Whisby Nature Park is such a wonderful place to spend a day. We have been twice now. The first time was a hot summer's day, the second time (although summer again) it was cloudy and chilly. Both times we found so much of interest, from walking round the park to watching all the bird life. It is an ideal place for children, adults, and dogs.
At the entrance is a garden area with bird feeders and a glass fronted hide where you can enjoy watching garden birds feed. There were finches, blue tits and doves as well as the usual sparrows during our visit.
The park consists of 375 acres of lakes, woodland, ponds, grassland and heath all restored to nature after being a sand and gravel quarry for decades. All this makes it a haven for wildlife and along the paths round and crossing the park are hides where you can watch the birds getting on with their daily life without disturbance. All hides are accessible for wheelchairs and all the paths we walked would be also. The shortest walk is 1.2 miles round Thorpe Lake, the longest is 2.5 miles along pathways called Willow Walk. Bikes are also allowed.
Dogs must be kept on a lead near wildlife, but there are areas where they can roam free and there is a lake where they are allowed to swim. On our first visit we spent an hour here enjoying the sun whilst the dogs enjoyed the lake. They still enjoyed the water on our second visit although it was a little too cold for us to sit.
There is a good café - with both inside and outdoor seating - offering drinks, hot meals, and sandwiches at the Information Centre where there is also a shop and toilets. The café overlooks one of the lakes and we were able to see swans sitting on nests of eggs. One was turning her eggs to ensure even warmth.
Guided walks are available if required, but need reservations and exhibitions and activities are held periodically throughout the year. I think it is nice just to amble round and enjoy at leisure. Entry and parking is free but donations are welcome.
Tel: 01522 688868
www.naturalworldcentre.com