As a Fresher, you are sure to be preoccupied with going out, getting used to this new city that you now call home, making new friends, and simply learning the ways of living solo.
Your first few weeks at university are beyond exciting, and discovering what is unique to Trent is the perfect way to get to know the city. But what about those days when you begin to miss home?
It is often easy to get caught up in the thrill of Freshers. Everyone is operating at a million miles an hour and the fear of missing out often trumps any other emotions.
However, there is no shame in feeling homesick. You are going through such a life-changing period and the shift in dynamics does take some time to get used to. So where better to relax than a nice green space?
Despite being wrapped up in the bustling city life, you will be pleased to know that Nottingham is home to some gorgeous country parks, woodland spaces and calm waters that are perfect for these darker days. The contrast of Nottingham’s towering buildings alongside authentic architecture meets its match with these luscious spaces. Did we mention that they are dog-friendly too? Now there is your serotonin!
Continue reading to find out our best picks and how to access them.
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park
Location: NG8 2AE
Access: Jump on the number two at Burton Street (Stop T8) which will take you all the way to the grounds – approximately 22 minutes. The Trentbarton bus company offers unlimited student day travel for £5.6.
Opening Times: The park has seasonal operating hours which can be found here.
Additional Info: Wollaton Park is a dog-lovers paradise. Situated amongst several residential areas, Wollaton is home to a stunning Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion, 500 acres of parkland, over 200 free-roaming deer, and picturesque scenes ideal for relaxing. The combination of grassland, wetland and woodland welcomes a plethora of flora and fauna and is home to many species habitats.
Entry into the park is free, and you could spend hours exploring. The views are incredible from all corners of the park, and you will always find something new with each visit. There is a café onsite and a van parked closer to the lakes, both of which serve coffee, making it the ultimate destination for autumnal walks.
Oh, and you heard it here first – Wollaton Hall was used as the Wayne Manor in Batman’s The Dark Knight Trilogy.
Colwick Country Park
Location: NG2 4BH
Access: Option 1 – Bus route 50 from Elite (Stop E1) on Upper Parliament Street. Option 2 – Bus route 44 from King Street (Stop K1) – both approximately 25 minutes. NCTX offers a student return for £4.4.
Opening Times: 24/7 but there is no street lighting for darker hours.
Additional Info: This lush green space is home to an absolutely breathtaking 65-acre lake. A visit to Colwick would not be complete without walking this loop. Not only will you cover the circumference of the entire lake but you will be met with unique areas of wildlife, gorgeous views of the marina, and the playground. Those curious enough to wander off the beaten path will also find themselves at a smaller, slightly more unexplored lake that creates the perfect spot for some peace and quiet.
Colwick is particularly nice in the summer months as many students make the journey over to the park to enjoy picnics in the sun, music by the lakes, and all-around good vibes. The vast area of green space means you will not be scrambling for a spot either!
Attenborough Nature Reserve
Location: NG9 6DY
Access: Option 1 – The Indigo line from Cathedral (Stop Y4) on Derby Road. Option 2 – The Skylink from Friar Line (Stop f1). Both routes will lead you to the Barton Lane drop-off point, followed by a short walk to the reserve entrance. Approximately a 40-minute journey. The Trentbarton bus company offers unlimited student day travel for £5.6.
Opening Times: 9am – 6pm.
Additional Info: Attenborough Nature Reserve is a bit further out than our other suggestions but boy is it worth it. Opened by Sir David Attenborough in 1966, this breath-taking site is best known for its bird species (an impressive 250+ recorded) but also its extensive quantities of plants and insects. A trip to this nature reserve is always complemented by a few nature photographers looking for the perfect shot of a kingfisher. Otters are also frequently spotted here.
There is a café onsite which offers beautiful views of the lakes. Also, a shop whose proceeds help support the Nottinghamshire wildlife trust. They are constantly looking to improve ecological efforts and ways to tackle global environmental issues through championing local action.
Highfields Park
Location: NG7 2RD
Access: Pick up the tram at City Campus and ride all the way to South Entrance Stop UN04. Ensure your tram is ultimately headed to Toton Lane upon boarding. This takes 20 minutes and costs just £3.7 for a return on the Netgo! App.
Opening Times: 8am – seasonal closing times.
Additional Info: Technically the property of our frenemy, the University of Nottingham, Highfields Park is well worth a visit. It is the easiest to access out of our four recommendations but do not let that mislead you.
This park is perfect for thrill-seekers. Throughout the year visitors can access the Lakeside Arts Centre, the Adventure Golf Course, and throughout the summer months, you can take a boat out on the lake for a small fee. As well as being an activity-lovers paradise, Highfields is swarmed in vibrant green forestry amongst stunning architecture. We may be biased, but the Trent building (as pictured above) is our favourite part of UoN’s campus.
There is so much that Nottingham has to offer. The Arboretum and Forest Recreation Ground are also just around the corner from City Campus, making them easy to explore. But when you fancy having a gander at what Nottingham truly has to offer then these locations are the ideal place to start.
With a bit of exploring and conversing with mates, you might find your next favourite spot. Comment below with your recommendations!
Featured Image Credit: Katie Mortimer