サウスウィングフィールドでののおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

This is ancient oak woodland. A beautiful place to enjoy a quiet walk and look for wildlife. Shaw Wood is registered as a Local Wildlife site, which means it is a good habitat for a variety of creatures and a great place for us to enjoy them. In the spring the woodland floor is a carpet of bluebells and other wildflowers, which in turn attract insects, birds and small mammals.

The history of the estate goes back to Norman times, but by the 17th century it was owned by the Morewood family, who were linked to local industry, mainly in coal mining. The parklands and gardens date from the mid-18th century onwards. The house itself is now in use as a restaurant, conference and wedding venue.

St Martin's Church, Church Street, Alfreton, originally a 13th century church with significant later alterations. The oldest part appears to be the stilted archway from the nave into tower and may be attributed to the commencement of the Early English period. The Decorated Period is in evidence in some of the arches separating the nave from the south aisle, probably dating to c1320, and the moulding of the arch of the south doorway. The tower is early Perpendicular, probably from the commencement of the 15th century. In 1868, the church was enlarged and altered. The chancel was almost completely rebuilt and extended to retain its former size. The church is first noticed at the endowment of Beauchief Abbey between 1172 and 1176 and it is reasonable to assume that the founder of the Abbey was also the founder of the church. None of the work in the church pre-dates this period.

Oakerthorpe Brook runs through the middle of Oakerthorpe NR and feeds a large pond where frogs and toads breed each spring.

Frogs, toads and grass snakes are among the many species to be found on this small nature reserve. There is a short circular walk around the reserve, with a pond dipping platform provided for school groups.

The church dates from the 12th century. The aisle and nave windows were redone in 1803 and the chancel was refashioned in 1877. The font dates from the 12th century.

Great beer and food Also parking on the road is easier than the suggested starting point

Hidden gem alongside Alfreton Golf course. Pretty little walk, joins on to Shaw Wood across the road if you want to explore a little further.