The Lorraine Brown wildlife park

The Lorraine Brown wildlife park sits just outside Newark and is one of those places locals know about but tourists often miss entirely. It's a proper working nature reserve rather than a theme park experience - think binoculars and bird notebooks rather than gift shops.

What you get is genuine wildlife habitat. Depending on the season, you might spot lapwings, curlews, and if you're lucky, the occasional barn owl. The reserve has ponds, grassland, and wooded areas that genuinely feel like you've stepped away from Nottinghamshire's farmland sprawl. It's free to walk around, which is a huge bonus, and there's no time limit - you can spend an hour or half a day here depending on how serious you are about spotting things.

This works best for patient walkers and anyone with even passing interest in birds or insects. Families with restless young children might find it a bit slow. There are no facilities to speak of, so bring water and don't expect a cafe.

The real strength is combining it with a stay at New Hall Farm, which is only a few miles away. That gives you a proper base for exploring the Newark area without the town centre noise. Early morning visits are best - that's when wildlife activity peaks. Go in spring or autumn if you want the most action.