> Places of Interest
Listed below are a few of the many interesting places which can be accessed easily from Pleasley.
A brief description is given but for more information we would suggest
you visit the web site indicated for a particular site.
Pleasley Colliery Nature Reserve
This former colliery spoil heap has been developed into an 80 hectare countryside park to include wetland habitat creation, new woodlands and wildlife pools. It is very easy to access from the A617 towards Mansfield from M1 Junction 29 by taking the right access at the roundabout after Glapwell and turning up Pit Lane on the right.
Anyone travelling by bus should alight at the Pleasley Miners Welfare which is close to Pit Lane.
For further information on this interesting nature reserve which is becoming more and more established, visit the following website: www.pleasleypitnaturestudygroup.co.uk
Pleasley Colliery Site
Pleasley Colliery is now a scheduled Ancient Monument and is in the process of being developed into a mining heritage site. The engine house roofs and the chimney have
been renovated and the winders are in the process of being restored by members of the Friends of Pleasley Pit preservation group and other volunteers. Current opening times are Thursday am and Sunday am and pm.
For further information: www.pleasleypittrust.org.uk
Pleasley Vale Outdoor Pursuits Centre
Pleasley Vale offers action and adventure of people of all ages. Set in impressive
grounds of the refurbished former textile mill complex the outdoor activities centre provides the opportunity for a wide range of adventure activites. For further information
contact 01623 812530 or 01246 242310, or visit www.bolsover.gov.uk
Five Pit Trails (Teversal Trails)
The network consists of the Rowthorne, Meden and Teversal Trins which meander through the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire border area. The routes follow the track beds of
disused railway lines and runs through sites of specific scientific interest.
The Teversal Trails Visitors Centre provides an ideal access point to the Teversaland Pleasley Trains network and other walks.
There is ample free parking with an extensive surrounding grass area making it an ideal place for picnics. The Teversal Sculpture Trail is a result of oingoing work with over community members working with professional artists. Snacks are available in the Visitors Centre.
Bolsover Castle
This English Heritage owned 17th century house is the work of William Cavendish, the grandson of Bess of Hardwick. The little castle contains elaborately carved
fireplaces and richly painted rooms. A high tech audio tour is available for adults and children taking you around the site. For further information: www.english-heritage.org.uk
Creswell Crags
Picturesque limestone gorge, caves and lake. This world famous archaeology site and museum tells the story of the last age when Neanderthal and our ancestors camped in the caves between 60,000 and 12,000 years ago. Ice Age and Rock Art Tours are available. For further information contact www.creswell-crags.org.uk
Hardwick Hall Estate
One of the greatest Elizabethan houses which survives unchanged today. Hardwick has superb gardens and parkland. Contact 01246 850430 or go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.
Sherwood Forest
The legendary home of Robin Hood. Sherwood Forest Country Park contains some of the oldest trees in Europe including the famous Major Oak, standing for 800 years. There is an Annual Robin Hood Festival which features jesters, jousters, minstrels and outlaws.
Contact 01623 823302 or visit www.experiencenottinghamshire.com for further information.
Clumber Park
The park comprises over 1500 ha, including woods, open heath and rolling farmland, with a serpentine lake at its heart along with the longest avenue of time trees in Europe. Clumber House was formerly the home to the Duke of Newcastle but was demolished in 1938, but many features of the estate remain, including the Gothic Revival Chapel and walked kitchen garden with spectacular glass houses. Cycle hire is available at the park.
Contact 01909 476592 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for further information.
Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House is approx 16 miles from M1 junction 29, signposted Chesterfield (follow brown signs). For more information : www.chatsworth.org
Willow Tree Family Farm, Shirebrook
Animal farm open to the public daily. School groups, educational visits, birthday parties. More information : www.willowtree-farm.co.uk/
Stainsby Mill
19th Century water mill in full working order. Chance to watch the grinding millstones, then buy the freshly produced flour. Massive 17ft waterwheel. More information
: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Rufford Abbey Country Park
Located near Ollerton on the edge of historic Sherwood Forest, this is a 150 acre park. At the heart of the park are the remains of a 12th century Cistercian monastery
and later country house. Around them lie gardens, meadow and woodlands.More information: www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/culture-leisure/country-parks/rufford-abbey or telephone 01623 821338 or 08449 808080.
St Michaels Church Pleasley
St Michaels Church is believed to originate from the 12th century but was greatly
restored in the 19th century.
