Laxton

Laxton is internationally renowned as the only village in England still operating the medieval open field farming system, whereby strips of unenclosed land are divided up between tenant farmers and crops follow a strict annual rotation. The visitor centre, in the heart of the attractive village, is run entirely by volunteers and contains displays showing the history of the field system and how it has been operated over the years by the Gaits and Common and all the tenant farmers. Visitors can also view a video explaining the annual inspection of the fields and the Court Leet, which has the power to fine farmers who have ‘transgressed’. The centre has a good range of literature on the subject as well as leaflets detailing suggested walks around the open fields.

The remains of the county’s largest motte and bailey castle can also be seen in the village; it served as the administrative centre of Sherwood Forest in the 13th and 14th centuries, and provided a venue for forest courts as well as a stopping off point for monarchs.

On the outskirts of the village is the Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre – the first of its kind to be established in Britain. It illustrates the history of the holocaust in a sensitive manner and the gardens offer a peaceful setting for contemplation.

ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES AND HOW TO GET HERE

	Attractions Laxton Visitor Centre Open field walks – leaflets are available from the visitor centre situated opposite the Dovecote Inn Motte and bailey castle Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre
	Public transport Currently service 36 stops in Laxton. To find out up-to-date routes and service information please click here for useful contact numbers
	Parking Adjacent to the visitor centre
	Further reading Laxton Visitor Centre has a website: www.laxtonvisitorcentre.org.uk. The publication ‘A History of Laxton: England’s Last Open Field Village’ can be obtained from the visitor centre