Sherwood, located just a few miles north of Nottingham city centre, is one of the most dynamic and desirable suburbs in the city. It offers a perfect balance of affordability, charm, and urban convenience. Known for its strong community and proximity to both the bustling city and picturesque green spaces, Sherwood is increasingly becoming the go-to place for homebuyers and investors looking for an alternative to more expensive areas like The Park.
A Brief History of Sherwood
Sherwood’s roots trace back to its association with the legendary Sherwood Forest, once a royal hunting ground famed in English folklore. While it was historically rural and closely linked to the Robin Hood tales, Sherwood began to develop as a residential area in the 19th century with the expansion of Nottingham’s industrialisation.
The charming Victorian terraced houses that line many of its streets today reflect this period of growth. Despite its close proximity to Nottingham city centre, Sherwood has maintained a distinct sense of community and retains much of its historic character.
Eating and Drinking in Sherwood (Mansfield Road)
The main stretch of Mansfield Road serves as the heart of the area, lined with an eclectic mix of independent cafes, restaurants, and vibrant bars that cater to a diverse crowd. Whether you’re after a casual meal, a quirky cocktail, or a laid-back coffee, Sherwood has it all.
1. Bronte & Co.
Type: Café and Bistro
Description: A contemporary café and bistro offering delicious brunches, artisanal coffee, and a menu packed with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Bronte & Co. has a friendly, inviting vibe, perfect for everything from a morning coffee to an afternoon catch-up.
Location: 589
Customer Review: “The food here is always fresh, and the coffee is some of the best in Nottingham. A lovely spot to relax and enjoy a casual meal.”
@bronteandco
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2. Rakki Rakkas
Type: Middle Eastern Restaurant
Description: Rakki Rakkas brings the flavours of the Middle East to Sherwood with its vibrant menu of Lebanese and Mediterranean dishes. Known for its mezze platters, falafel, and shawarma, it’s an ideal spot for those craving bold, aromatic dishes.
Location: 575a Mansfield Road
3. Cornerstone Pizza
Type: Pizza Restaurant
Description: Cornerstone Pizza in Sherwood is a local favourite serving up mouthwatering pizzas with a twist. Although you might miss it at first glance—there’s no signage outside to draw attention—the word is out, and this cosy pizzeria has become a beloved spot for pizza lovers in the area. What makes Cornerstone even better is its collaboration with Kraft Werks Pub, just across the road.
Thanks to an exclusive agreement, you can also enjoy your Cornerstone pizza while sipping a beer at Kraftwerks, making it the perfect pairing for a relaxed night out. Known for its delicious, freshly-made pizzas and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Cornerstone is always packed with loyal customers.
Location: 618 Mansfield Road, Sherwood
@corner.stone.pizza
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4. Ania
Type: Polish Restaurant
Description: For something a little different, Ania serves up a variety of traditional Polish dishes, including pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and hearty stews. The rustic decor and warm hospitality make it a welcoming spot for a relaxed dining experience.
Location: 558 Mansfield Road
5. Jenkins Bar
Type: Intimate cocktail bar
Description: Jenkins is a must-visit cocktail bar in Sherwood. Established in 2018, it offers a welcoming, intimate atmosphere with a menu of expertly crafted cocktails, from timeless classics to inventive new drinks. Whether you’re relaxing with friends or enjoying a quiet evening, Jenkins is a place to unwind, with great music, friendly service, and a dog-friendly vibe. It’s not just about the drinks—it’s about creating memorable moments.
Location: 662 Mansfield Road, Sherwood
@jenkinsbar_
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6. Robin Hood
Type: Traditional Pub
Description: This classic pub on Mansfield Road is a firm favourite for locals. It combines traditional pub charm with a lively, friendly atmosphere and a great selection of ales and comfort food. With its welcoming vibe and regular live music events, the Robin Hood is an ideal place to relax after a long day or enjoy a weekend with friends.
Location: 540 Mansfield Road
5. Crimson Tree
Type: Café, Bistro, and Wine Bar
Description: Crimson Tree is a stylish and welcoming café and bistro that offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it serves a variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, from healthy salads and hearty sandwiches to more indulgent dishes like gourmet burgers and freshly made pastries. The venue also offers a carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers, and specialty coffees, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or a catch-up with friends. With its warm and inviting décor, Crimson Tree has quickly become a local favourite in Sherwood for both daytime bites and evening drinks.
Location: 133 Mansfield Road, Sherwood
@crimson_tree
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6. Pistachio
Type: Bar and Persian Tapas
Description: Discover a one-of-a-kind dining experience at our Sherwood restaurant, where Persian-inspired tapas take centre stage. Locals can enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere, designed with delicate Persian influences, perfect for dining, drinking, and socialising. The menu showcases a creative selection of dishes made from the freshest Persian ingredients, expertly crafted and served in tapas-style portions. This allows you to savour authentic, bold flavours that you won’t find anywhere else. Bottomless brunch is also popular here with locals.
Location: 85 Mansfield Road, Sherwood
@pistachiosherwood
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Leisure and Activities in Sherwood
From its bustling high street on Mansfield Road to its local parks and independent stores, Sherwood has plenty to offer for those looking to unwind, shop, and enjoy the community atmosphere. Here’s a closer look at what makes Sherwood so special:
1. Whittle & Wolf
Type: Independent Lifestyle Store & Gift Shop
Description: Whittle & Wolf is a stylish lifestyle store and gift shop located on Mansfield Road, offering a curated selection of homeware, gifts, and locally crafted items. It’s the perfect spot to browse unique, high-quality products, from sustainable home decor to artisan candles, ceramics, and more.
Location: 106 Mansfield Road, Sherwood
2. Sherwood Street Market
Type: Local Market
Description: The Sherwood Street Market is a vibrant, community-run market that takes place on Mansfield Road in Sherwood on the third Saturday of every month. It’s a fantastic place to shop for handmade crafts, locally-produced food, vintage items, and unique gifts. The market attracts a wide variety of local artisans, making it an exciting spot to discover something new while supporting local businesses.
Location: 1 Edward’s Lane, Sherwood
3. Charity Shops in Sherwood
Type: Second-hand Shopping
Description: Sherwood is home to a variety of charity shops that offer great opportunities for second-hand shopping, supporting good causes, and finding hidden treasures. These charity shops offer a mix of pre-loved clothes, books, homeware, and vintage items, making them a fantastic choice for bargain hunters or those looking for unique items with a story behind them. Not only are you helping local charities, but you’re also reducing waste by giving these items a second life.
Popular Charity Shops in Sherwood:
- Sue Ryder: A well-established charity shop offering quality second-hand clothing, accessories, and home goods.
- British Heart Foundation: Known for its wide selection of second-hand furniture, books, and clothes.
- Oxfam: Offers a range of books, clothing, and home goods, often with a focus on vintage and unique items.
- Age UK: A lovely shop with a mix of clothing, accessories, and homeware, all in good condition.
4. The Forest Recreation Ground
Type: Public Park
Description: The Forest Recreation Ground, located just a short walk from Sherwood, is a spacious park perfect for outdoor activities. With tennis courts, basketball courts, and a children’s play area, it’s ideal for both active sports and relaxed picnics. The park often hosts local community events including Goose Fair, making it a lively spot for families and visitors.
Location: Gregory Boulevard, The Forest
5. Woodthorpe Park
Type: Public Park
Description: A bit further to the north of Sherwood, Woodthorpe Park is a large and peaceful green space that’s perfect for families and nature lovers. The park includes a café and pitch and putt. There’s also a children’s playground and plenty of space for picnics, dog walking, and quiet relaxation.
Location: Off Mansfield Road, Nottingham
Schools and Education
Sherwood is home to a handful of well-regarded primary schools, making it an appealing choice for families. The area’s proximity to Nottingham city centre means that parents also have easy access to a wider range of educational options.
| School Name | Ofsted Score | Ofsted Comments | Road Name | Date of Last Inspection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haydn Primary School | Outstanding | “Pupils are exceptionally well prepared for their time in secondary school.” | Haydn Road | October 2013 |
| Nottingham Free School | Good | “Pupils are proud of their school and enjoy the sense of community that it provides.” | Haydn Road | November 2022 |
| Seely Primary School | Good | “Pupils are making good progress in their learning.” | Perry Road | April 2019 |
With its excellent schools, Sherwood is a great option for families looking for good educational opportunities in a quiet, community-focused area.
Housing in Sherwood
Sherwood offers a wide variety of housing options, from classic Victorian terraces to modern apartments and larger family homes. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a family looking for more space, or a landlord seeking a solid rental property, Sherwood provides options to suit every budget.
Property prices in Sherwood are more affordable than those in The Park, making it a great option for those who want to live near the city centre without the hefty price tag. A typical mid-terrace house in Sherwood will cost anywhere between £180,000 and £250,000, while larger family homes can range from £300,000 to £500,000. This makes it an attractive area for both homebuyers and investors, with rising demand due to its growing popularity.
Property Prices
While property prices in Sherwood are lower than areas like The Park, which can see prices upwards of £600,000, Sherwood offers excellent value for money. It’s a great option for those looking for more affordable housing but still want to enjoy a high standard of living in a desirable location. Rental yields are also strong, as many young professionals, families, and students are drawn to the area’s proximity to Nottingham city centre.
Transport Links
Sherwood benefits from excellent transport links, with regular bus services running into Nottingham city centre and the surrounding areas. For those who prefer to drive, the A60 and A614 provide easy access to major roads and the M1 motorway, while Nottingham Railway Station, just a short drive away, offers direct services to cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Conclusion
Sherwood is an up-and-coming area that offers a fantastic alternative to Nottingham’s more expensive suburbs like The Park. With its rich history, excellent transport links, strong sense of community, and variety of dining and leisure options, Sherwood is a great choice for homebuyers and investors alike. Whether you’re looking for your first home or expanding your property portfolio, Sherwood offers fantastic value for money in a charming and vibrant location.
If you’re interested in learning more about property in Sherwood or would like expert advice on buying or renting, feel free to get in touch with our team. We’d be happy to help you find the perfect property to suit your needs.
