Turning Over A New Leaf
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Japanese Gardening
23 August 2021
We are happy to announce the resumption of the volunteer sessions which take place in the Japanese gardens adjacent to Bestwood Lodge Hotel. A team of keen volunteers help to keep this area tidy and ensure that the vegetation doesn't overwhelm the interesting features of this historic water garden. If you would like to help out on the next session on 25 August or on any furure session just drop us a line on the contact form to get more details. Keep an eye on the What's On page for future dates.
Feast of Fungi
21 August 2021
Photo by Yvonne Haynes
You don't have to wait for autumn to arrive to find amazing fungus in the woods. As Yvonne Haynes found, there are some great specimens around even in August. She snapped this giant during her walk in the woods yesterday and sent it through to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk
As with all plants in the park we would ask you to take nothing away but your photos and memories. Especially with fungi you really need to know what you are doing before considering foraging for food.
As with all plants in the park we would ask you to take nothing away but your photos and memories. Especially with fungi you really need to know what you are doing before considering foraging for food.
Crafternoon Is Back
20 August 2021
The first session of the Crafternoon group since lock-down put a halt to them back in 2020 took place this week. It was a busy gathering as 14 people turned up to get creative in the Dynamo House. Drinks were made and cakes consumed and an amazing array of crafts were carried out from glass painting to knitting and from sewing to silk painting. You can see some photos of the event in the gallery.
Never Too Young...
19 August 2021
It seems you are never too young to enjoy a visit to the Winding Engine House in Bestwood Country Park. Here soon-to-be-6 year old and his grandfather discuss child labour conditions down the mines.
There is something for everyone here. A book and trail to follow the adventures of Peter the Pit Pony for our younger visitors and a trip down memory lane for the more mature.
Free guided tours of the Winding Engine House have resumed and run between 10am and 12 noon on Saturdays. Of course the cafe is open 10am to 1pm on Saturdays for light refreshments.
There is something for everyone here. A book and trail to follow the adventures of Peter the Pit Pony for our younger visitors and a trip down memory lane for the more mature.
Free guided tours of the Winding Engine House have resumed and run between 10am and 12 noon on Saturdays. Of course the cafe is open 10am to 1pm on Saturdays for light refreshments.
Have Your Say
18 August 2021
There are plans afoot to plant several thousand new trees in Bestwood Country Park on areas currently consisting of grassland slopes. Before the plan goes forward there is a chance for you to have your say on the proposal. Come along to the Dynamo House on 2 September between 4pm and 8pm to here more about the plans and to have your voice heard. There is also a guided walk around the areas involved on 5 September. You can indicate your intention to attend the event with the links below.
https://twitter.com/NottsCC/status/1431149767816536064?s=20
https://www.facebook.com/events/376520133965209?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Orlo
https://twitter.com/NottsCC/status/1431149767816536064?s=20
https://www.facebook.com/events/376520133965209?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Orlo
Gone Fishin'
17 August 2021
Please follow the rules
There have been several incidents recently of people fishing in Mill Lakes. This is definitely a "No Fishing" area. There is clear signage at the northern entrance to the lakes and we are in discussions to improve signage at the alternative entrance points.
If you see people fishing in the lakes please report it to the park wardens or to GBC via their out of hours number: 0800 096 0306.
As you see from the signs there is also a request to keep dogs under control and out of the water to minimise disturbance to the native wildlife. At this time of year there may be algal blooms forming at the waters edge which can be harmful to dogs so it really is important to keep them away from the water.
If you see people fishing in the lakes please report it to the park wardens or to GBC via their out of hours number: 0800 096 0306.
As you see from the signs there is also a request to keep dogs under control and out of the water to minimise disturbance to the native wildlife. At this time of year there may be algal blooms forming at the waters edge which can be harmful to dogs so it really is important to keep them away from the water.
Snap!
6 August 2021
As the weather took a turn for the worse yesterday the results of all those gusty winds was soon discovered by users of the park. It was reported early in the day that a large branch had broken off and was hanging onto the pedestrian bridge over Moor Road. This is one of the main access routes from the Country Park into the Mill Lakes area. The Park Wardens were soon on site and managed to remove the hazard quickly and efficiently, restoring safe access over the bridge.
If you spot some hazard in the park please let Gedling Borough Council know as soon as possible. Check out the information below for who to contact about what. It also helps if you can post any access issues on the Friends of Bestwood Country Park facebook Group (if you are a member) to spread the word to other park users.
If you spot some hazard in the park please let Gedling Borough Council know as soon as possible. Check out the information below for who to contact about what. It also helps if you can post any access issues on the Friends of Bestwood Country Park facebook Group (if you are a member) to spread the word to other park users.
Crafternoon Is Back
2 August 2021
The monthly get-together of crafty folk at the Dynamo House is about to restart. On Wednesday 18th August the Crafternoon will take place between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in. The kettle will be on and there my well be biscuits. All activities and the refreshments at the event are free.
You can bring along your own craft project or join in with a pre-arranged craft activity, which this month will be silk painting to make some themed bunting. There's no need to book, just turn up and you will be made welcome.
You can bring along your own craft project or join in with a pre-arranged craft activity, which this month will be silk painting to make some themed bunting. There's no need to book, just turn up and you will be made welcome.
Tell Your Story
1 August 2021
Do you have a tale to tell about the place where you live? Sherwood Voices are gathering tales and little-known knowledge about the people and places in the Sherwood Forest area, to help them create new recorded story walks. As Bestwood Country Park is the southern end of Sherwood Forest this could mean that you have a story to tell.
They want to hear from everybody: Those whose families have lived here for centuries to people who have moved here more recently. They want to hear stories past and present, about the people and places you know, or have heard about. Find out more here: Inspireculture.org.uk/sherwoodvoices and here
https://www.inspireculture.org.uk/reading-information/sherwood-voices/
Come Inside
28 July 2021
As the weather takes a turn for the worse with storms passing through on most days you will be pleased to know that the Dynamo House Cafe is now back to operating indoors. We would appreciate it if you wore a mask whilst at the counter but we understand if you don't have one with you. There will be seating both inside and outdoors, so whatever the weather throws at us at the weekend we have it covered.
Mindful Time
21 July 2021
As life starts to return to a more normal routine you might find yourself unable to spend as much time as you would like to in our big, beautiful park. With that in mind we have put together a montage of wonderful images of the park taken from our facebook page so that you are never more that a click away from losing yourself for 5 precious minutes in the green splendour of nature. Just click here to enjoy the journey.
We would like to thank Trudi Cheetham for the images and David Heathcote for the technical wizardry in making the montage.
We would like to thank Trudi Cheetham for the images and David Heathcote for the technical wizardry in making the montage.
Park Run Update
12 July 2021
We have heard that the Bestwood Village Park Run are hoping to restart on Saturday 24 July. It will be wonderful to have the runners back in the park and we plan baking extra cakes once we know they will again be in the queue at the cafe. To keep up to date with all the developments and to check that the restart date is still 24th please go to the Park Run website here.
On Tour Again
9 July 2021
The Winding Engine House volunteers are back!
We have great news for our Saturday visitors to the park who are interested in local history and heritage.
The popular free guided tours of the Bestwood Winding Engine House will restart on Saturday 24 July. They will then continue to take place every Saturday within covid guidelines between 10am & 12 noon.
There is no need to book but, as numbers inside the building will be restricted, you may have to wait a short while before you can have your tour. That is a great excuse to have some refreshments while you wait from the Dynamo House Community Cafe and it won't break the bank either; a drink and a cake will set you back just £1.25.
The popular free guided tours of the Bestwood Winding Engine House will restart on Saturday 24 July. They will then continue to take place every Saturday within covid guidelines between 10am & 12 noon.
There is no need to book but, as numbers inside the building will be restricted, you may have to wait a short while before you can have your tour. That is a great excuse to have some refreshments while you wait from the Dynamo House Community Cafe and it won't break the bank either; a drink and a cake will set you back just £1.25.
Walk On The Wild Side
5 July 2021
Barn Owl seen in the park
Helen Swain is a frequent visitor to our country park. She is usually passing through at some speed as she runs there most days. However, on Sundays she takes a breather and meanders through the park with her camera instead and is often rewarded with encounters with the wildlife with whom we share this special space. She took the trouble to send through a few of her recent shots and you can see them in our gallery.
Where's The Flask?
21 June 2021
You may have to choose your day carefully but it is time to dust off your wicker basket and find the flask. It's picnic week!
The park is full of great locations to throw down the car rug and unwrap the sandwiches. If the sun comes out you should make the most of it with some alfresco dining in the country park.
Please remember that we don't allow any fires or barbecues and you should always take your litter home.
The park is full of great locations to throw down the car rug and unwrap the sandwiches. If the sun comes out you should make the most of it with some alfresco dining in the country park.
Please remember that we don't allow any fires or barbecues and you should always take your litter home.
Be Inspired
19 June 2021
A free photography course was offered today in the country park run by Inspire Photography.
A group of about 15 keen armatures set out to improve their photos under the guidance of a professional. Setting off from the Winding Engine House they used both the heritage buildings and the natural landscape to practice their skills on and hopefully took away a new perspective on what they can achieve.
Trudi Cheetham, one of our regular photo contributors, went along on the course and sent us her images taken on the day which you can see in the gallery.
A group of about 15 keen armatures set out to improve their photos under the guidance of a professional. Setting off from the Winding Engine House they used both the heritage buildings and the natural landscape to practice their skills on and hopefully took away a new perspective on what they can achieve.
Trudi Cheetham, one of our regular photo contributors, went along on the course and sent us her images taken on the day which you can see in the gallery.
Farewell To Colin
18 June 2021
The amazing (and slightly eccentric) village postie, Colin McAlpine, is hanging up his postbag and retiring. He has been a real hero during lock-down with his doorstep chats, fancy costumes and his bagpipe serenades on street corners. The village residents will miss him but all wish him well in his future ventures.
Colin has been a loyal customer of the Dynamo House Cafe over the years and has introduced many of his PO colleagues to its delights. We hope that he will be calling into the Dynamo House Cafe on Saturday 19th to say his goodbyes and maybe even give us a tune. Make sure you don't miss out on saying your farewells to our local character.
Colin has been a loyal customer of the Dynamo House Cafe over the years and has introduced many of his PO colleagues to its delights. We hope that he will be calling into the Dynamo House Cafe on Saturday 19th to say his goodbyes and maybe even give us a tune. Make sure you don't miss out on saying your farewells to our local character.
Orchid O'Clock
17 June 2021
It is a great time of year for spotting orchids. They are some of the most beautiful and delicate flowers forming colourful jewels in the surrounding meadows. If you spot them remember not to disturb them and to only take photos. If you do - please send them in.
Cafe Culture
16 June 2021
The Dynamo House Cafe is now back to its regular opening. Every Saturday between 10am and 1pm we will be serving hot and cold drinks along with a selection of home-made cakes and occasional savouries from our gazebo in the compound of the Winding Engine House. Do come along and support us. Every penny we make in profit is ploughed back into improvements in the park, so the more you buy, the more you help us to achieve our goals. Thank you!
Photo Opportunity
16 June 2021
Trudi Cheetham has been taking advantage of the sunny weather to take a turn around our beautiful park. She has recorded her walk and sent us the resulting photographs.
If you would like to enjoy them and many others please check out the gallery.
If you would like to enjoy them and many others please check out the gallery.
Access To The Quarry
13 June 2021
Please read this statement from Gedling Borough Council about access to the quarry
Bestwood (old Tarmac) Quarry is owned by Nottinghamshire County Council and is managed on their behalf by Gedling Borough Council. A new sign has been placed on the locked vehicle access gate at the entrance to our compounds and the quarry conservation area beyond.
The quarry forms part of several conservation areas around the 700 acre site where public access is restricted, whilst hundreds of acres of the park remain openly accessible at any time of day.
We have had many problems over the years with illegal motorcycle use, fires, theft from our compounds, dog fouling and trespass into neighbouring land. Which added to the natural terrain of the quarry with its steep cliff sides and SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation) status, makes the quarry an important wildlife habitat in need of protection.
We have installed the sign to visually reiterate the "no public access" status of the quarry and will be improving the security of the compound area at some point this year.
Please enjoy and respect our beautiful park.
Bestwood Country Park Ranger - GBC
Bestwood (old Tarmac) Quarry is owned by Nottinghamshire County Council and is managed on their behalf by Gedling Borough Council. A new sign has been placed on the locked vehicle access gate at the entrance to our compounds and the quarry conservation area beyond.
The quarry forms part of several conservation areas around the 700 acre site where public access is restricted, whilst hundreds of acres of the park remain openly accessible at any time of day.
We have had many problems over the years with illegal motorcycle use, fires, theft from our compounds, dog fouling and trespass into neighbouring land. Which added to the natural terrain of the quarry with its steep cliff sides and SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation) status, makes the quarry an important wildlife habitat in need of protection.
We have installed the sign to visually reiterate the "no public access" status of the quarry and will be improving the security of the compound area at some point this year.
Please enjoy and respect our beautiful park.
Bestwood Country Park Ranger - GBC
Volunteering Restarts In Park
10 June 2021
Many of the volunteer groups who work to help us keep the park looking at its best are about to restart. Check out our volunteering page for details of how you can get involved.
Miles In The Park
3 June 2021
The Miles family have been spending time in the park and Phil has sent through some lovely shots of things they saw there. This beautiful close up shot is a great example of his eye for detail.
From the panoramic to the miniscule we love to see what you have noticed on your walks. Please send them through on photos@fbcp.org.uk .
If you would like to see a few more of Phil's pictures, along with many others, check out the gallery.
From the panoramic to the miniscule we love to see what you have noticed on your walks. Please send them through on photos@fbcp.org.uk .
If you would like to see a few more of Phil's pictures, along with many others, check out the gallery.
We're Back!!
1 June 2021
Yesterday saw the relaunch of the Dynamo House Cafe in Bestwood Country Park. We put on a mini event to announce our return to serving drinks and cakes to our visitors. The day began at 11am for the volunteers who were on site to set up the event. Two gazebos were erected and tables and chairs brought outside for both servers and customers. Thankfully as we had to operate completely outside the weather was on our side and it was in brilliant sunshine that we opened the gates at 1pm.
We had a plant stall for people to take away excess plants from growers in the village, just asking for a donation in the bucket for anything you took home. There was a book give away and a craft stall with cards and much more. We also had a promotion stand asking people to sign up for our newsletter or find out more about joining the team of volunteers. We are still counting up the money but the final total takings will be over £400. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported us and were understanding about our need for covid-safe procedures.
There are more photos in the gallery.
We had a plant stall for people to take away excess plants from growers in the village, just asking for a donation in the bucket for anything you took home. There was a book give away and a craft stall with cards and much more. We also had a promotion stand asking people to sign up for our newsletter or find out more about joining the team of volunteers. We are still counting up the money but the final total takings will be over £400. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported us and were understanding about our need for covid-safe procedures.
There are more photos in the gallery.
Growing Demand
24 May 2021
Friends of Bestwood Country Park
We will be having a plant stall at the cafe relaunch event on 31 May. Local residents will be bringing their excess plants along for you to choose from. There are no prices on the plants - just pop an appropriate donation into the tin - all contributions welcome. All profits will go to Friends of Bestwood Country Park who run the Dynamo House Cafe and help to care for and enhance the park with the money they raise.
The plants on offer will include chillis, strawberries, tomatoes, courgettes & even a few house plants. Don't forget to bring your carrier bags to take your purchases home in.
The event will run from 1pm to 4pm on the Bank Holiday Monday so don't miss out.
The plants on offer will include chillis, strawberries, tomatoes, courgettes & even a few house plants. Don't forget to bring your carrier bags to take your purchases home in.
The event will run from 1pm to 4pm on the Bank Holiday Monday so don't miss out.
Calling All Bakers
22 May 2021
Bestwood Country Park's Dynamo House Cafe is restarting its regular Saturday opening from 10am to 1pm on June 5th, running every Saturday from that date. We're looking for volunteer bakers to join our rota. You don't need to be Mary Berry as simple tray bakes and sponge cakes are just as popular as more complex recipes. As this is small-scale home baking for a non-profit charity you don't need to be registered as a food business, have your kitchen inspected or have a hygiene certificate. We pay all your baking costs, and can collect your cakes if necessary. If you'd like to help our volunteer cafe get up and running again, and could bake for any Saturday in June or July, please get in touch with Margret by email on margretvince@ntlworld.com or give her a call to discuss your options on 07890 284066.
Imaginative Images
21 May 2021
Photographer Chris Scott has replied to our call for pictures of the park to be sent in to us. He has sent through an array of imaginative shots of the Mill Lakes and the Country Park.
Check out his pictures in the 2021 gallery.
Check out his pictures in the 2021 gallery.
Ring The Changes
17 May 2021
1 May just a few plants in bloom
It's that time of year again when the park gets its fresh new blue carpet. Yes, the bluebells are out in large numbers throughout the wooded areas. We saw a few emerging back at the start of the month but now there are swathes of blue drifting between the trees making the woodland appear almost magical. It is notoriously difficult to capture the depth of colour of bluebells but local resident, Katharine Dryden, has done a great job of capturing the amazing colour on her walk yesterday.
Check out her lovely pictures in our gallery.
Check out her lovely pictures in our gallery.
Cafe Relaunch Event
11 May 2021
Bank Holiday Monday 31 May 1pm - 4pm
To celebrate the completion of the kitchen refurbishment and to relaunch the regular opening of the Community Cafe, we will be opening the Dynamo House compound for the Bank Holiday afternoon. There will be hot & cold drinks and home-made cakes on sale, a bring and buy plant stall and there will be stands giving out info on how you can join our team of volunteers. Whether you are more comfortable with a spanner, a spade or an egg whisk in your hand we have a role for you, helping out the Winding House engineers, the Park Rangers or the Dynamo House bakers and servers.
Covid rules will be applied including track and trace at the entrance.
To celebrate the completion of the kitchen refurbishment and to relaunch the regular opening of the Community Cafe, we will be opening the Dynamo House compound for the Bank Holiday afternoon. There will be hot & cold drinks and home-made cakes on sale, a bring and buy plant stall and there will be stands giving out info on how you can join our team of volunteers. Whether you are more comfortable with a spanner, a spade or an egg whisk in your hand we have a role for you, helping out the Winding House engineers, the Park Rangers or the Dynamo House bakers and servers.
Covid rules will be applied including track and trace at the entrance.
Flash Back
10 May 2021
Photograph by Mr Kerry
In response to our recent plea, we have been sent this imposing picture of the park. It was captured a few months ago when there was snow on the ground and few leaves on the trees. Whatever the season, if you are out and about in the park please take a few snaps and share them with us by email - photos@fbcp.org.uk
Park Photos
5 May 2021
We need more photos of the park to use in our social media. If you have images taken in Bestwood Country Park that you are happy for us to use please email them over to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk or post them on our face book page HERE
That's what Rob Carlyle did, to send us this great panorama of the quarry in the park.
That's what Rob Carlyle did, to send us this great panorama of the quarry in the park.
Spot The Difference
4 May 2021
Exactly which ladybird did you see?
Click the photo for more info
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As the seasons move on we will be seeing more insect life out & about in the park. One that we can all identify is the ladybird. However, did you know that there are 26 species of Coccinellidae in the UK recognisable as ladybirds? That makes "spotting" the differences between the ones you see more important if you want to know exactly which one you have seen. This chart shows you a few of the more common ones you might come across in your travels.
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Cafe Culture
2 May 2021
On Saturday 1 May cafe culture returned to the country park. For one day only the Dynamo House Community Cafe re-opened serving drinks and home-made cakes. The volunteers needed to practice their new covid-secure operating procedures ahead of an event planned for 31 May. To that end the cafe opened for 3 hours and it was much appreciated by all those who came along. Everything seemed to go well and the weather was on our side, which was vital because we were serving and consuming the goodies outside. Thank you to all involved in making this event a success. We hope to go on to bigger and better things for the next Bank Holiday.
May We Serve You...
27 April 2021
Sat 1 May - 10am to 1pm
Great news - the Dynamo House Cafe will be open serving hot & cold drinks and a selection of home-made muffins on Saturday 1 May 10am to 1pm. This is a trial opening to prepare us for a relaunch event on Bank Holiday Monday 31 May - details to follow.
There will be some new procedures in place to keep everyone covid-safe, including track & trace at the gate and social distancing of the outdoor seating. There will be no Winding Engine House guided tours, however, there will be the usual crowd of friendly volunteers making you coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit juice and squash. If you are able to bring along your own mug or thermal cup on the day we would really appreciate it to help cut down on our washing up. We will only be accepting cash and if you have the right change that would be great. 50p for drinks and 75p for cakes.
For our younger visitors we will be selling Peter the Pit Pony books at £3 each to accompany the outdoor trail around the park.
Although you will be able to enter the Dynamo House to use the loo there will be no indoor seating available so check the forecast and dress appropriately!
There will be some new procedures in place to keep everyone covid-safe, including track & trace at the gate and social distancing of the outdoor seating. There will be no Winding Engine House guided tours, however, there will be the usual crowd of friendly volunteers making you coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit juice and squash. If you are able to bring along your own mug or thermal cup on the day we would really appreciate it to help cut down on our washing up. We will only be accepting cash and if you have the right change that would be great. 50p for drinks and 75p for cakes.
For our younger visitors we will be selling Peter the Pit Pony books at £3 each to accompany the outdoor trail around the park.
Although you will be able to enter the Dynamo House to use the loo there will be no indoor seating available so check the forecast and dress appropriately!
New Countryside Code
15 April 2021
The Countryside Code has been revised to take account of the increasing numbers of people using the great outdoors and the ever increasing and conflicting pressures on our green spaces. Before your next trip out to enjoy the country park why not have a quick peek and check you know the right things to do.Key changes to the Countryside Code include:
- New advice for people to ‘be nice, say hello, share the space’ as well as ‘enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory’.
- A reminder not to feed livestock, horses or wild animals.
- To stay on marked footpaths, even if they are muddy, to protect crops and wildlife.
- Information on permissions to do certain outdoor activities, such as wild swimming or flying drones.
- Clearer rules for dog walkers to take home dog poo and use their own bin if a there are no public waste bins.
- A refreshed tone of voice, creating a guide for the public rather than a list of rules – recognising the significant health and well-being benefits of spending time in nature.
- New wording to make clear that the code applies to all our natural places, including parks and waterways, coast and countryside.
Look - Don't Just Flutter By
22 March 2021
As the days lengthen and the temperature rises you will be seeing more insects around the park. Most obvious may well be the butterflies and moths which flutter round the woodland and grassy areas in the park. We have a chart from Butterfly Conservation to help you identify a few of them. For more info pop over to their website by clicking on the chart.
If you happen to snap a photo of the ones you see please send your images in to us.
If you happen to snap a photo of the ones you see please send your images in to us.
Protect Our Ground-Nesting Birds
18 March 2021
As spring approaches we are all excited about the explosion of new life in the park as the birds begin to pair up and nest. However, not all birds nest in trees. We have several species of ground nesting birds that take up residence in the country park, such as the skylarks who nest on the top field. It is therefore more important than ever to keep your dogs on a lead to avoid them running off into the fields and disturbing these nests. Please help us to keep all the park residents happy at this critical time by following the advice from Natural England. #RespectProtectEnjoy
Litter Bugs
17 March 2021
Please take your litter home
We have been so excited to see record numbers of people visiting the park during the lock-downs. However, the increased numbers have caused a few issues. People have generally been very good at trying to dispose of their litter in the bins but often these have just been overwhelmed with the sheer amount of rubbish being discarded.
When the bins are full, or even if they have room inside, please take your litter home with you to save it escaping the bins and blowing around the park.
When the bins are full, or even if they have room inside, please take your litter home with you to save it escaping the bins and blowing around the park.
Time Zooms By
8 March 2021
Time flies and it's time for another meeting of the Friends of Bestwood Country Park team. Our meeting was virtual rather than in person so once again we were all getting to grips with the technology. At least no one turned up with a filter on turning them into a cat, no one had a toddler arrive to disrupt their call although we did have a combination of the two when someone's cat arrived to join in the meeting. Roll on the time when we can meet up in person to debate the issues and to plan some exciting events for the future.
Happy St David's Day
1 March 2021
The Winding Engine House
After the sunshine of the weekend March has arrived in a bit of a haze. Mist and fog covered the park today obscuring some of the views but visitors still got to enjoy the steady awakening of the tree buds and the blooming of some of the spring flowers.
Take a look in our gallery to see some of the things to look out for on your next visit.
Take a look in our gallery to see some of the things to look out for on your next visit.
The Early Bird...
27 February 2021
Photo by Laura Millership
The old adage about the early bird catching the worm was certainly true this morning. Laura was up nice and early to take her dog for a walk in the park. She was rewarded for her efforts with some lovely images of the misty sunrise.
You can see some more of her great pictures in the gallery.
P.S. In the gallery you will also find some great shots taken from the quarry by Rob Carlyle early the following morning. Well worth getting out of bed early for.
You can see some more of her great pictures in the gallery.
P.S. In the gallery you will also find some great shots taken from the quarry by Rob Carlyle early the following morning. Well worth getting out of bed early for.
At The End Of The Day...
13 February 2021
Photo by Annie Holmes
Our big beautiful park is a great location for a walk at any time of day but Annie Holmes managed to pick the perfect moment to visit yesterday evening.
She captured this amazing sunset which no doubt brightened up her day. Thank you for letting us share your images.
If you take any interesting shots as you enjoy your walks around the park please let us know. You can send them through to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk.
If you would like to see a few more of Annie's pictures head over to the gallery.
She captured this amazing sunset which no doubt brightened up her day. Thank you for letting us share your images.
If you take any interesting shots as you enjoy your walks around the park please let us know. You can send them through to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk.
If you would like to see a few more of Annie's pictures head over to the gallery.
Big Garden Bird Watch
29 January 2021
This coming weekend you can take part in one of the largest citizen science projects in the world. The RSPB are running the Big Garden Bird Watch and it is really easy to get involved. You just need an hour of your time and a space in your garden or park to go looking for the birds. If you want to practice your identification skills you could check out some bird photos taken in the park by local photographer Steve Plewinski which are in the gallery.
Sight For Sore Eyes
26 January 2021
Winter wonderland - Gill Costello
Our intrepid treasurer, Gill, took herself out for a walk in the park recently and found herself in a winter wonderland.
Having been cooped up in the house, following some very welcome eye treatment, Gill badly felt the need to get back out in the park to enjoy the sights. However, soon after she left home it started to snow, so that walk became really special. The park was soon transformed into a Narnia-like landscape. Snow is always beautiful to look at from the comfort of home but to experience being out doors during a fall of snow is magical. For those brave enough to be outdoors in this weather it was an amazing spectacle.
There are some more of Gill's photos along with some by Steve Plewinski in the gallery.
Having been cooped up in the house, following some very welcome eye treatment, Gill badly felt the need to get back out in the park to enjoy the sights. However, soon after she left home it started to snow, so that walk became really special. The park was soon transformed into a Narnia-like landscape. Snow is always beautiful to look at from the comfort of home but to experience being out doors during a fall of snow is magical. For those brave enough to be outdoors in this weather it was an amazing spectacle.
There are some more of Gill's photos along with some by Steve Plewinski in the gallery.
Making Tracks
25 January 2021
It snowed! This gives you an added bonus of being able to more easily see who has been out and about in the park before you. You can see the tracks of the birds mammals and other park visitors who have been walking around. Have you seen any interesting tracks? If so, take a photo and send it in to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk.
Green Shoots
24 January 2021
In your walks around the park you should be looking out for the first few signs of spring . As you enter the Mill Lakes from Moor Road you can see the daffodil bulbs starting to push through the ground. Further into the park there are other buds, shoots and fruits preparing for the season ahead. If you see anything interesting in the park please let us know and send us your photos. More photos of the park in our gallery.
Just Checking In
20 January 2021
You might like to know that even though the Dynamo House Cafe is closed we have been keeping an eye on the place. We are giving the building a weekly airing and checking that all is well especially during the worsening weather. Our inspections have been very successful so far and it's good to spend time in the place, however, briefly.
When we do reopen we will be looking for lots of new volunteers to bake, serve and collect the empties. By then we hope to have had a chance to revamp the kitchen space so it will be a much better working environment for the volunteers. If you would like to join our Dynamo House team please drop us a line using the contact us form.
When we do reopen we will be looking for lots of new volunteers to bake, serve and collect the empties. By then we hope to have had a chance to revamp the kitchen space so it will be a much better working environment for the volunteers. If you would like to join our Dynamo House team please drop us a line using the contact us form.
Happy New Year
4 January 2021
As we go forward into 2021 we are all hoping for a swift end to the coronavirus pandemic. However, whilst we are living under the various levels of lock down the country park continues to offer respite from the boredom of staying in at home. We do ask that during your visit to the park you observe the distancing rules, especially at pinch points like the car park and the various gates. Higher visitor numbers are putting extra stress on the bins around the park, so where you can, we would ask that you take your own litter home with you.
On very busy days you may find that the car park is full. If you park on the roads around the park please do so sensibly, not blocking driveways or entrances. In particular the road opposite the bus terminus needs to be kept free of cars to allow the buses to execute their turn at the top of Park Road. Please keep this stretch of road free of cars at all times. Thank you.
On very busy days you may find that the car park is full. If you park on the roads around the park please do so sensibly, not blocking driveways or entrances. In particular the road opposite the bus terminus needs to be kept free of cars to allow the buses to execute their turn at the top of Park Road. Please keep this stretch of road free of cars at all times. Thank you.
Research In The Park
18 December 2020
Female Red Mason Bee - Steven Falk
The Friends of Bestwood Country Park have linked with the University of Nottingham to support a piece of research that will take place in the park over the course of next year. The research aims to find out what environmental and biological factors influence wild pollinators in urbanised environments, with a specific focus on the solitary Red Mason Bee, Osmia bicornis.
The field work for this research will begin in the park in February; when a few solitary bees will be placed in the park in nesting pipes ready to emerge in early spring and start foraging. Throughout the spring and summer masters student, Ieuan Lamb will measure floral resources, pollinator abundance and diversity of other pollinators, as well as measures of land use in the surrounding area. At the end of the summer the solitary bees will lay their larvae back in the nesting sites ready to hibernate over winter. At this point the nesting pipes will be taken away so that the reproductive success of the bees can be measured.
Wild bee populations provide important pollinator services in urban & rural environments. They are often more specific foragers than the domesticated honeybee, Apis mellifera, but their population success in urban environments is variable between species and extensive research has not previously been done. Urban environments increase diversity of food and nesting resources for some species but reduce them for others.
A study site like Bestwood Country Park is important in this type of research as it provides an abundance of natural resources but is also relatively near to other more urban areas, allowing scientifically sound comparisons between the two types of area.
If you see Ieuan working in the park please feel free to stop and say hello, or if you have any questions you’d like to ask about the project please email him at ieuan.lamb@nottingham.ac.uk.
The field work for this research will begin in the park in February; when a few solitary bees will be placed in the park in nesting pipes ready to emerge in early spring and start foraging. Throughout the spring and summer masters student, Ieuan Lamb will measure floral resources, pollinator abundance and diversity of other pollinators, as well as measures of land use in the surrounding area. At the end of the summer the solitary bees will lay their larvae back in the nesting sites ready to hibernate over winter. At this point the nesting pipes will be taken away so that the reproductive success of the bees can be measured.
Wild bee populations provide important pollinator services in urban & rural environments. They are often more specific foragers than the domesticated honeybee, Apis mellifera, but their population success in urban environments is variable between species and extensive research has not previously been done. Urban environments increase diversity of food and nesting resources for some species but reduce them for others.
A study site like Bestwood Country Park is important in this type of research as it provides an abundance of natural resources but is also relatively near to other more urban areas, allowing scientifically sound comparisons between the two types of area.
If you see Ieuan working in the park please feel free to stop and say hello, or if you have any questions you’d like to ask about the project please email him at ieuan.lamb@nottingham.ac.uk.
Big Thank You
9 December 2020
Normally around this time of year we would all be meeting up at the volunteers' Christmas party. It is a chance to say thank you to all the groups that contribute to the maintenance and improvement of our big, beautiful Park. Sadly that won't be happening this year as parties are off the agenda. That doesn't mean that we don't appreciate all the great work our volunteers do in and around the park. So we would like to send a big shout out to our Winding Engine House volunteers, Dynamo House cafe bakers & servers, our volunteer working parties (the Voles), the members & committee of the Friends Group, our Park Rangers, Heritage Officer and everyone at NCC & GBC involved in the maintenance & promotion of the park. There may not be a thank you party this year but you have been appreciated more than ever. It has been a really difficult year but we have come to realise just how important the park is to the local community. Be proud that you contributed to their enjoyment of the park.
Leaves of Steele
20 November 2020
Oak leaf in early sunshine - Marc Steele
Wondering what to do for the weekend? Why not take a leaf out of Marc and Jennifer Steele's book and take a walk in Bestwood Country Park. If you take your camera or your phone with you please send us your wonderful photos of our amazing green space as it changes its coat ready for winter. Email them in to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk . If you want to see the rest of the photos that Marc took you should check out the gallery.
Ups & Downs
12 November 2020
The country park in general, and Andy's Adventure Playground in particular, are being much enjoyed by the extra lockdown visitors and families. We have more walkers & bikers taking their exercise and enjoying relaxing away from Covid stresses. At times like this the park is needed more than ever both for physical and mental health & well-being.
However, the downsides to this popularity are the resulting parking problems at the Winding Engine House car park in Bestwood Village, especially at weekends. Overflow cars are again causing problems on Park Road including blocking the turning circle for the buses by parking opposite the bus stop. The south car park is bigger, but is also seeing increased numbers. In all cases we would ask you to please park responsibly. If you have come out for a walk in the park why not park away from the entrance if the car park is full and add those few extra steps to your daily total.
However, the downsides to this popularity are the resulting parking problems at the Winding Engine House car park in Bestwood Village, especially at weekends. Overflow cars are again causing problems on Park Road including blocking the turning circle for the buses by parking opposite the bus stop. The south car park is bigger, but is also seeing increased numbers. In all cases we would ask you to please park responsibly. If you have come out for a walk in the park why not park away from the entrance if the car park is full and add those few extra steps to your daily total.
Veto On Volunteering (for now)
11 November 2020
The park is well into autumn and we are well into another lockdown. Sadly it's been confirmed that all the nature conservation volunteer work parties have been cancelled, when they had only just got going again. We understand that the plan is to review the situation early in the new year. In the meantime both the Saturday morning Community Cafe and the Winding Engine House will also remain closed. The Park Rangers Rob and Dave, of Gedling Borough Council, are working as usual Monday - Friday, based in the Classroom and you may be relieved to hear that the toilet block near Alexandra Lodges is open.
If you would like to consider volunteering once things are back on track here are the opportunities available to you ad the vital contacts you will need.
If you would like to consider volunteering once things are back on track here are the opportunities available to you ad the vital contacts you will need.
Misty and Mellow
10 November 2020
Following our call for photos of the park Rachel Leonardi has allowed us to share some amazing photos she took on her walk in Bestwood Country Park. She certainly has an eye for an interesting picture and has captured the mood of autumn in the park perfectly. There are more shots in the gallery.
Colour and Conkers
9 November 2020
Photo by Joanna Staples
Back in the spring the beautiful country park saw us through Lockdown 1 by offering us walks through the natural environment as it awoke and blossomed. Now we find ourselves in Lockdown 2 the park can again offer us an escape. At the moment the trees are putting on their most colourful show of the year as autumn takes hold. There are conkers & sweet chestnuts to be foraged and misty mornings to enjoy. If you get out into the park and take any photos of this most fruitful of seasons please drop them over to us on photos@fbcp.org.uk as we would love to share them with those people who can't get out into the park at the moment. Joanna has been taking some shots including this interesting view of Alexander Lodge. There are more in the gallery.
News from October 2020 - November 2018 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2018 - November 2016 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2016 - November 2015 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from November 2015 and before is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2018 - November 2016 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2016 - November 2015 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from November 2015 and before is stored on our News Archive page here.
In partnership with
Who are we?
The Friends of Bestwood Country Park was formed in late 2007 and focuses its activities a few miles north of Nottingham in Bestwood Country Park.
The group’s aim overall is to promote the interests of our big beautiful park, its habitats and flora and fauna as well as its many human visitors and its historic buildings, and to serve as an active means of communication and co-operation between all users.
The group meets most months on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the Bestwood Lodge Hotel. You can check out what goes on at the meetings page. We are always looking for new members to join us and everyone is welcome to come along to the meetings. If you think you would be interested in coming along please use the contact us form to let us have your details.
The group’s aim overall is to promote the interests of our big beautiful park, its habitats and flora and fauna as well as its many human visitors and its historic buildings, and to serve as an active means of communication and co-operation between all users.
The group meets most months on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the Bestwood Lodge Hotel. You can check out what goes on at the meetings page. We are always looking for new members to join us and everyone is welcome to come along to the meetings. If you think you would be interested in coming along please use the contact us form to let us have your details.
What do we actually do?
There are several strands to the group of people interested in the park so it is not all about meetings! If you’re into engineering, you might be interested in joining the Winding Engine House Volunteers. If you’re into practical conservation, there’s a group that meets on Mondays (except bank holidays) to help the rangers with their work. A similar practical group meets on the first Sunday of the month. No experience necessary and tools will be provided.
To find out more check out out volunteering page under the Events tab.
To find out more check out out volunteering page under the Events tab.
The Forum
We have previously run a web forum where people can log any wildlife they see or get involved in discussion threads on issues involving the park. This old forum has been moved into this website where all old posts have been archived.
Useful Links
Read the Richard the Ranger's blog - click here
Read Rob's blog - click here
Read Rob's blog - click here
141 Bus Timetable
Bestwood Country Park Facebook account
Bestwood Country Park Flickr site
Bestwood Village Park Run
Bestwood Village WI
Bestwood Village Wikipedia entry
Greenwood Community Forest
Friends of Newstead & Annesley Country Park
Love Parks
Mercian Archaeological Services
Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group
Nottinghamshire CC - Country Parks
If you have images of the park you would like to add to our gallery please send them in to us using photos@fbcp.org.uk
You can discuss the format we need using the contact us form.
Bestwood Country Park Facebook account
Bestwood Country Park Flickr site
Bestwood Village Park Run
Bestwood Village WI
Bestwood Village Wikipedia entry
Greenwood Community Forest
Friends of Newstead & Annesley Country Park
Love Parks
Mercian Archaeological Services
Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group
Nottinghamshire CC - Country Parks
If you have images of the park you would like to add to our gallery please send them in to us using photos@fbcp.org.uk
You can discuss the format we need using the contact us form.
Actually wanted Friends of Buchan Country Park, based in West Sussex? If so, click here:- fobcp.org.uk.
