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© Stephen Matthews

Attenborough Nature Reserve

52.90127 , -1.23360

United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the county. Over 250 bird species have been recorded here. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent.

Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.

Delete exact location

The introductory text should contain general information about the site, which may include for instance:
• geographic/ biogeographic location
• habitat and vegetation
• typical bird species/bird communities
• protection status
• land use and history
• importance for birdwatching

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 52.9013/-1.2336 (2023-01-24 12:03:54 )

Coordinates were set by Stephen Matthews : 52.9013/-1.2336 (2021-08-07 17:40:21 )

Site name was set by Stephen Matthews as "Attenborough Nature Reserve" (2021-08-07 17:40:21 )

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-24 12:03:54
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. county. Over 250 bird species have been recorded.recorded here. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites, sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 05:15:50
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 250 bird species have been recorded. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 05:11:01
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 250 bird species have been recorded. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 04:52:49
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites in the UK, sites, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 04:50:45
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021.recorded. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 04:43:46
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to become form lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 08:53:31
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important wetland sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-11-21 12:57:02
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water to become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-09-22 12:42:58
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have filled with water become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 06:59:04
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important 'hotspot' area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits, which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 06:55:33
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits pits, which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 05:55:28
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important a major wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-21 19:14:05
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel extraction pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:25:39
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important wildlife corridor along the River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir Davd's David's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.reserve, which he officially opened in 1996.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:12:26
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important wildlife corridor along the Rovert River Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir Davd's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:43:19
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important wildlife corridor along the Rovert Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contigous contiguous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir Davd's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:35:07
Administered by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Attenborough is one of the most important nature reserves in the Nottingham area. Over 200 bird species have been recorded as of 2021. Ecologically, it is part of an important wildlife corridor along the Rovert Trent (the Long Eaton gravel pits to the southwest are another important area, contigous with the reserve). Like several other important sites in the UK, the reserve area consists largely of former gravel pits which have become lakes beside the River Trent. Visitors often wonder if there is a connection to the BBC's celebrated wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough. The connection is that Sir Davd's family hails from the nearby village of Attenborough, leading him to take a special interest in the reserve.

  • Top species

List up to ca. 25 species that:
• have a limited distribution range and/or are rare on a global level
• are most sought-after by birdwatchers at this site
• and are relatively easy to see at this site (year-round or seasonally)

Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)
Garganey (Spatula querquedula)
Gadwall (Mareca strepera)
Red-crested Pochard (Netta rufina)
Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus)
Ruff (Calidris pugnax)
Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)
Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus)
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger)
Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris)
Willow Tit (Poecile montanus)
Common Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)
Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia)

Garganey (Spatula querquedula) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-15 16:48:42)

Willow Tit (Poecile montanus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-09-05 04:54:28)

Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-09-05 04:53:38)

Ruff (Calidris pugnax) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-28 06:53:40)

Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-28 05:50:36)

Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-08 18:35:03)

Common Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:42:29)

Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:41:45)

Red-crested Pochard (Netta rufina) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:39:30)

Gadwall (Mareca strepera) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:36:51)

Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:36:35)

Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:36:16)

Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2021-08-07 18:35:55)

  • Timing and strategy

Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration. Waterfowl are more diverse in winter when resident species including Gadwall and Tufted Duck are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye, Goosander and Common Shelduck.

As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September.

The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended for a visit. Various longer circuits of 3-4 km can be made by following the trails around the Main Pond and the Delta marsh areas, which are quieter than the southern area around the Nature Centre and Clifton Pond. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub).

There are several hides, especially rewarding being the tower hide in the middle of the reserve which overlooks Clifton Pond and the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here.

Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.

Give recommendations for making your visit as productive as possible.
This may include for instance:
• best season
• best time of the day
• how much time to spend at the site
• best means of locomotion within the site
• recommended routes / areas within the site
• guiding

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-22 20:46
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration. Waterfowl are more diverse in winter when resident species including Gadwall and Tufted Duck are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye, Goosander and Common Shelduck. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended for a visit. Various longer circuits of 3-4 km can be made by following the trails around the Main Pond and the Delta marsh areas, which are quieter than the southern area around the Nature Centre and Clifton Pond. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, especially rewarding being the tower hide in the middle of the reserve which overlooks Clifton Pond and the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 05:11
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration. Waterfowl are more diverse in winter when resident species including Gadwall and Tufted Duck are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye, Goosander and Common Shelduck. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended for a visit. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most especially rewarding being the tower hide in the middle of the reserve which overlooks Clifton Pond and the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 08:55
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl migration. Waterfowl are more diverse in winter when the resident species including Gadwall and Tufted Duck are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye, Goosander and Common Shelduck. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended.recommended for a visit. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the tower hide in the middle of the reserve which overlooks Clifton Pond and the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-09-22 12:30
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter when the resident species including Gadwall and Tufted Duck are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye Goldeneye, Goosander and Goosander. Common Shelduck. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one tower hide in the middle of the reserve which overlooks Clifton Pond and the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 06:58
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter when the resident species are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye and Goosander. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve.reserve which overlooks the 'scrape'. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 06:54
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though shorebirds and rarities such as Black Tern are more likely on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter when the resident species are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye and Goosander. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 05:54
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities such as Black Tern are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. winter when the resident species are complemented by visitors such as Common Goldeneye and Goosander. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 05:47
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). visitors). Reed Bunting, Common Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap all breed here. Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-21 19:22
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the Trent Lock pub). There are a few several hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-21 19:18
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the pub at Trent Lock). Lock pub). There are a few hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:11
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one summer July morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning. morning in September. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking or cycling along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest past the Long Eaton gravel pits and finishing up at the pub at Trent Lock). There are a few hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors). Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:45
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one summer morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest and finishing up at the pub at Trent Lock). There are a few hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors).visitors). Cycling is permitted on the track along the River Trent and on some pathways within the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 17:54
Attenborough is rewarding at any time of year, though rarities are more likely to occur on spring and autumn migration, and waterfowl are more diverse in winter. As the reserve is popular with joggers and families, it is best to be there early and/or on a weekday (or in bad weather). Starting at 0530 one summer morning was especially rewarding, as was a grey weekday morning. The reserve is quite large and at least an hour and a half is recommended. In addition one can extend the tour to a half day by walking along the River Trent in either direction (for example, heading southwest and finishing up at the pub at Trent Lock). There are a few hides, the most rewarding being the elevated one in the middle of the reserve. The 'island' area just to the northeast of this hide is also a hotspot (and less traversed by casual visitors).
  • How to get there

The reserve is easily accessed from Attenborough railway station which is served by regular trains from Nottingham and Derby. From the station, walk south along Attenborough Lane and either keep walking straight ahead along The Strand or turn right on Church Lane and walk past the church to enter the reserve. If driving or cycling, turn south off the A6005 following the signpost pointing to the reserve between Long Eaton and Beeston. Parking is available near the the Attenborough Nature Center.

Explain from where and how to get to this site with private and public transport.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-25 08:29
The reserve is easily accessed from Attenborough railway station which is served by regular trains from Nottingham and Derby. From the station, walk south along Attenborough Lane and either keep walking straight ahead along The Strand or turn right on Church Lane and walk past the church to enter the reserve. If driving or cycling, turn south off the A6005 following the signpost pointing to the reserve between Long Eaton and Beeston. Parking is available near the the Attenborough Nature Center.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 08:58
The reserve is easily accessed from Attenborough railway station which is served by regular trains from Nottingham and Derby -- Derby. From the station, walk south along Attenborough Lane and either keep walking straight ahead along The Strand or turn right past the church to enter the reserve. If driving or cycling, turn south off the A6005 following the signpost pointing to the reserve between Long Eaton and Beeston. Parking is available near the the Attenborough Nature Center.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:27
The reserve is easily accessed from Attenborough railway station which is served by regular trains from Nottingham and Derby -- walk south along Attenborough Lane and either walk keep walking straight ahead or turn right past the church to enter the reserve. If driving or cycling, turn south off the A6005 following the signpost between Long Eaton and Beeston. Parking is available near the the Attenborough Nature Center.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:01
The reserve is easily accessed from Attenborough railway station which is served by regular trains from Nottingham and Derby -- walk south along Attenborough Lane and either walk straight ahead or turn right past the church to enter the reserve. If driving or cycling, turn south off the A6005 following the signpost between Long Eaton and Beeston. Parking is available near the the Attenborough Nature Center.

There are several entry points, including:

1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center

2. From Attenborough Railway Station via Attenborough Lane and The Strand

3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane in Attenborough village

4. From the towpath which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham.

The reserve is normally open all year round from 8am-8pm. The Attenborough Nature Center (with cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4pm, and the hides from 9am - 4pm.

Provide information on how to enter this site, which may include:
• entry points
• entry permits / entry tickets and fees
• opening hours / opening season
• other restrictions

Note that this section should only contain information on how to ACCESS (= enter) a site. Info on how to REACH a site should be added to "How to get there" section.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-25 08:31
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. From Attenborough Railway Station via Attenborough Lane and The Strand 3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane in Attenborough village 4. From the path towpath which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round from 8am-8pm. The Attenborough Nature Center (with cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4pm, and the hides from 9am - 4pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 09:06
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. From Attenborough Railway Station via Attenborough Lane and The Strand 3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane Lane in Attenborough village 4. From the path which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID.round from 8am-8pm. The Attenborough Nature Center (with cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.4pm, and the hides from 9am - 4pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-09-22 12:37
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. Via the footbridge at the south end of From Attenborough Lane Railway Station via Attenborough Lane and The Strand 3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane 4. From the path which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID. The Attenborough Nature Center (with cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 07:00
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. Via the footbridge at the south end of Attenborough Lane 3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane 4. From the path which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID. The Attenborough Nature Center (cafe (with cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 05:44
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. Via the footbridge at the south end of Attenborough Lane 3. Via the Church Path which is a continuation of Church Lane 4. From the path along which follows the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID. The Attenborough Nature Center (cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:31
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. Via the footbridge at the south end of Attenborough Lane 3. From the path along the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID. The Attenborough Nature Center (cade (cafe and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:07
There are several entry points, including: 1. From the car park at the Attenborough Nature Center 2. Via the footbridge at the south end of Attenborough Lane 3. From the path along the River Trent from Long Eaton/Trent Lock or Beeston/Nottingham. The reserve is normally open all year round, though in 2021 the hides have been closed due to COVID. The Attenborough Nature Center (cade and other facilities) is normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm.
  • Other attractions

Otters are resident, and butterflies include Brown Argus in spring.

The towpath along the River Trent makes a pleasant walk and historic canal boats can be seen.

Add information about other attractions at this site, including
• wildlife (apart from birds)
• sights (natural, cultural, archaeological, etc.)
• activities (e.g. for non-birding companions)

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 04:52
Otters are resident, and butterflies include Brown Argus in spring. The path towpath along the River Trent makes a pleasant walk and historic canal boats can be seen.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-05 04:50
Otters are resident, and butterflies include Brown Argus in spring. The path along the River Trent makes a pleasant walk and historic canal boats can be seen.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 09:08
The path along the River Trent makes a pleasent pleasant walk and historic canal boats can be seen.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 09:08
The path along the River Trent makes a pleasent walk and historic canal boats can be seen.

The Attenborough Nature Center (normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm) offers facilities including a cafe, shop and WCs.

There are four hides (normally open from 9-4pm) including the elevated Tower Hide at the centre of the reserve which offers particularly good views of the main lakes and scrape. 

Provide information about what type of facilities are available at
or near this site, including:
• information centers / information points
• catering
• accommodation
• hides and watchtowers
• restrooms / toilets

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 09:10
The Attenborough Nature Center (normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm) offers facilities incuding WCs, including a cafe cafe, shop and shop. WCs. There are four hides (closed due to COVID in 2021) (normally open from 9-4pm) including the elevated Tower Hide at the centre of the reserve which offers particularly good views of the main lakes and scrape. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-08 18:34
The Attenborough Nature Center (normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm) offers facilities incuding WCs, a cafe and shop. There are several four hides (closed due to COVID in 2021) including an the elevated one Tower Hide at the centre of the reserve which offers particularly good views of the main lakes and scrape. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:11
The Attenborough Nature Center (normally open from 9.30am - 4.00pm) offers facilities incuding WCs, a cafe and shop. There are several hides (closed due to COVID in 2021) including an elevated one which offers particularly good views of the main lakes and scrape. 

The site is very safe, but subject to disturbances such as joggers and sometimes noisy families. To avoid the crowds, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend. Some paths are muddy,  especially in wet weather.

Are there any security issues or other annoyances at this site? For
instance, these may include:
• offenses like robbery or theft
• natural hazards
• dangerous or annoying animals or plants (mosquitoes, leaches, thorn bushes, etc.)
• noise pollution

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-22 20:53
The site is very safe, but subject to disturbances such as joggers and sometimes noisy families. To avoid the crowds, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend. Some paths are muddy,  especially in wet weather.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-09-25 08:35
The site is very safe, but subject to disturbances such as joggers and sometimes noisy families. To avoid these, the crowds, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-04-02 09:11
The site is very safe safe, but subject to disturbances such as joggers and sometimes noisy families and joggers.families. To avoid these, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-28 07:02
The site is very safe but annoyances include subject to disturbances such as noisy families and joggers. To avoid these, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2021-08-07 18:13
The site is very safe but annoyances include noisy families and joggers. To avoid these, start early and avoid sunny days at the weekend.
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Attenborough Nature Reserve - Orniverse