frozen in time with thousands of everyday treasures.
Rowthorne Lodge
17.4 km
Historic gatehouse retreat nestled on the edge of Hardwick Estate, perfect for a romantic and tranquil escape in Derbyshire’s countryside.
National Trust - Hardwick Hall
18.2 km
Explore Hardwick Hall, an Elizabethan architectural marvel with stunning glass façades, rich tapestries, and a storied past atop Derbyshire’s scenic hills.
RSPB Langford Lowfields
18.4 km
Discover the East Midlands’ largest reedbed and a vibrant wetland sanctuary teeming with rare birds and tranquil walking trails.
Bolsover Castle
18.5 km
Explore Bolsover Castle’s lavish 17th-century party palace, scenic gardens, and rich history set atop Derbyshire’s rolling hills.
Newark Castle and Gardens
18.5 km
Explore nearly 900 years of history at Newark Castle and Gardens, where Norman architecture meets tranquil Victorian landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Ciao Bella
11.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and vibrant dining in Mansfield’s charming Ciao Bella, where tradition meets modern comfort.
Refined
12.1 km
Experience fine dining excellence crafted by aspiring chefs at Mansfield’s top culinary training restaurant, Refined.
Taylor's Fine Dining
18.6 km
Exceptional French fine dining in Newark-on-Trent, offering exquisite tasting menus, expert wine pairings, and a refined, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Vol
18.9 km
Award-winning gastropub blending local flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Nottinghamshire’s countryside.
The Wheatsheaf
20.9 km
A classic village pub in Burton Joyce offering hearty meals, traditional ales, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Hilcote Country Club
21.0 km
A cozy British country club offering fresh cuisine, charming events spaces, and a warm, rustic atmosphere near Alfreton.
Tom Browns - Nottingham
21.3 km
Elegant riverside dining in Nottingham’s Gunthorpe, offering refined British gastropub cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Bridge & Bayleaf
21.4 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors in a warm, fine dining setting by the scenic Gunthorpe Bridge in Nottingham.
The Schoolhouse Restaurant Bar And Garden
21.6 km
A welcoming modern British restaurant in South Normanton, known for hearty meals, local produce, and a friendly garden setting.
The Gedling Inn
22.6 km
Neighbourhood pub and restaurant serving quality British fare with exceptional value and genuine warmth.
Marc & Daina's Restaurant
22.8 km
Discover authentic French cuisine and warm hospitality in the cozy, family-run Marc & Daina's Restaurant in Nottingham's Sherwood district.
Le Mistral Sherwood - French Restaurant
22.9 km
Cozy French bistro in Sherwood offering authentic cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, rustic atmosphere for memorable meals.
Ania Polish Restaurant
23.0 km
Experience authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s cozy Sherwood neighborhood.
Masala Junction Restaurant
24.1 km
Elegant Indian dining in a beautifully restored 1929 bank building, blending tradition with modern culinary flair in Nottingham’s Carrington.
The Lobster Pot Nottingham
25.0 km
Cozy seafood and Thai fusion dining on Mansfield Road, blending fresh flavors with a welcoming atmosphere in Nottingham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Fashion Shop @Market Warsop
8.5 km
Discover timeless style and personalized service at The Fashion Shop @Market Warsop, your destination for quality ladies' fashion at affordable prices.
Newark Antiques & Interiors Ltd
17.9 km
Discover Newark’s largest antiques centre with 13,500 sq ft of rare furniture, collectibles, and timeless treasures from over 80 trusted dealers.
Lace Boutique
18.6 km
Discover exclusive UK designer fashion at Lace Boutique, Newark’s premier destination for premium and unique clothing collections.
Scarlet Gifts
18.9 km
Discover magical gothic treasures and vintage charm at Scarlet Gifts, Newark’s enchanting boutique for unique gifts and collectibles.
The Works
19.9 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery await at The Works in East Midlands Designer Outlet, South Normanton.
Just Because.....The Gift and Mix Company
22.2 km
Elegant, curated gift boxes in Nottingham delivering thoughtful luxury for every spontaneous gifting moment.
Ferreterium.co.uk
23.8 km
Explore Ferreterium.co.uk in Jacksdale for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Nottingham's charm.
Millie Edith Emporium
24.9 km
Discover unique costumes and clothing with vintage charm at Millie Edith Emporium, Eastwood’s beloved boutique on Nottingham Road.
Vintage Emporium
25.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s Vintage Emporium, a charming shop filled with unique retro treasures and timeless homewares in a cozy, curated setting.
WAREHOUSE
25.4 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at WAREHOUSE inside Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, blending style and convenience in the city heart.
Søstrene Grene
25.4 km
Scandinavian hygge meets affordable creativity in Nottingham's Victoria Centre – a Danish design haven brimming with homewares, crafts, and joyful discoveries.
Menkind
25.5 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and fun collectibles for men at Menkind Nottingham, your go-to spot for original presents and playful shopping.
Miniso
25.5 km
Discover stylish, affordable gifts and essentials at Miniso, Nottingham’s vibrant variety shop in Victoria Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
25.5 km
Compact Danish design and playful everyday goods — pocket-friendly gifts, stationery and novelty finds in Victoria Centre.
Next
25.6 km
A stylish and family-friendly fashion store in Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, offering a wide range of clothing and accessories with convenient hours.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Duke Of Sussex
18.1 km
A warm, affordable pub in Sutton-in-Ashfield offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and lively entertainment in a dog-friendly setting.
The Nelson
21.1 km
A charming gastropub blending rustic warmth and modern comfort in the heart of Burton Joyce.
The Royal Oak
22.2 km
A contemporary pub with traditional charm offering excellent food, diverse beers, and a relaxed atmosphere in East Bridgford.
Rose Of England
25.4 km
A historic Victorian Neo-Gothic pub in Nottingham blending architectural grandeur with authentic local charm and a lively community spirit.
The Bath Inn
25.5 km
A cosy, detail‑packed pub in Sneinton Market blending Victorian character with quirky Egyptian touches and fresh floral displays.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
25.7 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
The New Castle
25.7 km
Traditional Nottingham back-street pub with caves, pool, roasts, and a mature local vibe—perfect for authentic pints and hearty classics.
Wax Bar
25.7 km
Nottingham's cocktail pulse: artisanal drinks, Caribbean bites, and DJ rhythms fueling epic weekend nights on Broad Street.
Nottingham Secret Garden
25.7 km
Discover Nottingham's lush cocktail hideaway: tropical vibes, craft drinks, and electric nights in a secret beer garden oasis.
BrewDog Nottingham
25.7 km
Craft beer paradise in a historic lace factory: 28 taps, sourdough pizzas, dog-friendly vibes, and Lace Market energy await in Nottingham's ultimate brew hub.
King William IV
25.7 km
A compact, traditional Nottingham pub — friendly bar service, rotating ales, classic pub food and a relaxed, dog‑friendly atmosphere.
31K
25.8 km
NYC loft-style bar on Nottingham's Goose Gate, mastering cocktails, meatballs, and fusion street food in Hockley's creative heart.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
25.8 km
Dive into Hockley's nightlife heartbeat at Revolution, where masterful cocktails, fresh bites, and non-stop party vibes flow from noon till the early hours.
Bunk
25.8 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Lost Property
25.8 km
A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
NG-One
25.6 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Unit 13
25.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
25.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Stealth
25.7 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
25.7 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
25.7 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
CRISIS
25.8 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Eleven
25.8 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
The Bodega Nottingham
25.8 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
25.9 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Tantra Night Clubs
25.9 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Brickworks
25.9 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
Popworld - Nottingham
25.9 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
26.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Tunnel Club
26.1 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.