As the season turns colder and the air turns crisper, transforming the landscape from all the orangey colours of autumn on the way into winter, you may feel obliged to spend more time cuddled up indoors with a cuppa tea.
However, for those of you who enjoy a brisk nature walk and enjoy the outdoors (whilst cloaked in a chunky coat), here we have highlighted some great nature walks to visit in the area:
River Trent Wildlife Corridor, Clifton
Holme Pit, Clifton Wood and Clifton grove, situated alongside the River Trent, together make up an official Nature Reserve area. The path next to the river is bordered by woodland that grows up the embankment. It’s a popular area for many species woodland birds, wildlife and wildflowers. Herons, Sparrowhawks and Buzzards are also regularly spotted here. Near to Holme Pit you can see remains of buildings dated from the 18th Century that are associated with Clifton Hall.
Attenborough Nature Reserve
One of the most popular nature areas in Nottingham, The Attenborough Nature reserve was a former pit that was opened by renowned broadcaster, David Attenborough in 1966. The site consists of a huge three-mile walk containing many species of birds, insects and other wildlife, it even has some horses! Walkers can enjoy use of the on-site car park, café, shop facilities and look out points. Dogs are welcome.
Wilford Claypit
Part of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, the disused claypit has a variety of habitats including marshland, grassland and woodland. There are many species of plants and wildlife here, including Emperor Dragonflies, Smooth Newts and toads. Here there are walking trail footpaths open to the public at all times.
Wilwell Farm Nature Reserve
Deemed as one of the best wildflower sites in Nottinghamshire, the reserve hosts more than 230 plant species. There are around 20 different species of butterfly that have been recorded here, including gatekeeper and small skipper. The site also contains a large number of tree species.
Rushcliffe Country Park
Set in the beautiful countryside about half a mile south of Ruddington, Rushcliffe Country Park is an ideal place to get away from it all. With a network of over 8 kilometres of footpaths, grassland, conservation and landscape areas, the park is the perfect place for walking, jogging, spotting wildlife and dog walking. It also has great facilities for children.
