One of the UK’s biggest sports brands is making a return to a Bassetlaw town centre — and it’s bringing a brand new look with it.
Sports Direct is heading back to the Priory Centre in Worksop within the next few weeks, taking over a 6,000 sq. ft unit packed with top names like Nike, adidas, PUMA and Skechers.
And it’s not just the store that’s got people talking. The wider Priory Centre is undergoing a massive transformation, with demolition already underway ahead of plans that include a climbing wall, bowling alley, indoor adventure play area and a whole host of new dining and entertainment options.
Bassetlaw District Council says the return of Sports Direct is a sign of real momentum behind the project, with more than 10 new jobs set to be created as part of the store’s reopening.
Cabinet Member Cllr Steve Scotthorne said the move is “a big boost” for the centre and hopes it will draw further businesses — national, regional and independent — to get involved in the redevelopment.
For Retford shoppers, it’s well worth keeping an eye on what’s happening just down the road at the Priory Centre, S80 1JR — it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting retail and leisure destinations in the district.
In the heart of Retford’s Cannon Square stands a weathered iron monument that most residents pass without a second thought. Yet, this 24-pounder Russian gun, nicknamed the “Earl of Aberdeen,” is more than just a piece of local decor. It is a trophy of the bloodiest conflict of the 19th century and a rare survivor of a nationwide scrap metal purge that claimed almost all its siblings.
A Trophy from the Crimean Trenches
The story begins over 1,500 miles away in the besieged city of Sebastopol (now Sevastopol). During the Crimean War (1853–1856), British, French, and Ottoman forces laid siege to this Russian port for nearly a year. When the city finally fell, the British captured thousands of Russian bronze and iron cannons.
To celebrate the victory, Lord Panmure, the Secretary of State for War, decided to distribute these captured guns as “war trophies” to towns across the British Empire that had shown significant support for the war effort.
Why Retford?
Retford was chosen in 1858 to receive one of these prestigious trophies. At the time, the town was a bustling hub of the Great North Road and a proud borough with deep patriotic ties. The arrival of the cannon was a monumental event; it was hauled from the railway station to the town center by a team of six horses, accompanied by a marching band and cheering crowds.
The cannon was named the “Earl of Aberdeen” in honor of George Hamilton-Gordon, the 4th Earl of Aberdeen, who had been Prime Minister during the early years of the Crimean War. It was mounted on a grand stone plinth in the square, which was subsequently renamed Cannon Square in its honor.
The Great Scrap Drive: A Near-Death Experience
While hundreds of these Russian cannons were distributed across the UK, very few exist today. The reason lies in the dark days of 1940.
During World War II, the British government launched a desperate appeal for “scrap metal for the war effort.” Across the country, iron railings were sawn off, and historical monuments; including almost all the Sebastopol cannons; were melted down to be forged into new shells and tanks to fight Nazi Germany.
So, how did Retford’s cannon survive? Legend and local records suggest a mix of bureaucratic delay and community defiance:
Technical Difficulty: The cannon is made of heavy cast iron. At the time, the effort required to dismantle and transport such a massive, solid piece of metal outweighed the immediate value of the scrap.
Local Sentiment: Unlike towns that gave up their trophies willingly, Retfordians were famously protective of their “Old Gun.” It is said that local officials “forgot” to process the paperwork for its removal until the immediate crisis of the scrap drive had passed.
By the time the authorities came looking for it again, the tide of the war had turned, and the “Earl of Aberdeen” was spared the furnace.
The Cannon Today
Today, the Sebastopol Cannon remains one of the few original Russian trophies still standing in its original 19th-century location. If you look closely at the barrel, you can still see the Imperial Russian Crest (the double-headed eagle) embossed in the iron, though it has been worn smooth by over 160 years of Nottinghamshire weather.
It stands not as a glorification of war, but as a testament to Retford’s resilience and its unique place in the tapestry of British history.
As the Retford Times is owned and operated by the Lincolnshire Live digital news channel, it no longer has its own website and method of displaying obituaries online.
To find deaths in Retford please visit funeral-notices.co.uk for up to date obituaries from Retford and and surrounding areas such as East Markham, Barnby Moor, Leverton and Sturton-Le-Steeple.
Funeral Arrangements in Retford
If you are looking for funeral arrangements in Retford there are a number of local funeral directors who can offer their services. A few local funeral directors are:
The Retford Times is a weekly newspaper founded in 1869. It is distributed in and around the area of the North Nottinghamshire market town of East Retford. The newspaper contains local news and views from residents of Retford as well as local job listings, death notices and properties for sale in the area.
About Retford
Retford is a town in Nottinghamshire, England, 28 miles east of Sheffield and 31 miles west of Lincoln. The population at the 2011 census was 22,000, making it the fourth largest town in Nottinghamshire at the time.
Retford is situated along the River Idle and nearby to the River Trent. The Chesterfield Canal also runs through the town. The East Coast Mainline also goes through Retford as well as the Sheffield to Lincoln Train-line. Close-by is the A1 which offers Retford connections to the local area and beyond.
Retford Charter Day 2026 will take place on Bank-Holiday Monday, 4th May 2026, across historic Retford in north Nottinghamshire.
What is Retford Charter Day?
Retford Charter Day is the town’s beloved annual food, craft, and festival fair that celebrates a pivotal moment in the town’s history: the grant of a royal charter to Retford in 1259 by King Henry III. This historic charter awarded the town the right to hold an annual eight-day fair “for the improvement of the borough,” marking Retford’s formal recognition as an important market town and cementing its status as a royal borough, second only to Nottingham in Nottinghamshire.
The modern Charter Day celebration honours this medieval heritage whilst bringing the community together for a vibrant day of entertainment, local crafts, delicious food, and family fun. It’s a volunteer-run, not-for-profit event that embodies the spirit of “all-for-Retford,” showcasing the very best of what this historic market town has to offer.
What to Expect in 2026
Based on the tremendous success of previous years, Charter Day 2025 attracted over 10,000 attendees, and the 2026 event promises to be even bigger and better. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Timing and Location
The event runs all day across historic Retford, providing hours of continuous entertainment and activities for all ages. The festivities spread throughout the town centre and Kings Park, allowing visitors to explore Retford’s charming streets whilst enjoying the various attractions and stalls.
Stallholder Variety
One of the highlights of Charter Day is the diverse range of stalls that line the streets. Local artisans, craftspeople, food vendors, and businesses set up throughout the town, offering:
Handmade crafts and gifts – Perfect for finding unique, locally-made items
Delicious food and drink – From traditional British fare to international cuisine
Local produce – Supporting Retford’s farmers and food producers
Arts and crafts – Showcasing the talent within the local community
Vintage and antique items – Treasure hunting for collectors and enthusiasts
Children’s activities – Interactive stalls designed to engage young visitors
Duck Race – The iconic duck race through Kings Park
Fun Fair – Rides for all ages
Free Entertainment for All the Family
True to its community spirit, Charter Day offers free entertainment throughout the day for visitors of all ages. Previous years have featured:
Live music performances from local bands and musicians
The free entertainment ensures that Charter Day remains accessible to everyone, creating an inclusive celebration that truly brings the whole community together.
A Celebration of Retford’s Medieval Heritage
Charter Day isn’t just a fun fair—it’s a meaningful celebration of Retford’s long and fascinating history. The 1259 royal charter was a turning point for the town, granting it valuable trading rights and establishing its importance in north Nottinghamshire. By the medieval period, Retford had become the main town of the Bassetlaw Hundred and hosted the Quarter Sessions for North Nottinghamshire.
The charter granted Retford the right to hold an annual eight-day fair, which would have attracted merchants from across the region and beyond. These medieval fairs were crucial to the town’s prosperity, dealing in cattle, horses, cheese, hops, and other goods. Today’s Charter Day continues this tradition of bringing people together for trade, celebration, and community, connecting modern Retford with its medieval past in a tangible and joyful way.
Get Involved: Stallholder Bookings Now Open
Whether you’re a local business owner, a talented craftsperson, or a food vendor looking to showcase your offerings, Charter Day provides a fantastic opportunity to reach thousands of potential customers whilst supporting a beloved community event.
With over 10,000 attendees expected, Charter Day offers excellent visibility for your business or craft. The volunteer organisers work hard to create a diverse mix of stalls that will appeal to all visitors, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this special day.
The Volunteer Spirit
What makes Retford Charter Day truly special is that it’s entirely volunteer-run and not-for-profit. Local residents donate their time, energy, and expertise to organise and execute this major community event, driven by pride in their town and a desire to celebrate its heritage.
This volunteer ethos means that every penny raised goes back into making the event better and supporting the local community. It’s a genuine grassroots celebration, organised by Retford residents for Retford residents and visitors alike. The dedication of these volunteers ensures that Charter Day remains an authentic, community-focused event rather than a commercial venture.
Planning Your Visit
When to Arrive
With the event running pretty much all day, we recommend arriving early to make the most of your day. The morning tends to be slightly quieter, giving you a chance to browse the stalls before the crowds build up. However, the atmosphere throughout the day is wonderful, so arrive whenever suits your family best.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes – You’ll be doing plenty of walking as you explore the stalls
Cash and card – Whilst many stallholders accept card payments, it’s wise to bring cash as well
Reusable bags – For all the wonderful items you’ll purchase
Sun cream and hats (if the weather’s nice) or umbrellas and raincoats (this is Britain, after all!)
A hearty appetite – The food stalls are not to be missed
Family-Friendly Tips
Charter Day is designed with families in mind:
The free entertainment provides regular breaks from shopping
The variety of food options means even fussy eaters will find something they enjoy
Pushchairs can navigate most areas, though some streets may be crowded during peak times
Getting to Retford
Retford is well-connected and easily accessible:
By Train: Retford railway station sits on the East Coast Main Line, with regular services to London King’s Cross, Doncaster, and beyond. The station is a short walk from the town centre where Charter Day takes place.
By Car: Retford is close to the A1(M), making it easily accessible from across Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and beyond. Various car parks are available in the town centre.
By Bus: Regular bus services connect Retford with surrounding towns and villages.
Why You Should Attend
Retford Charter Day offers something rare in today’s world: a genuine community celebration that honours local history whilst bringing people together in a spirit of fun and fellowship. Whether you’re a Retford resident, a history enthusiast, a foodie, a craft lover, or simply someone looking for a fantastic family day out, Charter Day 2026 promises to deliver.
With over 10,000 attendees expected, diverse stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious food, free entertainment throughout the day, and the chance to explore historic Retford at its most vibrant, Charter Day is an event not to be missed.
Mark Your Calendars
Monday, 4th May 2026Historic Retford, North Nottinghamshire
Whether you’re planning to visit, considering becoming a stallholder, or thinking about volunteering, Retford Charter Day 2026 is an event that celebrates the best of this historic market town. It’s a day when medieval heritage meets modern community spirit, when local businesses thrive, and when thousands of people come together to celebrate all that makes Retford special.
Book it in your diary now—Retford Charter Day 2026 is coming, and you won’t want to miss it!
Finding the perfect place to practice your swing can transform your game. For golfers in and around Retford, Nottinghamshire, the good news is that you are surrounded by excellent facilities, ranging from simple, no-fuss ranges to high-tech centres packed with the latest game-analysis technology. Whether you’re looking for a quick bucket of balls after work or a full session with swing-tracking software, this guide covers the five best driving ranges within a 35-minute drive of Retford.
1. Retford Golf Club Practice Area
Ideal for the purist seeking a simple, cost-effective practice session.
Drive from Retford: 5-10 Minutes from Town Centre
Let’s start locally. Retford Golf Club itself offers a practice facility, though it’s important to set the right expectations. This isn’t a traditional automated driving range. It’s an open practice ground where you bring your own balls and hit towards designated targets on the course. There is no ball dispenser, ball collection machine, or covered bays
Key Features:
Practice Format: Bring your own balls. There are no ball machines or token systems.
Facilities: The area is open-air with natural targets. The club boasts a well-stocked professional shop run by Club Professional Craig Morris and a welcoming bar for a post-practice drink.
Best For: Golfers who already have a stash of practice balls and want a quick, free (after purchasing balls) session focused purely on ball flight and feel without any technological distractions.
The Verdict: This is golf in its simplest form. It’s perfect for members or visitors to the club who want to warm up or work on rhythm without spending extra money.
2. Styrrup Hall Golf & Country Club
Your reliable, local, and affordable option for basic practice.
Drive from Retford: Approximately 15 minutes
A short drive from Retford, the Styrrup Golf Club Driving Range is a favourite for locals seeking value and convenience. The facility offers covered, floodlit bays, allowing for practice at any time of day or evening. At around £4 for 45 balls, it provides one of the most affordable bucket rates in the area. There’s also a bar in the clubhouse for a drink after.
Key Features:
Practice Format: Pay-and-play. Simply turn up, insert coins/card into the machine, and collect your bucket of balls. No booking is required.
Facilities: Covered and floodlit hitting bays. The facility is straightforward with a focus on practice.
Best For: Golfers who want a regular, no-booking-required practice spot that is close by, covered from the elements, and easy on the wallet.
The Verdict: If you prioritise proximity, price, and the ability to just turn up and play, Styrrup is an excellent choice.
3. Lincoln Golf Centre
A top-tier, interactive experience with industry-leading technology.
Drive from Retford: Approximately 35 minutes
For a significant technological upgrade, the Lincoln Golf Centre is worth the slightly longer drive to Thorpe on the Hill. Its premier feature is a 24-bay, floodlit driving range equipped with TopTracer technology in 12 of its bays. This system tracks your shot data, allows you to play virtual rounds on famous courses, and offers fun games like Angry Birds Golf.
Key Features:
Practice Format: A two-tier system. TopTracer Bays (highly recommended) must be booked in advance for a bay fee (£2.50 for 30 mins), with balls purchased separately. Standard, non-tech bays are available on a turn-up basis.
Facilities: Beyond the range, you’ll find a well-regarded 9-hole course, a putting green, The Oaks Café, and an on-site American Golf shop. The centre also has a strong PGA coaching academy.
Best For: Golfers who love data, want to play virtual courses, or are looking for a comprehensive golf hub with excellent additional facilities.
The Verdict: This is the region’s flagship tech-driven range. Booking a TopTracer bay turns practice into an engaging and analytical experience.
4. Ramsdale Park Golf Centre
A premium Nottinghamshire golf hub with top-level tech and great facilities.
Drive from Retford: Approximately 35 minutes (towards Calverton)
Nottinghamshire’s premier golf hub, Ramsdale Park Golf Centre, offers another excellent tech-powered option. Its driving range is powered by TrackMan technology, the industry gold standard for swing and ball flight analysis. This allows for serious technical practice, club fitting, and social games directly from your bay.
Key Features:
Practice Format: The range is integrated into the wider centre. While specific range pricing isn’t listed online, the facility is designed for both casual practice and structured improvement.
Facilities: The centre features two 18-hole golf courses, making it perfect for a warm-up before a round. It also has a well-regarded teaching academy, a bar, and hosts weddings and events.
Best For: Golfers seeking a premium, all-encompassing golf day; practising with elite technology on the range followed by a round on a quality course.
The Verdict: If your goal is to combine a serious, technology-backed practice session with a full day of golf in a top-tier setting, Ramsdale Park is a perfect destination.
5. Doncaster Golf Range
A modern, tech-focused facility dedicated to the driving range experience.
Drive from Retford: Approximately 40 minutes (to Barnby Dun)
Dedicated solely to the art of the practice session, Doncaster Golf Range is a modern facility that rivals Lincoln for technology. It is powered by TrackMan and uniquely features PowerTee; an automatic tee-setting system; making it the only range in Yorkshire with this combination of tech.
Key Features:
Practice Format: Turn up and play, no booking is required. The focus is entirely on providing a high-tech practice environment.
Facilities: Alongside the impressive range, there is a professional shop offering custom fittings with experienced fitters and a short game practice area.
Best For: The tech-savvy golfer or equipment enthusiast who wants instant data feedback, the convenience of PowerTee, and access to expert club fitting services.
The Verdict: This is a specialist’s range. It’s the best choice if your primary goal is to improve through technology and you value a facility built exclusively for practice and custom fitting.
Choosing Your Ideal Range: A Quick Comparison
Feature
Retford Golf Club
Styrrup Hall Golf & Country Club
Lincoln Golf Centre
Ramsdale Park GC
Doncaster Golf Range
Drive Time
5-10 mins
~15 mins
~35 mins
~35 mins
~40 mins
Tech
None
None
TopTracer (12 bays)
TrackMan
TrackMan & PowerTee
Booking Needed
No
No
For TopTracer bays
Likely for tech bays
No
Key Benefit
Free (with own balls)
Cheap & local
Interactive games & full golf hub
Premium course & practice combo
Dedicated tech & fitting centre
Best For
Quick, simple sessions
Reliable, affordable practice
Fun, data-driven practice & social golf
A complete premium golf day
Serious tech-based improvement
Final Tips for Your Visit
Always Check Ahead: Opening hours can change, especially on weekends and bank holidays. A quick phone call or online check is wise.
Book Tech Bays: For Lincoln’s TopTracer or Ramsdale’s TrackMan bays, booking in advance is essential to avoid disappointment.
Explore More: Many of these centres offer excellent lesson packages from PGA professionals, which can be a great next step for your game.
Ultimately, the best range for you depends on what you want from your practice. Whether it’s the straightforward value of Styrrup, the interactive fun of Lincoln, or the professional-grade tech at Doncaster, you have fantastic options on your doorstep.
