Country parks draw thousands during festive and New Year period

Nottinghamshire County Council’s country parks continue to be popular despite a very wet festive and New Year period. Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are traditionally very busy with visitors keen to explore the great outdoors with friends and family. Despite the wind and the rain during much of the holiday, Rufford Abbey Country Park had around 10,000 visitors during the three day period between Boxing Day and December 28, with a further 2,800 people visiting on New Year’s Day. There were similar figures at Sherwood Forest Country Park with around 8,000 visitors over the festive period alone. Councillor John Knight, Committee Chairman for Culture, at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The elements have failed to dampen people’s determination to enjoy a relaxing morning or afternoon within our country parks. Christmas holiday periods are always very popular with visitors and Rufford and Sherwood have once again been favourite locations.” In terms of forthcoming events, The Big Garden Bird Watch takes place at Sherwood Forest Country Park on Saturday, January 16, from 10am to midday. The event is being organised in partnership with the RSPB where people can enjoy spotting birds in the wildlife area and also try making a bird feeder. The event is suitable for children aged seven and above with advance booking required. Please call 01623 823202 to book your place. There are many more events taking place in Nottinghamshire County Council’s country parks – visit our what's on page to find out more.