Susan Calman embarks on another adventure with her trusty vintage campervan, Helen, as she explores the historic county of Nottinghamshire, famed for its association with the legendary Robin Hood. In this episode, Susan discovers that Nottinghamshire has much more to offer beyond the tales of the iconic outlaw.
Susan begins her journey in Sherwood Forest, where she visits the majestic Major Oak, one of the largest oaks in Britain. She also meets a passionate Robin Hood enthusiast and tries her hand at archery. From there, she ventures underground to explore the UK’s largest cave network, located right beneath Nottingham. Susan uncovers the murky secrets of the Tannery Cave, the only one of its kind in Europe.
The presenter then pays a visit to The National Ice Centre, the site where Nottingham’s own Torvill and Dean honed their skills before captivating the world with their iconic Bolero routine. Susan delves into the world of synchronized ice skating and is treated to a performance by the Junior Icicles.
Nottinghamshire’s industrial past is also highlighted as Susan visits a former textile powerhouse and learns about the Luddites, a group who rebelled against the introduction of new machinery. She tries her hand at old-school machine knitting and discovers the challenges of the craft.
At the Papplewick Pumping Station, Susan is awe-struck by Britain’s best-preserved Victorian Waterworks. She marvels at the stunning Victorian engines and even attempts to shovel coal to get them running, finding the experience surprisingly graceful.
To conclude her grand day out, Susan visits Newstead Abbey, the ancestral home of Lord Byron, where she learns about the celebrated poet’s life and his impact as an early celebrity.
Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out: Nottinghamshire airs on Channel 5 at 9:00 PM, Thursday, 11 July 2024.
