The RSPB in Nottinghamshire
At the moment there are no RSPB reserves in Nottinghamshire, but work is going ahead on the Langford Lowfields site (near Newark). This resembles a muddy moonscape now but by the year 2020 when it is handed over to the Society it will be a premier site for Bitterns. The local RSPB group helped with the planting of reeds during 1999, the start of the long process to make this a premier site.
NETHERFIELD
Grid Ref: SK6140The habitats at Netherfield are constantly changing. Gravel pits were dug in the scrubby grasslands. Some of these have been formed into large lagoons, one deep water the other shallow. The shallow lagoon is at present almost full of Flyash, with areas of water and reedbed at one end. Soon the area is due for further changes and the fact that the flyash lagoon is an internationally important site for Golden Plover has saved it from being flattened. But one thing is for certain more changes are coming to the area. There is unrestricted access to the site, although the slurry lagoons are private. Don't go on to the flyash as this could endanger yourself and disturb the birds.
Buses and trains go into Netherfield itself. From here it is about a 15 minute walk to the lagoons. Vehicle access is directly off the B686. Park in the large retail park. Walk away from the B686, through the scrub and onto the embankment. Visit early as motorcycles can be a problem especially at weekends.
COLWICK PARK
Grid Ref: SK6140A country park alongside the River Trent and conveniently close to the city centre. Habitats include two fairly large lakes, a smaller lake, a fair sized wooded area and dotted around the park stands of trees.
Buses means a long walk, but follow the road by the racecourse and you shouldn't go wrong. Good car parking.
HOLME PIERREPONT
Grid Ref: SK6239Near the Water Sports Centre. Lakes, grassland etc.
Best access is by car.
WOLLATON PARK
Grid Ref: SK5239Country manor park within the City; woodland, lakes, grassy areas, meadow etc. Excellent access by bus from the city and good car parking. Watch out for deer which are allowed to roam free
ATTENBOROUGH Grid Ref: SK5134
An interesting area, lying adjacent to the River Trent, which acts as an important migration corridor. Formed from gravel pits, some of which are still being worked near to, but not on, the reserve.A top inland site, the variety of habitats means a respectable day list can be made at any time of year.Can be wet and muddy.Habitats: Open water, muddy and shallow shoreline, woodland, scrub, reedbed, meadow, farmland.
Managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Butterley Aggregates.
General information
Telephone: 0115 958 8242 (Notts Wildlife Trust) Opening times: Open at all times.Admission: Free at all times.
Location: From J25 M1, follow A52 to Nottingham, B6003 to Long Eaton, A6005 to Beeston.
Sherwood Forest OS ‘Explorer’ map no.28Not one reserve, but a group of scenic sites that can produce a wonderful range of species throughout the year.
Habitats: Mixed woodland, heath,lakes, parkland, farmland.
A popular tourist area, early starts or avoiding weekends and school holiday times is recommended. Head for Clipstone Forest forNightjar and Woodlark, Welbeckfor Honey Buzzard and the chapel area in Clumber Park for Hawfinch in winter.
BESTWOOD COUNTRY PARK
Grid Ref: SK5645Woodland etc. Best to visit early can be very busy
HOVERINGHAM
Grid Ref: SK6946Please keep to the public right of ways when visiting these Gravel pits
LOUND
Grid Ref: SK6986Remote flyash lagoon and gravel pits.
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