Hucknall Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Hucknall. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide including hiking/biking routes, cultural and natural attractions, and safety tips.


Introduction to Hucknall

Hucknall is a market town located in Nottinghamshire, in the East Midlands region of England, United Kingdom. The town is situated 7 miles north-west of Nottingham, and it is part of the wider Greater Nottingham area. Popularly known for being the birthplace of the late singer-songwriter and actor, Mr. Frank Sinatra, the town has plenty of exciting places to visit and activities to do for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Hucknall

Here are some of the top places to visit in Hucknall:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hucknall Parish Church

Hucknall Parish Church is a beautiful medieval church that has undergone many restorations. It is the resting place of the parents and brother of Lord Byron and is also adorned with memorials of their family members. Visitors can enjoy an audio guide tour of the church and explore the historic site.

D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum

The D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is a must-visit for literary enthusiasts. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the life of the famous novelist, poet, and playwright, D. H. Lawrence, who was born in the town. Visitors can tour the exhibitions and explore the historic sites of the author’s birthplace, including the authentic period rooms, gardens, and exhibition spaces.

Bestwood Country Park

Bestwood Country Park is a popular outdoor space that offers scenic walks, bike rides, and opportunities for bird watching. The park was formerly a royal hunting ground and has now become a famous destination for visitors who want to explore the natural habitat of Nottinghamshire. The park also has a range of amenities such as a visitor centre and a café.

Natural Attractions of Hucknall: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest is a famous woodland area and a legendary destination in the history of Robin Hood. The forest has over 900 veteran trees, including the famous Major Oak, which is over 1000 years old and a famous destination for tourists worldwide. The forest is ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities, with a range of trails available to explore.

Newstead Abbey

The Newstead Abbey is a former monastery that has now become a beautiful country park and a popular attraction for tourists. The abbey boasts beautiful gardens, ponds, and waterfalls, as well as exploring historical sites such as the Abbey House and the Mausoleum. Visitors can explore these serene surroundings or enjoy an afternoon tea in its beautiful gardens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hucknall

Hucknall is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:

Hucknall to Bestwood Circular Walk

This hiking route takes you through beautiful woodland, meadows, and rural landscapes of Sherwood Forest. The route starts and ends in Hucknall and is approximately twelve kilometres long.

Bonbusk Walk

Bonbusk Walk is another hiking trail that takes you through beautiful wooded areas and the fields surrounding Hucknall, providing an opportunity to explore the natural surroundings of Nottinghamshire.

Bestwood Country Park Cycle Trail

Bestwood Country Park has a dedicated cycle trail that is suitable for all levels of experience. The trail is approximately seven kilometres long, with opportunities to explore the park and its lakes and a café.

Best Things to Do in Hucknall: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Hucknall:

Visit the Huthwaite International Puppet Festival

The Huthwaite International Puppet Festival is a yearly event that attracts people from all over the world. The festival showcases a range of puppet-themed performances from marionettes to shadow puppets.

Watch a Film at The Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a historical venue that features the latest films and live performances throughout the year. The theatre has an authentic atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a night out for both theatre enthusiasts and movie-goers alike.

Take a Ghost Tour of Nottingham

The Ghost Tour of Nottingham is a unique experience that combines history and storytelling. The tour takes you through some of the eeriest streets in Nottingham, including the Narrow Marsh, where you can listen to the ghostly tales of the town’s past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hucknall

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Hucknall:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Hucknall Parish Church and D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum
Day 2 Take a cycling tour of Bestwood Country Park
Day 3 Explore the Natural surroundings of Newstead Abbey
Day 4 Take a Sherwood Forest hike
Day 5 Visit the Huthwaite International Puppet Festival
Day 6 Watch a film at the Palace Theatre
Day 7 Take a Ghost Tour of Nottingham

Food and Drink Scene of Hucknall

Here is a list of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Hucknall:

Must-Try Dishes

Nottinghamshire Pie

The Nottinghamshire pie is a savory pie filled with chicken, bacon, mushroom, and cream. The pie is often served with creamy mashed potatoes and cabbage, making it a classic British dish.

Bakewell Tart

Bakewell Tart is a traditional English dessert made from shortcrust pastry, frangipane cream, and jam filling. The dessert is often served with ice cream or whipped cream.

Local Beverages

Hardy & Hansons Beer

Hardy & Hansons Beer is a famous Nottinghamshire beer. It is a cask-conditioned ale with a rich, malty flavor and a fruity aroma. The beer is widely available across Hucknall in various pubs and restaurants.

Titanic Brewery

The Titanic Brewery is another famous brewery in Nottinghamshire. The brewery offers a wide range of ales, and visitors can have a tour of the facilities and tastings of the beers. Visitors can even buy bottled beer to bring back home.

Where to Stay in Hucknall: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hucknall has plenty of options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Horse And Jockey
  • The Tudor Lodge
  • Little Oaks Bed and Breakfast

What to Buy in Hucknall: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here is a list of souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Hucknall:

  • Locally brewed beer from Hardy & Hansons and Titanic Brewery

  • Homemade jams and chutneys from local producers

Local Culture and Customs of Hucknall

Hucknall is a friendly and warm community, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms. It is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions and be mindful of littering and environment, particularly in the parks and natural reserves.

Best Time to Visit Hucknall

The best time to visit Hucknall is during the months of May to September when the weather is mild and warm, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and adventures. The summer months also have many cultural and music festivals worth attending, such as the Huthwaite International Puppet Festival and The Robin Hood Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hucknall

Do:

  • Explore the natural surroundings and take in the scenic views

  • Try the locally brewed beer from Hardy & Hansons and Titanic Brewery

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces

  • Fail to respect the local customs and traditions of the town

Safety and Health

Safety in Hucknall

Hucknall is a relatively safe town to visit, but it is important to be mindful of petty crime and keep your pockets and bags secure at all times. It is also important to be cautious while hiking and biking in the natural reserves and make sure to follow the signs and safety guidelines.

Health in Hucknall

Hucknall has many healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, in case of any medical emergency.

Getting to Hucknall: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the transportation options to get to Hucknall:

Airports Near Hucknall

The nearest airport to Hucknall is East Midlands Airport, which is around 17.6 miles south of Hucknall. Other airports near Hucknall include Nottingham Airport and Birmingham International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Hucknall

Hucknall has several bus routes that connect to the wider Nottingham network, making it easily accessible. Visitors can take buses operated by Stagecoach, Trent Barton, and National Express.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a car to get around Hucknall and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Hucknall

Hucknall is an easily walkable town, and visitors can explore the town center on foot. Buses and taxis are also available, and visitors can hire a car to explore the surrounding areas easily.

Where to Go Next from Hucknall: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Hucknall:

  • The City of Nottingham

  • The Peak District National Park

  • The Robin Hood Way

Conclusion

Hucknall has plenty of exciting attractions and activities to offer visitors, from exploring its beautiful natural reserves to experiencing its vibrant literary and historical scene. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can have a memorable trip to Hucknall, experiencing its vibrant cultural scene, tasting its sumptuous cuisine and exploring the natural surroundings of Nottinghamshire.