Cathedrals & Churches

Southwell Minster

This is one of England’s loveliest cathedrals.  With its majestic Norman nave and glorious 13th century Chapter House, it’s one of the least known jewels in the crown of Nottinghamshire.  In 965 a Minster church was first established.  The Normans decided to rebuild it in 1108 and the work was completed by approximately 1150.

During the Civil War, the building was seriously damaged by Scottish troops, who completely vandalised the Archbishop's Palace.  In 1881, the Minster’s distinctive ‘Pepperpots’ (pyramidal spires of lead), unique in the UK, were added to the west towers. 

Children will enjoy hunting for the mysterious ‘Green Men’ faces among the carved stone foliage of the Chapter House and the ten carved mice created by modern craftsman, Robert Thompson.

Church of St Mary

Many tourists also visit the Church of St Mary in Edwinstowe, where according to legend, Robin Hood and Maid Marian were wed. The Church was built around 1175 and is still used as a place of worship.

St Mary Magdalene Church

This church, situated in Hucknall is the final resting place of Lord Byron.

St Peter's Church

Based in Clayworth near Retford, St Peter’s Church dates back nearly 900 years.

The famous Traquair Murals which decorate the chancel of this 12th century church are the largest work of art in the east of England. It has been a place of worship since the 11th century and lies immediately outside the original Anglo-Saxon settlement. It is a good example of the Early style of architecture and belongs to the concluding years of the reign of Henry II, sometime about 1180.

For further information on historic churches in Nottinghamshire visit the Nottingham historic Church Trust.