Wollaton Park Lake
A tranquil 25-acre lake set within Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Park, offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and Georgian landscape charm.
Wollaton Park Lake is a serene 25-acre body of water nestled within the expansive 500-acre Wollaton Park in Nottingham, England. Created in the late 18th century, the lake offers picturesque views, abundant wildlife, and peaceful walking paths. It serves as a tranquil focal point amidst the park’s historic gardens, deer park, and woodland areas, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Wollaton Park Lake
- Unnamed Road, Nottingham, NG8 2AE, GB
- +441158763100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the lake’s wildlife and scenic views.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially to spot swans, herons, and the rare ring-necked parakeets.
- Combine your lake visit with a walk around Wollaton Hall and the formal gardens for a full historic experience.
- Use the benches around the lake for peaceful rest stops and photography opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take Nottingham City Transport buses from Nottingham city center to Wollaton Park; journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on the route. Services run frequently during the day. A single adult fare costs approximately £2.50 GBP. Note that some routes may have reduced frequency on weekends.
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Car
Driving to Wollaton Park Lake is straightforward via Wollaton Road with ample parking available near Wollaton Hall. Travel time from Nottingham city center is about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is free but can be busy during weekends and events.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Wollaton Park Lake is pleasant and accessible, with well-maintained paths through the park. Walking from Wollaton Hall to the lake takes approximately 10 minutes on flat terrain, suitable for most visitors, including families and seniors.
Wollaton Park Lake 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 Wollaton Park Lake
A Historic Landscape Centerpiece
Wollaton Park Lake, spanning 25 acres, was formed in the late 18th century by damming a small stream as part of the grand landscaping of Wollaton Park, a 500-acre Grade II listed estate in Nottingham. The lake complements the Georgian landscape design of the park, which also features formal gardens, acid grassland, and a deer park. Its creation enhanced the aesthetic and ecological value of the estate, providing a scenic water feature that remains central to the park’s character.Rich Biodiversity and Wildlife Habitat
The lake and surrounding woodlands support a diverse range of wildlife. Waterfowl such as swans, ducks, and herons are commonly seen, while the park is home to nine species of bats and various mammals including foxes and badgers. Notably, ring-necked parakeets, an exotic species spreading across the UK, have established a population here. The lake is also known to host northern pike, adding to its ecological interest.Recreational and Leisure Opportunities
Visitors to Wollaton Park Lake enjoy well-maintained walking paths that circle the lake, offering tranquil spots with benches to rest and take in the views. The lake is a popular destination for birdwatching and peaceful strolls, with easy access from Wollaton Hall and the wider park. The park’s open spaces and the lake’s calm waters provide a relaxing environment for families, dog walkers, and nature enthusiasts.Architectural and Garden Heritage
Nearby, Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan prodigy house built between 1580 and 1588, anchors the park’s historic significance. The formal gardens, including a Grade II listed fountain and pond dating back to the 17th century, frame the lake area with manicured lawns and ornamental features. The Doric Temple, a late 18th-century listed structure with Roman columns, adds architectural interest close to the lake.Community and Events
Wollaton Park is a vibrant community hub, hosting a variety of events such as the annual Splendour music festival and cross-country championships. The lake area often serves as a scenic backdrop for these activities, blending natural beauty with cultural engagement. The Friends of Wollaton Park volunteer program helps maintain the lake and parkland, ensuring its preservation for future generations.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The lake is accessible year-round during park opening hours, with paths suitable for most visitors. Facilities including seating areas and information boards enhance the visitor experience. The combination of historical ambiance, natural tranquility, and wildlife viewing makes Wollaton Park Lake a cherished destination within Nottingham’s green spaces.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Camellia House
0.5 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Gazebo
0.6 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
The Hemlock Stone
1.2 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Cathedral Hall
3.9 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
4.0 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
4.0 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
4.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Scale Space Nottingham
4.2 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 Nic's Church
4.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
The Belgrave Rooms
4.3 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
The Spot
4.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
Speakers' Corner
4.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Right Lion
4.5 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
4.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
4.5 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Climbing Tree
0.5 km
Adventure and tranquility blend seamlessly at Nottingham’s Climbing Tree, nestled beside the historic Camellia House in scenic Wollaton Park.
Nottingham Industrial Museum
0.6 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
0.6 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.
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore natural wonders and Elizabethan grandeur at Nottingham’s iconic Wollaton Hall and its captivating Natural History Museum.
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park
1.0 km
Elizabethan grandeur meets natural history in 500 acres of deer-roamed parkland—the real Wayne Manor.
Walled Garden, Wollaton Park
1.2 km
A beautifully restored historic walled garden offering a peaceful retreat and heritage horticulture within Nottingham’s Wollaton Park.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
1.3 km
Explore a rare Elizabethan dovecote museum in Nottingham, showcasing centuries of rural heritage and architectural charm.
Nottingham City of Literature
1.7 km
A vibrant arts hub blending theatre, galleries, and music set beside a scenic lake in Nottingham’s University Park.
Highfields Park
1.7 km
A historic 21-hectare park in Nottingham offering boating, adventure golf, scenic walks, and family-friendly fun near the university campus.
Harrison's Plantation Nature Reserve
1.7 km
A tranquil woodland retreat in Nottingham featuring diverse trees, peaceful ponds, and rich birdlife for immersive nature walks.
Statue of Honeycomb
1.7 km
A lifesize tribute to Beeston’s bee heritage, this serene beekeeper statue blends nature and urban life on High Road.
The University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology
1.8 km
Explore 250,000 years of regional archaeology at the University of Nottingham’s award-winning museum, set within the vibrant Lakeside Arts Centre.
King's Meadow Nature Reserve
3.0 km
A vibrant urban nature reserve in Nottingham blending meadows, streams, and woodland for a peaceful wildlife retreat.
Beeston Lock
3.4 km
Historic canal lock bypassing the River Trent, blending industrial heritage with tranquil waterside charm in Nottingham.
Essential places to dine
Miller & Carter Wollaton
0.4 km
Savor 30-day aged steaks from British farms in a warm, intimate steakhouse near Wollaton Park—where butchery expertise meets grilled perfection daily.
Mr Man's Restaurant
1.1 km
Spacious Cantonese dining in Wollaton Park offering authentic Chinese flavors and generous portions in a relaxed suburban setting.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
1.2 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Admiral Rodney
1.3 km
A traditional Nottingham pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere on Wollaton Road.
ZHUG
1.3 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
Wollaton Fish Bar
1.3 km
Nottingham's go-to chippie for crispy battered fish, chunky chips, and massive kebabs in hearty, wallet-friendly portions.
Wheelhouse
1.3 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Wollaton, Nottingham, serving classic British fare with welcoming service and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Wollaton Pub & Kitchen
1.4 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Wollaton blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and community spirit.
Spicy House
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine at BEST FOOD Takeaway in Wollaton—delicious meals made with quality ingredients at affordable prices.
Alchemilla
3.5 km
Discover Alchemilla, Nottingham’s Michelin-starred fine dining gem blending historic charm with innovative, sustainable cuisine.
Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms
3.7 km
Two Michelin-starred modern European dining with boutique rooms, blending culinary artistry and warm hospitality in Nottingham.
Sans Patrie
3.7 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Warsaw Diner
3.8 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
3.9 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
Aryaan Straps
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
1.3 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Grocery Store & Florist
1.3 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
B & V Thornhill
1.3 km
Discover B & V Thornhill, your friendly neighborhood newsagent in Wollaton, Nottingham, offering local news, snacks, and convenience items.
Marks and Spencer
1.3 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
1.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Rico’s Vape Store Wollaton
1.3 km
Explore a diverse range of vaporizers and e-liquids at Rico's Vape Store Wollaton, Nottingham's premier destination for vaping enthusiasts.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
1.6 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
Stratus Wallets
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Fromno19
3.2 km
Small-batch, handcrafted bags and home gifts where vintage-inspired fabrics meet practical, well-finished design.
Castle Marina Retail Park
3.7 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
3.8 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
ChicChoiceHub
4.1 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.
Common Choice
4.1 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
Shop Zero
4.2 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nurseryman - Pub & Grill
1.1 km
Flame-grilled feasts and cask ales in a refreshed Beeston pub, perfect for family meals and relaxed evenings on Derby Road.
The Pelican
2.7 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
4.1 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
4.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Malt Cross
4.3 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Tap & Tumbler
4.3 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Cucamara
4.3 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Six Richmond House
4.3 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
4.3 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Bunk
4.3 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
4.3 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
4.3 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
4.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
4.3 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.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tunnel Club
4.2 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
4.2 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
CRISIS
4.2 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
4.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Rescue Rooms
4.3 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
4.3 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
4.3 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Ocean Nightclub
4.4 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Unit 13
4.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
4.5 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
4.5 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
4.6 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.
Tantra Night Clubs
4.7 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
4.7 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 Hockley Arts Club
4.8 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where innovative drinks and artistic ambiance come together for an unforgettable night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly