Highfields Park is a beautiful public park situated near the University of Nottingham, featuring expansive gardens, lakes, and walking paths. It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering a peaceful environment for leisurely strolls, picnics, and various outdoor activities. The park includes picturesque views, a café, and ample green space, making it ideal for relaxation and recreation. In addition to its natural scenery, the park often hosts events and exhibitions, adding cultural value to the area.
What each source says
- Google 4.6 1,581
- Tripadvisor 4.5 227
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Accessible Location Highfields Park is easily accessible by public transportation, with tram and bus stops located nearby. This makes it a convenient destination for those without a car, reducing the hassle of parking.
- Beautiful Natural Scenery The park boasts stunning gardens, diverse wildlife, and peaceful areas, perfect for relaxation and recreation. The seasonal blooms, such as the rhododendrons in spring, add to the park's natural beauty.
- Convenient Amenities Visitors can enjoy the convenience of on-site amenities such as a cafe, toilets, and often an ice cream van. These facilities enhance the overall experience, providing refreshments and comfort during your visit.
- Family-Friendly Activities Highfields Park offers a diverse range of activities for families, including a large playground, mini-golf, and boat rentals. These options ensure an engaging and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
- Picturesque Lakeside Walks Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the scenic lake, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The well-maintained path offers beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature.
Criticised
- Geese Droppings Geese droppings can be a nuisance, especially on the grass and in the play areas. This can make it difficult to find clean spots to sit or play, detracting from the overall experience.
- Limited Parking Parking at Highfields Park can be challenging, especially on busy days. The limited number of spaces and tight parking conditions may cause frustration for visitors arriving by car.
- Overpricing Some activities, such as boat rentals and mini-golf, can be considered overpriced. The cost of these activities may not align with the perceived value, especially for families on a budget.
- Potential for Crowds Highfields Park can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons and weekends. The high volume of visitors can diminish the sense of tranquility and make it difficult to fully enjoy the park's amenities.
- Rat Sightings There have been reports of rat sightings, particularly near the art gallery and cafe. This can be off-putting for some visitors, especially those with children or pets.
The longer read
Highfields Park is a popular and well-regarded outdoor space, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Many reviewers highlight the scenic lake as a central feature, with opportunities for walking, boating, and enjoying the wildlife. The approximately 1.25-mile walk around the lake is frequently mentioned as a pleasant and accessible activity for individuals, couples, families, and dog owners. The availability of boat rentals, including rowing boats and canoes, is another frequently cited positive aspect, though some reviewers note that the boats could use some maintenance. A number of reviewers appreciate the park's natural beauty, tranquility, and the opportunity to escape from the city. Mentions are made of stepping stones, a waterfall, and seasonal highlights such as rhododendrons and cherry blossoms. The park is noted as being well-maintained. The presence of a cafe and ice cream van are appreciated by many visitors, although some find the cafe to be somewhat expensive. There is also mention of the Lakeside Arts complex, which includes an art gallery. Families with children will find a large playground, mini golf, and foot golf. The park is easily accessible by public transportation, with tram and bus stops located nearby. Parking can be limited, particularly on busy days. Dog owners frequently visit the park, though some reviewers note that not all owners are equally considerate. The park's location within the University of Nottingham campus adds to its appeal. While the majority of reviews are positive, a few reviewers have mentioned concerns about geese droppings, rats near the cafe, and occasional litter. Some reviewers also noted that the boating and mini golf fees are high. Overall, Highfields Park is presented as a versatile and enjoyable destination for a variety of outdoor activities.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 115 915 5555
- Website
- nottinghamcity.gov.uk/highfieldspark
| Mon | 8:00 - 21:15 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 8:00 - 21:15 |
| Wed | 8:00 - 21:15 |
| Thu | 8:00 - 21:15 |
| Fri | 8:00 - 21:15 |
| Sat | 9:00 - 21:15 |
| Sun | 9:00 - 21:15 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.6 against a median of 4.6 across the 4 venues we hold for Dunkirk and Lenton, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What are the main attractions and activities available at Highfields Park?
- Are there facilities and activities suitable for families and children at Highfields Park?
- What are the best ways to reach Highfields Park in Nottingham using public or private transport?
- What are the opening hours and best times of year to visit Highfields Park?
- What is the historical or cultural significance of Highfields Park in Nottingham?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.