Rebel Rangers – Mayor hails fun trail celebrating region’s ‘unique history’

Rebel Rangers

Ready for an adventure? Rebel Rangers is back – bigger, bolder and now in both Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

Rebel Rangers is an interactive trail designed for families with children aged five–14, encouraging people to explore some of the region’s most iconic days out, heritage sites and green spaces, all while uncovering fascinating stories from the past.

The campaign first launched in Newark & Sherwood during summer 2025, where hundreds of families took part and loved the experience. Now, it is back for February half-term – bigger and bolder and in collaboration with Bassetlaw District Council, Bolsover District Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.

How does it work?

  • Register at www.rebelrangers.com;
  • Visit participating attractions across the three districts;
  • At each location, visit the website to unlock fun facts and complete challenges;
  • Collect digital badges as you go and if you visit all six venues and complete the full trail, you will become an official Rebel Ranger and be entered into a prize draw.

Trail destinations this year include:

Each participating site is linked to a different ‘rebel’ from history, bringing their stories to life in a fun and interactive way. From legendary outlaws to daring revolutionaries, families will discover how these rebels shaped the region’s heritage while completing exciting challenges.

To make the adventure even more exciting, families can collect a free Rebel Rangers starter pack from any participating location. Each pack includes a Rebel Rangers passport, stickers, colouring sheets and a pencil – perfect for tracking your progress and creating a keepsake of your journey.

Amazing prizes to be won

Complete all six challenges and you could win:

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I’m thrilled to see Rebel Rangers grow into a truly regional campaign. This is a fantastic way for families to get outdoors, discover our incredible heritage sites, and enjoy quality time together without breaking the bank. It’s fun, educational, and celebrates the unique history that makes our area so special.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward at Bolsover Castle, part of the Rebel Rangers trail.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward at Bolsover Castle, part of the Rebel Rangers trail.

Councillor Charles Adams, Bassetlaw District Council cabinet member for business and skills, said: We’ve listened to our visitor attractions and welcome this opportunity to work together with our neighbouring authorities to collectively promote the area as a leading tourism destination.

“We are fortunate to have some fantastic facilities right on our doorstep, from heritage sites to green spaces, and I hope our families will make the most of this opportunity to explore this special corner of the region.”

‘Rebel Rangers set to be a highlight’

Councillor Tom Munro, Bolsover District Council cabinet member for growth, said: “We are lucky in Bolsover district to have so many amazing attractions and we have always believed that our area, alongside North Notts, is a great place to visit.

“Rebel Rangers will give families a memorable activity they can do in the school holidays and at the weekends. We are delighted to be working with our neighbouring authorities to launch this campaign and I look forward to seeing all the Rebel Rangers out and about.”

Councillor Claire Penny, Newark & Sherwood District Council portfolio holder for sustainable economic development, said: “This initiative is a brilliant example of how we can work together to support local tourism while giving families something exciting and educational to do during the holidays. With so many amazing attractions involved, Rebel Rangers is set to be a highlight of the year for families across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.”

Councillor James Walker-Gurley, Nottinghamshire County Council cabinet member for economic development and asset management, said:Robin Hood is of course the world-famous legend which helped put Nottinghamshire well and truly on the map, but this campaign will highlight some of the less well-known, but equally as fascinating, rebels from our history.”

“We’re delighted to be involved as this trail will uncover historical wonders and give our residents and families the chance to visit some of the amazing sites our county has to offer.”

The challenge runs from Friday 13 February to Sunday 19 April 2026. For full details, visit www.rebelrangers.com

Published on: 27 January 2026

Categories: News, Visitor Economy

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