
Highfields Park Nottingham
A 21-hectare green oasis in Nottingham, featuring a boating lake, scenic walks, and family-friendly activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sakura trees in bloom

Highfields Park Nottingham
Best Time
Sakura trees in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 21-hectare green oasis in Nottingham, featuring a boating lake, scenic walks, and family-friendly activities.
"A lovely walk with boats as a bonus, though parking can be tight!"

🎯 Park opposite for parking
Try parking at the Hockey Centre for easier access and free spaces. :car:
🛶 Book boating in advance
Boating is popular; check availability and prices, especially on weekends. :ticket:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boating Lake
Central lake
Enjoy a leisurely row or paddleboat ride on the picturesque boating lake. A classic park experience!
Stepping Stones
Near University Campus
A charming shortcut and photo opportunity, these stepping stones offer a unique way to traverse the park.
Sakura Trees
Near the entrance
In spring, these trees near the entrance burst into bloom, creating a stunning, picturesque scene.
Playground & Mini-Golf
Designated areas
Fun for all ages, with a large playground and options for crazy golf and footgolf.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Cafe & Boating Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Park opposite for parking
Try parking at the Hockey Centre for easier access and free spaces. :car:
🛶 Book boating in advance
Boating is popular; check availability and prices, especially on weekends. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll want to explore the expansive grounds, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Take your rubbish home
Help keep the park beautiful by disposing of waste properly. :recycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park opposite for parking
Try parking at the Hockey Centre for easier access and free spaces. :car:
🛶 Book boating in advance
Boating is popular; check availability and prices, especially on weekends. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll want to explore the expansive grounds, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Take your rubbish home
Help keep the park beautiful by disposing of waste properly. :recycle:
📸 Capture the seasons
The park changes beautifully throughout the year, perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Highfields Park for its beautiful scenery, especially the boating lake and seasonal blooms. It's seen as a great spot for leisurely walks and family fun, though parking can be a significant drawback due to tight spaces. Some also note the cost of boating and occasional litter issues.
"Another Park visited for the first time, I parked opposite within the Hockey centre which is free for visitors...as is also the parking within the park grounds...
I'm well impressed by the area and boating lake which is I believe in the University grounds... It's only a short walk around the lake, a casual thirty minutes stroll...
Unfortunately the cafe was closed by the time I arrived ...my fault entirely, I'll arrive much earlier next time...
There's lots of wildlife especially around the lake, I loved the stepping stones area which is a bit of a short cut instead of going further around the lake...
I'll give a more comprehensive review the next time I visit...
Very enjoyable two to three hours...
Thinking of my next visit already..."
Stephen Townsend
"Lovely walk, good sized park. Boats are a bonus! Although not cheap, but the young lad and young girl were very friendly! There is hardly any parking, and the spaces are very tight. People seemed to park wherever they like also, with no regards to others. Lovely large grass area to sit on. Shame that people cant be bothered to take their rubbish home with them - or in the bin - theres ample of them!!! Crazy golf and foot golf to. All in all, a lovely outdoor area."
Amy Clayton
"very nice place to visit specially the waterfall side is outstanding beautiful. There is free parking for all the visitors"
Sajawal Abbas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Highfields Park is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking within the park can be tight and fill up quickly. Some visitors recommend parking at the nearby Hockey Centre for more space and free parking.
Yes, there is parking available within the park grounds, and it's generally free for visitors. However, spaces can be limited and quite tight, leading to potential door scratches.
Cycling is a great way to reach Highfields Park, and there are usually places to secure your bike. The park itself is also pleasant for cycling, though be mindful of pedestrians. :bike:
Yes, Highfields Park is adjacent to the University of Nottingham's campus, making it a popular spot for students and staff.
Walking is the most popular way to explore Highfields Park, allowing you to enjoy its many features. You can also rent boats on the lake for a different perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Highfields Park is generally free to enter and explore. There may be charges for specific activities like boating or mini-golf.
The park itself is typically open from dawn till dusk. However, facilities like the cafe and boating lake have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their specific schedules before visiting.
While not always mandatory, booking boating sessions in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred slot.
Generally, Highfields Park is open to the public. However, specific areas or events might have temporary restrictions. Always check for any notices upon arrival.
Dogs are usually welcome in Highfields Park, but it's always a good idea to check local guidelines for leash requirements and any designated off-limit areas. :dog:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the boating lake, a large playground, mini-golf, and beautiful walking paths. In spring, the sakura trees near the entrance are a major draw.
Absolutely! Highfields Park features a large playground, and the boating and mini-golf activities are great fun for kids. The open green spaces are perfect for picnics and games.
The park is home to various wildlife, especially around the lake, where you might spot ducks, swans, and other waterfowl.
Yes, there are cafes within Highfields Park offering refreshments. However, they may have limited hours, so it's wise to check in advance.
Highfields Park has ample grassy areas perfect for picnics. Remember to bring a blanket and be mindful of keeping the park clean by taking your rubbish with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The boating lake, the stepping stones, and the sakura trees in spring offer fantastic photo opportunities. The park's changing seasons also provide diverse scenic backdrops.
Yes, the combination of water, trees, and open spaces makes Highfields Park a great location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing atmosphere.
While primarily a natural park, its proximity to the University of Nottingham campus means there are some historic architectural elements nearby that can complement your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Highfields Park: Parking & Accessibility
For those relying on public transport, Highfields Park is well-served by local bus routes, making it an accessible destination without a car. The park's layout is generally flat and well-maintained, with paved paths making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some of the more natural areas or shortcuts, like the stepping stones, might require a bit more care.
Activities on the Water: Boating at Highfields
It's advisable to check the operating hours for the boating lake in advance, as they can vary and are often seasonal. During peak times, especially on weekends or during school holidays, it's a good idea to book your boating session ahead of time to avoid disappointment. The friendly staff operating the boats are often highlighted as a positive aspect of the experience.
Seasonal Beauty: Highfields Through the Year
As summer arrives, the park becomes a hub for outdoor activities. The boating lake is in full swing, and the large grassy areas are perfect for picnics and relaxation. Autumn brings a beautiful display of changing leaf colors, adding a warm palette to the landscape, while winter offers a more serene and tranquil experience, with frost-kissed trees and crisp air. The park's ability to transform and offer unique beauty in each season is a recurring theme in visitor feedback.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit