I’ve found that some of the best walks can be found in the most unexpected of places, often hiding in plain sight.
Highfields Park in Nottingham was one such place for me. It’s a beautiful green space that I’d heard of, but never fully appreciated until I spent a day exploring its paths.
It’s more than just a park; it’s a slice of local history, a hub of activity, and a beautifully designed landscape with a story to tell.
This isn’t just a recap of my walk; it’s the guide I wish I’d had.
I’ve since dug into the details to create a complete resource for anyone planning a visit, blending my own experience with all the practical information you’ll need for a perfect day out.
Clarifying the Confusion: Highfields Park vs. University Park
The first thing you need to know, and something that had me scratching my head initially, is the difference between Highfields Park and the adjacent University Park.
Because they sit side-by-side, many people use the names interchangeably, but they are two distinct places.
- Highfields Park is the 121-acre, Grade II listed public park that this guide is about. It’s managed by Nottingham City Council and is home to the famous boating lake, adventure golf, and beautiful walking paths.
- University Park is the much larger, 300-acre main campus for the University of Nottingham. While its award-winning grounds are also open to the public and well worth exploring, it’s a separate entity.
Think of University Boulevard as the dividing line. Everything south of the road, around the lake, is Highfields Park.
The Vision of Sir Jesse Boot: A Brief History of Highfields Park
As I walked along the lakeside path, with the iconic tower of the Trent Building watching over me from the university campus, I realised this perfect view was no accident. The park’s story is a fascinating piece of Nottingham’s history.
The land was originally part of the Highfields Estate, landscaped in the late 18th century.
The real transformation began in 1920 when the estate was purchased by one of the city’s most famous figures: Sir Jesse Boot, the founder of Boots the Chemist.
His philanthropic vision was to create a stunning parkland for the people of Nottingham, which would also serve as the grand setting for the new East Midlands University (now the University of Nottingham) that he was instrumental in funding.
The park was designed by architect Percy Richard Morley Horder, who masterfully used the landscape to create a visual axis between the park’s formal gates and the magnificent Trent Building on the escarpment above.
This thoughtful design is why the park feels so grand and cohesive, and it’s a key reason for its Grade II listed status, which recognises its historical and architectural importance.
Things to Do in Highfields Park: A Complete Guide to Activities
History aside, what can you actually do here? I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer variety of activities on offer, catering to everyone from families with young children to those simply looking for a peaceful stroll.
Take to the Water: The Highfields Boating Lake
The beautiful boating lake is the heart and soul of Highfields Park.
On a sunny day, the water is dotted with people enjoying the scenery from a different perspective. You can hire a variety of boats, including traditional rowing boats, canoes, and katakanus.
The boating lake is a seasonal attraction, typically open during the Easter holidays and then from May to October, with daily hours from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm (the last hire is at 6:00 pm).
Family Fun: Adventure Golf and the Play Area
If you’re visiting with family, the park is packed with fun. There’s a popular 18-hole adventure golf and foot golf course that provides a great couple of hours of friendly competition.
Near the golf course, you’ll also find a children’s play area with climbing frames, swings, and a slide to help the little ones burn off some energy.
A Walk Through the Scenery: Key Sights and Features
My walk took me on a full loop of the lake, and there are some real gems to look out for along the way.
At the western end of the lake, don’t miss the picturesque cascade and the long run of stepping stones that let you cross the water—a favourite spot for photos.
As you walk, you’ll also spot two impressive Chinese guardian lions near the lake. These were a gift to Nottingham from its sister city, Ningbo, in China, and add a unique, international touch to the classic English parkland.
Historic Pastimes: Croquet and Model Boats
Adding to the park’s timeless charm are two historic clubs that still call it home.
The Nottingham Croquet Club was established here back in 1929, and you can often see members playing on the lawns.
Even older is the Nottingham Model Boat Club, founded in 1931. If you visit on a Sunday morning, you’re likely to see them sailing their intricate model boats on the lake, just as they have for decades.
Lakeside Arts: The Cultural Heart of the Park
Situated right on the edge of the park is the Lakeside Arts centre, a modern cultural hub run by the university.
It houses art galleries, performance spaces, and two popular cafes—the Pavilion Café and the Gallery Café—which are perfect spots to grab a coffee and a slice of cake while enjoying views across the water.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Information & Local Tips
Convinced? Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own trip.
How to Get to Highfields Park (Parking, Tram & Bus)
- Address for Sat Nav: The main entrance is on University Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 2RD.
- Parking: The main car park is at the Lakeside Arts centre. However, a word of warning from locals: it can get very busy, especially on sunny weekends. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
- Public Transport: The park is incredibly well-served by public transport. The NET Tram stop “University of Nottingham” is right by the entrance, and numerous bus services stop nearby.
Facilities, Opening Times, and Accessibility
- Opening Times: The park itself is open year-round. For specific opening times of facilities like the boating lake and cafes, it’s best to check their individual websites.
- Facilities: Toilets are available inside the Lakeside Arts centre. The park has good disability access, with flat, paved paths around the lake suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads in designated areas.
Best Nearby Pubs and Cafes
If you’re looking to make a day of it, visitors often recommend heading into nearby Wollaton or Beeston, where you’ll find a great selection of traditional pubs and cafes to round off your visit.
Top Tip: Highfields Park is literally walking distance from the Nottingham jewel that is Wollaton Hall and Grounds.
My Walk: A Photo Journey Through Highfields Park
Now that you have all the details, let me take you on the walk I took. I started at the Lakeside Arts centre, with the morning sun glistening on the water. The path is wide and flat, making for an easy and relaxing start.
The view across to the Trent Building is immediately striking, and you can see why the park was designed this way.
As I followed the path anti-clockwise, the sounds of the city faded away, replaced by the gentle quacking of ducks and the chatter of families.
The stepping stones at the far end of the lake were a highlight, offering a fun little challenge and a great photo opportunity.
Circling back, I passed the lawns of the croquet club and the adventure golf course before arriving back where I started. The loop is gentle, scenic, and filled with interesting sights—a perfect walk for any time of year.
What a lovely stroll thorough the park was able to find some conkers for grandson.