Clumber Park National Trust Review

As a family, we are regular visitors to the National Trust aspect of Clumber Park (we’ve been 4 times). Shamefully we are yet to do the dedicated cycle paths within the National Trust site (I know it’s one of the main attractions) however Clumber Park has much to offer.

Clumber Park is actually over 3,800 acres in total, including woods, open heath and rolling farmland. It contains the longest double avenue of lime trees in Europe.

Many don’t make it as far as the National Trust site itself and enjoy the country walks and options available outside of the trust entrance. It’s a huge expanse of space and can be enjoyed by members and non-members alike.

The National Trust site includes a wide range of things to do for families including a play park, cafe, picnic areas, lake walks and of course cycle tracks. It’s a great day out and well worth your yearly membership.

Where is it located?

Nestled in the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside, Clumber Park is a sprawling haven of greenery, history, and adventure, covering over 3,800 acres. The sheer size and expanse of Clumber Park is amplified by the road into the National Trust site. It’s a couple of miles (approximately) and is quite breathtaking. The name given is Lime Tree Avenue with 1296 common lime planted to flank the road.

History Of Clumber Park

Clumber Park, with its rich history as the former estate of the Dukes of Newcastle, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Its lush landscapes and historic architecture make it a captivating site for families to explore and learn.

The National Trust purchased the site in 1946 and has maintained its history while attracting thousands of visitors a day.

What is There to Do For Families?

Although our reviews are family-focused there’s so much to do for all. Whether you are looking for a relaxing walk or you are a dog walker wanting to stretch out for miles it’s a great place to visit. Here are some of the highlights from our visit.

Lake Walk:

The serene lake at Clumber Park is a highlight. Our family enjoyed a leisurely walk around it. It’s a real masterpiece and is a beautiful spot to stroll around. At our time of visit, it was a beautiful, crisp autumnal day and the park was full of families. It made for a wonderful atmosphere.

Forest structures/Den Building:

Dotted throughout the site you will find carefully constructed forest structures and shelters. Barney loved sitting in these and exploring around them. I assume these have been created by National Trust employees and they are a brilliant touch.

Bike trails/ Bike Hire Centre:

Shamefully we have yet to utilise the bike trails at Clumber Park. We have family in Nottingham and our visit tends to be a stop-off or a neutral place to visit people so we have yet to take our bikes.

We plan to do a separate review on the bike trails but by all accounts they are wonderful. Spanning over 20 miles of mixed-use trails these take you through woods, along the lakeside and much more. They can also be walked/run!

The National Trust have a handy map (here) that details the cycle routes. There are four routes in total which vary from 4.6 miles right through to over 10 miles. The Blue & Yellow routes are most suitable for families and are completely traffic-free. We are excited to visit with our bikes and take on these routes.

Discovery Centre and Nature Trails:

Ideal for curious minds like Matilda’s, the Discovery Centre and nature trails offer an engaging way to learn about local wildlife.

Play Area:

The Woodland play area is a nice touch at Clumber Park. The National Trust has done a great job here of blending the play area into its natural surroundings. It has a real authentic feel about it while having all the usual fun activities for children of all ages. Both Matilda & Barney enjoyed the play area and there was a real mix of age-appropriate activities for both.

Walled Kitchen Garden:

A hidden gem, the walled kitchen garden was a delightful surprise, captivating us with its variety of plants and historical charm. The kids always enjoy wandering through the walled gardens. We always find them a great way to keep their attention while walking.

The Walled Kitchen Garden also has a huge Glasshouse which by all accounts is the largest of all National Trust sites. It’s over 450 feet in length. We were always impressed by the one at Wentworth Castle Gardens but this is on a whole new level of scale.

Chapel of St Mary the Virgin:

The Chapel is the third at Clumber Park. The first, inside the house, was destroyed by fire. The second, started by the 6th Duke of Newcastle, was abandoned after his death, apparently because it was structurally unsound. The third, however, eclipsed all earlier attempts, and today towers over the Pleasure Grounds.

We’ve visited Clumber Park numerous times and have yet to step inside the Chapel. Again it’s something we plan to do on our next trip and this page will be updated to reflect. We are told it’s breathtaking and well worth exploring.

Facilities: Café, Shop, Toilets, and Baby Changing

Within the Turning Yard and Laundry Yard there are numerous facilities including the Discovery Centre, several food outlets (sit-down dining and takeaway) and toilets. The facilities are what you would typically expect at a National Trust site.

The Lincoln Stables also houses the Heritage Hub and seasonal food and drink options. There are also numerous picnic benches for you to enjoy your own food. Despite a cold day we took a picnic and sat within the Lincoln Stables area.

Would you recommend it?

Without a doubt! Clumber Park is a gem for families. Its blend of natural beauty, history, and child-friendly activities makes it a must-visit.

We have been to Clumber Park on numerous occasions and are always excited to return. From your arrival on Lime Tree Avenue, the excitement builds as you feel you are entering somewhere special. Just wandering around its beautiful grounds surrounded by other families makes it a nice experience and one I recommend to all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Clumber Park.

Is there a cafe?:

Yes, Clumber Park has numerous eating options including a large cafe and various food trucks offering a mix of hot and cold snacks and drinks.

What is your favourite part?:

One of the reasons we started this site is our love for traffic-free cycling however this extends to traffic-free play. The National Trust sites are perfect for this. Our favourite part of Clumber Park is the varied landscape. You can go from Woodland to Lakeside quite quickly and it gives the children plenty of exploration and fun. It’s just a well-rounded place to visit.

Are dogs allowed at Clumber Park?

Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome at Clumber Park, making it a pet-friendly destination for people who want to come along with their pets. I have always found that those who visit National Trust sites are very respectful with their dogs.

Can we bring our own bikes?

Yes! Clumber Park has its own bike centre however we encourage you to take your bikes. We haven’t all taken our bikes at this point (Matilda did when she was young) however we plan another visit in the Spring during which we will venture on the cycle routes. These have been well planned and sign-posted by the National Trust and we are excited to take them on.

Is there parking available?

Clumber Park provides ample free parking, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. There are multiple parking areas on-site, including designated blue badge parking spots for those with mobility challenges. Overflow parking is also available.

Are there any entrance fees for visiting the park?

Clumber Park does have admission fees. National Trust members and children under five enjoy free entry. Family tickets are available at reasonable rates, making it an affordable day out. However, it’s a good idea to check the official website or contact the National Trust for the latest information about admission fees, if any, as policies may change over time.

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Riddlesden_Hall

Pros & Cons

National Trust enjoyment rating

Last Updated on December 6, 2023 by Ryan