Attractions and Places To See around Cossall - Top 20

Cossall and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the Grade II listed St. Catherine's Church, with parts dating back to the 13th century, and its significant Waterloo Memorial. The Willoughby Almshouses, erected in 1685, are also Grade II listed and featured in D.H. Lawrence's novel "The White Peacock." Don't miss Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), an intriguing cave carved by a local baker around 1130, or the dramatic arch ruins of Dale Abbey Arch, a former Premonstratensian abbey.

Yes, Cossall offers several natural havens. The disused Nottingham Canal towpath is now the Nottingham Canal Nature Reserve / Cossall Canal, perfect for easy walks and observing diverse wildflowers and insects. Cossall Marsh is a tranquil wetland ideal for birdwatching. A short distance away, Attenborough Nature Reserve is a popular bird-watching spot with tranquil river paths, and Mapperley Reservoir provides a peaceful setting for wildlife and birdwatching amidst woodlands and farmland.

The area around Cossall is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various routes for different sports. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'Erewash Canal Towpath – Erewash Canal Lock loop' or the 'Bennerley Viaduct Steps – Bennerley Viaduct loop'. If you prefer cycling, options include the 'Breadsall Greenway – Derwent Valley Riverside Path loop' or the 'Trent Lock – Erewash Canal Towpath loop'. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'View of Cropston Reservoir – Quiet Country Lane loop'. You can find more details and routes on the respective guides for MTB Trails around Cossall, Cycling around Cossall, and Road Cycling Routes around Cossall.

Absolutely! Several attractions are suitable for families. Attenborough Nature Reserve is a great spot for all ages to enjoy birdwatching and easy walks. The ruins of Dale Abbey Arch offer an interesting historical visit that's easy for all abilities. Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful place for families to enjoy nature and spot wildlife. Additionally, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a family-friendly stop perfect for refreshments during a walk or cycle.

Cossall is set on a hill, offering picturesque views across the Erewash Valley. The Nottingham Canal Nature Reserve / Cossall Canal towpath also provides scenic views across the valley. For a historical viewpoint, the impressive Bennerley Viaduct spans the Erewash Valley and is a sight to behold.

The Cossall Conservation Area was designated in 1972 to preserve the village's attractive character and historical significance. It encompasses many of the village's historic buildings and is reputed to be the birthplace of coal mining in Nottinghamshire. You can learn more about its designation and character through the Broxtowe Borough Council's conservation area appraisal document: broxtowe.gov.uk.

Yes, for a convenient stop, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a great option, especially if you're exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. It's only accessible by walking or cycling and offers a good selection of cakes and a pleasant outdoor seating area. There are also various pubs in the broader Cossall area that can provide refreshments.

Cossall holds notable connections to the celebrated author D.H. Lawrence. Church Cottage, for instance, was once the home of Louie Burrows, Lawrence's fiancée, and served as a setting for his novel "The Rainbow," where it is referred to as "Cossethay." The Willoughby Almshouses are also mentioned in his novel "The White Peacock."

Yes, the Nottingham Canal Nature Reserve / Cossall Canal offers an easy walking route along its towpath, providing a peaceful experience with diverse flora and fauna. Many of the trails around natural features like Attenborough Nature Reserve and Mapperley Reservoir are also suitable for easy walks, making them accessible for various fitness levels.

The Bennerley Viaduct is an impressive Grade II* listed former railway viaduct that spans the Erewash Valley. It's a significant historical and engineering landmark in the region, offering a striking visual and a glimpse into the area's industrial past.

The Waterloo Memorial is located in the churchyard of St. Catherine's Church in Cossall. Unveiled in 1877, it commemorates three local men who fought in the Battle of Waterloo: Corporal John Shaw, Richard Waplington, and Thomas Wheatley, serving as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice.