Discover Ollerton – A Hidden Gem
On the Edge of Sherwood Forest
Published: April, 2026
When staying at Bridleways Guest House, you are perfectly placed to explore not just the charming village of Edwinstowe, but also its friendly neighbour, Ollerton. Just a short drive away, Ollerton offers a relaxed blend of history, nature, and welcoming places to eat and drink – ideal for a place to visit during your stay.
A village steeped in history
Ollerton’s roots stretch back centuries, once serving as an important coaching stop on the historic Great North Road. Today, Old Ollerton retains a quieter, traditional feel, with glimpses of its past still visible in its characterful buildings and peaceful surroundings.
Its location at the heart of Nottinghamshire makes it a wonderful base for exploring the wider area, with easy access to countryside, woodlands, and nearby attractions.
Nature on your doorstep
For something a little different, Sherwood Heath Local Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This beautiful stretch of heathland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and a rare surviving fragment of the ancient Sherwood landscape. In late summer, the heath bursts into colour with purple heather and golden gorse, while its peaceful paths are perfect for gentle walks and wildlife spotting.
Closer to the village, Ollerton Pit Wood offers a tranquil mix of woodland and wetland – ideal for a relaxed stroll or picnic. Together, these green spaces make Ollerton a fantastic destination for walkers and nature lovers.
Family fun – Sherwood Forest Railway
If you’re visiting with children, or simply young at heart, the Sherwood Forest Railway is a delightful addition to your day out. This charming narrow-gauge steam railway offers short rides through the countryside, giving a nostalgic glimpse into traditional rail travel.
With trains running regularly throughout much of the year, plus play areas, picnic spots, and refreshments on site, it is a lovely, relaxed attraction that is perfect for families looking to add something a little different to their visit.
Food and drink in and around Ollerton
After a day exploring, Ollerton offers an excellent selection of places to relax and enjoy decent food.
A firm local favourite is The Ollerton House, a friendly, family-run pub known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic British dishes, including a well-loved carvery and hearty pub favourites.
For something a little different, Bella Vita brings a taste of Italy to the village, with handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a warm, authentic dining experience.
And for a relaxed, family-friendly pub setting, The Alders is a great option. Known for its popular daily carvery, classic pub dishes, and welcoming beer garden, it is also conveniently located near Sherwood Heath – ideal for combining a walk with a meal.
Whether you are in the mood for a traditional roast, Italian flavours, or a casual drink in a cosy pub, Ollerton offers something for everyone – all just a short distance from your base at Bridleways Guest House.
A perfect addition to your stay
Ollerton may be quieter than some of its neighbouring destinations, but that’s exactly part of its charm. It offers a slower pace, beautiful natural surroundings, and easy access to some of Nottinghamshire’s most iconic landscapes.
Whether you are enjoying a scenic walk, discovering local history, taking a ride on a miniature railway, or settling in for a delicious meal, a visit to Ollerton makes a wonderful addition to your stay at Bridleways Guest House.
Photo credit: Old Ollerton Village Centre by Jonathan Clitheroe.
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Review score: 10/10
Fantastic!!
I always love staying at Bridleways. Immaculate and great in every way. Fantastic breakfast. The team are so welcoming. Close to town but in a peaceful location.
Lisa (Mar 25)
Review score: 10/10
Think Of Every Detail!
We are returning customers as the service and welcome are the best you will ever receive! Great location and beautiful Guest House and Tracey and Emyr think of every detail.
Michele & Victor (Feb 25)
Absolutely Excellent
Absolutely excellent, would highly recommend. Emyr & Tracey are a lovely, friendly, helpful couple who run the entire place superbly, attention to detail is perfect. Thank you
Caron (Feb 25)
Review score: 5/5
My go to place.
My go to place to stay in the area. Delicious breakfast and super clean rooms. Thank you!
Rachael (Feb 25)
Great, Friendly, Relaxed B&B
A really lovely place, with lovely hosts and lovely rooms. Loads of parking, close to amenities and a great breakfast (cooked to order).
Andrew (Feb 25)
Review score: 10/10
Late booking that amazed!
A last-minute booking that amazed. Service and cleanliness like no other. 100% recommend. Attention to every detail and service you just do not receive anywhere else!
Mark (Jan 25)
Review score: 10/10
A Wonderful Experience
Tracey and Emyr are lovely hosts and the cottage was brilliant, we were made to feel so welcome and cannot wait to come back.
Debra (Jan 25)
A Perfect Stay!
The guest house is a solid 10/10, but what sets it apart are the “little big moments” that truly enhance the stay. These thoughtful touches made us feel genuinely valued.
Dan (Nov 24)
Review score: 10/10
I’ll Definitely Be Coming Back
I was warmly welcomed on arrival and shown to my room. Which was lovely. Nice and quiet. I had a lovely freshly made filter coffee each morning. Really enjoyed the stay.
Sarah (Jan 25)
Excellent.
A really lovely guest house in a beautiful location with a warm and friendly welcome. The rooms are very well presented with comfy beds and immaculately clean.
Libby (Jan 25)
Review score: 10/10
Brilliant.
Breakfast was very good. Parking easy. All the staff lovely. Room very suitable for two people especially when one had mobility problems.
Lesley (Dec 24)
Review score: 10/10
Lovely Guest House.
Bridleways was friendly and the hosts very welcoming. My room was cosy and had everything I could possibly require. Breakfast was perfect and an ideal location for exploring.
Jillian (Dec 24)
Review score: 10/10
Exceptional In Every Way!
As returning guests to the Bridleways what can we say except we love it. The team at Bridleways are exceptional! Always made to feel welcome and taken care of. A must stay.
Marie-Ann (Dec 24)
Exceptional Accommodation.
We always stay when visiting the area and wouldn’t consider going anywhere else. Emyr and Tracey provide the warmest of welcomes and the standard of service is second to none.
Sybil (Nov 24)
Review score: 5/5
We Will Return.
After a lovely warm welcome, we were shown to a bright spacious comfortable room. I particularly liked the lovely comfy sofa. The breakfast menu was varied and plentiful.
David (Nov 24)
