Menu
Sherwood Forest Cottage Nottinghamshire

The Dukeries Estates and Country Houses in Sherwood Forest

The historic Sherwood Forest region of Nottinghamshire is famously known as The Dukeries — a landscape shaped by some of England’s most influential aristocratic families and grand country estates. The name comes from the four great ducal seats of the area:

These noble families were closely connected to the powerful Cavendish family, the Dukes of Devonshire, whose principal residence is Chatsworth House in the Peak District. Nearby Cavendish properties including Hardwick Hall and Bolsover Castle further highlight the rich aristocratic heritage of the region. Because of these family connections, parts of Nottinghamshire and North East Derbyshire have sometimes been nicknamed “Cavendish Shire”.

Guests staying at Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage are perfectly placed to explore these magnificent estates, historic abbeys, landscaped parks and stately homes.

Clumber Park

7.6 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

One of the largest country parks in Europe, Clumber Park covers more than 3,800 acres of beautiful parkland, woodland and heathland in the heart of Sherwood Forest. Once the seat of the Dukes of Newcastle, the original mansion was demolished in 1938, but many historic features remain, including the Gothic chapel, Victorian walled garden and stable block café.

Managed today by the National Trust, Clumber Park is renowned for its scenic lakeside walks, cycling routes and the spectacular Lime Tree Avenue, especially stunning during autumn.

Visitor Information

  • Postcode: S80 3AZ
  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Small charge (free for National Trust members)
  • Opening: Daily from dawn until dusk

Rufford Abbey

2 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Founded in 1147 by Gilbert de Gant, Rufford Abbey began life as a Cistercian monastery before later becoming the country residence of the Savile family. Today, the abbey ruins and restored buildings sit within a stunning 150-acre country park filled with woodland walks, formal gardens and lakeside scenery.

Visitors can explore the atmospheric abbey undercroft, browse the ceramics and craft centre, enjoy the sculpture garden, or relax in the café and restaurant. Rufford Abbey is also popular with families thanks to its excellent children’s play areas.

Visitor Information

  • Postcode: NG22 9DF
  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Small charge applies
  • Open daily throughout the year

Thoresby Hall

5 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Originally the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Kingston, Thoresby Hall is a magnificent Grade I listed country house redesigned in the Victorian era by renowned architect Anthony Salvin. The estate combines historic grandeur with modern attractions, including courtyard shops, galleries, cafés and landscaped parkland.

After restoration, Thoresby Hall was transformed into a luxury hotel, while many parts of the estate remain open to visitors. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea, browse independent shops or admire ornate interiors such as the famous Blue Room.

Visitor Information

  • Parking: Free
  • Open daily from 10:30am–5pm
  • Signposted from the A614 at Ollerton

The Harley Gallery at Welbeck Estate

9.3 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Located on the historic Welbeck Estate, The Harley Gallery showcases the internationally important Portland Collection alongside exhibitions by leading contemporary artists. Visitors can also enjoy craft workshops, open studio events, a farm shop, café and artisan gift shop.

The gallery offers a perfect blend of heritage, creativity and countryside charm within the beautiful grounds of the former ducal estate.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Welbeck Estate, Worksop, S80 3LW
  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Free
  • Open Monday–Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 10am–4pm

Hardwick Hall

19.2 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Built in the late 16th century by the legendary Bess of Hardwick, Hardwick Hall is one of the finest Elizabethan houses in England. Designed as a statement of wealth and power, the hall became part of the Cavendish family estate and remained in their ownership for centuries.

Today, the National Trust manages the estate, offering visitors magnificent interiors, panoramic countryside views, woodland trails, family activities and seasonal dining.

Visitor Information

  • Postcode: S44 5RW
  • National Trust property
  • Open daily

Newstead Abbey

15 miles from Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Famous as the ancestral home of the poet Lord Byron, Newstead Abbey is a romantic historic house surrounded by over 300 acres of gardens, lakes and parkland. Originally founded as a monastic priory in the 12th century, the abbey later became one of Nottinghamshire’s most celebrated country homes.

Inside, visitors can explore Byron’s private apartments, Victorian room displays and fascinating collections, while outside the gardens feature waterfalls, Japanese maples and colourful rhododendrons.

Visitor Information

  • Postcode: NG15 9HJ
  • Located on the A60 north of Nottingham
  • Parking charges apply
  • House admission payable

Discover the Heritage of Sherwood Forest

From medieval abbeys and ducal estates to landscaped parks and Elizabethan masterpieces, the Dukeries region offers some of the finest historic attractions in Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands. Staying at Blue Bell Self Catering Holiday Cottage places you within easy reach of these iconic country houses, making it the perfect base for exploring Sherwood Forest, Robin Hood Country and the historic estates of the Dukeries.