Things to do in 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

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Retford? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Retford

Sundown Adventureland

Bring the family to Sundown Adventureland and enjoy some excitement at this 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 quaint area, you can savor 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 relaxing area, you can savor the lively bars.

Bassetlaw Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Bassetlaw Museum during your travels in Retford. While in this relaxing area, you can savor the lively bars.

Retford Leisure Centre

Enjoy an outing to Retford Leisure Centre during your stay in Retford. Wander around the gardens or enjoy the area's bars.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Retford

Lincoln

Brodsworth Hall featuring heritage architecture and a park

Doncaster

Worksop

The grounds are nice for a stroll around

Thoresby

Blyth

Gainsborough

Newark

Beacon Hill thistle A thistle growing on Beacon Hill

Gringley on the Hill

Frequently asked questions

Is Retford worth visiting?

Famous for its bars and pubs and distilleries and craft breweries, finding awesome things to do in Retford is simple. Be sure to add Sundown Adventureland to your trip itinerary while here.

How do I spend a day in Retford?

Once you've visited leading attractions like Sundown Adventureland and Idle Valley Nature Reserve, spend some time exploring Retford's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Retford?

Sundown Adventureland is one of the top tourist attractions in Retford and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Retford?

Three days in Retford is enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travelers spend two days on average. Sundown Adventureland, Idle Valley Nature Reserve and The Well Retford Baptist Church are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Nottingham.

What are some activities to do in Retford with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Retford with kids.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park: Entry Ticket

What to do in Retford for adults?

There are loads of things to do in Retford, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Bassetlaw Museum.

Are there free things to do in Retford?

One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Retford is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Idle Valley Nature Reserve is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.