Attractions and Places To See around Thorpe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Thorpe offer a blend of historical landmarks and scenic riverside locations. This region provides opportunities to explore significant architectural sites and enjoy tranquil natural settings. Visitors can discover a variety of cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, making it suitable for those interested in history and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Thorpe
- The most popular attractions is Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel, a settlement that offers a beautifully…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Southwell Minster
Highlight • Religious Site
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Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel
Highlight • Settlement
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Caudwell's Mill
Highlight • Monument
When Charles Caudwell, whose family originated from Derbyshire, bought the mill in 1851 he made …
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Newark Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
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Maythorne Mill
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
currently closed for refurbishment (end of oct 25)
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The former Maythorne Mill, its former workers’ cottages and its ancillary buildings, plus a farm, form the greater part of this small hamlet. It was a cotton mill built in 1785 to supply the framework knitting industry with yarns. The speculator that built Maythorne was a Southwell hop merchant. In the early C19th the mill was adapted to produce silk and lace thread. There was also a Mission Hall, a pub & general store. The mainly female workforce was required to wind silk on bobbins, form it into shanks before it was finally washed and pressed and despatched to Nottingham. However, yarn & thread products were not the only items produced here as osier beds provided willow for basket-making and hops were also grown locally. From 1939-45 the mill was used to billet soldiers and in 1948 the land & buildings were put to agricultural use. the mill building has been converted into residential flats & some workshops in various outbuildings. The mill wheel was powered by the River Greet.
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Caudwell's Mill stands on the River Greet on the site of Southwell’s mediaeval Burgage mill. When Charles Caudwell, whose family originated from Derbyshire, bought the mill in 1851 he made changes, thus greatly increasing the mill’s capacity. Wheat was transported to the mill by road, rail and water. Local corn arrived by horse and cart, supplies from further afield came from the R.Trent by barge to a wharf at Fiskerton which still stands. The mill suffered serious fires on three occasions in 1867, 1893 and 1917. On each occasion the opportunity was taken to modernise the plant. Local bakers took their supply of flour from the mill, best known was ‘Mosedale’s’ Bakery and Caudwell’s ‘Greet Lily Flour’ won the Nottinghamshire’s Bakers Cup in 1907, 1908, 1909, 1912 and 1914. The mill was taken over by Associated British Foods, who closed it in 1977 and in 1989 the mill was converted into residential apartments.
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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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Beautiful spot great scenery and history Castle grounds definitely worth a visit
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Amazing! I wasn't expecting such a castle in the middle of Newark when cycling through.👍 Looks like it would be well worth a visit if you have time.
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Combine a visit to the castle with a picnic, watching the Trent roll by. There are lots of quiet lanes approaching from the south.
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Newark Castle ruins are set in lovely, formal gardens bordered by the remaining walls of the castle which was partly destroyed in 1646 at the end of the English Civil War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Thorpe?
The Thorpe area is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Newark Castle Ruins, which were partly destroyed in 1646 at the end of the English Civil War and are set in beautiful formal gardens. Another significant site is Southwell Minster, a religious building with parts dating back to 627 AD, known for its architectural history and Anglo-Saxon origins.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Thorpe area?
Yes, several attractions around Thorpe are suitable for families. Southwell Minster offers an interesting historical experience for all ages. The Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel area is a charming village with a pier, perfect for a family stroll and photography. Additionally, the formal gardens surrounding Newark Castle Ruins provide a pleasant space for families to explore.
Where can I find scenic riverside spots near Thorpe?
For scenic riverside views, visit Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel. It's a beautifully maintained village located by the river, featuring a pub and a pier, making it an ideal spot for enjoying the water and taking photos.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Thorpe?
The Thorpe area offers various outdoor activities, including cycling, running, and gravel biking. You can find numerous routes for these sports. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Newark Castle Ruins – Tom Browns Brasserie loop' or the 'Manor Farm Tea Room – Southwell Trail loop'. Running enthusiasts can try routes such as the 'Civil War redoubt loop from Farndon'. For gravel biking, options include the 'Bilsthorpe & the Southwell Trail loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the respective guides: Cycling around Thorpe, Running Trails around Thorpe, and Gravel biking around Thorpe.
Are there good running trails near Thorpe?
Yes, there are several running trails available. Popular options include the 'Civil War redoubt loop from Farndon' (8.1 km, moderate difficulty), a 'Running loop from Elston' (7.5 km, moderate), and a 'Running loop from Farndon' (5 km, moderate). For more running routes, check out the Running Trails around Thorpe guide.
Can I go cycling around Thorpe?
Absolutely. The area around Thorpe is well-suited for cycling. You can find routes like the 'Newark Castle Ruins – Tom Browns Brasserie loop' (46.7 km, moderate) or the 'Manor Farm Tea Room – Southwell Trail loop' (26 km, easy). For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Cycling around Thorpe guide.
Are there any notable mills or industrial heritage sites to explore?
Yes, you can visit Caudwell's Mill, located on the River Greet. This historic mill, originally a medieval Burgage mill, was significantly expanded in 1851 and played a key role in the local flour industry. Although now converted into residential apartments, its history is fascinating.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Thorpe?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Gunthorpe Riverside is loved for its charm and photo opportunities. Southwell Minster is praised for its architectural interest and historical depth. The Newark Castle Ruins are admired for their impressive remains and beautiful garden setting. The community has shared over 31 photos and given 55 upvotes to these attractions.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Gunthorpe Riverside and The Unicorn Hotel includes a pub. For cyclists and general visitors, Caffe Velo Verde is a highly-rated, cycle-friendly cafe known for its coffee, cakes, and breakfast sandwiches, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
What is the best time of year to visit Thorpe's attractions?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the attractions around Thorpe, which include historical sites and riverside locations, are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to early autumn, when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoors and walking around the castle gardens or riverside villages.
Are there any easy walks suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, many of the cycling and running routes have easier sections or shorter loops that can be adapted for walks. The formal gardens around Newark Castle Ruins offer an easy stroll, and the village of Gunthorpe Riverside is perfect for a leisurely walk along the river.
How long should I plan for visiting the main historical sites?
For Southwell Minster, allow 1-2 hours to explore its architecture and history. Visiting the Newark Castle Ruins and its gardens could take 1-2 hours, depending on how much you wish to wander and read the interpretive displays. A visit to Caudwell's Mill might be shorter, perhaps 30-60 minutes, to appreciate its historical context.
What are the options for gravel biking around Thorpe?
Gravel biking is a popular activity in the area. You can find routes such as the 'Bilsthorpe & the Southwell Trail loop from Southwell' (35.8 km, difficult) or the 'Vicar Water Lake – Vicar Water Lake loop from Southwell CP' (38.9 km, moderate). More routes are detailed in the Gravel biking around Thorpe guide.
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