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Highfields Park Nottingham

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Sakura trees in bloom

CrowdLow
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Playground

Highfields Park Nottingham

Best Time

Spring mornings

Sakura trees in bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A lovely walk with boats as a bonus, though parking can be tight!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boating Lake

Boating Lake

Central lake

Enjoy a leisurely row or paddleboat ride on the picturesque boating lake. A classic park experience!

TikTok
Stepping Stones

Stepping Stones

Near University Campus

A charming shortcut and photo opportunity, these stepping stones offer a unique way to traverse the park.

TikTok
Sakura Trees

Sakura Trees

Near the entrance

In spring, these trees near the entrance burst into bloom, creating a stunning, picturesque scene.

Reddit
Playground & Mini-Golf

Playground & Mini-Golf

Designated areas

Fun for all ages, with a large playground and options for crazy golf and footgolf.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

Parking at Highfields Park can be a challenge, with spaces often tight and difficult to navigate. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby free parking options like the Hockey Centre to avoid frustration. Reddit

Cafe & Boating Hours

While the park itself is always accessible, the cafe and boating lake have specific operating hours. Check these in advance to plan your visit, especially if you're hoping for a lakeside snack or a row on the water. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Sakura trees in bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, cafe open
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant for strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Not pictured, a miniature waterfall just out of shot 🍃😍 Have you crossed these stepping stones at Highfields Park before? If you’re a @uniofnottingham student, past or present, this spot next to University Campus should be instantly recognisable 👀 After posting a recent video of summertime in Nottingham, I was shocked by the number of people (including some who’ve lived here their entire lives) th...
@luceinnotts
8.1K likes • 118K views

🎯 Park opposite for parking

Try parking at the Hockey Centre for easier access and free spaces. Reddit :car:

🛶 Book boating in advance

Boating is popular; check availability and prices, especially on weekends. TikTok :ticket:

Highfields park in 1928 #nottingham #nottshappening #uon #universityofnottingham #nottinghamuniversity #visitnottingham
@nottshappening
3.3K likes • 33.3K views
📍 Highfields Park Boating late Nottingham NG7 2PS #boating #rowing #highfields #nottingham #ntu #trent #uon #nottinghamtrent #uniofnottingham #lake #Summer #water #notts @Josie kellaway <3
@hannnahschlote
2K likes • 33.4K views

👟 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. Reddit :recycle:

Highfields park through the seasons #nottingham #nottshappening #notts #mynottingham #visitnotts #visitnottingham #nottinghamtrentuniversity #ntu #uon #universityofnottingham #nottinghamuniversity #uniofnottingham
@nottshappening
1.1K likes • 17.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Park opposite for parking

Try parking at the Hockey Centre for easier access and free spaces. Reddit :car:

🛶 Book boating in advance

Boating is popular; check availability and prices, especially on weekends. TikTok :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. Reddit :recycle:

📸 Capture the seasons

The park changes beautifully throughout the year, perfect for photos. TikTok :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Beautiful park scenery
Boating lake fun
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Tight parking spaces
Boating costs
Occasional litter

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Highfields Park is generally free to enter and explore. There may be charges for specific activities like boating or mini-golf. TikTok

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. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking boating sessions in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred slot. TikTok

Generally, Highfields Park is open to the public. However, specific areas or events might have temporary restrictions. Always check for any notices upon arrival. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

The park is home to various wildlife, especially around the lake, where you might spot ducks, swans, and other waterfowl. Reddit

Yes, there are cafes within Highfields Park offering refreshments. However, they may have limited hours, so it's wise to check in advance. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, the combination of water, trees, and open spaces makes Highfields Park a great location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Highfields Park is a fantastic destination for families. The large playground is a guaranteed hit with children, offering plenty of space to run and play. Reddit Beyond the playground, the boating lake provides an exciting activity for older kids and adults, and the mini-golf and footgolf options add extra fun. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns, and remember to bring a frisbee or ball for some impromptu games. The stepping stones also offer a fun, slightly adventurous element for kids to navigate. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a peaceful solo outing, Highfields Park offers tranquil walking paths and beautiful natural scenery. The boating lake provides a focal point for a relaxing stroll, and the abundance of wildlife, particularly around the water, is a delight for nature enthusiasts. Reddit The park's changing seasonal beauty, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage, ensures there's always something new to appreciate. TikTok Find a quiet bench or a spot on the grass to simply unwind and enjoy the surroundings. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Highfields Park is a photographer's dream, offering diverse visual opportunities. The boating lake with its reflections, the charming stepping stones, and the vibrant sakura trees in spring are all highly photogenic spots. TikTokReddit The park's natural beauty, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, provides excellent lighting conditions for capturing stunning landscape shots. TikTok Don't forget to capture the park's seasonal transformations for a varied portfolio. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Highfields Park: Parking & Accessibility

When planning your visit to Highfields Park, parking is a key consideration. While there is parking available within the park, reviews frequently mention that the spaces are tight and can fill up quickly, leading to frustration for some visitors. Reddit A common tip from park-goers is to consider parking at the nearby Hockey Centre, which often offers more space and is free for visitors. Reddit This can save you the hassle of circling for a spot within the park itself.

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. TikTok

Activities on the Water: Boating at Highfields

The boating lake is a central feature of Highfields Park and a popular activity for visitors. You can rent rowboats and paddleboats for a leisurely experience on the water, offering a unique perspective of the park's scenery. TikTok While the experience is often described as enjoyable, it's worth noting that the cost of boating can be a factor for some, as mentioned in reviews. Reddit

It's advisable to check the operating hours for the boating lake in advance, as they can vary and are often seasonal. Reddit 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. TikTok

Seasonal Beauty: Highfields Through the Year

Highfields Park offers a different charm throughout the seasons, making it a destination worth revisiting. In spring, the park is particularly stunning with the Sakura trees near the entrance bursting into bloom, creating a picturesque spectacle that photographers and visitors alike adore. Reddit This is a prime time for vibrant, colorful shots and a pleasant atmosphere.

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. TikTok 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. TikTok The park's ability to transform and offer unique beauty in each season is a recurring theme in visitor feedback. TikTok

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