As we head towards the end of February, there is certainly a sense that Spring in the air, as we can finally see that the end of Winter is near.
So why not make the most improving weather by getting out and about in our great city. Here are some of the best places to take in the natural beauty that Nottingham has to offer.
By Cait Burton
Wollaton Hall and Park
Spanning across 500 acres, Wollaton Park has a variety of activities available from Botanic Gardens to Mapped Walks. As well as the vast range of wildlife found at Wollaton park, it is also home to a herd of red deer and fallow deer, making it the perfect spot to capture some spectacular photographs for the keen photographers out there.
Boasting the Green Flag award for the past two years, Rushcliffe Country Park, a site that was once a Ministry of Defence depot, offers over 5 miles of pathways ideal for walking, jogging and cycling. The park has a variable landscape including wildflower meadows, woodlands and grasslands, making it the perfect choice for a family day out. There is a large children’s play area, skateboard ramp and a sensory trail, providing hours of entertainment for all ages.
Rushcliffe Country Park is perfect for nature lovers, with the Wildflower Meadows playing host to over 100 species of flower and 20 types of grass, attracting wildlife such as bees, birds and butterflies, with records showing approximately 23 species of butterfly and around 130 species of birds frequenting the park.
Sherwood Pines Forest Park
Sherwood Pines Forest is the ideal location for anyone looking for an action-packed day. With bicycle hire available, the park boasts multiple cycle routes to suit all ages and abilities. For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, there are ample walking routes with plenty of attractions on the way, including the Dragon Fly Pond as well as multiple obstacles and playground features on route.
For the history lovers, Sherwood Pines is home to a replica trench system, which is open for the public to take a look at what life was like in the trenches. Created in 2014 to mark 100 years since the start of the First World War. Sherwood Pines was once a training area for soldiers stationed at Clipstone Army Camp, making it the perfect place for this commemorative and informative project.
Attenborough Nature Reserve
Spanning across 145 hectares of grassland, wetland and lakes, Attenborough Nature Reserve is home to over 250 species of bird. Once used as gravel pit, the site, which was opened by Sir David Attenborough, has won a Gold Award for eco-tourism, being listed by BBC Wildlife Magazine in a top ten of ‘eco place in the world’.
The nature reserve is perfect for bird-enthusiasts, hosting impressive Starling Murmurations on a regular basis.
As well as the vast amount of wildlife found at the reserve, there are also lots of activities aimed at getting children of all ages outdoors learning about their environment.