Bonney Doles

A strip of woodland and meadow along the Trent Valley, Bonney Doles is the sort of local nature reserve that doesn't make it onto many tourist radars - which is precisely why it's worth a visit if you're staying nearby in Nottinghamshire. You're looking at easy riverside walking through mixed woodland, open grassland that comes alive with wildflowers in spring, and genuine peace and quiet. The paths are straightforward, muddy in winter but manageable most of the year.

It suits families after a gentle couple of hours outdoors without the crowds of the big country estates, and walkers who want something less demanding than a full day hike. Birdwatchers do well here too - you'll spot woodpeckers, warblers, and if you're lucky, kingfishers along the water. Allow an hour to ninety minutes to get a proper feel for it.

There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so come prepared with water and a packed lunch if you're making a morning of it. It's free to access, which helps. The reserve works brilliantly as part of a broader explore of the Trent Valley - pair it with Gunthorpe Camping or Peacock Lake Glamping for accommodation that puts you within easy striking distance of this and other local walks. Nottingham itself is only a few miles away if you fancy mixing nature reserves with city time. Don't expect drama or spectacle. What you get instead is proper, honest countryside.