Some places just have a certain magic about them, and for me, Nottingham’s Arboretum is one of them.
On a crisp autumn afternoon, with the city’s hustle and bustle just streets away, stepping through its gates felt like walking into a living painting.
The first thing that struck me was the colour. My visit was a riot of autumn gold, with the paths carpeted in fire-gold leaves and a canopy of red and yellow above.
It’s hard to believe this tranquil, 17-acre oasis is Nottingham’s oldest public park and the closest one to the city centre.
Opened back in 1852, it was designed to be a place of “education and recreation,” and I can tell you, it still excels at both.
It’s one of those spots that’s often called a “best-kept secret,” even though it’s hiding in plain sight, just minutes from the Nottingham Trent University City Campus.
It’s a park with a story. It’s said that this very place, with its lush, serene atmosphere, gave inspiration to generations of artists and writers, including Peter Pan author J.M. Barrie. Walking along its winding paths, it’s easy to see why.
A Walk Through History and Colour
The park is, first and foremost, an “arboretum,” and its collection of over 800 trees is the star of the show.
As I walked, I found myself trying to identify them all—from huge, ancient London Planes, some of which date back to the original 19th-century planting, to delicate Cut-Leaved Alders by the lake.
My photos from the day are just filled with the incredible textures and shapes of the bark and leaves.
But this isn’t just a collection of trees; it’s a classic Victorian park, packed with history and charming, slightly eccentric features.
As I followed the main spinal walk, I “discovered” these little pieces of history one by one.
The Ornamental Lake & Aviaries: The park is designed around a long, ornamental lake, which was gleaming in the low autumn sun. Nearby are the park’s aviaries, including the oldest, a beautiful, cast-iron circular structure built in 1892.
The Bandstand: Set in a natural amphitheatre, the elegant, Grade II listed octagonal bandstand feels like a trip back in time. I could almost hear the echo of a brass band on a Sunday afternoon.
The Chinese Bell Tower: This was my favourite discovery. Tucked away in a garden, this striking, octagonal tower stands on a sandstone platform, flanked by two imposing cannons. It’s a unique monument to two separate 19th-century military campaigns, the Crimean War and the Anglo-Chinese ‘Opium’ Wars.
A bell looted from a temple in Canton once hung here; today, a replica hangs in its place. It’s a fascinating, unexpected piece of world history right here in Nottingham.
More Than Just a Stroll
While I was happy to just wander and soak in the atmosphere, I quickly realised how much there is to do here. It’s a park that’s built for exploring.
For those who love a bit of structure, you can grab a map for the Arboretum Heritage Trail or the Arboretum Tree Trail. These self-guided walks point out all the significant trees and historic features, so you don’t miss anything.
There are even orienteering maps you can download if you’re feeling particularly adventurous.
After a good hour of walking, I headed to the seasonal café. Grabbing a hot coffee and sitting on a bench, watching the world go by, I felt a million miles from the city. It’s a proper “recharge your batteries” kind of place.
It’s clear this park is a vital green lung for the city, a place where students come to clear their heads, families come to play, and walkers like me come to find a moment of peace.
It truly is a gem, and seeing it draped in its autumn best was a real treat.
Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning your own walk, here are the practical details.
Getting There: The Arboretum is the closest park to the city centre and is incredibly easy to get to. The best way is by tram; the NET Trams run right alongside it and have a dedicated “The Arboretum” stop on Waverley Street. The park has four main entrances: Waverley Road, Arboretum Street, North Sherwood Street, and Addison Street.
Parking: There is no dedicated car park. Be aware that parking is limited on-street in the surrounding residential areas, so public transport is definitely the easier option.
Opening Times & Cost: Entry to the park is completely free. The park has seasonal opening and closing times (it’s open from 8 am on weekdays and 9 am on weekends), so it’s best to check the Nottingham City Council website for the exact times before you visit.
Facilities: There is a seasonal café and public toilets. The park is very accessible, with a good network of surfaced paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Are Dogs Welcome? Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept under control (on leads in designated areas).
More of my Nottingham Gems to discover. Why not go underground through the City of Caves. Or step into historic Nottingham and The Lace Market.
Source link
