East Retford

The town of East Retford, commonly known as Retford, is a market town in Nottinghamshire, England, located a mere 31 miles from the city of Nottingham.

Located in a valley with the River Idle and Chesterfield Canal running through the centre of the town, you can enjoy picturesque scenes and relaxing walks. Amongst the many things to see in the town is the Market Square, where there is an ornate French-inspired Victorian Town Hall, in front of which is the legendary Broad Stone. Also within the Market Square is the war memorial for the men killed in both WWI and WWII.

 

Just across from the Market Square is Cannon Square, where you can find St. Swithun’s Church and a Cannon captured from the Russians during the Siege of Sevastopol. Bypassed by both the A1 trunk road and the A57, East Redford is very easy to get to, with excellent transport links to the surrounding cities and towns.

Bassetlaw Museum, Amcott House, 40 Grove Street, Retford DN22 6LD (01777) 713749
Comprising of donations from local people and opened in 1983, Bassetlaw Museum houses a collection of historical, archaeological and decorative art exhibits relevant to East Retford and the surrounding areas.

The museum mainly focuses on the story of William Brewster; leader of the local church and one of the Pilgrim Fathers who famously sailed to the New World on The Mayflower in the 17th Century.

North Leverton Windmill, The Orchard, Cross Street, Sturton-le-Steeple DN22 9HL (01427) 880254
Ceaselessly milling for over 200 years, North Leverton Windmill is a working mill that is open to tourists each Saturday. Built by local farmers in 1813, it has become a focal point in the area.

Despite the advent of electricity, the mill still works by wind power; and if that isn’t available, engine stones are used to ensure that grinding continues.