Cannon

There's a cannon sitting near Retford that's genuinely worth seeking out if you're camping or caravanning in the area. It's the sort of thing that stops you mid-walk and makes you wonder what story it's got to tell - and it does have one, though details are frustratingly thin on the ground. The cannon itself is substantial enough to properly examine up close, the kind of object that gives you a real sense of the weight of history in a way museum pieces sometimes don't.

Historically minded visitors will get the most from this - it's the sort of spot that rewards curiosity and a bit of research beforehand. Kids might find it interesting for ten minutes or so, though there's no interpretation board or visitor centre, so you'll need to bring your own knowledge or phone to unlock what you're looking at. The fact it's free and accessible means there's no risk to a quick detour if you're staying nearby.

If you're based at one of the local caravan parks - Hallcroft Fishery and Holiday Park is barely a mile away, or Olive Tree Caravan and Camping Park just down the road - this could pad out a morning before heading towards Clumber Park for something more comprehensive. It's the kind of addition that makes a park holiday feel properly exploratory rather than just settling in for a week. Not a destination in itself, but definitely worth the brief walk if you're already in Retford.