Best lakes around Strelley, a village in Nottinghamshire, England, offer diverse natural features and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its blend of rural landscapes and proximity to natural water bodies. Strelley is home to Oldmoor Pond, a notable spot for angling, while the broader region features several other lakes providing varied outdoor experiences. These natural features contribute to the local environment and offer opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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A lovely place for a gentle cycle or stroll. It's a popular spot!
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It straddles the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire county boundaries and is jointly owned by the two county Wildlife Trusts. In spring and summer the reserve's ponds and the wet sections of the canal are a refuge for grass snakes, amphibians and dragonflies. Butterflies and many other insects breed and feed on the wild flowers growing in the grassland. The meadows are best known for their birds. In spring lapwings can be seen performing their impressive aerial displays, while early mornings may offer the best chance of hearing the strange 'drumming' call of breeding snipe. More common breeding birds include the reed buntings with their distinctive black and white heads, and sedge warblers, more camouflaged but twice as noisy in declaring their presence. In spring and autumn the breeding birds are joined by waders, wildfowl and even birds of prey like the hen harrier. Many wildfowl stay for the winter, including a small flock of wigeon, numerous teal and a range of other species.
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Djanogly Gallery in the Lakeside Arts Centre
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Erewash Nature Reserve is the largest area of floodplain and grassland in the Erewash Valley. It's managed by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. Look out for water voles and water birds.
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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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This area has a long coal mining history with deep mines open from 1722 until the 1960's. On the closure of the mines the area was remediated, contoured and planted with trees. The lake was also created. Initially the park was run a s a theme park but this venture didn't work so it's back to nature.
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Strelley is home to Oldmoor Pond, known for angling. In the broader region, you can explore Mapperley Reservoir, surrounded by bluebell woodlands, and Attenborough Nature Reserve, which features numerous ponds and is popular for bird-watching. Another option is Highfields Lake, University Park, offering a gentle circuit walk within the city.
Yes, the area boasts several nature reserves. Attenborough Nature Reserve is a well-known spot with many ponds and bird-watching opportunities. Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve is another significant area, known for its floodplain and grassland, providing a habitat for water voles, birds, and dragonflies.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Oldmoor Pond in Strelley village is a well-stocked year-round fishing destination, though it operates on a members-only basis requiring a key for access. Mapperley Reservoir is also a large freshwater lake where fishing is permitted throughout the year.
The lakes and surrounding nature reserves are rich in wildlife. At Attenborough Nature Reserve and Mapperley Reservoir, you can spot various birds like coot, moorhen, mallard, kingfisher, chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and blackcaps. Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve is known for water voles, grass snakes, amphibians, dragonflies, and a wide array of birds including lapwings, snipe, reed buntings, and sedge warblers.
Absolutely. Many lakes are suitable for families. Mapperley Reservoir and Attenborough Nature Reserve are both listed as family-friendly. Highfields Lake, University Park, offers a gentle circuit walk and features a lakeside cafe and arts centre, making it a pleasant spot for families.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hiking trails, such as the 'Oldmoor Wood – Shaw's Plantation loop from Broxtowe' or 'The Mulberry Tree Café – All Saints Church, Strelley loop from Kimberley'. For cycling, the Nutbrook Trail is a great option for families. Mountain biking and running trails are also available; explore more options in the easy hikes, MTB trails, and running trails guides around Strelley.
Yes, there are numerous walking opportunities. Highfields Lake, University Park, offers a gentle circuit walk. Attenborough Nature Reserve has tranquil paths suitable for walking. You can also find easy hiking routes like the 'Woodland Tree Tunnel Path – Oldmoor Wood loop from Broxtowe' in the easy hikes around Strelley guide.
Parking availability varies by location. For Oldmoor Pond, ample parking is available both at the bottom of the track leading to the pond and in a smaller car park near the wood. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific visitor information for each site.
Highfields Lake, University Park, features a lakeside cafe and an arts centre, providing a convenient spot to stop for refreshments with views of the lake. During spring and summer terms, you can even hire a rowing boat to enjoy on the lake.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural features and recreational opportunities. The tranquil paths for cycling or walking at places like Attenborough Nature Reserve, the wildlife spotting at Mapperley Reservoir, and the gentle circuit walks with facilities at Highfields Lake are frequently highlighted. The area is also valued for its nature reserves, fishing spots, and family-friendly environments.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Attenborough Nature Reserve offers tranquil paths suitable for cycling, though it can get busy on weekends. The Nutbrook Trail is an easy cycling and walking trail that runs for about 10 miles and is part of National Cycle Route 67, ideal for families.


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