Inspiring people have travelled from rural Bassetlaw in North Nottinghamshire, England, all over the world, taking with them their hopes and dreams, their beliefs and traditions.

Bassetlaw Christian Heritage want to explore and share stories of faith and roots connected with our region that create for us our distinctive and special heritage.

The most well-known international legacy based on a local story is that of the Mayflower Pilgrims, and the journey they made in 1620 to America. In 1608, many of them escaped from England, having left their homes in Bassetlaw, travelling to Holland. The Pilgrims have been associated with the Congregationalist tradition.

Not all of those that escaped continued on to America, but instead returned. The beliefs and writings of one man in particular, Thomas Helwys, were crucial for the establishment of the Baptist church.

In addition to the roots of the Baptist and Congregational traditions, the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, came from Epworth near Bassetlaw. Wesley travelled widely with his message of faith, which was in stark contrast to many of the ideas of the earlier Pilgrims.

We are beginning to research these stories and more, based on faith and roots in Bassetlaw. Stories of faith heritage combine with other well-known heritage stories in our area, like Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest, giving the region a unique and special identity. We’ll be adding more stories, and telling you about where and when you can come to visit to share them.