Attractions and Places To See around Awsworth - Top 20

Awsworth is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Bennerley Viaduct, a Grade II* listed wrought iron bridge now serving as a footway and cycleway. Other notable sites include St Peter's Parish Church, the Awsworth War Memorial, and the Old Infant School, all contributing to the village's historic core. Further afield, you can discover the ancient Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), carved by a local baker in the 12th century, and the dramatic Dale Abbey Arch, a remnant of a Premonstratensian abbey.

Yes, Awsworth is surrounded by natural beauty. The Nottingham Canal, specifically the 'Willoughby Top Cut,' offers a multi-use green space for walking, cycling, and nature observation. The village is also on the edge of the scenic Erewash Valley. For a peaceful escape, visit Mapperley Reservoir, known for its bluebell woodlands and birdwatching opportunities. Don't miss The Hemlock Stone, a striking natural rock formation steeped in local legend.

The area around Awsworth is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy walking and cycling along the Nottingham Canal towpath or explore the various routes through the Erewash Valley. Hiking is also very popular, with options ranging from easy to difficult. For example, you can find routes like the 'Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct loop from Awsworth' for an easy hike, or more challenging options like the 'Ilkeston to Bramcote Hills Nature Reserve loop.' You can find more details on these and other routes on the hiking guide for Awsworth.

Absolutely! Families can enjoy a visit to Mapperley Reservoir for wildlife spotting and gentle walks. The Shiloh Recreation Ground in Awsworth features a large playground and a skate park, perfect for children. The Nottingham Canal towpath is also suitable for family walks and bike rides. The Dale Abbey Arch is also considered family-friendly for an interesting historical visit.

For a pleasant break, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a great option. It's known for its friendly staff and is a good mid-walk stop, especially if you're exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. It's conveniently located right next to Sustrans Route 67.

The Bennerley Viaduct, often called 'The Iron Giant of the Erewash Valley,' is an impressive wrought iron lattice truss bridge completed in 1877. It's a Grade II* listed structure and now serves as a popular footway and cycleway, offering excellent views. It's partially within Awsworth and easily accessible for walking and cycling. You can find several routes that incorporate the viaduct, such as the 'Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct loop from Awsworth' which is an easy hike.

Yes, Awsworth offers a variety of walking routes. You can find easy walks, such as the 'Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct loop from Awsworth' (7.4 km), or the 'Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct loop from Cossall Marsh' (4.1 km). For more challenging options, consider routes like the 'Ilkeston to Bramcote Hills Nature Reserve loop' (20.9 km). Explore more options on the easy hikes guide or the general hiking guide for Awsworth.

Mapperley Reservoir is a tranquil body of water surrounded by beautiful bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland. It's particularly special for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching, where you might see coots, moorhens, mallards, and even kingfishers. It also offers glimpses into the area's coal mining heritage and has a visitor centre in the nearby Shipley Country Park.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of history and nature. They appreciate the dramatic sight of the Dale Abbey Arch and the intriguing history of the Hermitage Cave. The peaceful atmosphere and wildlife at Mapperley Reservoir are also highly rated, as are the opportunities for walking and cycling along scenic routes. Many highlight the unique natural features like the Hemlock Stone and the impressive Bennerley Viaduct.

Yes, Awsworth is a great starting point for cycling. The Nottingham Canal towpath is popular for multi-use, including cycling. You can also find mountain biking trails, such as the 'Erewash Canal Towpath – Erewash Canal Lock loop from Watnall' or the 'Bennerley Viaduct Steps – Bennerley Viaduct loop from Giltbrook.' More cycling routes are available on the MTB Trails guide for Awsworth.

The spring and summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Awsworth, offering pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring the natural features. Spring brings bluebells to areas around Mapperley Reservoir, while summer allows for longer days to enjoy the trails. However, the historical sites and landmarks are accessible year-round, and the Erewash Valley offers scenic views in all seasons.

Many of the walking routes around Awsworth, particularly those along the Nottingham Canal and through the Erewash Valley, are dog-friendly. The footway across the Bennerley Viaduct is also suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions.