Things to do in Retford in August

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Overview

August is a good time to visit Retford. The weather is usually mildly cool and slightly windy, with temperatures ranging from 52—69°F (11—21°C).

Retford has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Retford. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Retford in August. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout August, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Retford in August

Top experiences in August
We couldn't find any experiences in August
Holidays in Retford in August
August

There are no holidays in Retford in August

Other notable holidays
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Weather in Retford in August

Temperatures on an average day in Retford in August

The average temperature in Retford in August for a typical day ranges from a high of 69°F (21°C) to a low of 52°F (11°C). Some would describe the temperature to be mildly cool. The general area may also feel slightly windy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Retford, July, has days with highs of 70°F (21°C) and lows of 52°F (11°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 43°F (6°C) and lows of 33°F (1°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Retford in August based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in August
69°F
highs
52°F
lows

General weather summary

Mildly cool, slightly windy
Feels like
28%
Chance of rain
0.095 in
Amount
15.6 mph
Wind speed
78%
Humidity
14.8 hrs
Daylight length
5:42 AM
Sunrise
8:31 PM
Sunset
47%
Cloud cover
Sweater
What to wear
What to wear in August
With an average high of 69°F (21°C) and a low of 52°F (11°C), it generally feels mildly cool and slightly windy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something moderately warm like a sweater
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Best attractions for Retford in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Retford has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Retford that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Retford for August.
Sundown Adventureland
1. Sundown Adventureland
4.7
(5333)
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Adventure park for the under-10s with soft play and rides, Angry Birds activity area plus a cafe.
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Sundown Adventureland is ideal for younger famlies who want a pleasant engaging place to go. It has rides for all but it’s not Alton Towers. Has areas for picnics or cafes. Has soft play areas and play areas and a cool fort. Santa sleigh ride runs all year round and is quaint. Have visited at Christmas and the park becomes a winter wonderland. Well worth a visit.
Sundown Adventureland is a theme park created especially for younger children, offering a few of colourful rides, themed zones, and imaginative play areas. From tractors and pirate ships to indoor play barns and storybook villages, it’s designed to spark creativity and keep little adventurers entertained in a safe, family-friendly setting. The park is most enjoyable for children up to around 10 or 11 years old. Older ones, particularly around 12, may find the rides a little tame compared to larger theme parks, but many still enjoy the atmosphere, theming, and chance to join in with younger siblings. Overall, it remains a super good family day out.
We went to Sundown Adventureland yesterday and honestly, it’s just wonderful. The attention to detail is incredible — everything feels so intentional and full of imagination. You notice something different every time you visit, and there’s something special for every season. It’s such a magical place for the kids, but it brings out the child in you too! It's so much more than just another attraction, you can really feel the love and care that’s gone into every part of it over decades.
What a wonderful place to take young children! Everything is designed perfectly for your little ones, with interactive displays all around the park, lovely rides and soft plays. It was a shame to have one of the attractions closed because it's not the biggest place already but I'm sure it will reopen soon. I must also mention the fairytale village which was one of my favourite parts! Little houses from lots of fairytale stories that the children could explore and press buttons inside. Sundown was spotlessly clean and well kept and the effort that has gone into designing the park has got to be commended. My children loved it! Lots of space to spread out and play freely... opportunities to meet the characters. We never queued for a thing!!!! Went on the rides as many times as we wanted and practically had the whole park to ourselves! We also stayed onsite at Wild Acres which was really cute. My only criticism is that the bed wasn't very comfortable and it didn't have a proper sofa to relax on when the kiddies were in bed. The hot tub was beautiful and the decoration of the lodge was so magical. We booked our stay for Monday to Friday but that was definitely too long. You'd only need two nights 😊
Absolutely loved our stay here, especially the children there was loads to do there, massive sandpit, loads of different play equipment, the cabins are lovely to stay in, has a small little shop where you can grab essentials, and an adsa 15minutes down the road, only thing I would have to say on the cabins is that the sofas are not comfortable at all, especially if you suffer with bad backs , the beds however are just amazing so comfortable, the fridges needed have a good clean and freezer defrosted, we had a hot tub which was amazing, all the cooking equipment you need is there. The food from the restaurant was delicious
Visited Sundown Adventureland during the summer holidays and had a great time! It’s a lovely park with plenty to explore and so much for kids to enjoy. Lots of fun areas, rides, and themed zones that keep little ones entertained all day. There’s plenty of parking, and it’s definitely worth the money. A fantastic day out for families!
I took a gamble and drove 3 hours to visit Sundown. This adventure was for my sons 5th birthday. I am so pleased we went ! I can not stop raving about it to my family. There are two massive inside soft plays. My children 4 and 5 absolutely loved them. There are walk ways in and around, so u can easily keep your eye on the children. We went in the 6 weeks holiday and it wasn't rammed. There are lots of seating areas and a large variety of drinks and food to enjoy whilst the children burn off there energy. The little rides were brilliant fun and exciting for the children. My son absolutely loved the barrel ride, and the tractor ride, and with no long ques he went on it over and over again! The entire place was well looked after. Clean and tidy! Staff were welcoming and you could see they enjoy there jobs. Entry fees include all rides, so there is no additional costs. You only need to pay extra for food. However, there's lots of inside and outside seating so picnics are welcome too. The miniture villages were magical. The children spent ages exploring inside all the houses. We arrived at opening 10am and left at closing 5.30pm. There was so much to see I advise two days. I can't wait to visit again. My son was jumping around all day telling me "this is the best day ever". And it sure was, for all of us. Please visit this place. You don't know what your missing. It really is a hidden gem.
Highly recommended. So much to do and see, my 3 year old had soo much fun. I'll defo go again but booking in advance it is cheaper.
Idle Valley Nature Reserve (Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust)
2. Idle Valley Nature Reserve (Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust)
4.5
(1267)
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
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You don't need to buy tickets you can just go and visit, either to walk with family and friendstake the dog or just go for coffee and cake etc. You pay £3 pound a car to park, but I think it goes to the nature reserve. It's a lovely walk round a lake and maybe see wild life, and it even has a little climbing slide. It even has some seating around the walk. It as toilets inside the coffee,come little shop. I definitely will go back and visit again.
A lovely pArk to Stroll around. There are several routes delegating how far you want to go. Cafe is nice with friendly staff who can help suggest routes. The walk to the beavers is pretty far..I think about 4 miles. It's possible to park much closer on a lane next to the enclosure if that's what you are aiming at
Fantastic place to visit super surroundings and a large array of wildlife to spot. It's a shame that some of the dog walkers can't take notice of the signs about dogs being on leads. The irresponsible dog owner's that dispose of the dogs waste in the surrounding bushes and hedgerows is deplorable and inexcusable and giving the descent dog owners a bad name.
First visit today and loved it. Had a very leisurely stroll around the Lakeside trail. Quite a warm day but lots of nice shade to get out of the sun for a while. Cafe and staff were also very nice!
First time visitor today, what a wonderful natural place to walk around, look out for wildlife and to relax. Cafe excellent. Staff superb even though it was a busy and sunny Bank holiday. Well done.
Lots of different walks to be taken. Not too busy when walking. Great to have a cafe and toilets.
A good place to with trails to choose from. Dogs can go without leads and the food was also good. We did have to wait for some time though since it was the weekend.
Decent place for a stroll. Never tried the cafe. Loads of parking.
Wetlands Lakes
3. Wetlands Lakes
4.5
(95)
Fishing pond
Nature & Parks
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Wetlands is for the carp catches dream , but not so easy but well worth it. They is carp at 30lb plus. With beautiful settings and the owner is very friendly and helpful. Booking by appointments only. Happy fishing ....
This place has got to be one of the most tranquil places I visited, the animals are all in fit and healthy condition and very well looked after the enclosures and animal pens are huge this is something I love to see. the fishing lakes are packed with fish and the water is well maintained, there is always friendly staff members on hand to help in any way. The cafe is spotless, food and drinks are well below average prices, you could eat out on the Veranda overlooking the vast lakes surrounded by trees. The only complaint I have is that it is now closed to the public (guttered) we will miss visiting this place as I can't find anywhere else that quite matches.
Excellent place. The carp lake has now undergone a massive transformation with the biggest carp out so far at 32lb. Brilliant fishing now with every peg different and all double pegs. Great for a social with your mates and the huts situated on the pegs mean your not bivvy bound. You can cook in the huts and theres twin USB chargers in them as well as a night light. Fantastic 9 acre water. Overnight sessions require a night permit.
Great days carp fishing lots of space and owners don't bother you .nice and peaceful Great friendly staff 👍👍👍
Nice pegs with a shelter on each. Easy to pre book so we will be back 👍
Beautiful lake, good size pegs. Cooking hut and solar charging point a nice touch. Cracking breakfast delivered to your peg. What more can you need. Some lovely fish to go at also. Will be back again!
Been here twice now! And all I can say is beautiful lake beautiful carp great facilities great owners! 100% be coming back and making this venue my new go to lake! Highly recommended!!
When for a day session, never seen the place b4, plenty of lumps to go at . Totally enjoyed myself and will be back
Majestic Theatre Retford
4. Majestic Theatre Retford
4.8
(554)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Century-old 'variety' theatre hosting live music, panto, comedy, dance and psychic shows.
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Great little theatre great shows too.. recently saw cinderella and it was amazing. Nit laughed so much in ages, brilliant cast.
Fantastic place for the whole family, whether it's for a panto or tribute act. The staff are great, and the whole experience is phenomenal.
Theatre was easy to find toilets and very small bar were upstairs big queues to get a drink so we did nt bother . Place was clean we were seated 5 rows from the front very good views of the band we went to see BonJovi experience very good tribute .
Why Hawkestone and not a local brew like Pheasantry ?? What a great theatre with great volunteers but why are you selling a beer from 150 odd miles away when you have great local beers on your doorstep ?
Great theatre. Bursting with character. Staff are all very friendly and helpful. The crew are very knowledgeable and have a great understanding of technical issues. Very big stage, with fantastic lighting. No car park so plan ahead. Great refreshments during the interval & good selection of soft and alcoholic drinks!
A joyous afternoon watching Jurassic Earth at the Majestic with my grandson. The staff were all extremely pleasant and helpful. Good clean facilities within, and I would recommend anyone that wants to visit, to do so!
Fantastic venue. Very clean and well looked after. Very friendly volunteers and helpful.
Great panto experience again this year! Already booked for next year! Lovely theatre, friendly staff & reasonably priced.
Kings Park
5. Kings Park
Park
Nature & Parks
Pilgrims Gallery
6. Pilgrims Gallery
4.8
(6)
Museum
Specialty Museums
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Great little museum! This is an added extra as part of the main museum. We visited on a quiet Tuesday and staff were having a staff meeting in there which made it hard to see everything but not the end of the world since it was a quiet Tuesday, they needed to space more than we needed to read that one board haha.
Lovely little museum with information presented in a lively and interesting way. The new(ish) Pilgrims Gallery is a particularly good venture jointly with other sites of interest for those who want to explore this topic. Absolutely free to enter. I encourage any tourists in this area to visit
Lovely gallery, the study area is really nicely done and the mirror above the desk is great way to tell Brewster's story.
Great place to visit with children. Beautiful and very knowledgeable. We love time in there. People who works there are very friendly.
Great place, ivocative informative and interactive. Well worth a visit.
Chesterfield Canal
7. Chesterfield Canal
4.8
(12)
River
Nature & Parks
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An amazing place to walk or cycle especially in the summer
Love it here. The water is so clear you can easily see the bottom. Beautiful places to moor and very friendly and informative locals.
A lovely walk along Chesterfield canal at Retford
Great for dog walks!
Beautiful walks & scenery.
Go every day, as I live 100 yards away , walk it most days lovely 👍😄
Great for social distancing
Great walks along towpath throughout the entire canal. Both worksop and chesterfield ends
Springhead Brewery
8. Springhead Brewery
4.6
(13)
Permanently Closed
Brewery
Food & Drink
Basic, contemporary rooms above a bustling tavern serving tapas and pub classics.
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Did the brewery tour on Sat. 31st May, had a brilliant time!!! Sampled most of the beers in The Bee's Knees after, excellent range of ales. Very good atmosphere, hospitable and obliging staff, good conversation, will be returning very soon to sample the food, which looked excellent. Highly recommended.
Great beer, even better when freshly poured. Didn't eat but food looked good and reasonable price. Comfy local pub, recommended.
A pleasant pub , although the glass of house wine I had there was dreadful! Nice atmosphere.
Absolutely love this place come every year detecting shout out to bees knees pub
Pleasabt village pub had sunday lunch very nice
Never been but it's Around Ship Rd Area Of Laneham Its A Water Works.
A really great BnB. Would thoroughly recommend!
Good food, great beer.
Sebastopol Cannon
9. Sebastopol Cannon
4.0
(2)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
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A brilliant part of history - very decorative cannon and a nice display board which tells you all about the history of it being in the centre of town.
Is it a mini roundabout? Could it start a civil war? Who knows, but it's pointing at Argos.
Mattersey Priory
10. Mattersey Priory
3.4
(68)
Monastery
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
A lovely little gem, although off the beaten track. For those who read a previous review saying you cannot get to it. It has a wooden step to climb over the fencing. 👍👍
Owned by English Heritage and free to visit. Do note it is down a long bumpy gravel path. The remains, mainly the 13th-century refectory and kitchen, of a small monastery for just six Gilbertine canons - the only wholly English monastic order.
It is what it is, just a few bits standing, impressive views, 3/4 mile walk from village parking, signs make it clear locals don't want you parking at site. Pretty obvious who plundered the stone back in time if you look at the nearby farmhouse walls !!
**NO ACCESS, don't go** Ruins look amazing! But, you can only see them from about 75 feet away. The entrance was locked by I assume the local residents, there was about 3 house and a B+B at the end of a very bumpy and unpaved gravel road. Few passing places. I walked around to see if I could find an entrance, but was met with someone's backyard. The ruins are small, would only need about 15 minutes to see everything.
Disappointing venue, well no, the venue is as expected, just some ruins but it's the getting there. You're not supposed to drive up to it, the access road is now a bridleway with supposed only access for the few houses along the road so it's a long mile or more walk on an awful sharp stone surface to be greeted by not a lot. Not ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs or flip flops, plus the same walk back to the village to get your car. To be honest you're better off looking at photos on the Internet of the place.
This historical place is a English Heritage, it is free for everyone but it doesn't have car park instead you must park in Mattersey village and you should walk where you parked but don't worry there is a sign just look for brown sign. But beware there is a private houses. There isn't wheelchair accessible entrance
I love a good priory/abbey/monastery site, it's such a shame they usually look like this one. Once Henry VIII dissolved them and destroyed them, all that history passed away. We followed the instructions and parked in the village, we than walked the "road" to the site. This road would be 4x4 only but as it's foot access only for non-resident's then I didn't have to get my truck any dirtier. It was a wet and muddy day so we got covered, bear this in mind when attending. The Priory has great views across the fields and ever some signage explain the site, shame the main info board is missing. Great walk, we enjoyed our visit. Not disabled friendly. Use the style to the right of the gate, don't try and use the gate.
Lovely trip to Mattersey Priory. Its a small site but very well kept. It’s down a long limestone lane. We parked 2 cars about 50 metres from the gate. Good unobtrusive signage. Magical place.
North Leverton Windmill
11. North Leverton Windmill
5.0
(60)
Mill
Sights & Landmarks
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Went for the classic car show both days were packed with things to do. It was a great family day out. Reasonably priced food and drinks available. The friendly volunteers were welcoming and cheerful. We went up to the top of the windmill and had the talk. Thank you see you soon.
Excellent, I flew my drone around and was 10/10 for footage! And so local to me!
We had such a wonderful experience visiting North Leverton Windmill! The Miller was incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the visit even more special. We drove all the way from London just to see this beautiful windmill, and it was absolutely worth it. The kids really enjoyed the trip and learned so much about the history of the windmill and milling. The inside feels like a small museum, full of interesting displays and information. We also bought two packs of flour that were actually made in the windmill itself – such a unique and authentic souvenir! A truly memorable visit for the whole family. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a day out with charm, history, and a warm welcome. ❤️
Not the first time we'd been here but it's always worth a 2nd, 3rd or even a 4th visit. Had another climb to the top to see the views. You can just make out Lincoln Cathedral in the distance from one window. The Miller, James was on hand today to talk about his role at the mill as was Ian, the Saturday 'boy', well the very well versed gent who volunteers on a Saturday and was a joy to talk with and learn from. Certainly a place to visit if you're in the area.
This is an absolutely wonderful place. You can learn the history of the mill, climb to the top, and see the windmill work. The information board and the visitor centre are informative. The volunteers are very knowledgeable and helpful. They are doing a great job of looking after the windmill and keeping it healthy and operating.
I took my 13 Year old to the mill and We had a wonderful time.. The guide was the best ive ever Experienced. Im 100% going to go back for another visit soon.
Visited while staying at the local camp site, just thought I was calling to a local shop for flour. Didn’t expect to find a visitors centre or to have a tour of the working mill, at not cost, donations are welcome. What an amazing place to see and appreciate how flour is produced.
Excellent working windmill with Wheels and Windmill events , v good volunteers to help the trip inside the mill . Brilliant
Cenotaph War Memorial
12. Cenotaph War Memorial
4.5
(4)
Permanently Closed
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
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Recently renovated and a credid to the persons who did it. In the middle of the market square can be see all the time.
Daneshill Lakes
13. Daneshill Lakes
4.6
(362)
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 8
It's mostly a good gravel path all the way around the lake. There are plenty of water birds. Fungi at the right time of year, too.
Beautiful place to walk the dogs. If yours like to stop and sniff around, too, its easily an hour's worth of an adventure. Bring water if out during warmer weather, plenty of benches on the main path around the lake to take a lovely break.
Lovely walk around that lake. Everyone was very friendly. Decent surface for a pushchairs too. Path hugs the lake so have nice views the entire way around. We went 10 on Sunday and had no problem parking. Next to no litter at all.
Lovely place to walk, relax and spend time with your maker
Beautiful place which is really well maintained. Lots of little hideaway to look at nature. Lots of bench’s to sit and take in the views and a little picnic area to eat away from from the lake. To say we went on Good Friday it was really quite, I would highly recommend anyone to go.
Lovely, short easy walk - very clean, people are friendly
Such a lovely spot to walk a dog.
Great stroll around the lakes and so pretty. Good parking and a tranquil spot
St Swithun's Church
14. St Swithun's Church
4.7
(63)
Church
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
Beautiful church inside and out. In daylight it is a wonderful monument to time, even in the dark it's alight and casts a stunning image over Retford. Have some great events including the annual Christmas Tree Festival
Kinda got it in spades. Beautiful proper old building with gargoyles and various other stonework. Stunning stained glass windows etc. Very welcoming people inside and a fairly modern morning service with God placed centrally.
Come and meet Jesus. Fantastic worship, praise and prayer.
Great contemporary service this morning. Lovely welcome, spirit lifting worship, enlightening preach. Wonderful fellowship afterwards. The best is yet to come. On Thursday 4.30 there is a drop-in for homeless, addicted, broken people where advice, support and direction can be found for residential rehab and supported housing.
Had the pleasure of ringing the bells before a service inside, what a beautiful place in the heart of retford!
Friendly. Love the Christmas tree festival.
Beautiful church with amazing history
An amazing and beautiful Parish Church in Retford. Upon entering I was greeted by very friendly lady who volunteers with the upkeep of this church. A charming and beautiful atmosphere, very well maintained considering they rely heavily on donations for the maintenance and upkeep costs. It oozes with community spirit and a welcoming ambience. It's surrounded by a town square filled with boutique shops and community market. An unforgettable experience. Wheelchair friendly and welcoming parishioners. Worth visiting if in the area.
The Well
15. The Well
4.7
(121)
Church
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
A wonderful, contemporary church full of life. Great leaders and church family. They love the Bible and love to see God at work in their midst. Very connected to the local community in so many ways. Definitely top of the A-list for a visit if you are looking for somewhere to put down some roots in your community. They also do some really inspiring conferences and events. Check out their website.
Attended fitness and fun with Sarah to help with my hip, lower back and shoulder problems. Thank you for playing 80's music - my favourite. Made very welcome.
Went to Monday luncheon club, we had a nice roast chicken dinner and lemon sponge and custard for desert. The meal was really nice.the staff where really nice and made us feel welcome. We paid £7 for the meal and cuppa. We went over to the hut and did arts and crafts. I brought my colouring book and crayons.
Didn't visit the place in its capacity as a church, but as a venue for giving blood to the NHS Blood Service. Ideal location for a stop on the way home so that you are not driving too far out the way.
Take ours Daughter to the playgroup on a Tuesday morning and its excellent! Cheap, friendly and great volunteers running the show. Tea & coffee as well as toast and cakes all included within the price for children and parents. Definite place to check out with your young ones! Brilliant 😀
Very clean and looked after church. Plenty of toilet facilities. Lots of parking if required. The lift is really helpful to access the upstairs facilities. Really lovely program of events happening here.
I come here for my child's music class. Everyone is kind and helpful. It's always very clean despite the amount of people that use the place regularly. Spacious rooms and lots of parking too.
Met a very helpful receptionist who gave me a mine of information. I recommend a visit. Building of superb quality with large rooms for activities. I was looking for social activities for my 92 year old relative.
St John the Baptist Church
16. St John the Baptist Church
4.8
(9)
Anglican church
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 6
Nice little quiet village church. We came across it at the start of a walk, nice to have a look around.
This church really needs to get a war grave sign, as I spotted at least two war graves in the church yard.
Lovely historic Church in great village of Carlton-in-Lindrick
Variety of services. Popular vicar
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