The Dukeries

Nestled in north west Nottinghamshire, the Dukeries is region that was once home to four grand ducal estates: Welbeck Abbey, Clumber Park, Thoresby Hall and Worksop Manor. It was one of the only regions in England with such a concentration of aristocratic wealth and power, just a few miles apart. While the estates have evolved over time, this beautiful part of Nottinghamshire still has much to explore - from historic architecture to countryside walks.

Clumber House at Clumber Park

Clumber House has been home to the Dukes of Newcastle for over three centuries. The original mansion was demolished in 1938 but the remaining pleasure grounds and walled kitchen garden give you an idea of its original grandeur. 

If you want to learn more about Clumber House, there is an exhibition on-site that delves the estate's history, including its intriguing role during World War II.

The surrounding estate is now owned by the National Trust, and Clumber Park is open to the public. A popular spot for walkers and cyclists, the park is home to the longest avenue of Lime Trees in Europe, a superb 87 acre serpentine lake and an outstanding gothic revival chapel.

Photo credit: Waldren Effingham

Thoresby Park

Set within the heart of Nottinghamshire, Thoresby Park has been in the Pierrepont Family for over 400 years. Home to a stunning 17th-century mansion, a world-renowned art collection and over 1000 acres of parkland, this historic estate has something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors are welcome to explore the estate, take a walk through the park or enjoy a picnic in the grounds. 

Worksop Manor

Located in Bassetlaw in North Nottinghamshire, Worksop Manor has a fascinating history dating back to the medieval period. From the 14th century onwards, the manor was owned by the Talbots - one of the most powerful noble families in England. 

In the 1580s, a new house was built on the estate for the very wealthy George Talbot, 6th Earl of Shrewsbury. George Talbot was the fourth husband to Bess of Hardwick, who was also responsible for Derbyshire's Chatsworth and Hardwick Halls. During the reign of Elizabeth I, George was given responsibility for guarding Mary, Queen of Scots, who had been imprisoned in England. Whilst under his custody, it is believed she may have spent time at Worksop Manor.

The manor was descended by marriage to the Duke of Norfolk and it remained in the family until 1840 when it was sold to the Duke of Newcastle of nearby Clumber Park. The new owner pulled down the fire damaged mansion as he was only interested in adding the land to his own estate and all that remains today is the servant’s wing.

During your visit to Worksop, make sure to stop by another of the National Trust’s properties, Mr Straw’s House. The house is a time capsule of a local grocer’s house from the 1920s and offers a glimpse into the past - nothing has been thrown away for more than 60 years!

Welbeck Abbey

The historic Welbeck Abbey was first mentioned in the Domesday Book. In the 18th century, it passed through an heiress into the Bentinck family and became the main seat of the Earls and Dukes of Portland. The reclusive 5th Duke of Portland undertook substantial building works at the Abbey, including creating a network of tunnels between the house and riding school and, it's claimed, towards Worksop.

The descendents of the Cavendish Bentinck family still live on the estate and until recently, the Abbey was leased to the Ministry of Defence as an army training college.

Over the last few years, many of the former outhouses and buildings on the estate have been renovated, and Welbeck is now home to attractions such as the Harley Gallery and the Welbeck Farm Shop.