Attenborough Nature Reserve: A Tranquil Wildlife Sanctuary near Nottingham
Discover serene lakes, rich birdlife, and peaceful trails at Attenborough Nature Reserve, a celebrated wildlife sanctuary near Nottingham.
Attenborough Nature Reserve, located just 5 miles southwest of Nottingham city centre, is a 220-hectare haven of lakes, wetlands, and grasslands. Established in 1966 and managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, it offers diverse birdlife, nature trails, bird hides, and an eco-friendly visitor centre with café. Ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking peaceful walks and wildlife encounters year-round.
A brief summary to Attenborough Nature Reserve
- Nottingham, GB
- +441159721777
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching experience from the numerous hides scattered around the reserve.
- Visit on a clear day to capture stunning reflections on the calm water surfaces, ideal for photography.
- Check seasonal highlights like butterfly displays in spring or starling murmurations in winter for unique wildlife sightings.
- Use the well-maintained walking trails to explore diverse habitats; some paths are accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
- Enjoy refreshments and educational exhibits at the eco-friendly Attenborough Nature Centre, open daily during visiting hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Trent Barton ‘INDIGO’ bus service from Nottingham Broadmarsh or Derby Bus Station, running approximately every 10 minutes. The journey lasts about 30 minutes. Alight at Chilwell Retail Park / West Point Shopping Centre and walk approximately 500 meters along Barton Lane to the reserve entrance. The bus fare typically ranges from £3 to £5.
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Car
Drive to Attenborough Nature Reserve via Barton Lane, located between Beeston and Long Eaton. Parking is available on-site for a £3 donation (all day). The reserve is about a 15-minute drive from Nottingham city centre. Note that parking spaces can fill quickly on busy days.
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Walking
For local visitors, walking routes from nearby Beeston or Chilwell offer scenic access to the reserve, with paths varying from smooth tarmac to gentle slopes. Walking times range from 30 to 60 minutes depending on starting point. Paths are generally accessible but may have some uneven sections.
Attenborough Nature Reserve location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Attenborough Nature Reserve
Origins and Ecological Importance
Established in 1966 and opened by Sir David Attenborough, the reserve spans 220 hectares of former gravel pits transformed into a complex of lakes, wetlands, grasslands, and scrub. Situated at the confluence of the River Erewash and the River Trent, it forms part of the Attenborough Gravel Pits Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), covering 226 hectares. This designation highlights its vital role in conserving habitats for a wide variety of wildlife, particularly waterfowl and migratory birds.Birdlife and Wildlife Diversity
The reserve is renowned for its rich avian population, hosting over 250 bird species recorded since its inception. It is a key site for wintering wildfowl such as shovelers, mallards, teals, and wigeons, alongside rarer species including bitterns, sand martins, kingfishers, and all British grebes. The reserve also supports mammals like otters, bats, and small rodents, as well as a vibrant array of butterflies, dragonflies, and other insects, making it a hotspot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.Facilities and Visitor Experience
At the heart of the reserve lies the Attenborough Nature Centre, opened in 2005 and lauded with a Gold award for eco-tourism. The centre houses educational exhibits, a shop, and a café serving refreshments. Around the reserve, several bird hides provide excellent vantage points for wildlife observation without disturbance. Well-maintained trails of varying lengths, including accessible paths, allow visitors to explore the diverse habitats at a comfortable pace. Seating areas and picnic spots are scattered throughout, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.Seasonal Highlights and Activities
Visitors can enjoy year-round wildlife watching, with seasonal highlights such as butterfly displays in spring, sand martin nesting in summer, and spectacular starling murmurations in winter. The reserve’s ponds offer stunning mirror-like reflections on calm days, perfect for photographers. Educational events and expert-led activities occasionally take place, enriching the visitor experience with insights into ornithology, entomology, and botany.Conservation and Community Involvement
Owned and managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, the reserve benefits from community support and initiatives like the Broxtowe Lotto, which raises funds for its upkeep. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and species monitoring, ensuring the reserve remains a thriving sanctuary for wildlife. The eco-friendly nature centre exemplifies sustainable tourism practices, encouraging visitors to respect and protect the environment.Natural Setting and Accessibility
Nestled in a semi-rural landscape, the reserve offers scenic views of lakes, reed beds, and woodlands. It is accessible by car with a £3 parking donation and well-served by public transport, including regular bus services from Nottingham and Derby. The terrain varies from smooth tarmac paths to gentle slopes, accommodating a wide range of visitors, including families and those with limited mobility.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Hemlock Stone
5.3 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Camellia House
5.3 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Gazebo
5.4 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
7.6 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
7.6 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Old Trent Bridge
7.7 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Cathedral Hall
7.8 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Nic's Church
7.8 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
7.8 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Scale Space Nottingham
8.0 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
8.0 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Right Lion
8.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Weekday Cross Monument
8.1 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
The Left Lion
8.1 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
The Tokenhouse
8.1 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beeston Lock
2.3 km
Historic canal lock bypassing the River Trent, blending industrial heritage with tranquil waterside charm in Nottingham.
Statue of Honeycomb
3.2 km
A lifesize tribute to Beeston’s bee heritage, this serene beekeeper statue blends nature and urban life on High Road.
Highfields Park
4.4 km
A historic 21-hectare park in Nottingham offering boating, adventure golf, scenic walks, and family-friendly fun near the university campus.
Wollaton Park Lake
4.8 km
A tranquil 25-acre lake set within Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Park, offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and Georgian landscape charm.
Nottingham City of Literature
5.1 km
A vibrant arts hub blending theatre, galleries, and music set beside a scenic lake in Nottingham’s University Park.
The University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology
5.2 km
Explore 250,000 years of regional archaeology at the University of Nottingham’s award-winning museum, set within the vibrant Lakeside Arts Centre.
Climbing Tree
5.3 km
Adventure and tranquility blend seamlessly at Nottingham’s Climbing Tree, nestled beside the historic Camellia House in scenic Wollaton Park.
Nottingham Industrial Museum
5.4 km
Discover Nottinghamshire’s rich industrial past through working engines, vintage machinery, and engaging exhibits in a historic 17th-century stable block.
Treasure Trove - Nottingham Industrial Museum
5.4 km
Unearth industrial relics and charity gems in Wollaton's historic stables—a hidden trove blending Nottingham's manufacturing past with eclectic finds in an Elizabethan setting.
Wollaton Hall.
5.4 km
An Elizabethan prodigy house turned natural history museum, Wollaton Hall rises above Nottingham’s parkland with centuries of grandeur and a cinematic legacy as Wayne Manor.
Nottingham Natural History Museum
5.4 km
Explore natural wonders and Elizabethan grandeur at Nottingham’s iconic Wollaton Hall and its captivating Natural History Museum.
Framework Knitters Museum
5.6 km
Authentic Victorian knitting workshops where 400 years of textile heritage comes alive through original machines and immersive social history.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
5.8 km
Explore a rare Elizabethan dovecote museum in Nottingham, showcasing centuries of rural heritage and architectural charm.
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park
5.8 km
Elizabethan grandeur meets natural history in 500 acres of deer-roamed parkland—the real Wayne Manor.
Walled Garden, Wollaton Park
6.0 km
A beautifully restored historic walled garden offering a peaceful retreat and heritage horticulture within Nottingham’s Wollaton Park.
Essential places to dine
La Rock Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience refined Modern European cuisine with impeccable service in the warm, elegant setting of La Rock Restaurant, Sandiacre’s fine dining jewel.
Miller & Carter Wollaton
4.4 km
Savor 30-day aged steaks from British farms in a warm, intimate steakhouse near Wollaton Park—where butchery expertise meets grilled perfection daily.
ZHUG
5.0 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
5.1 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms
5.2 km
Two Michelin-starred modern European dining with boutique rooms, blending culinary artistry and warm hospitality in Nottingham.
Harvester Wilford Farm Nottingham
5.6 km
Family-friendly British dining with a famous salad bar and casual atmosphere in Nottingham’s Wilford area.
Admiral Rodney
5.8 km
A traditional Nottingham pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere on Wollaton Road.
Mr Man's Restaurant
5.9 km
Spacious Cantonese dining in Wollaton Park offering authentic Chinese flavors and generous portions in a relaxed suburban setting.
Wollaton Fish Bar
6.1 km
Nottingham's go-to chippie for crispy battered fish, chunky chips, and massive kebabs in hearty, wallet-friendly portions.
Wheelhouse
6.1 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Wollaton, Nottingham, serving classic British fare with welcoming service and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Wollaton Pub & Kitchen
6.3 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Wollaton blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and community spirit.
Spicy House
6.8 km
Experience authentic Szechuan spice and flavor at Spicy House, Nottingham’s go-to for bold Chinese cuisine with customizable heat levels.
BEST FOOD Chinese And Thai Takeaway
6.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine at BEST FOOD Takeaway in Wollaton—delicious meals made with quality ingredients at affordable prices.
Alchemilla
7.5 km
Discover Alchemilla, Nottingham’s Michelin-starred fine dining gem blending historic charm with innovative, sustainable cuisine.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
7.6 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
2.4 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Something Different
2.9 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique collectibles in a charming Stapleford shop filled with antiques, records, and secondhand gems.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
3.3 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
Aryaan Straps
4.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
5.0 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
5.0 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
5.0 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Marks and Spencer
5.3 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Crusader Gifts
5.4 km
Nottingham’s trusted gift shop with fast dispatch, British-made products, and a vast selection for every occasion.
B & V Thornhill
6.1 km
Discover B & V Thornhill, your friendly neighborhood newsagent in Wollaton, Nottingham, offering local news, snacks, and convenience items.
Rico’s Vape Store Wollaton
6.1 km
Explore a diverse range of vaporizers and e-liquids at Rico's Vape Store Wollaton, Nottingham's premier destination for vaping enthusiasts.
Stratus Wallets
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Castle Marina Retail Park
7.0 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
Fromno19
7.2 km
Small-batch, handcrafted bags and home gifts where vintage-inspired fabrics meet practical, well-finished design.
ChicChoiceHub
7.7 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nurseryman - Pub & Grill
4.1 km
Flame-grilled feasts and cask ales in a refreshed Beeston pub, perfect for family meals and relaxed evenings on Derby Road.
The Pelican
7.0 km
Cozy Nottingham pub on Bracebridge Drive, pouring pints and pub classics in a relaxed suburban haven—perfect for casual drinks and community vibes.
Crafty Crow
7.7 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Canalhouse
7.7 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
7.8 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Test Match
7.9 km
A beautifully preserved Art Deco pub in West Bridgford offering great food, lively sports viewing, and warm hospitality.
Malt Cross
7.9 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
7.9 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
8.0 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
Cucamara
8.0 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
8.0 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
8.0 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Six Richmond House
8.0 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Tap & Tumbler
8.0 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Pepper Rocks
8.1 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ocean Nightclub
7.8 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Tunnel Club
7.9 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
7.9 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
8.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
CRISIS
8.1 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
8.1 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Popworld - Nottingham
8.1 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Rescue Rooms
8.1 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
The Cell
8.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Stealth
8.2 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Tantra Night Clubs
8.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
Unit 13
8.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
8.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
The Bodega Nottingham
8.3 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
The Lacehouse
8.3 km
Rustic Nottingham nightlife gem: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in the heart of Lace Market's industrial heritage.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly