Mansfield
Mansfield is an industrial and market town in Nottinghamshire, in the area known as The Dukeries and 14 miles from Nottingham.
It is at the traditional heart of Sherwood Forest, and a tree in the street is said to mark the actual centre.
During the Anglo-Saxon period, Mansfield was one of the residences of the Kings of Mercia, and under Edward the Confessor it was a Royal manor.
Industries particularly associated with Mansfield have been hosiery, coal mining and brewing.
St. Peter`s Church is mostly 14th century, but has a Norman tower.
The Market Place is one of the largest in the country, and there is also an indoor shopping centre.
The Moot Hall dates from 1752.
Crossing the town near the Market Place is an impressive railway viaduct.
In Southwell Road are a number of cliff dwellings hewn out of the sandstone. These were still in use until the 1900s.
A mile from the town centre is the rebuilt Kings Mill, associated with John Cockle, the Miller of Mansfield, who unknowingly entertained Henry II when he was lost in the forest.
Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Mansfield for groups.