Bestwood Country Park: A Vast Woodland and Heritage Escape Near Nottingham
Explore Nottingham’s expansive Bestwood Country Park, where woodland trails, mining heritage, and panoramic views unite in a natural sanctuary.
Bestwood Country Park, spanning over 650 acres near Nottingham, offers a rich blend of lush woodlands, grasslands, and historic mining relics. Visitors can enjoy diverse walking trails, wildlife habitats, and panoramic views from reclaimed slag heaps, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Bestwood Country Park
- Park Rd, Nottingham, Bestwood Village, NG6 8TQ, GB
- +441159273674
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7 am-10 pm
- Friday 7 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear to navigate mixed surfaces and some steep gradients on the walking trails.
- Visit the Headstocks and Dynamo House to appreciate the park’s mining history and capture unique photos.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially near wetland areas where wildfowl are abundant.
- Check seasonal opening hours for the café near the mining heritage site, as it is not always open.
- Plan your visit to include a climb up the reclaimed slag heap for panoramic views over Nottingham and surrounding areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Regular bus services connect Nottingham city center to Bestwood Village, with an average journey time of 25 to 35 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evening or weekend service. Tickets cost approximately £2–£4 one way.
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Car
Driving from Nottingham city center takes about 15 to 20 minutes via main roads. Parking is available near the park entrance, but spaces can fill during weekends and holidays. Parking is free, but some areas may have time restrictions.
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Cycling
Cyclists can reach Bestwood Country Park via dedicated cycle paths from Nottingham, with a journey of around 30 to 45 minutes depending on starting point and route. Terrain includes some gentle hills; suitable for moderately experienced riders.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the park is possible with routes ranging from 20 to 60 minutes depending on location. Paths vary from paved to natural surfaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bestwood Country Park 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 Bestwood Country Park
A Landscape of Natural Beauty and Diverse Habitats
Bestwood Country Park stretches across more than 650 acres of varied terrain, including dense woodlands, open grasslands, and wetlands. This extensive green space on Nottingham’s northern edge is a sanctuary for a wide range of wildlife, including numerous species of wildfowl and woodland creatures. The park’s natural environment offers peaceful walking routes that meander through mature trees and along water features, providing a tranquil retreat from urban life.Walking Trails and Outdoor Activities
The park features a network of well-maintained paths catering to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Trails vary in difficulty and surface, with some routes graded for accessibility, making it welcoming for visitors with mobility challenges. From gentle circular walks to more challenging hikes up reclaimed colliery slag heaps, the park invites exploration and adventure. Seasonal environmental activities and community events often take place here, enhancing the visitor experience.Historic Mining Heritage and Iconic Structures
Bestwood Country Park is steeped in industrial history, once serving as a coal mining estate. Remnants of this past remain visible, including the preserved Headstocks and Dynamo House, which stand as striking landmarks within the park. These structures offer a glimpse into the area’s mining legacy and provide unique photographic opportunities. The site’s transformation from industrial use to a green public space highlights the region’s evolving relationship with its environment.Panoramic Views and Scenic Vistas
One of the park’s highlights is the ascent to the top of a large green hill, a former slag heap now reclaimed by nature. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy sweeping views across Nottingham, Mansfield, and beyond. The vantage offers spectacular scenery, especially on clear days, and is a rewarding destination for those willing to tackle the climb.Community Forest and Conservation Efforts
Bestwood Country Park forms part of the Greenwood Community Forest, an initiative aimed at restoring and enhancing Nottinghamshire’s natural landscapes. The park’s management focuses on sustainability, wildlife conservation, and providing educational and recreational opportunities for local communities. Visitors can engage with environmental art installations and learn about the ongoing efforts to maintain this vital green space.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The park is equipped with facilities including parking, restrooms, and seating areas. While some amenities like cafés operate intermittently, the park’s extensive trails and open spaces are accessible year-round, with opening hours generally from early morning until late evening. The park’s proximity to Nottingham city center and public transport routes makes it a convenient destination for day trips and weekend escapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Things to do in Nottinghamshire
4.4 km
Explore the enchanting Nottinghamshire, where history, nature, and adventure await every traveler.
The Spot
6.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
7.0 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
The Belgrave Rooms
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Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Scale Space Nottingham
7.2 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 Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
7.2 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King's Walk sign
7.2 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Cathedral Hall
7.2 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Speakers' Corner
7.3 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Watson Fothergill's Office
7.3 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
The Left Lion
7.4 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
7.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Hockley Arts Club
7.5 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
The Tokenhouse
7.5 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Bunkers Hill
7.5 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bestwood Winding Engine House
0.4 km
Explore the majestic Victorian winding engine and rich coal mining heritage nestled in Nottingham’s scenic Bestwood Country Park.
Arnot Hill Park
3.4 km
A historic and family-friendly park in Arnold offering nature trails, play areas, and community spirit in a tranquil green setting.
Reindeer
4.1 km
Experience the magic of winter with friendly reindeer encounters on Nottingham’s scenic A60 route, perfect for family festive fun and nature lovers alike.
Little Red Train
4.2 km
A charming miniature railway in Nottingham offering family-friendly fun and nostalgic train rides through Woodthorpe’s peaceful neighborhood.
Nulivesnik
4.4 km
Discover the serene charm and rich history of Nulivesnik, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of Nottingham.
Woodthorpe Grange Park
4.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s historic Woodthorpe Grange Park, where heritage gardens, recreational fun, and tranquil green spaces blend seamlessly.
Papplewick Pumping Station
5.6 km
Britain's most spectacular Victorian water pumping station, where original steam engines still roar to life.
Arboretum
6.4 km
Victorian botanical sanctuary with 800+ trees, historic monuments, and urban tranquility in Nottingham's heart.
Chinese Bell Tower
6.5 km
A Victorian pagoda war memorial in Nottingham Arboretum, blending British military history with Chinese cultural symbolism.
Cave Escape Nottingham
6.7 km
Solve puzzles in a real sandstone cave beneath Nottingham – immersive escape rooms with a thrilling underground twist.
Newstead Abbey
6.8 km
Medieval priory and Lord Byron's ancestral home set within 300 acres of romantic gardens and lakeside grounds.
Trinity Square
7.0 km
Modern student living at Trinity Square, Nottingham’s vibrant city centre residence, steps from university and cultural hotspots.
The Museum Of Curiosities
7.1 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
The Cornerhouse
7.1 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
7.1 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
Essential places to dine
Marc & Daina's Restaurant
4.3 km
Discover authentic French cuisine and warm hospitality in the cozy, family-run Marc & Daina's Restaurant in Nottingham's Sherwood district.
Le Mistral Sherwood - French Restaurant
4.4 km
Cozy French bistro in Sherwood offering authentic cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, rustic atmosphere for memorable meals.
Ania Polish Restaurant
4.5 km
Experience authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s cozy Sherwood neighborhood.
Masala Junction Restaurant
5.4 km
Elegant Indian dining in a beautifully restored 1929 bank building, blending tradition with modern culinary flair in Nottingham’s Carrington.
The Lobster Pot Nottingham
6.3 km
Cozy seafood and Thai fusion dining on Mansfield Road, blending fresh flavors with a welcoming atmosphere in Nottingham.
Farro's Grillhouse
6.4 km
A lively Nottingham grillhouse blending steakhouse classics with Portuguese and Italian flavours in a casual, vibrant setting.
Balageru Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurant
6.9 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean flavors with warm hospitality in Nottingham’s cozy Balageru restaurant.
Sans Patrie
7.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Corinthian Restaurant
7.0 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
Warsaw Diner
7.1 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Turtle Bay Nottingham
7.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavours and tropical vibes in the heart of Nottingham’s lively Cornerhouse complex.
Alchemilla
7.1 km
Discover Alchemilla, Nottingham’s Michelin-starred fine dining gem blending historic charm with innovative, sustainable cuisine.
Tamatanga
7.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors served fresh in a lively, family-friendly Nottingham hotspot with great value and welcoming vibes.
BEST FOOD Chinese And Thai Takeaway
7.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine at BEST FOOD Takeaway in Wollaton—delicious meals made with quality ingredients at affordable prices.
Spicy House
7.1 km
Experience authentic Szechuan spice and flavor at Spicy House, Nottingham’s go-to for bold Chinese cuisine with customizable heat levels.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Because.....The Gift and Mix Company
2.6 km
Elegant, curated gift boxes in Nottingham delivering thoughtful luxury for every spontaneous gifting moment.
WAREHOUSE
6.9 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at WAREHOUSE inside Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, blending style and convenience in the city heart.
Søstrene Grene
6.9 km
Scandinavian hygge meets affordable creativity in Nottingham's Victoria Centre – a Danish design haven brimming with homewares, crafts, and joyful discoveries.
Menkind
7.0 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and fun collectibles for men at Menkind Nottingham, your go-to spot for original presents and playful shopping.
Miniso
7.0 km
Discover stylish, affordable gifts and essentials at Miniso, Nottingham’s vibrant variety shop in Victoria Centre.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
7.0 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
7.0 km
Compact Danish design and playful everyday goods — pocket-friendly gifts, stationery and novelty finds in Victoria Centre.
Next
7.2 km
A stylish and family-friendly fashion store in Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, offering a wide range of clothing and accessories with convenient hours.
Parallel Universe
7.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
Handmade Nottingham
7.2 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Fromno19
7.2 km
Small-batch, handcrafted bags and home gifts where vintage-inspired fabrics meet practical, well-finished design.
Urban Outfitters
7.2 km
Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
7.3 km
A vibrant independent bead and craft shop in Nottingham’s historic Market Street, offering expert workshops and a vast range of jewellery-making supplies.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
7.4 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Primark
7.4 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rose Of England
6.9 km
A historic Victorian Neo-Gothic pub in Nottingham blending architectural grandeur with authentic local charm and a lively community spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
7.1 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
Bunk
7.2 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Tap & Tumbler
7.2 km
A historic Nottingham pub blending quality ales, vibrant rock music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Nottingham Secret Garden
7.2 km
Discover Nottingham's lush cocktail hideaway: tropical vibes, craft drinks, and electric nights in a secret beer garden oasis.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
7.2 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
7.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Six Richmond House
7.2 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
7.3 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Cucamara
7.3 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
The Alchemist Nottingham
7.3 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
The Pelican
7.3 km
Cozy Nottingham pub on Bracebridge Drive, pouring pints and pub classics in a relaxed suburban haven—perfect for casual drinks and community vibes.
Wax Bar
7.3 km
Nottingham's cocktail pulse: artisanal drinks, Caribbean bites, and DJ rhythms fueling epic weekend nights on Broad Street.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
7.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
BrewDog Nottingham
7.3 km
Craft beer paradise in a historic lace factory: 28 taps, sourdough pizzas, dog-friendly vibes, and Lace Market energy await in Nottingham's ultimate brew hub.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Stealth
7.0 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
7.0 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
7.1 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
CRISIS
7.1 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Unit 13
7.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
7.1 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.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
7.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
NG-One
7.3 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
The Bodega Nottingham
7.4 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.
Tunnel Club
7.4 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
7.4 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Eleven
7.4 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
Popworld - Nottingham
7.4 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Tantra Night Clubs
7.5 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.
The Cell
7.6 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly