St. Johns & St Marys Church

You won't find St Johns and St Marys Church listed in most guidebooks, which is precisely why it's worth the short drive from Mansfield. This dual-named parish church sits quietly in Nottinghamshire, the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think - a rarity these days.

The church itself tells the story of centuries of local worship, with architecture that rewards a proper look around. Inside, there's the sort of genuine peace you get from old stone and worn pews, not the performative calm of somewhere too polished. If you're into church history and surviving medieval details, you'll find plenty to occupy yourself. Most visitors spend an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're thorough.

This works well as a break during a broader Sherwood area trip. Sherwood Forest Holiday Park sits just four miles away, as does Silverhill Woodland Retreats if you're after a slightly quieter base. It's the kind of stop that makes sense between walking routes rather than a destination in itself - though that's not a criticism. Sometimes the best parts of a holiday are the unexpected detours.

Bring a camera if you're interested in architectural details. Opening hours aren't widely advertised, so ring ahead or check when you arrive in Mansfield - most village churches keep reasonable daytime access, but best not to assume. There's no admission charge that we're aware of, though a donation box usually sits near the entrance.