Great British Dog Walks

Walk distance: 2.6 miles

Difficulty: Leisurely- all flat

Pub stop: No pubs on this walk

Starting point: Attenborough Nature Reserve car park – NG9 6DY (£3 all day)

Download the route map here.

You’d be forgiven for forgetting that this luscious reserve is situated just 7 km outside of Nottingham City Centre, and reached by driving past a retail park. Managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and supported by the local council, the reserve covers 145 hectares of lakes, wetland, grassland and scrub.

We parked in the reserve car park which costs £3 for the day, but there is parking just outside the reserve too which is free. When you’ve parked up, head to the roundabout where you will see a map of the reserve detailing the different walking routes. These are all really well sign posted.

We chose the 2.6 mile Skylark Trail route, which takes you along the railway line in the direction of Long Eaton, passes Attenborough Sailing club, and then heads back along the River Trent. It is one of the less busy routes, so good for dog walking.

From the roundabout, follow the path down Barton Lane. At the railway line turn left, and follow the railway line down the path. You will eventually come to a turn off for Attenborough Sailing Club, ignore this and carry on down the path.

Keep going straight until you see a railway crossing on the right- turn left here and follow the yellow footpath signs, crossing a bridge towards the river.

Keep following the path straight down with the river on your right, eventually following the path round to the left and returning to the car park.