Calming waters
3.5
3.5
Date of visit: September 2018
Overall Rating
Good
The nature reserve is a wonderful place to get away from town life and look out at the calm watery views of the lakes and river trent. The paths and nature centre are wheelchair accessible, and most surfaces are level.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
The Nature Reserve is mainly on a level surface. However there are steeper slopes up to bridges (but there are only about 2 bridges in the whole nature reserve) and a slope up to the Nature Centre if you wish to go in the cafe and access the toilets. If an individual finds it difficult to mobilise on a gradient, they may wish to avoid bridges by starting their walk from the path to the left of the carpark (when facing the carpark from Barton Lane). The path surfaces are firm, although slightly bumpy from the gravel. After a period of much rain some paths become flooded, or may be more muddy. If an individual has limited mobility/stamina, it is important to note that they may be unable to do the full circuit of the Nature Reserve (about 3hours), however a shorter route is possible.
Parking & Transport
Good
The car park by the Nature Centre has accessible spaces. Cost is £3 for parking all day. If you were getting the bus you would have to walk for about 10 minutes from the nearest bus stop (by Chilwell Retail Park on Nottingham Road/A6005) to the nature centre. If you wish to get the train to Attenborough its a 15 minute walk from the train station to the Nature Centre (walking along Attenborough Lane, Church Lane and through nature reserve).
Accessible Toilets
Good
Toilets are available in the Nature Centre during opening times, including accessible toilets. However, it is important to be aware that if one wishes to go on a long walk round the full Nature Reserve (which may take about 3hrs), the only toilets present in the reserve are the ones in the Nature Centre.
Staff
Good
The staff I met were friendly and approachable.
Additional Information
As with anywhere, the nature reserve is much busier at the weekends and during non-school hours, so I would advise going when it is less busy, then you can fully enjoy the nature without it being spoilt by too many people! If you like really wild places, the Nature Reserve isn't exactly that, but it's still great to get out and see some green and the water, and have some food in the cafe! Remember to check the opening times of the cafe (usually 9am-5pm) and when lunch is served (usually 12-3pm).
