With the announcement that local children, under 16, will be able to travel by bus for free throughout August, Stagecoach Easy, has suggested places in and around Nottinghamshire to enjoy a great ‘Stagecation’ – to visit and enjoy the best that the region has to offer.
More people will be holidaying at home, this year, the local bus operator hopes that people will turn their ‘staycation’ into a ‘Stagecation’ and take advantage of the government’s Kids Go Free scheme, which will make it even more affordable to get around. Now Stagecoach has given a range of suggestions for a wonderful and easy-to-reach day out:
– Newark Castle and Gardens – A dramatic 12th-century ruined castle standing right on the banks of the River Trent, famous for its vital role in the English Civil War; Service 3, 28
– National Civil War Centre – Located in the heart of Newark, this immersive museum brings the turbulent 17th-century British conflict to life through interactive galleries and fascinating artifacts; Services 3, 28, 90
– Mansfield Museum – A vibrant, family-friendly local heritage hub featuring changing art exhibitions, local history displays, and interactive environmental galleries; Services 1, 7, Pronto
– Sherwood Forest National Reserve – The legendary home of Robin Hood, featuring hundreds of ancient oak trees, the famous 1,000-year-old Major Oak, and a modern visitor centre; Service Sherwood Arrow
– Rufford Abbey Country Park – Set around the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, this park offers beautiful lakeside walks, craft shops, a tea room, and woodland play areas; Service Sherwood Arrow
– Clumber Park – A vast National Trust expanse of parkland, heath, and woods featuring a magnificent serpentine lake, a Gothic chapel, and the longest double avenue of lime trees in Europe; Services 4, Sherwood Arrow
– Vicar Water Country Park – Located just outside Mansfield near Clipstone, this Green Flag park features a large fishing lake, scenic heathland trails, and stunning views of the nearby Clipstone Headstocks; Service 14, 15
– Kings Park (Retford) – An award-winning, beautifully manicured green space in the centre of Retford featuring floral displays, a bowling green, a performance kiosk, and a popular children’s splash park; Service 43, 97
– Idle Valley Nature Reserve – Situated just north of Retford, this spectacular wetland reserve is one of the largest managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and is home to a unique beaver enclosure and diverse birdlife; Service 27
– Southwell Minster – Located between Newark and Mansfield, this magnificent cathedral boasts stunning Norman architecture and world-famous 13th-century stone carvings known as the “Leaves of Southwell”; Service 28
– Skegness – A classic British seaside resort featuring miles of wide sandy beaches, traditional amusements, family attractions like the Natureland Seal Sanctuary, and an iconic pier. Services Skegness Seasiders; Skegness Seasiders
Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said:
“We know how precious family time is, especially during the Summer, so we have worked hard to ensure our services are affordable, accessible and ready for adventure. Our services are designed to help families make memories together – comfortably and affordably.”
— To find out more about local bus routes and services, to buy before you board, and to track your local bus, you can download the Stagecoach Bus App from https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoachbusapp.
Posted on 29 July 2026
