Best lakes around Radcliffe On Trent are situated in a region characterized by its proximity to the River Trent and a landscape shaped by former gravel workings. These areas have been transformed into significant natural and recreational spaces. The local environment offers a mix of open water, wetlands, and parkland, providing diverse habitats and outdoor opportunities. This setting makes the area suitable for various activities, from water sports to wildlife observation and walking routes.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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A lovely place for a gentle cycle or stroll. It's a popular spot!
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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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Djanogly Gallery in the Lakeside Arts Centre
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Highfields Park was part of an estate built and landscaped in the late 18th and early 19th century. In 1920 Sir J Boot bought the estate and used it as the site of the East Midlands University (now Nottingham University). Highfileds House became part of the university and is currently used as a staff annexe. The landscape was re-modelled to suit the setting, with the joining of the fishing pond and small boating lake to become the larger lake we see today. The public can walk around Highfields Park. The circuit of the lake is a nice, gentle walk within the city.
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The lakes offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy water sports like open water swimming, fishing, canoeing, and sailing at Colwick Country Park Lakes. Holme Pierrepont Lake, part of the National Water Sports Centre, is ideal for rowing, sprint kayaking, and even white-water rafting. Beyond water, there are extensive paths for walking, cycling, and running, as well as children's play areas and wildlife observation opportunities.
For leisurely walks and cycles, Holme Pierrepont Lake offers a fantastic flat path all the way around its regatta lake, perfect for cycling, walking, running, and jogging. Highfields Lake, University Park, provides a gentle circuit within the city, complete with a lakeside cafe.
Attenborough Nature Reserve is a premier destination for wildlife, especially birdwatching, with over 250 bird species recorded. It features accessible trails and bird hides. Colwick Country Park Lakes is also a haven for wildlife, with around 220 bird species and 16 dragonfly species, making it excellent for nature enthusiasts.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails that incorporate the lakes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Radcliffe Cliff Walk – View of the River Trent loop from Radcliffe' or the 'Grantham Canal Path – Colliery Canal Lock Gates loop from Radcliffe' which offer varied distances and difficulties. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Radcliffe On Trent guide.
Runners have several options, including routes around Holme Pierrepont Lake. Longer routes like the 'St. Mary's Church – Holme Pierrepont Country Park loop from Radcliffe' or the 'Cotgrave Country Park Lake – Grantham Canal Path loop from Radcliffe' are also popular. Discover more running trails in the Running Trails around Radcliffe On Trent guide.
Yes, Colwick Country Park Lakes is home to the Nottingham City Open Water Swimming Centre, offering organized swimming sessions. Holme Pierrepont Country Park also has an open water swimming lagoon.
Many lake areas are well-equipped. Highfields Lake, University Park, has a lakeside cafe and arts centre. Attenborough Nature Centre provides educational facilities, a shop, and a refreshment point. Colwick Country Park also offers picnic areas and children's play areas.
Many of the lakes in the region, including those at Colwick Country Park, Holme Pierrepont Country Park, and Attenborough Nature Reserve, were originally formed from former gravel workings. These areas have since been transformed into significant recreational and natural spaces, with some, like Highfields Lake, being re-modelled from older fishing ponds.
Absolutely. Colwick Country Park and Holme Pierrepont Country Park are particularly family-friendly, offering children's play areas, mini golf, and extensive paths for walking and cycling. Attenborough Nature Reserve also has accessible trails suitable for families to enjoy nature.
Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve is a Local Nature Reserve situated on the Trent Valley Flood Plain. It was partly used as a dump for coal slurry but retains two gravel ponds. It's known for its diverse habitats, attracting waders, gulls, terns, and wildfowl, making it a valuable spot for birdwatching.
The National Water Sports Centre at Holme Pierrepont is a premier destination for water sports, offering world-class facilities for rowing, kayaking, and white-water rafting. It also has land-based activities like a Sky Trail High Ropes Course and Segways. The tarmac track around the water is great for cycling and running, but be aware it can get busy during events or on hot summer days.


Still not found your perfect lake around Radcliffe On Trent? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.