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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.

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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

  • 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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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.

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