Colwick Park Nottingham
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Colwick Country Park

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Expansive country park with two lakes, offering walking/cycling paths, wildlife areas, and playgrounds. A peaceful escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Colwick Park Nottingham

Colwick Country Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Expansive country park with two lakes, offering walking/cycling paths, wildlife areas, and playgrounds. A peaceful escape.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Amazing place to go for a walk with the family and to take the dogs out for a walk loads of big ponds to sit at and relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Paths are mostly good, but some can be rough. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the woods and lake paths.

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake! Benches are plentiful, and the scenery is lovely.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colwick Lake Loop

Colwick Lake Loop

Around Colwick Lake

Stroll or cycle around the expansive lake, enjoying serene water views and abundant wildlife. A truly calming experience.

Colwick Woods

Colwick Woods

Northern section of the park

Discover a 'wild forest' feel with shaded paths, perfect for escaping the crowds and immersing yourself in nature.

Children's Play Areas

Children's Play Areas

Near the adventure centre

Fun and engaging playgrounds for kids to enjoy, making it a great destination for families.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Colwick Country Park offers a refreshing escape with its expansive lakes, woodlands, and walking paths. Perfect for a family day out or a peaceful solo stroll, it's a great spot to reconnect with nature. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the varied terrain.

Parking and Amenities

While the park provides ample space for exploration, be aware that some parking areas can be rough. Check for any parking fees, though free parking is often available. The park has a coffee van and benches, but consider bringing your own picnic for a full experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer families
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, dog walkers
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

POV: You vist Nottingham 🙏 Those last 2 though 😅 #nottingham #visiting #tictok
@malachimicah
10.4K likes • 125K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Paths are mostly good, but some can be rough. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the woods and lake paths. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake! Benches are plentiful, and the scenery is lovely. Reddit

reddit.com

Best place for a walk and coffee in Nottingham please?

reddit.com

Any recommendations for a woodland walk with water?

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Lots of friendly dogs and owners here! Great for a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Car parks can be a bit rough. Check if there's a fee, though free parking is often available. Reddit

reddit.com

Jogging

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Paths are mostly good, but some can be rough. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the woods and lake paths. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake! Benches are plentiful, and the scenery is lovely. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Lots of friendly dogs and owners here! Great for a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Car parks can be a bit rough. Check if there's a fee, though free parking is often available. Reddit

☕ Coffee Van Stop

A handy coffee van is often available near the adventure centre for a quick refreshment. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Colwick Country Park for its beautiful lake views, extensive walking and cycling paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, especially within the woodlands. It's highly recommended for families and dog owners, though some note the parking areas can be rough and certain sections could benefit from better maintenance.

"Lovely walk through woods round the lake. Easy walking on good path mostly in shade and all on a level. Good for all ages and dogs. Car park is a bit rough though. Also shame the area near adventure centre is not better maintained. Looks very dilapidated. There is a good coffee van there though.."

Julie S

"Amazing place to go for a walk with the family and to take the dogs out for a walk loads of big ponds to sit at and relax and amazing scenery with some wood and loads of park benches near the water also a information center( a container) which you can get some information about the park while you are there also there are two car parks available for the public ( not sure if you need to pay for one of them) there are also some information boards about the fish in the lakes which you can fish at( with a licence of course) with pictures and facts about fish. But overall the place is amazing and filled with nature."

Jakub Sloma

"If you love a lake with your park, you’ll absolutely adore Colwick. The lake stretches for kilometres along the trek with views along your way and multiple places to stop by the lake and enjoy the views and wild life. Free parking when we went and plenty of walking to do as well as many places to sit for a rest to enjoy the views with bins along the way. Benches engraved with lost loved ones.

A huge country park, we only managed a small part. Pub nearby to get some breakfast, lunch or dinner. And if you love dogs like we do, so many friendly people and lovely dogs to say hi to!"

Mikey From The 5ive

What People Like

Beautiful lake scenery
Peaceful woodland walks
Family and dog-friendly

What People Dislike

Rough parking areas
Maintenance in some spots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can access Colwick Country Park from various points. For a 'forest' feel, head towards Colwick Woods via Colwick Road in Sneinton. Public transport options might be available, but driving offers more direct access to parking areas. Reddit

While specific bus routes can vary, checking local Nottingham transport schedules is recommended. Many visitors opt for driving due to the park's size and multiple access points. TikTok

Walking and cycling are popular. The park features walking and cycling paths around the lakes and through the woods, offering diverse exploration options. Reddit

Yes, Colwick Woods is accessible from Colwick Road in Sneinton, offering an immediate sense of being in a wild forest away from urban surroundings. Reddit

Colwick Country Park has several access points, including those leading to the lakes and the woodland areas, providing flexibility for visitors. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Colwick Country Park itself is generally free. However, there might be charges for parking in some designated areas. Reddit

As an outdoor country park, Colwick is typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific facility hours, like the coffee van, may vary. Reddit

Parking availability and fees can vary. While some visitors report free parking, it's advisable to check for any charges upon arrival, as some car parks might require payment. Reddit

Yes, fishing is permitted in the lakes, but you will need a license. Information boards about the fish species are available in the park. Reddit

No booking is typically required for general visits to Colwick Country Park. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, cycling, picnicking, bird watching, and relaxing by the lakes. There are also playgrounds for children and opportunities for fishing with a license. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The park features great playgrounds for children, ample space to run around, and scenic spots for picnics, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Yes, there are many walking trails, including a lovely loop around the lake and shaded paths through Colwick Woods, suitable for various fitness levels. Reddit

Colwick Country Park is very dog-friendly! You'll see many people walking their dogs, and it's a great place for them to explore. Reddit

The park is home to various wildlife, especially around the lakes and woodlands. Bird watching is popular, and you might spot different fish species in the water. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There's often a coffee van available near the adventure centre for refreshments. Many visitors also bring their own picnics to enjoy by the lake. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many benches and open spaces perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors with beautiful views. Reddit

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, a coffee van is frequently present. For more extensive dining options, consider nearby pubs or cafes outside the park. Reddit

There are pubs nearby that offer breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can also find cafes and restaurants in the surrounding areas of Nottingham. Reddit

Your best bet for purchasing items directly within the park is the coffee van. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks if you plan a longer visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake shores offer beautiful reflections and wildlife opportunities. Colwick Woods provides atmospheric, shaded shots, especially during autumn. TikTok

Yes, the park is excellent for nature photography with its diverse landscapes, including lakes, woodlands, and various bird species. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene lake views and woodland scenes. TikTok

The expansive lake views, the varied textures of Colwick Woods, and the benches engraved with dedications offer unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws or contact park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Colwick Country Park is a top choice for families. The well-equipped playgrounds are a major draw, ensuring kids have plenty of fun. The expansive lake areas are perfect for picnics and gentle strolls, with numerous benches for resting. Reddit

Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for the open grassy areas. The park's easy-to-navigate paths make it accessible for strollers, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for a family day out. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a dog lover's paradise! You'll encounter many friendly dogs and their owners, making it a social outing for both you and your pet. The varied terrain, from lakeside paths to woodland trails, offers great exercise and exploration opportunities for dogs. Reddit

Ensure your dog is under control, especially near the water and wildlife. There are plenty of open spaces for them to run, and the generally relaxed atmosphere means most visitors are happy to see well-behaved canine companions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Cyclists

For those seeking a peaceful walk or a cycling route, Colwick Country Park delivers. The lake loop offers scenic views and a relatively flat surface, ideal for a leisurely pace. For a more rugged experience, the Colwick Woods trails provide a sense of adventure and immersion in nature. Reddit+1

Pack comfortable shoes and perhaps some water. The park's size means you can tailor your walk or ride to your preference, from a short circuit to a longer exploration of its diverse landscapes. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Woodlands

Colwick Woods offers a distinct experience from the open lake areas, providing a sense of seclusion and a 'wild forest' atmosphere. The shaded paths are perfect for a cooler walk, especially during warmer months. Many visitors find this area particularly calming and a great escape from urban life. Reddit

Key features of the woods include mature trees that create a dense canopy, offering dappled sunlight and a rich undergrowth. The terrain can be a bit rougher than the main lake paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended. It's an ideal spot for nature observation, quiet contemplation, and enjoying the sounds of the forest. Reddit

For those seeking a more immersive natural experience, exploring the less-trodden paths within Colwick Woods can be very rewarding. It’s a place where you can truly feel removed from the hustle and bustle, making it a highlight for many who visit the park. Reddit

Family Fun by the Lake

Colwick Country Park is a fantastic destination for families, with dedicated play areas for children that are well-loved by younger visitors. These playgrounds offer a safe and fun environment for kids to burn off energy. Reddit

The park's expansive lakes provide a beautiful backdrop for family outings. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the water's edge, have a picnic on the grassy banks, or simply relax and watch the waterfowl. The presence of benches, some engraved with dedications, adds a thoughtful touch to the scenic spots. Reddit

Beyond the playgrounds, the open spaces and relatively flat paths around the lake make it easy for families with strollers or young children to navigate. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, enjoying both active play and peaceful moments amidst nature. Reddit

Fishing and Wildlife

The lakes at Colwick Country Park are popular spots for fishing, attracting anglers who appreciate the diverse fish species present. Information boards detailing the types of fish, complete with pictures and facts, are available for visitors to learn more about the aquatic life. Remember that a fishing license is required to fish in these waters. Reddit

Beyond fishing, the park is a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers will find plenty to observe, with various species frequenting the lakes and surrounding woodlands. The natural environment supports a healthy ecosystem, making it a great place for spotting local fauna. Reddit

Even if you're not fishing, the presence of aquatic life and diverse bird populations adds to the park's natural charm. It’s a place where you can appreciate the biodiversity of the local area and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Reddit

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