Things to do in Retford

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Visit Retford

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Retford travel guide

Looking east along the platforms at Retford (low level) railway station.

The first record of the church is in 1258, and the oldest floor slab Memorial dates from 1496. This large church is now mostly the work of a 17th-century restoration, after the tower collapsed in 1651 destroying much of the chancel and south transept. It was rebuilt in 1658. The church is in a cruciform plan with north and south transepts, a central four stage crossing tower, nave with north and south aisles and clerestory windows, chancel, and south porch. There is also a Lady Chapel, Vestry and Sacristy. The oldest part of the church is the north transept which has two arches and an octagonal pier with fine leaf decoration on the capital. This was revealed during a restoration in 1873. The four bay chancel was refurbished around the same time, and it was extended to its original size. The north aisle was rebuilt using original material as well as the clerestory, battlements, and other parts church in 1854. The south porch was also added. There was further restoration in 1905. The church has numerous stained glass windows from the nineteenth century by several well-known artists. The west window of the south transept contains mediaeval glass, and is unusual in having two coins set into the glass. The organ was originally on a gallery at the west end, and in 1841 a new organ was placed on the south side of chancel. It was subsequently enlarged and has been overhauled several times since. In 1980 it was completely rebuilt with a new movable console. The tower has a ring of 10 bells. In 2009 a toilet and kitchen were installed in the west end of church. In 2010 the nave and south aisle roofs were repaired with the aid of a grant from English Heritage.

Bellmoor Lake - looking east from lookout point

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What to do in Retford

Popular places to visit

Sundown Adventureland

Bring the children to Sundown Adventureland and enjoy this exciting theme park in Treswell. Make time to visit the area's stunning cathedral or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Idle Valley Nature Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Idle Valley Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Retford. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the lively bars.

Bassetlaw Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Bassetlaw Museum during your travels in Retford. While in this quaint area, you can savour the lively bars.

The Well Retford Baptist Church

After visiting The Well Retford Baptist Church, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Retford. While in this quaint area, you can savour the lively bars.

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Worksop

Frequently asked questions

Is Retford worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Retford is visit Sundown Adventureland. Tick this top attraction off your agenda, then experience more of this area's bars and pubs and distilleries and craft breweries.

How do I spend a day in Retford?

Start your day with a visit to Sundown Adventureland and Idle Valley Nature Reserve. Then, check out other areas of Retford for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Retford?

You can't leave without visiting Sundown Adventureland, ranked the top tourist attraction in Retford.

Is three days enough to stay in Retford?

Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city attractions, including Sundown Adventureland, Idle Valley Nature Reserve and The Well Retford Baptist Church. The average stay in Retford is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Nottingham isn't far away.

What are some activities to do in Retford with kids?

Planning what to do in Retford with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Retford for adults?

Bassetlaw Museum is one of the top things to do in Retford. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Retford?

From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Retford. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Idle Valley Nature Reserve is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.