Burntstump Country Park, Seven Mile Wood and Warrenhill Plantation via Robin Hood Way

Starting from the welcoming grounds of Burntstump Country Park, just north of Arnold and easily accessed from the A60 Mansfield Road, this 22 km (13.7 miles) circular hike offers a gentle introduction to the rolling landscapes of Nottinghamshire. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Burntstump Inn, a well-known local landmark, with ample parking available. For those arriving by public transport, regular bus services from Nottingham city centre stop at the Burntstump Hill bus stop, a short walk from the park entrance.

Route Overview and Navigation

The route follows the Robin Hood Way, a celebrated long-distance path that traces the legendary footsteps of Nottinghamshire’s most famous outlaw. With a total elevation gain of around 100 metres (328 feet), the terrain is predominantly flat with only gentle undulations, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The path is well-marked, but for added confidence, HiiKER provides detailed navigation tools and offline maps.

Burntstump Country Park and Seven Mile Wood

The first section meanders through Burntstump Country Park, a patchwork of mature woodland and open grassland. Early in the walk, look out for the remains of the old Burntstump Hall, now part of the police headquarters, and the Victorian water tower, both hinting at the area’s 19th-century estate history. The park is a haven for birdlife, with nuthatches, woodpeckers, and tawny owls often heard or seen among the oaks and beeches.

Continuing north, the trail enters Seven Mile Wood, a tranquil stretch of mixed woodland. In spring, bluebells carpet the forest floor, while autumn brings a spectacular display of gold and russet leaves. The woodland is home to roe deer, foxes, and a variety of woodland birds. Paths here are generally wide and well-maintained, though after rain, some sections can become muddy.

Warrenhill Plantation and Open Farmland

Emerging from Seven Mile Wood, the route skirts the edge of Warrenhill Plantation. This area is characterized by younger coniferous trees and open rides, providing excellent opportunities for spotting butterflies and dragonflies in summer. The trail then weaves through a patchwork of arable fields and hedgerows, typical of the Nottinghamshire countryside. Keep an eye out for hares darting across the fields and buzzards circling overhead.

Historical Significance and Points of Interest

The Robin Hood Way itself is steeped in legend, passing through landscapes that have inspired tales of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. While the exact locations of many stories are lost to time, the sense of history is palpable, especially as you pass ancient boundary markers and old woodland tracks. The area around Burntstump has been settled since at least the medieval period, and the nearby village of Papplewick, just off the route, is home to the beautifully preserved Papplewick Pumping Station, a Victorian marvel worth a short detour.

Facilities and Practical Information

There are several picnic spots within Burntstump Country Park, and the Burntstump Inn offers refreshments at the start or end of your walk. Public toilets are available at the park. The route is dog-friendly, though livestock may be present in some fields, so leads are advisable. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially after wet weather, and a waterproof layer is wise as the open sections can be exposed to wind and rain.

For navigation, HiiKER provides comprehensive mapping and route details, ensuring you stay on track throughout the hike. The combination of woodland, open countryside, and historical intrigue makes this route a rewarding day out for walkers of all abilities.