Sue's 6.2 mile walk took 18 members and guests from Occupation Lane in Edwinstowe and then alongside the High Marnham Test Track originally used to deliver coal from Thoresby Colliery to High Marnham Power Station. After crossing the River Maun near Ollerton, we took the bridleway to Rufford Country Park for a drinks stop. Then, after crossing the very busy A614, we followed the Robin Hood Way and the River Maun back into Edwinstowe.
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| The start in Occupation Lane |
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You'll miss it when it's gone - this attractive piece of industrial archaeology, Thoresby Colliery Junction Signal Box. Breaking news - it's gone! Last seen in 2025 |
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| Crossing the River Maun near Ollerton |
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| Rufford Mill, once a corn mill for the Rufford Abbey Estate |
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| Rufford Abbey was originally a Cistercian abbey founded in 1145. It was converted into a country house after 1536 and significantly rebuilt in the 17th and 19th centuries. George Savile demolished much of the old monastery around 1680 and added a large north wing. Another major renovation in 1837 by architect Anthony Salvin introduced features such as the clock tower and an ornate Jacobean-style library. Most of the mansion was demolished in the 1950s, leaving only the medieval lay brothers’ range, which now houses an exhibition. |
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| Rear view of Rufford Abbey |
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| Sculpture in Rufford Country Park |
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| Drinks stop |
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| Front view of Rufford Abbey - in Summer |
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| Returning to Edwinstowe across the test track and down to follow the Maun to Mill Lane |
