Shirebrook Wood

Visitor information

Located between Mansfield and Bolsover, this picturesque woodland is rapidly developing into one of the most attractive wildlife sites in the region

With its mixture of mature broadleaf woodland, newly planted trees, large open meadows and a scenic wetland valley, Shirebrook Wood offers something for everybody. 

This reclaimed colliery site provides home to a variety of wildlife including songbirds, small mammals and plenty of butterflies. On a warm summer’s day you may even be lucky enough to spot the Dingy Skipper butterfly as you explore the wood! 

Climb towards the top of the site for spectacular views over open countryside and marvel at the natural landscape around you. Well-maintained surfaced tracks create a good range of circular routes for you to follow.

The Millennium hedge runs through Shirebrook, this was planted to celebrate the millennium and runs along the border between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

At a glance

  • Walking trails 
  • Cycling 
  • Horse riding 
  • Picnic area
  • Dogs welcome 

Things to do

Cycling at Shirebrook Wood

Grab your helmet and head out for a beautiful cycle ride around Shirebrook Wood. 

Shirebrook Wood offers a network of forest paths and trails for you to ride on. 

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Horse riding at Shirebrook Wood

Shirebrook Wood offers a network of forest roads which show a diverse and beautiful range of habitats. There are no dedicated bridleways at Shirebrook Wood, but riders are welcome to explore the wood on forest roads. These are not waymarked. 

No permit is needed to ride at Shirebrook Wood.

The forest roads can be accessed from the north east corner (where there are mounting blocks). From there, riders can explore the west side of the wood, down to where a BOAT (Byway Open to All Traffic) bisects the site, which horses can also use. The southern corner of the wood is open to horses and it is possible to ride a circular route here or exit at the rail crossing at the south east of the site. This connects to a PROW bridleway, which is not on our land. The main area of the northern part is not accessible to horses.

For more information on our facilities, opening times and contact details, please see our visitor information.

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Picnics at Shirebrook Wood

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at Shirebrook Wood. Just bring along good food and company!

Picnic benches are located near the car park.

To prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any barbecues into our forests.

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Walking at Shirebrook Wood

Shirebrook Wood is home to miles of well-surfaced trails that criss-cross the woodland. 

Follow surfaced paths that meander around a variety of woodland and see the many different habitats here at Shirebrook. 

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Nearby forests

Pond in forest

Pleasley Park

Pleasley Park is a lovely mix of broadleaved and coniferous trees. Its 74 hectares offer delightful walks amongst a variety of trees. There is a pond to discover too.

It is bordered to the south and west by footpaths making it easily accessible for visitors.

 

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Field of purple orchids in the sun

Oxclose Wood

Enjoy the mixture of woodland, wetland and grassland at Oxclose Wood. Banks of orchids, the song of the skylark and the hovering kestrel are all here for you to discover.

The surfaced trails make it a lovely place to walk, reflect, be creative and simply enjoy the beauty around you.

Steep climbs are rewarded with spectacular views and you may even catch a glimpse of a buzzard.

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Family walking on a woodland trail

Sherwood Pines

Come and explore one of the Midland’s most well-known forests! With activity trails, play areas, bike hire, wild running and mountain biking trails, Sherwood Pines will set the scene for a great day out for all.

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Ancient Oak Tree

Birklands Sherwood Forest

With an extensive path network, varied history and special wildlife to discover, Birklands, near Edwinstowe, is a fantastic place to explore. You can access Birklands via the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. 

Wildlife to spot

Nightjars, glow worms and thousands of other species rely on the unique habitat of Birklands, so bring your binoculars and a sharp eye - who knows what you’ll see!

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