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Mansfield Leasing

Did You Know?

Mansfield is a market town and the administrative centre of the Mansfield District in Nottinghamshire, England. It is the largest town in the wider Mansfield Urban Area and the second largest settlement in Nottinghamshire. It gained the Royal Charter of a market town in 1227.

Mansfield, town and district, administrative and historic county of Nottinghamshire, England, on the River Maun. Mansfield was the chief town of Sherwood Forest—the legendary base for the activities of Robin Hood, the medieval robber and popular hero—and the forest court was held in the town's Moot Hall (built 1752).

Three conjectures have been considered, either the name was given to the nobel family of Mansfield who came over with King William the Conqueror, others indicate the name came from Manson, an Anglo Saxon word for traffic and a field meaning a place of trade.

Mansfield has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1808. Originally established as a farming community, it quickly grew into a thriving industrial hub during the 19th century, thanks to the discovery of tremendous natural resources like coal and iron ore.

With Mansfield being relatively central to Sherwood Forest it became a medieval lodging place for royalty. As early as 1130 a Pipe Roll indicates that the King had a Chamber at Mansfield . Both King John and Edward II stayed at their palace in Kings Clipstone, on the outskirts of Mansfield.

The medieval manor of Mansfield extended much further than the parochial boundaries to become one of the largest crown manors within the country, swallowing up many north Notts villages. However there was little concentration of dwellings, within the manor, prior to the establishment of Mansfield market.   From this early medieval base local industry became more established, with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing and commerce.

The leather and wool industry flourished thanks to the rich grazing grounds to be found in and around Sherwood Forest, whilst commerce also went from strength to strength, revolving around the market.   By the eighteenth century the Framework Knitting industry arrived in Mansfield . This arrival not only introduced a new occupation amongst an already established industry, supplying work for hundreds of people.

By 1824 the majority of this expanding town’s 8,300 residents lived within a 300metre radius of the market place, thus making the town a tightly packed community with substantial expanses of open spaces surrounding it. This concentrated area of Mansfield consisted of over 60 yards and courts most of which were overcrowded and falling into disrepair.   The year 1823 saw the establishment of an Improvement Commission. 

During the era of canal building much thought was given to the isolation of Mansfield from this network. After years of deliberation it was decided that it would be more economical to construct a tramline from the Pinxton canal wharf, into Mansfield town centre rather than constructing a canal. Consequently in 1819 Mansfield had been connected to the canal network by a tramline upon which trucks were drawn by horses.

Whilst the mills retained their economic strength throughout the Victorian era, despite a turbulent economy, the remainder of Mansfield ’s industry saw vast changes. After several centuries the malting industry diminished to just one malt kiln by the end of the 1900s but had become complimented by a major brewer in 1855. 

As you can see, Mansfield is a town with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. With its beautiful surroundings, diverse entertainment options, and warm hospitality, it is an excellent destination for visitors seeking a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re exploring the historic landmarks, immersing yourself in the arts and culture scene, or simply enjoying the beautiful countryside, Mansfield offers something for everyone.