Things To Do
in Kirkby in Ashfield
Kirkby in Ashfield is a compact market town in Nottinghamshire located on the edge of the Sherwood Forest region. It blends industrial heritage with green spaces, local markets, and a welcoming, community atmosphere. The town offers easy road and bus connections to Mansfield, Nottingham, and beyond, making day trips simple.
Visitors can enjoy traditional pubs, casual cafes, and quick access to nearby countryside trails and parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic St. Wilfrid's Church, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Kirkby in Ashfield, soaking in the charming atmosphere and local shops. Stop by a cozy café for a traditional English breakfast to fuel your day ahead.
In the afternoon, visit the local museum to delve deeper into the history of the area and view fascinating exhibits. You can then explore the nearby market, where you’ll find stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies. Make sure to grab some lunch at one of the local pubs, enjoying a classic meal while interacting with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Sherwood Forest for a peaceful evening walk through the ancient woodlands. The serene environment is perfect for reflection, and you may even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife. Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional British cuisine paired with a fine selection of local ales.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Annesley Country Park, where you can enjoy picturesque walking trails. The morning air is fresh, and the vibrant flora and fauna will captivate your senses. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps even spot some wildlife along the way.
After your morning walk, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails, discovering hidden gems like tranquil ponds and scenic overlooks. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the landscape.
As evening approaches, return to Kirkby in Ashfield and unwind at a local pub with a warm atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing dinner while sharing stories about your day’s adventures. If you’re up for it, check out if there are any evening events or live music happening in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $4-6 |
| 🏥Private GP visit | $90-150 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) monthly | $700-1100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, walkable town with quick access to countryside
- Strong sense of local community and markets
- Good value for a base to explore Sherwood Forest and surrounding towns
- Pubs and casual dining options suit varied budgets
- Limited nightlife within Kirkby itself; larger options nearby
- Some attractions require transport to reach
- Weather can be unpredictable in shoulder seasons
- Public transport frequency can be limited on Sundays
Places to Visit in Kirkby in Ashfield
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic town-center square with historic shopfronts, daily life, and seasonal markets.
Scenic riverside path with birds and willow-lined banks, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Manicured gardens, lake reflections, and woodland trails offering varied photo opportunities.
Iconic woodland with ancient oaks and roaming deer; excellent for landscape and wildlife shots.
Food in Kirkby in Ashfield
Kirkby in Ashfield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crisp, savory or sweet flatbreads traditionally eaten with cheese or bacon; look for them at local cafés and bakeries in the area.
Must-Try!
A hearty pie with tender beef, rich ale gravy, and flaky pastry; widely available in pubs across Kirkby.
A gingerbread sponge cake typical of the East Midlands; great with a cup of tea from local tea rooms.
Classic comfort food featuring seasoned minced beef under mashed potato; common on pub menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market square with regular markets and seasonal street food events; a great place to sample regional bites.
Weekly market in nearby Mansfield offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
Occasional weekend street-food pop-ups around Kirkby and adjacent towns offering diverse bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always queue in order and wait your turn in shops and public transport.
Greet with a polite “Hello” or “Hi there,” and use “please” and “thank you” generously.
Be punctual for appointments and bookings; locals value reliability.
Respect residential quiet hours and be polite to staff in pubs and venues.
Safety
Tipping in Kirkby in Ashfield
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in the UK; 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is good; rounding up is common in casual venues.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common; some smaller venues may prefer card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer days and generally mild to warm temperatures with occasional showers; ideal for outdoor walks, markets, and al fresco dining.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; harvest markets and misty mornings create atmospheric photos and comfortable hiking conditions.
Cool to cold with shorter daylight hours; expect occasional frost or snow; cozy pubs and indoor attractions are appealing.”
Milder weather and blooming scenery; great for garden walks, nature photography, and bike rides.
Kirkby in Ashfield at Night
Hiking in Kirkby in Ashfield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodland with marked trails suitable for all levels and Robin Hood-era history.
Lakeside and woodland paths offering scenic hiking routes close to Kirkby.
Former industrial site turned nature reserve with easy-to-moderate trails and wildlife viewing.
Historic estate grounds with formal and informal trails and river views.
Airports
How to reach Kirkby in Ashfield by plane.
The closest major airport, offering domestic and international flights; typically around a 40-60 minute drive depending on traffic.
A larger international hub within a couple of hours’ drive, useful for long-haul connections.
An additional major option for international travel, located a reasonable distance away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households; schools and parks are common community hubs.
Steady retirement community with interest in local markets and garden spaces.
Residents who travel to Mansfield, Nottingham, or beyond for work.
Smaller clusters in nearby towns with education facilities and employment opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur leagues are common; matches are popular weekends and evenings.
Summer sport with local clubs and park facilities; community grounds host games.
Regional courses offer scenic play around the wider Notts area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkby in Ashfield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafes; look for veggie pies, salads, and oatcake toppings, and ask for dairy-free or egg-free options where needed.