Rufford Abbey and Park.

Information courtesy of Nottinghamshire County Council Tourism.

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Naturally Rufford.

The Formal Gardens.

The formal gardens at Rufford consist of nine different gardens, which are linked for visitors to walk through. These include over 30 different plants in the herb garden and the sculpture collection, which showcases a range of works including 'Ewe and Man on a Park Bench', a light-hearted and popular feature with visitors.

The Orangery. Picture Tony Stocks

The Orangery has now been restored to preserve the history and major features of the building and was reopened in 1995 as a venue for exhibitions - the Apsidal Gallery - featuring a changing display of outdoor sculptures and large scale ceramics.

Close to the gardens is the Reg Hookway Arboretum, which provides a peaceful haven for visitors to sit and enjoy the landscape of Rufford. It is a lasting memorial to the first Director of the Countryside Commission who died in 1982.

 

Rock Garden.

Rockery. Picture Tony StocksVisitors are able to experience a new and exciting attractions in the Rock Garden.

Newark-based artist Gerry Price has creating a spectacular new rock garden within the formal gardens at Rufford Country Park. The rock garden combines beds of stone chippings, a cobble path, drystone seating and a series of sculptures with plants and shrubs. She is pictured busy putting the final smooth finish on one of the sculptures which will grace the garden, which is just to the east of the Orangery.

 

Woodlands.

Woodlands are a feature at Rufford and can be explored along any of the many paths and avenues.

The Ice Houses.

Before the domestic fridge ice houses played an important role of keeping food fresh and were introduced into Britain around 1660. The three at Rufford are build close to the lake, which made the collection and storage of ice easier. The remains of two of them can still be seen in the park.

The Animal Graves.

Sporting life was important to the Savile family and the graves of some of their dogs and the famous Derby winner 'Cremorne' lie in the park.

Rufford Mill and Lake.

The lake at Rufford was constructed around 1750 by damming the northern end of a stream. It enhances the park and provided power for a corn mill. It is now home to a wide variety of wildfowl. At the northern end beyond the mill buildings is the water splash, a popular spot for spectators as cars pass through the ford.

 


Ruf_gard.jpg (13807 bytes)The Lakeside Garden Shop.

Stocked with plants, pots and plenty for green fingered enthusiasts. Garden goods and great gift ideas - all in a lakeside setting. Parking nearby for those heave and bulky purchases.

 

The Outdoor Living Store.

For the great outdoors a huge selection of walking boots, fleeces and outdoor wear at some of the keenest prices in the area. Browse at leisure in relaxing country surroundings. Miles better than a hike around city centre shops!

Opening hours.
Open every day between 10.30 and 17.00 (10.30 and 16.00 January & February).
Ample parking at the Mill and the Abbey/Craft Centre. The park can be reached by public transport, telephone the 'Buses Hotline' on 0115 9240000 for up to date information.

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