Stagecoach Easy has urged families across Nottinghamshire to swap distant holidays for a local "Stagecation" this summer after the government announced that children under 16 will be able to travel free by bus throughout August. The operator has highlighted a selection of nearby attractions it says are easy to reach by public transport, aiming to help parents plan low‑cost day trips while encouraging greener travel.
Where to go by bus
The suggested places span historic sites, country parks and family museums. Among the locations listed are:
- Newark Castle and Gardens – a 12th‑century ruined castle on the banks of the River Trent with links to the English Civil War.
- National Civil War Centre – an interactive museum in Newark focused on the 17th‑century conflict.
- Mansfield Museum – a local heritage venue with rotating exhibitions and hands‑on displays.
- Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve – home to ancient oaks including the famous Major Oak and a visitor centre.
- Rufford Abbey Country Park – set around abbey ruins with lakeside walks, craft shops and a tea room.
- Clumber Park – a large National Trust estate with heath, woods and a serpentine lake.
- Vicar Water Country Park – a Green Flag park near Mansfield with a fishing lake and heathland trails.
- Kings Park, Retford – a well‑kept town park with floral displays and a bowling green.
Getting there by bus
Stagecoach Easy also published the main services that serve each attraction, encouraging families to consider quieter, car‑free travel where possible. The basic links given include routes such as the Service 3, 28, 90, and dedicated country routes like the Sherwood Arrow and Pronto.
| Attraction | Main Stagecoach services |
|---|---|
| Newark Castle and Gardens | 3, 28 |
| National Civil War Centre | 3, 28, 90 |
| Mansfield Museum | 1, 7, Pronto |
| Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve | Sherwood Arrow |
| Rufford Abbey Country Park | Sherwood Arrow |
| Clumber Park | 4, Sherwood Arrow |
| Vicar Water Country Park | 14, 15 |
| Kings Park (Retford) | Local services |
Practical points for families
The announcement offers a way for households to cut travel costs during the school holidays while avoiding the pressure and expense of longer trips. Parents should check the specific routes and timetables with Stagecoach before travelling, as frequencies and service patterns can change across the county. Some of the attractions listed, such as National Trust sites, may also have separate parking charges or entry arrangements for special events.
For many visitors, a bus trip can add to the day out: routes such as the Sherwood Arrow provide direct links to major parks and country estates, while services like the Pronto connect larger towns. Travellers are advised to plan connections in advance, allow extra time for arrival and check opening times for visitor centres, museums and cafes.
This guidance comes as leisure patterns continue to shift, with more people choosing local breaks. The operator’s list is intended to make those local options easier to reach and to spotlight well‑known county attractions that families might otherwise consider driving to.
Information on the Kids Go Free scheme and Stagecoach service details can be found on the operator’s website and on local council travel pages.
