Colwick is a serene and leafy village in the suburbs of Nottingham. Its rich history dates back to a mention in the 11th-century Domesday Book, while it is also known for a gruesome murder in the 1800s. Enjoy the tranquility and leisurely pace of life in this green haven, away from the hubbub of the city center.
Bring your family to enjoy the stunning scenery of vast Colwick Country Park. Set up a picnic beside the Main Lake or the West Lake and watch the ducks and other water birds. Stroll along the paths that meander through the woods, where you’ll find a great range of dragonflies, butterflies and birds. Go for a dip in the Nottingham City Open Water Swimming Centre, which is open and patrolled by lifeguards in summer.
On the southern side of the lakes lies scenic Holme Pierrepont Country Park, which contains the National Water Sports Centre. Rent canoes and kayaks to take out on the water or brave yourself for the dizzying heights of the Sky Trail. Try white-water rafting, flow down the river on an inflatable tube or take on the Warrior Assault.
Place your bets at the Nottingham Racecourse or the adjacent Nottingham Greyhound Stadium. For a change of tone, stay at the elegant Colwick Hall. Dating back to the 18th century, the redbrick country estate is today a hotel. Look around the dilapidated church beside it.
Find the village just north of the River Trent, in the eastern fringes of Nottingham. Take a bus from the city center to the Manor Farm stop or ride a train to the nearby Netherfield station. Explore some of the surrounding districts, such as Thorneywood, Bakersfield and Sneinton.
With its park activities and country house, Colwick allows you to get closer to Nottinghamshire’s bucolic terrain.