Attenborough Nature Reserve: A Tranquil Wildlife Haven Near Nottingham
Discover a serene wetland sanctuary near Nottingham, rich with diverse birdlife, tranquil lakes, and scenic walking trails for nature lovers.
Attenborough Nature Reserve, located near Nottingham, is a 226-hectare protected wetland renowned for its diverse birdlife, tranquil lakes, and well-maintained walking trails. Established in 1966 and opened by Sir David Attenborough, the reserve offers bird hides, a visitor centre with a café, and abundant opportunities for nature observation and photography throughout the year.
A brief summary to Attenborough Nature Reserve
- Nottingham, GB
- +441159721777
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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.
- Visit on clear days to capture stunning reflections on the reserve’s lakes.
- Check seasonal highlights like starling murmurations in winter and butterfly displays in spring.
- Use the well-marked trails for peaceful walks ranging from short to longer routes.
- The visitor centre café offers refreshments and clean restrooms to enhance your visit.
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, with frequent departures approximately every 10 minutes. The bus stop is Chilwell Retail Park, about a 500m walk to the reserve entrance. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes. Tickets cost roughly £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Drive to Attenborough Nature Reserve via Barton Lane, with parking available onsite for a £3 donation. Parking is available daily from 8am to 8pm. Note that some nearby bridges may be closed, so check local signage for access updates.
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Walking
From nearby Beeston or Chilwell, walking routes to the reserve take approximately 30-45 minutes over mostly flat terrain with some paved and compacted earth paths. Trails are generally accessible but may have uneven sections.
Attenborough Nature Reserve location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Attenborough Nature Reserve
A Legacy of Conservation and Natural Beauty
Attenborough Nature Reserve was established in 1966 and officially opened by Sir David Attenborough, whose name it proudly bears. The reserve is a complex of flooded former gravel pits transformed into a thriving wetland habitat. Spanning approximately 226 hectares, it provides a sanctuary for a remarkable diversity of wildlife, particularly bird species. The site is managed collaboratively by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Broxtowe Borough Council, and other partners, reflecting a strong commitment to conservation and community engagement.Rich Birdlife and Wildlife Diversity
The reserve is internationally recognized for its avian population, hosting over 250 bird species including winter wildfowl such as shovelers, diving ducks, mallards, teal, and wigeon. Scarcer species like sawbills, sea ducks, and all British grebes have been recorded regularly. Seasonal migrations bring sand martins, bitterns, kingfishers, cormorants, reed and sedge warblers, shelducks, terns, and even the elusive bittern. Beyond birds, the reserve supports mammals like otters, bats, voles, shrews, and harvest mice, alongside a rich variety of butterflies, dragonflies, and other insects.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained trails ranging from short 1.9-mile routes to longer circuits, suitable for peaceful walks and wildlife observation. Numerous bird hides are strategically placed around lakes and reed beds, offering excellent vantage points without disturbing the animals. The visitor centre features a café with seating, clean restrooms, and a small shop, enhancing the comfort of your visit. Seasonal highlights include spectacular starling murmurations in winter and vibrant butterfly displays in spring.Scenic Landscapes and Photographic Opportunities
The reserve’s tranquil lakes and ponds create stunning mirror-like reflections on calm days, making it a favorite spot for nature photographers. The combination of water, woodland, and reed beds forms a picturesque landscape that changes with the seasons. Whether capturing the vibrant colors of migrating birds or the delicate landing of damselflies, the reserve offers endless visual delights.Accessibility and Community Engagement
Located just five miles south of Nottingham city centre, Attenborough Nature Reserve is easily accessible by car and public transport, with parking available for a small donation. The Trent Barton ‘INDIGO’ bus service connects the reserve to Nottingham and Derby with frequent runs. The reserve is dog-friendly, with some restrictions to protect wildlife. Educational programs and expert-led events occasionally take place, fostering community involvement and environmental awareness.Seasonal Highlights and Best Times to Visit
Open year-round from 9am to 5pm (with slight seasonal variations), the reserve offers unique experiences throughout the seasons. Spring brings butterflies and migratory birds, summer hosts sand martins and dragonflies, while winter features large flocks of wildfowl and dramatic starling murmurations. The reserve’s bird hides operate daily from 9am to 4pm, allowing visitors to enjoy wildlife encounters in all seasons.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
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- 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
- 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
- Photowalk
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly