Colwick Country Park: A Tranquil Natural Escape in Nottingham
A vast 250-acre country park in Nottingham with lakes, wildlife, trails, and family-friendly facilities for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
Colwick Country Park is a sprawling 250-acre green oasis on Nottingham’s outskirts, featuring two large lakes, diverse wildlife habitats, and extensive recreational facilities. Open year-round, it offers walking, cycling, fishing, birdwatching, and family-friendly playgrounds, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and active visitors alike.
A brief summary to Colwick Country Park
- End of, Racecourse Rd, Nottingham, NG2 4BH, GB
- +441159870785
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for exploring both paved and natural trails, especially around wooded and lakeside areas.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches overlooking the lakes for a relaxing outdoor meal.
- Fishing requires a valid license; check local regulations before fishing in the lakes.
- Visit on a Saturday morning to join or watch the Parkrun event, which loops around both lakes.
- The park is dog-friendly, so it’s a great spot to bring your pet for a walk in nature.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Nottingham city centre takes approximately 10-15 minutes via main roads. Free parking is available at Racecourse Road, with a paid car park at River Road charging £2 between 09:00 and 16:00. Parking spots can fill during weekends and events.
-
Public Transport
Local buses run regularly from Nottingham city centre to stops near Colwick Country Park, with journey times around 20-30 minutes. Check Nottingham City Transport schedules for current routes and fares.
-
Cycling
The park is accessible via regional cycle routes, offering a scenic and eco-friendly option. Cycling from the city centre takes about 20-30 minutes on mostly flat terrain, with bike racks available near entrances.
Colwick Country Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Colwick Country Park
Historic Roots and Landscape Transformation
The land that is now Colwick Country Park has a rich history dating back to 1362. The park’s centerpiece, Colwick Hall, was constructed in the late 18th century and today operates as a private hotel. The country park itself was established in 1978 by Nottingham City Council, transforming former gravel workings into a landscaped recreational area. This thoughtful development created a diverse environment of woodlands, grasslands, and water bodies, offering a natural haven close to the city.Expansive Lakes and Water Activities
Colwick Country Park boasts two main lakes: the 65-acre Main Lake and the 24-acre West Lake. These lakes provide scenic water views and support a variety of activities. West Lake hosts the Nottingham City Open Water Swimming Centre, where organized swimming sessions take place, alongside fishing (with a license), canoeing, and sailing. The park also features Britain’s largest fish ladder, enabling migratory fish to bypass the Colwick Sluices on the River Trent, highlighting the park’s ecological significance.Wildlife Diversity and Conservation Importance
The park is a biodiversity hotspot with around 220 recorded bird species and a notable population of dragonflies, making it a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The Racecourse and Pool area supports 16 dragonfly species, 14 of which breed locally. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and wildlife photography amid habitats that include woodlands, wetlands, and open water, all managed to encourage native flora and fauna.Recreational Opportunities for All Ages
Visitors to Colwick Country Park can explore numerous walking and cycling paths that wind through tranquil woods and around the lakes. The park features well-maintained playgrounds near the adventure centre, perfect for families with children. Ample picnic areas with benches provide restful spots to enjoy the natural surroundings. Regular events like the Saturday Parkrun offer community engagement, while ranger-led activities and educational facilities enrich the visitor experience.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Situated about 4 kilometres east of Nottingham city centre, the park is easily accessible by car, with free and paid parking options available. It is also well connected by public transport and cycling routes. Facilities include information boards, restrooms near key areas, and dog-friendly policies. The terrain varies from paved paths to natural trails, accommodating a range of fitness levels and mobility needs.A Serene Urban Escape with Year-Round Appeal
Open throughout the year, Colwick Country Park offers a peaceful retreat regardless of season. Its blend of natural beauty, wildlife richness, and recreational facilities makes it a versatile destination for relaxation, exercise, and nature appreciation. Whether seeking a quiet lakeside picnic, an active day of cycling, or a family outing, the park provides a scenic and welcoming environment on Nottingham’s edge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Trent Bridge
2.4 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Bunkers Hill
2.5 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
16 Stoney Street
2.7 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
The Hockley Arts Club
2.8 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Weekday Cross Monument
2.9 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
2.9 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Watson Fothergill's Office
2.9 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
The Tokenhouse
3.0 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
3.1 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Right Lion
3.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
3.1 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
3.2 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
3.2 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
King's Walk sign
3.2 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
St Nic's Church
3.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Green's Windmill and Science Centre
1.8 km
Explore Nottingham’s historic working windmill and interactive science centre celebrating the legacy of mathematician George Green.
The Nottingham Experience
1.8 km
Award-winning personalized tours of Nottingham's royal heritage, legends, and industrial past since 1989.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
2.0 km
A gleaming stainless steel dragon born from community spirit, guarding Sneinton with myth, history, and striking craftsmanship.
Stonebridge City Farm
2.3 km
Discover a vibrant urban farm and gardens in Nottingham offering free access to animals, nature, and community spirit.
Sneinton Market Avenues
2.4 km
A compact, creative market quarter in Sneinton where artisan stalls, cafés and regular festivals collide in a colourful, community-driven setting.
Nottingham Beeston Canal (Art
2.4 km
Explore vibrant street art and tranquil waterside views along Nottingham’s Beeston Canal, a unique urban oasis of culture and nature.
Sneinton Market
2.4 km
Nottingham's indie creative haven: artisan stalls, vegan feasts, craft brews, and pop-up events in vibrant Sneinton Marketplace.
Sneinton Market
2.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant Sneinton Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan food, and cultural events in a unique open-air setting.
Unit 41 Sneinton Market
2.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant artistic heart at Unit 41 Sneinton Market, where creativity and community come alive in a unique industrial setting.
Place
2.5 km
Empowering Nottingham communities through education, wellbeing, and creative engagement at the heart of Sneinton Market.
Curious brick tower
2.6 km
Explore Nottingham's architectural marvel, the Curious Brick Tower, a historical gem perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.
The Lacehouse
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
2.7 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
Lace Market
2.7 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
Nottingham City Council
2.7 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Essential places to dine
The Kongo
1.5 km
Experience authentic Nigerian cuisine and warm hospitality at The Kongo, Nottingham’s vibrant African restaurant in Sneinton.
Pistachio Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover vibrant Persian flavors with a modern twist at Nottingham’s cozy and colorful Pistachio Restaurant.
Binks Yard
2.4 km
Lively restaurant and social hub in Nottingham’s Island Quarter, serving creative wood-fired dishes in a vibrant urban regeneration setting.
Cleaver & Wake
2.4 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in a stylish art deco setting beside Nottingham’s scenic canal.
GB Cafe Oriental Diner & Sushi Bar
2.5 km
Authentic Asian fusion dining in Nottingham’s heart, offering fresh, affordable dishes from Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese, and British traditions.
ViDa by Lorentes
2.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
2.6 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
Bistro Live Nottingham
2.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
Annie's Burger Shack
2.7 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
Mesa
2.7 km
Innovative small plates and a celebrated cheeseburger in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, Mesa offers a lively dining experience with a modern twist.
Vi-Va Indian Tapas
2.7 km
Experience vibrant Indian street food culture in cozy Nottingham with Vi-Va’s flavorful tapas-style dining and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Iberico World Tapas
2.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
2.8 km
Authentic Indian street food in a vibrant, eclectic setting with fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere in Nottingham city centre.
Sexy Mamma Love Spaghetti
2.8 km
Authentic handmade Italian pasta with daily specials in a cozy Nottingham city centre setting, blending rustic charm with vibrant flavors.
The Pelican Club
2.8 km
Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage Emporium
2.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s Vintage Emporium, a charming shop filled with unique retro treasures and timeless homewares in a cozy, curated setting.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
2.3 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced gifts and homewares that support global artisans at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Nottingham.
That Weird Shop
2.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's quirkiest emporium: vinyl, retro toys, alt fashion, and a haunted basement brimming with eerie artifacts and spectral whispers.
Luisa's Vegan Chocolates
2.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s only 100% plant-based, bean-to-bar chocolate shop blending ethical sourcing with award-winning vegan flavors.
Blend
2.4 km
Discover Blend, Nottingham's charming coffee shop where quality brews meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of Sneinton Market.
Megan Crook Textiles
2.5 km
Discover handmade vibrant fashion at Sneinton Market: bespoke clothing, accessories, and interiors bursting with color and Nottingham creativity.
Catori's Gift Shop
2.5 km
A compact Sneinton Market boutique of handmade gifts, local crafts and seasonal surprises — ideal for curious shoppers seeking one-off presents.
Cow Thrift
2.6 km
Dive into Hockley's affordable vintage paradise at COW Thrift, where color-coded bargains and sustainable scores await in a spacious haven of retro prints and one-off gems.
MAISON GB
2.6 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
White Rose Hockley WR4
2.7 km
A hands‑on vintage shop in Nottingham’s Hockley where curated pre‑loved fashion and everyday treasures wait to be discovered.
Your Unique Day
2.8 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Void Clothing
2.8 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
White Rose Hockley WR2
2.8 km
Discover handpicked vintage treasures and sustainable style at this Hockley charity shop, where retro fashion supports noble causes in Nottingham's creative heart.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
2.8 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Wild Clothing
2.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at Wild Clothing, Nottingham’s iconic destination for unique, sustainable style since 1983.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King William IV
2.3 km
A compact, traditional Nottingham pub — friendly bar service, rotating ales, classic pub food and a relaxed, dog‑friendly atmosphere.
The New Castle
2.3 km
Traditional Nottingham back-street pub with caves, pool, roasts, and a mature local vibe—perfect for authentic pints and hearty classics.
The Bath Inn
2.4 km
A cosy, detail‑packed pub in Sneinton Market blending Victorian character with quirky Egyptian touches and fresh floral displays.
The Test Match
2.5 km
A beautifully preserved Art Deco pub in West Bridgford offering great food, lively sports viewing, and warm hospitality.
31K
2.7 km
NYC loft-style bar on Nottingham's Goose Gate, mastering cocktails, meatballs, and fusion street food in Hockley's creative heart.
Bunk
2.7 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
2.7 km
Historic church turned buzzing bar: stained-glass cocktails, pub feasts, and electric nights in Nottingham's Lace Market heart.
Cock & Hoop
2.7 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Brass Monkey
2.8 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
2.8 km
Dive into Hockley's nightlife heartbeat at Revolution, where masterful cocktails, fresh bites, and non-stop party vibes flow from noon till the early hours.
Lost Property
2.8 km
A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
BrewDog Nottingham
2.8 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.
The Curious Tavern
2.8 km
Discover shadowy nooks, bold ales, inventive cocktails, and live tunes in Nottingham's quirkiest Hockley bar—where curiosity meets comfort late into the night.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
2.8 km
Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
2.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brickworks
2.1 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
NG-One
2.7 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Eleven
2.7 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
The Cell
2.9 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.
Tantra Night Clubs
2.9 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 Bodega Nottingham
2.9 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
3.0 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Ocean Nightclub
3.1 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Unit 13
3.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
3.3 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.
ICON
3.3 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
3.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
3.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Stealth
3.5 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
3.5 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
