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Nuthall

Attractions and Places To See around Nuthall - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Nuthall include a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes in Nottinghamshire. The area features remnants of historical structures, tranquil natural spots, and community hubs. Visitors can explore ancient churches, former abbey ruins, and serene reservoirs, offering a diverse range of experiences.

Best attractions and places to see around Nuthall

  • The most popular attractions is Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), a forest and historical site that features an intriguing cave with an arched doorway. This historical site was carved by a local baker around 1130, who was said to have lived a life of solitary prayer here.
  • Another must-see spot is Dale Abbey Arch, a religious building and man-made monument. The magnificent arch of the east window is all that remains of a former Premonstratensian abbey, founded in the early 13th century, offering a poignant reminder of its past grandeur.
  • Visitors also love Mapperley Reservoir, a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland. This location offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly bird watching, with a visitor center available in nearby Shipley Country Park.
  • Nuthall is known for historical landmarks, natural features, and community spaces. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to tranquil reservoirs.
  • The attractions around Nuthall are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 310 upvotes and 81 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 23, 2026

All Saints Church, Dale Abbey

Highlight • Religious Site

All Saints Church, Dale Abbey, part of three Stanton-By-Dale 3 churches/church family
See also SDR churches site

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Follow the steps up the tree-lined banks of Hermit's Wood and you will come across an intriguing cave with an arched doorway. This is the Hermitage and it was carved by Cornelius, a local baker from Derby.

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.

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Attenborough Nature Reserve

Highlight • Lake

This is a river path that's really easy and tranquil to ride along. There are numerous ponds and it's a really popular bird-watching spot. From the trail you'll reach a fork at one point and you can either keep following the river or take the turning and head into the nature reserve (£3 donation). If you want to take a closer look at the birds you can go into the nature reserve office and obtain a pass to access the bird hides.

On weekends it gets really busy so having a bell is advisable or time your route so that you pass here in the mornings or late afternoon.

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Dale Abbey Arch

Highlight • Religious Site

The ruins of Dale Abbey are all that is left of a former Premonstratensian abbey that, after a few false starts, was founded in the early 13th century. The ruins stand in the pleasant village of the same name.

Today, the magnificent arch of the east window is a dramatic sight. It is a poignant reminder of the faded grandeur of the monasteries.

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Attenborough Nature Reserve

Highlight • Viewpoint

There is information, maps and a small café here. There are also picnic areas and many ducks.

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June 7, 2026, All Saints Church, Dale Abbey

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.

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lovely cafe

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Lovely place for cycling and walking. Lovely views

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cracking little bike track, went on my XC mountain bike but id imagine you'd be just as happy on your gravel bike. not too far from food and refreshments here aswell

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"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."

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Cafe was open at 9.00 this morning and serving food (13th Aug). Lovely place for walking (dog's optional), cycling, bird watching, photography. or just meandering and dreaming about living in one of those gorgeous boat houses on the other side of the river! We park in Chilwell retail park car park, this morning we got a coffee from Costa before doing a 6.4mile circular-ish walk. You can make up walks from very short to over 8 miles without walking the same path twice.

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Lovely place for a bike tour, watering holes enroute

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Watch out for lemmings and cattle using the cycle path

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore around Nuthall?

Nuthall and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), an intriguing cave carved by a local baker around 1130. Another significant historical site is the Dale Abbey Arch, which is the magnificent east window of a former Premonstratensian abbey. Additionally, explore St. Patrick's Church, dating back to the 13th century, and remnants of the grand Nuthall Temple, such as a Gothic-style bridge and gate pier.

Are there any natural beauty spots or reserves for wildlife spotting near Nuthall?

Yes, Nuthall offers several natural spots perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Mapperley Reservoir is a tranquil body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands, ideal for bird watching, where you might spot coots, moorhens, and kingfishers. The Attenborough Nature Reserve is another popular spot for bird-watching and peaceful walks along the river path, featuring numerous ponds and bird hides.

What outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling, are available near Nuthall's attractions?

The area around Nuthall is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking and cycling. For easy hikes, consider options like the 'Oldmoor Wood – Shaw's Plantation loop from Broxtowe' or 'The Mulberry Tree Café – All Saints Church, Strelley loop from Kimberley'. Cyclists can explore routes such as the 'Nottingham Canal Path – Cycle Track to Swingate loop from Kimberley' or 'All Saints Church, Strelley – Trinity Farm Shop & Cafe loop from Broxtowe'. You can find more details and routes in the easy hikes around Nuthall guide and the cycling around Nuthall guide.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Nuthall area?

Absolutely. Many of the natural areas are suitable for families, such as Mapperley Reservoir and Attenborough Nature Reserve, which offer easy walks and wildlife spotting. For more active fun, the Basil Russell Playing Fields provide a large play area, football pitches, cricket pitches, and tennis courts. The Dale Abbey Arch is also considered family-friendly for an interesting historical visit.

Where can I find a nice spot for refreshments or a break during my visit?

For a pleasant break, you can visit the Nutbrook Coffee Shop, a local café known for light snacks, cakes, and drinks. It's particularly convenient for those exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. There are also various pubs in the Nuthall area that offer refreshments.

What is the best time of year to visit Nuthall for outdoor activities and sightseeing?

The spring and summer months are generally ideal for visiting Nuthall, especially for enjoying the natural features. In spring, the bluebell woodlands around Mapperley Reservoir are particularly beautiful. Summer offers pleasant weather for walks and bird-watching, with chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and blackcaps singing. However, the historical sites can be visited year-round.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth discovering in Nuthall?

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the remnants of Nuthall Temple, such as the Gothic-style bridge and a gate pier now part of The Three Ponds public house entrance, which offer a glimpse into the area's grand past. Broxtowe Country Park, bordering New Nuthall, also provides a peaceful green space with historical ties to Nuthall's forest land.

What kind of historical legacy does Nuthall have, particularly regarding Nuthall Temple?

Nuthall has a rich historical legacy, notably through the former Nuthall Temple. Although the main 18th-century country house was demolished, elements inspired by Palladio's Villa Capra still exist. These include a Gothic-style bridge, a summer house, and a gate pier, which now forms part of the entrance to The Three Ponds public house. The M1 motorway now runs over the site of the former Nuthall Temple, marking a blend of ancient and modern landscapes.

Can I find places for a leisurely stroll or an easy walk around Nuthall?

Yes, Nuthall offers several options for leisurely strolls. The Attenborough Nature Reserve provides tranquil river paths and numerous ponds for easy walking. Mapperley Reservoir is another peaceful spot with paths through woodlands and farmland. For more structured easy walks, you can explore routes like 'Oldmoor Wood – Shaw's Plantation loop from Broxtowe' which are detailed in the easy hikes around Nuthall guide.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Nuthall?

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The unique history of sites like Hermitage Cave and the dramatic Dale Abbey Arch are often highlighted. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife spotting at places like Mapperley Reservoir are also frequently praised. Many enjoy the well-maintained trails and the chance to combine historical exploration with outdoor activity.

Are there any community hubs or local gathering spots in Nuthall?

The Temple Centre serves as Nuthall's community hub, offering a multi-roomed venue for events and featuring a sports field. Nuthall also has a Methodist Church, built in 2002, which contributes to the local community life. These spots provide a sense of local culture and gathering for residents and visitors alike.

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