Where to go for winter walks around Nottingham
Wrap up warm and head out into our wonderful county…
There are so many stunning places to go on winter walks around Nottingham, from nature reserves to historic homes.
We’ve narrowed down these locations based on how lovely they look during this time of the year, what makes them special during winter, and the amenities they have on offer. Whether you love watching wildlife, soaking in history, or spending time with the family, there is something for everyone.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham and love going on strolls (or simply want to get your steps up), these beauty spots are all worth visiting.
6 places to go for winter walks around Nottingham
By Elizabeth Iwalaiye
1. Clumber Park
Where: Worksop, S80 3AZ
How much: £5pp adult, £2.50pp child
With over 3,800 acres of parkland to see and explore, Clumber Park is a stunning spot for a winter walk in Nottinghamshire. Amble over the beautiful ornamental bridge, admire views of the river, and discover various interest points. It has its own Chapel of St Mary the Virgin — what else could be more appropriate at Christmas time?
Do if: You’re looking for somewhere to go and take a seasonal family portrait.
2. Rufford Abbey Country Park
Where: Ollerton, NG22 9DF
How much: Free entry, car parking £6
Rufford Abbey Country Park offers a tranquil setting for exploration at your own pace. Go for a leisurely 20-minute walk around the lake, explore the beautifully kept gardens, and visit the children’s play area if you’ve got little ones with energy to use up. As well as this, you’ll be able to see the historic Cistercian abbey, which will look stunning with a touch of frost or snow on it.
There are plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat, such as the Coach House Cafe for a cosy coffee, The Rufford Mill Tea Shop for a post-walk sit-down, and The Play Shed for snacks for the kids. Plus, you can browse the gift shop and the plant centre to get some extra steps in.
Do if: You’re looking for a winter walk that has lots for children to enjoy.
3. Attenborough Nature Reserve
Where: Attenborough, NG9 6DY
How much: Free entry, car parking £3-£6
The nature reserve is an important site for winter waterfowl, with shovelers, diving ducks, larger numbers of mallards, and even occasionally widgeons. It has also been known to have starling murmurations, which are a remarkable spectacle to see. See these and more while following the nature trails or even just simply exploring where each path takes you. It is a wheelchair-friendly site, too.
It also hosts a brilliant variety of events throughout the year, such as well-being walks where you can stroll and chat with new people, crafting workshops, and seasonal fun.
Do if: You like going on walks where there’s lots to see and observe.
4. Creswell Crags
Where: Worksop, S80 3LH
How much: Free to walk around, £3pp museum entry
This stunning limestone gorge is a wonderful place for an atmospheric winter walk. Walk in the footsteps of Ice Age hunters and see the ancient caves as you stroll around the lake. Its bird feeding station is a great place to visit during the winter months, as the stocked feeders provide food for many bird species. Siskins, goldfinches and redpolls can often be found here.
It’s worth noting that Creswell Crags is closed on weekdays — however, the gorge is accessible via the public bridleway from Creswell.
Do if: You’re a history lover who loves exploring.
5. Colwick Country Park
Where: Nottingham, NG2 4BH
How much: Free entry
With soaring lakes and winding woodlands, Colwick Country Park offers a picturesque setting for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. It’s home to a variety of wildlife throughout the year but has a huge population of wildfowl during the winter months. Dogs are welcome, but make sure to be mindful of these birds if you do take your pooch.
The park features several walking paths, with a recommended route that loops around both Trout Lake and West Lake before heading towards Colwick Hall. The full route is approximately 3 miles (5 km), though visitors can choose to shorten or extend their walk to suit their preferences. We recommend grabbing a decadent hot chocolate at Wired on Wheels by the West Lake to fuel you.
Do if: You’re looking for a quick getaway from the city centre — simply catch the 44 NCT bus and get off at the Racecourse Park and Ride.
6. Wollaton Hall
Where: Nottingham, NG8 2AE
How much: Free entry, car parking £5 weekdays/£6 weekends
This is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area and is a must-visit — especially in winter when it feels extra magical. If you aren’t driving, you can get the 30, 35, and 36 NCT buses to it from the city centre. It is home to two herds of wild deer, which are remarkable to see in person. Just don’t get too close to them and stay on the allocated paths, as they may be cute, but they are known to have tempers!
There are three coffee shops on site with takeaway options, so you can easily grab a drink to keep you warm while you walk. If it does get chilly you can head inside the Elizabethan Hall, which houses Nottingham’s Natural History Museum.
Do if: You’re searching for a winter walk which has a mixture of things to do.
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Rushcliffe Country Park is good also.