Discover Rotherham's Best Things To Do With These 11 Historic Gems

best things to do in rotherham uk
Manola
Manola 
Updated
| 3 min read

On paths lined with cobblestones and perfumed by the smell of freshly cut grass, take a tour of historic Rotherham in the center of England. A town with parks, history, and magic, you’ll be sure to leave mesmerized by the United Kingdom and all it has to offer.

Read on to find out about the top 11 things to do in Rotherham:

1. Take a stroll through Wentworth Village

Wentworth Village
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Keith Evans used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Travel back to the 11th century in this petite and charming village. Once home to great English aristocrats, Wentworth Village now lets you tour the town and feel like a character on Downton Abbey. With watering holes in true British fashion and quaint restaurants around the corner, a whole day can be spent frolicking among the architecture. For even more culture, consider visiting the village church during their choir events–something you surely won’t want to miss.

Wentworth Village

Address: 38 Main Street, Rotherham S62 7TN, England

Website: Wentworth Village

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2. Promenade in Clifton Park

Rotherham - Clifton Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alan Heardman used under CC BY-SA 2.0

British parks are famous for a reason–namely, their ability to enrapture the imagination in nature’s beauty. Have kids? This is the ideal park. Guide them through the greenery to the Fun Park or Golden Putter Mini Golf, both places where whimsy rules.

Clifton Park

Address: 40 Doncaster Rd, Rotherham S65 2BH, UK

Website: Clifton Park

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3. Live like an aristocrat at Wentworth Woodhouse

Wentworth Woodhouse
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dave Pickersgill used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The largest privately owned house in all of Europe, this is a stop worthy of the entire trip. The two homes were built in the 18th century and represent two distinct architectural styles: Baroque and Palladian. Sign yourself up for a 10 GBP (12.73 USD) tour, or meander to the tea room for a healthy serving of biscuits.

Wentworth Woodhouse

Address: B6090, Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ, UK

Website: Wentworth Woodhouse

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4. Visit the ruins of Roche Abbey

Roche Abbey
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bob1960evens used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Another 11th century treasure, Roche Abbey has one of the most complete remaining ruins of any English monastery. Wander the crumbling stones, learn about the history, and then settle down by the whispering streams and picnic. For an added twist, visit the infirmary–a historical reminder of what used to be.

Roche Abbey

Address: Maltby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S66 8NW

Website: Roche Abbey

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5. Lessons at Grimm & Co.

Apothecary
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Richie Diesterheft used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Still waiting for your Hogwarts letter? No matter, Grimm & Co. will treat you to a magical experience just like the movies. This apothecary in the center of historic Rotherham is open to us mortal beings, so take advantage while you can. The crew provides creative writing lessons for youth and lets them live out their wildest fantasies.

Grimm & Co.

Address: 2 Doncaster Gate, Rotherham, S65 1DJ

Website: Grimm & Co.

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6. Eat at Greenhead House

English breakfast
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Freaky Fries used under CC BY-SA 3.0

An intimate dining setting in a 17th century British cottage, this is an ideal place to indulge in fine English cuisine. Reviews laud the excellent cooking, serving, and overall experience in this charming restaurant. The food comes directly from their farm and is as fresh as can be.

Greenhead House

Address: 84 Burncross Rd, Sheffield S35 1SF, UK

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7. Explore the countryside at Thrybergh Country Park

Thrybergh
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steve F used under CC BY-SA 2.0

A reservoir and natural preserve in the countryside, Thrybergh is an ideal way to explore the English landscape. The park has something for everyone: a cafe, fly fishing, foot paths, picnic areas, play areas for children, and an open water venue.

Thrybergh Country Park

Address: Doncaster Rd, Thrybergh, Rotherham S65 4NU

Website: Thrybergh Country Park

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8. Travel back in time to Rotherham Minster Church

Rotherham Minster Church
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Warofdreams used under CC BY-SA 4.0

For over a thousand years, this historic church has catered to the region. The gothic charm is particular to Europe and gives an insight to the distinct style for decorating churches such as stained glass windows and high-vaulted ceilings. Enter and feel enchanted by the light of this beautiful gem.

Rotherham Minster Church

Address: Church St, Rotherham S60 1PD, UK

Website: Rotherham Minster Church

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9. A view from the top at Hoober Stand

Hoober stand . - geograph.org.uk - 1751207
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user steven ruffles used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Come visit this iconic local landmark from the 18th century. For 2.50 GBP (3.18 USD), climb atop this 100 ft (30.5 m) tower and take in the amazing views of the British countryside. Rumor is it might be haunted, so maybe a day-time visit would be best.

Hoober Stand

Address: 1 Lee Brook Ln, Wentworth, Brampton Bierlow, Rotherham S62 7SH, UK

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10. Picnic by Boston Castle

Boston Castle
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Richard Croft used under CC BY-SA 2.0

A historic hunting lodge only recently opened to the public, Boston Castle is a walk through history. With a small exhibit inside, ample walking paths, and even picnic tables, this is an ideal place to feel integrated into British culture. The views at the top afford visitors a complete panorama of the surrounding Rotherham countryside.

Boston Castle

Address: Boston Castle Grove, Rotherham S60 2BA, UK

Website: Boston Castle

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11. Visit a hidden prison at Chapel of Our Lady on the Bridge

Chapel On the Bridge - Our Ladys Chapel, Rotherham
Source: Photo by user Darren Flinders used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Locals claim the Chapel of Our Lady on the Bridge is the most historic site in town. Perhaps because within its walls is housed the crypt–a place that once held prisoners and even has aged graffiti scribbled along the walls. For a truly British experience, flag down one of the ample volunteer groups. They’ll happily tell you the chapel’s fascinating history, help you up and down the stairs, and even provide you with tea, coffee, and biscuits.

Chapel of Our Lady on the Bridge

Address: River Don, Bridge St, Rotherham S60 1RB, United Kingdom

Website: Chapel of Our Lady on the Bridge

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The past remains untouched in historic Rotherham

Ghost Town.....
Source: Photo by user Darren Flinders used under CC BY-ND 2.0

For a visit replete with history, take a tour of this quaint British town in the heart of England. With magic lessons, fresh food, ruins to climb and peruse, and kind folks willing to tell you about their story along the way, there are too many reasons to visit Rotherham.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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