Rufford Abbey Country Park
Rufford Abbey
A Cistercian abbey ruin and country park in Sherwood Forest, with lakes, woodland trails and a sculpture garden, ideal for a family half-day out.
Rufford Abbey was founded by Cistercian monks in 1146 and later converted into a country house. Its surviving abbey undercroft is one of the best-preserved Cistercian remains in England. The surrounding country park of about 60 hectares has lakes, woodland trails, a sculpture garden, an ice house and a children's play area, and waterbirds are often seen on the lake. Entry to the park is free, parking is charged, and there is a café and craft shop. It lies about 30 km from Nottingham and can be combined with a visit to Sherwood Forest.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00 until sunset
Nearby sights
- Sherwood Forest & Major Oak
- Sherwood Pines Forest Park
- Clumber Park
- Southwell Minster
- The Workhouse, Southwell
- Creswell Crags
- Newstead Abbey
- Green's Windmill