Best lakes around Bulcote are characterized by a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, offering diverse recreational opportunities. The area features the River Trent, a significant waterway, and the Bulcote Ponds, which are former gravel workings transformed into a series of lakes. These locations provide settings for fishing, watersports, and wildlife observation. The region offers various walking trails around these water features.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Fantastic flat path that goes all the way around the regatta lake... Great for cycling, walking running and jogging.
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Part of Colwick Country Park, the stretch of land between the lakes and the River Trent is an interesting place to walk. You can see the boast in the mariners and the peaceful lake.
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Colwick Country Park is a public park owned by Nottingham City Council. The Colwick estate which the park is based on is the gardens of Colwick Hall. There are a couple of lakes and areas of woodland and wetland habitat. The river Trent runs to the south and the racecourse and busy A612 run to the north.
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A Local Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire The Netherfield Lagoons, Local Nature Reserve is situated on the Trent Valley Flood Plain in Nottinghamshire and has been partly used as a dump for coal slurry but with two remaining gravel ponds. The two slurry pits are separated by a raised causeway, which is elevated some 50 feet (15 m) above the pits, giving a commanding view of the area. The largest tank is virtually full but retains some water, with muddy edges attractive to waders and roosting gulls and terns. The smaller tank is mainly deep water, attracting good numbers of wildfowl, with smaller birds, especially warblers, feeding and breeding around the tank edges. The site consists roughly of three compartments, the Slurry Lagoon, the Deep Pit and the two Gravel Pits. (source: https://www.gedlingconservationtrust.org/netherfield-lagoons/)
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Sansom Woods have great easy walking paths, criss-crossing throughout them. One of the scenic routes leads to / from Burntstump Hill and follows the edge of the wood with views out over the Nottinghamshire hills, finishing up here at the ponds, or you can extend your walk from here into Blidworth Bottoms woods.
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If it is above 15 -20 knots wind speed, it can be difficult on the way back up the lake, as it is a very open area
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Visitors frequently enjoy Colwick Country Park Lakes, known for its woodland and wetland habitats. Holme Pierrepont Lake is also very popular, offering a flat path ideal for cycling, walking, and running. The National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, is another favorite, especially for water sports and its accessible tarmac track.
Yes, several locations are great for families. The National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, has a flat tarmac track suitable for kids and offers activities like white water rafting. Colwick Country Park Lakes and Sansom Woods Ponds also offer easy walking paths through natural settings, making them ideal for family outings.
The **Bulcote Ponds (Gunthorpe Gravel Pits)**, including Dollar Lake, are very popular for anglers, known for carp, pike, tench, bream, and zander. The River Trent, which flows alongside Bulcote, is also highly regarded for catches of Chub, Barbel, and Roach. Access to some fishing spots, especially at the ponds, may require membership with angling clubs.
The **Bulcote Ponds** are a designated wildlife reserve, attracting diverse bird species such as Wigeon, Goldeneye, Teal in winter, and warblers, Oystercatcher, and Redshank in other seasons. The River Trent and its banks are home to various bird species, including Whooper Swans near Burton Joyce and Bulcote. Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve is also excellent for birdwatching, particularly waders, gulls, terns, and wildfowl.
Absolutely. The River Trent is suitable for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), with Trent Lock being a convenient starting point. The National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, is a dedicated facility offering activities like white water rafting and is a training ground for elite rowers and canoeists.
You can find various walking trails. Holme Pierrepont Lake features a fantastic flat path around its perimeter, suitable for walking and jogging. Sansom Woods Ponds offer easy walking paths through woodlands. The areas around the **Bulcote Ponds** and the River Trent also have footpaths, providing picturesque views and opportunities for strolls. For more options, explore the cycling and walking guides around Bulcote.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Holme Pierrepont Lake has a flat path perfect for cycling. The National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, also features a tarmac track around the water. For more extensive cycling adventures, check out the cycling routes around Bulcote, including options like the 'Colwick Country Park Lake – Deer at Netherfield Lagoons loop'.
The best time depends on your interests. For birdwatching, winter is excellent for wildfowl at the Bulcote Ponds, while warblers and other species appear in warmer months. Summer is popular for watersports, though some areas like the National Water Sports Centre can get very busy. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for walking and enjoying the natural scenery without the peak summer crowds.
The **Bulcote Ponds (Gunthorpe Gravel Pits)** offer tranquil natural surroundings, especially for birdwatching and enjoying the transformed landscape. Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve provides a peaceful setting with commanding views and diverse wildlife. Sansom Woods Ponds also offer scenic routes through woodlands, away from busier areas.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from fishing and watersports to tranquil walks and birdwatching. The flat, accessible paths at places like Holme Pierrepont Lake are highly valued for cycling and running. The natural beauty and wildlife, especially at locations like Netherfield Lagoons and the **Bulcote Ponds**, are also frequently highlighted.
Yes, there are options for both. For mountain biking, you can find routes like the 'Riverside Track – Holme Pierrepont Country Park loop' from Carlton. Gravel biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Grantham Canal Path – Holme Pierrepont Country Park loop' from Rushcliffe. You can find more detailed routes in the MTB Trails around Bulcote guide and the Gravel biking around Bulcote guide.


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