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The town humbly started as an agricultural community in northwestern Nottinghamshire. The River Ryton and the legendary Sherwood Forest border the community. Remnants of Iron Age brickwork and Roman industries indicate the existence of civilizations for over 2000 years.
Before 1066, land was mainly owned and managed by local farmers. Roger de Bullis became lord of the manor and built a castle, but passed the land onto William de Lovelot. In 1103, Lovelot constructed a priory. Agricultural commodities remained the mainstay of Worksop for centuries, and an unusual crop grown included liquorice.
The priory was retired in 1539 and all but the nave and west towers were demolished and used for other building projects. The 5th Earl of Shrewsbury constructed Worksop Manor northwest of town and industries developed. By the 1600s, cloth making and malt houses were common. However, the town was slow to expand and in 1743, the population was estimated to be 1500.
The opening of the Chesterfield Canal in 1777 quickly enhanced the economy. By 1801, the population more than doubled and trade improved. During this century, the population exploded to over 16,000 with the promise of employment in the mining industry. Tourism developed and Worksop was often referred to as the Gateway to the Dukeries, as the area contained many estates belonging to the ducal minority.
Activities and Attractions
Cycling and walking paths abound with trails leading through the Sherwood Forest and down to Nottingham. Pass the 1000-year-old Oak in the forest, rumoured to be the base of Robin Hood and his men. Travel along the river and down to the shores of picturesque lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and local wildlife. Southwest of Worksop lies the Creswell Crags and Caves. Here visitors find plenty of trails leading to a network of caves used by civilizations for thousands of years. A museum on the site displays relics and remnants uncovered in the caves and many date back 50,000 years.
Nearby Hodsock Priory and its renowned snowdrop gardens attracts thousands of people. The 323-hectare (800 acre) estate contains thousands of the delicate white flower, along with a host of other flowering plants including cyclamen and irises. Fragrant flowers on the property include honeysuckle and sarcocca. The estate has numerous trails through the gardens and 40-hectare (100 acre) woodlands. There are special paths designed to hold the interest of young children and treasure hunt trails for the entire family. A number of bird and mammal species call the property home and Hodsock has Victorian beehives. The facility offers a gift shop and cafe.
Places to Stay and Dining
Local luxury hotels add a little something extra to make an ordinary stay special. These unique touches might include fresh fruit and mineral water waiting in the room upon arrival, or valet laundry and parking.
The Romans West restaurant offers affordable dining options in a modern cosy atmosphere. Dine in general areas or choose a quaint secluded spot for that special night out. Enjoy light snacks or meals, salads or multiple course meals.
Accommodation in Worksop
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