Top 13 things to do and attractions in Retford

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.

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.

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.

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

Went for Autism support group and it was all downhill from the second we arrived .Firstly was the fact this "supposedly " support group felt non existant there was no group around just the genuine public. And there wasnt even a private room for the group to be held so people had no safe space they hope for for the comfort to talk about such a sensitive subject but instead we was just supposed to go sit at an ordinary table and it was just like any other visit to soft play which wasnt what we came for if we wanted soft play we would've stayed in worksop rather than drive 25 minutes.Then there confusion over us 2 adults being charged entry as the flyer had no explanation of this which i cant understand this as its not like we are the ones going about and playing .The 2 children (age 2 +10) was able to have a meal included in the price of their entry but the baby (8 month) wasn't also entitied to this option with her entry ....babies do eat too! More chance of a baby eating that going off to play! Especially given that the smaller children play area was full of older kids and adults when we arrived so couldn't really let her "play" anyway and even though there is a baby section with toys suited for their age why would they go play with toys that are already at home and these ones are in disgusting state I didn't realise until after I pulled my 8 month from a walker that it was actually mouldy and covered in stains! What level of hygiene is this when babies and toddlers typically lick and put things to their mouth...this is just a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses! Then comes food time the food was awful hot dog was the same size as my little finger and looked pathetic in its bun and chips felt stale. There is a sensory room which I would say is a good idea but it's fault is its sensory overload there's too much going on and noisy equipment when typically a sensory room purposed for children with additional needs is supposed to be a calm and peaceful environment so would definitely say it needs rid off noisy interactive tablets and the soft play which there's already enough of outside the room an just make it all about gentle sounds colours and feeling for it to serve its actual purpose. Overall was disappointed with our visit was a let down that we didn't get the group we had hoped for to seek out other parents in the same boat and get the right support. Felt uncomfortable and was welcomed by miserable staff member. Shows the kind of environment to expect when going .

40min wate 3 people came in after us But had there meal before us. When I asked about ours thay said the orders got mixed up. That was it. Very over priced for what we had

Had a party for my sons 6th birthday, had a few parties here and they've been great, but this time was a complete shambles. 😞

Took my grandson and he had a great time. He is 9 and it was an inset day at his school. He saw some of his friends so that was even better.

Me and my son had a great time today. The activities kept us plenty occupied for hours on end. We enjoyed the food they served and staff were really friendly.

My daughters 5th birthday party (September 4th 2023), booked about 6 weeks in advance to ensure availability. Process was easy, paid the small deposit to hold the date then a couple of days before the date I popped it to confirm numbers and pay the balance. All staff brilliant on the day and kept up with the kids. All parents mentioned how good the party was ran and how easy it was, I believe another parent also booked for their child’s birthday whilst we was there because they enjoyed it so much. My daughter was made to feel special during the staff organised kids dance routine around the soft play area on the way round to the party food. Food brilliant, hot and cold buffet with healthy snacks along with the usual kids pizzas, chips & hotdogs etc. Overall I’d recommend the venue for all your kids needs whether it be a visit for an afternoon after school, a weekend day session to keep the kids occupied or to celebrate a special birthday for your child. Thanks to all staff, looking forward to our next visit.

Went here with my 2 year old over the summer when visiting relatives (summer 2021). Clean, well laid out space with lots for toddlers to do, even my 2 year old could use most of the space easily. Staff were friendly and the food was really good -WAY better than most soft play places, it felt like a proper cafe where they cared about the food coming out hot, with the right utensils and sides, and so on. Couldn't fault it and would go there more regularly if we lived close by - will visit again when we're near. Great place.

My granddaughter had her party here. It was lovely. Well organised and everyone enjoyed themselves. Lovely staff and food was good.

This place is great! Brought my youngest for the first time today and it was lovely! Staff were friendly, the place looks clean and well maintained. Loads of toys in the toddler bit which is always nice and the best part for us was the sensory room. I almost didn't notice it was there but it's a darkened, cooled room with lights and sounds and a bubble tower my kid loved it. The menu looked good and prices were very fair but I didn't actually order food we weren't hungry. If I lived local I'd take both my kids my 4yr old would love the climbing softplay rig in the corner.

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.

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.

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

Is it a mini roundabout? Could it start a civil war? Who knows, but it's pointing at Argos.

History place

Excellent local arts. Informative, friendly, knowledgeable and helpful volunteer staff. Lovely fresh filled rolls and homemade cakes for very low cost. Check out the museum and go upstairs to chat to the artists in their workplaces. Artisan food to buy including local cheeses.

Wonderful shop full of hand made artisan items. Super little art gallery and if you're interested in Pilgrim Fathers history then this venue has the best museum and visitor attraction in the region. Get a meal deal here for lunch and all staffed by volunteers. The hub also houses tourist information.

Beautiful, creative gifts, homemade cakes, friendly staff and craft classes. An asset to the town. A definite must visit!

Good venue promoting local craft. Café is very good value too.

Great place to visit, has a potter who makes in the medieval style, worth a visit