Fungi Walk
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Wildlife Group Meeting
21 October 2025
The Wildlife Group November meeting date has been set. Find details in the What's On listings.
Bored? Read The Boards!
17 October 2025
We hate to think that you might be bored on your walk around the park but just in case there are a number of information boards dotted around to keep you interested. These cover topics as diverse as the industrial history of the site to its rare wildlife. See how many you can find around the park. There is always something to learn, after all, every day is a school day.
Here are a few examples of the boards but there as lots more to discover.
Here are a few examples of the boards but there as lots more to discover.
Recognition At Last
16 October 2025
The Waxcap fungi
The Bestwood Country Park Wildlife Group have had some great news from the Nottingham Biological Records Centre regarding the rare waxcap fungi in our park. Going forward, the fields known as Parkside Pasture and the one on the lodge driveway will now be mapped as "Local Fungi Wildlife Sites". This offers these areas extra protection from future disturbance.
Massive thanks go to the Wildlife Group members, along with Carl Cornish from RSPB, Prof. Gareth Griffiths at Aberystwyth University, and Matt Wainhouse at Natural England who have all campaigned for this recognition. #Teamwork
Massive thanks go to the Wildlife Group members, along with Carl Cornish from RSPB, Prof. Gareth Griffiths at Aberystwyth University, and Matt Wainhouse at Natural England who have all campaigned for this recognition. #Teamwork
Boom!
15 October 2025
The boom and pads in position
There have been sightings of a strange blue pipe on the River Leen as it enters Mill Lakes and people have been asking what it's for.
A few days ago oil was spotted on the surface of the river, coming from some kind of spillage further upstream. Fortunately this was reported to the Environment Agency, whose prompt action saved the pollution having a more detrimental effect on the wildlife of the lake. The blue "pipe" is in fact a floating boom, designed to hold back any contaminants on the surface, and behind it are adsorbent pads to soak up the oil and facilitate its removal. The boom and pads should all be removed very soon now the oil has been contained.
Thank you to those concerned visitors who spotted and reported the problem, and to the EA for coming out to deploy the boom and protect the lake. It is a good reminder to report any pollution you come across to the appropriate authorities.
A few days ago oil was spotted on the surface of the river, coming from some kind of spillage further upstream. Fortunately this was reported to the Environment Agency, whose prompt action saved the pollution having a more detrimental effect on the wildlife of the lake. The blue "pipe" is in fact a floating boom, designed to hold back any contaminants on the surface, and behind it are adsorbent pads to soak up the oil and facilitate its removal. The boom and pads should all be removed very soon now the oil has been contained.
Thank you to those concerned visitors who spotted and reported the problem, and to the EA for coming out to deploy the boom and protect the lake. It is a good reminder to report any pollution you come across to the appropriate authorities.
Mill Stone
11 October 2025
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The next information stone to take a peek at tells us all about the industrial history of the Leen valley. When water power was king, the River Leen was the driving force for several local mills.
The text reads: In the 18th century a series of "leats" were build along the River Leen to the east of Hucknall as part of the famous Robinson cotton milling empire. These channels took water from the River Leen and used it to power a number of water mills along its course. |
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Dead Hedges
10 October 2025
If you have been walking around Mill Lakes recently, and your walk took you onto the path beyond Ron's path on the far side of the lake, you may have seen some changes. The staff & volunteers have been out clearing the area beside the path to open up the woodland and let in more light. They haven't just discarded the cut back material though. They have used the branches and brush to form a "dead hedge" at the margin of the woodland. These form a natural barrier around the trees and provide great habitat for birds, small mammals and insects. It's a clever use of a free natural resource in the park to enhance the environment.
Tablets Of Stone
5 October 2025
Walking around the park you will see several information boards but there are also a few special information stones around Mill Lakes. See how many you can find. We will start you off with this one located by the northern entrance to Mill Lakes. It sets out information about some of the interesting wildlife found in the lakes, specifically the native white clawed crayfish and the water vole.
The inscription reads: Mill Lakes is managed for conservation and wildlife. The River Leen is home to a variety of species including rare and protected species such as water voles and the native white-clawed crayfish.
There is an adjacent information board giving an insight into other wildlife & habitats found around the Mill Lakes part of the country park. It is for the protection of these important rare species that we ask you to keep your dogs out of the water, as they can disturb both the wildlife & their delicate habitats.
The inscription reads: Mill Lakes is managed for conservation and wildlife. The River Leen is home to a variety of species including rare and protected species such as water voles and the native white-clawed crayfish.
There is an adjacent information board giving an insight into other wildlife & habitats found around the Mill Lakes part of the country park. It is for the protection of these important rare species that we ask you to keep your dogs out of the water, as they can disturb both the wildlife & their delicate habitats.
Nature's Bounty
1 October 2025
If you know, you know!
It's that time of year when the park offers up its storehouse of goodies for those who know where to look. Be sure to take a bag with you next time you visit just in case you find something tasty to take home.
Always remember to take just what you need and leave some for the wildlife or the next person to come rummaging for a treat.
Always remember to take just what you need and leave some for the wildlife or the next person to come rummaging for a treat.
Woof Walks
28 September 2025
If you walked past the Dynamo House today you might have seen a large gathering of greyhounds making the most of the sunshine while their owners enjoyed refreshments from the cafe. It was a private booking as part of the Great Global Greyhound Walk. Walks are taking pace today all around the world. The aim is to bring owners together regardless of where their hound is from, to raise awareness of hounds in need and to promote sighthounds as pets in a BIG way. The local part of this walk took place around the country park and ended with drinks and cakes at the Dynamo House. Raffle tickets were on sale alongside a stall selling Christmas cards and other items, with all profits going to Crossing Cottage Greyhound Sanctuary - home of the Retired Greyhound Trust East Midlands.
It was lovely to see so many happy greyhounds together with their adoptive families enjoying the park.
If you would like to host your private function at the Dynamo House contact Margret Vince to make a booking.
It was lovely to see so many happy greyhounds together with their adoptive families enjoying the park.
If you would like to host your private function at the Dynamo House contact Margret Vince to make a booking.
Autumn Is Here!
22 September 2025
Views of Mill Lakes - Sept 2025
It's officially autumn and that's the perfect time for a walk around Mill Lakes. They are looking splendid whichever view point you choose to look at them from.
The paths are currently dry, although, if we have rain, some of them can get a little soggy. When the sun is shining on the water and the wildfowl are out in numbers you really can't beat it.
These are a selection of views taken today around the lake but there are more to view in the gallery.
If you venture out into the park, whether circumnavigating the lake or collecting conkers in the country park, please send us your photos to add to our gallery to help encourage others to come to visit our big, beautiful park.
The paths are currently dry, although, if we have rain, some of them can get a little soggy. When the sun is shining on the water and the wildfowl are out in numbers you really can't beat it.
These are a selection of views taken today around the lake but there are more to view in the gallery.
If you venture out into the park, whether circumnavigating the lake or collecting conkers in the country park, please send us your photos to add to our gallery to help encourage others to come to visit our big, beautiful park.
Sad News Of Cafe Closure
16 September 2025
Dynamo House Cafe
It turns out that none of the cafe key holders are available on Saturday 25 October, so unfortunately we will not be able to open the Dynamo House Community Cafe that day. This also means that there will be no access to the toilet for those taking part in parkrun or other visitors to this end of the park. The toilets near to Alexandra Lodges will be open.
We are very sorry about this; it is highly unusual to cancel a cafe session, but there was nothing else we could do. We hope that by letting you know this far in advance, you will be able to think about alternative arrangements.
Normal service will be resumed on other Saturdays both before and after that date, with the cafe open for drinks and cakes from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
The Winding Engine House tours will still take place 10am - 12 noon.
We are very sorry about this; it is highly unusual to cancel a cafe session, but there was nothing else we could do. We hope that by letting you know this far in advance, you will be able to think about alternative arrangements.
Normal service will be resumed on other Saturdays both before and after that date, with the cafe open for drinks and cakes from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
The Winding Engine House tours will still take place 10am - 12 noon.
Moth and Bat Night
1 September 2025
The Friends of Bestwood CP Wildlife Group is holding another Moth & Bat Night this Friday 5 September at the Dynamo House from 8pm. Once it's dark a moth trap will be run to catch and then identify the moths, (they’re unharmed and released afterwards). Bat detectors will also be available to use to see what bats are flying around.
The Dynamo House will be open as an indoor space to look at the moths and for use of the toilet.
Also, it will be an opportunity to say goodbye to Craig and Grenville, (the twins) who have been working in Bestwood Country Park since 1986 and are being made redundant by the County Council. They have said they are coming and Imogen is making their favourite cake.
The Dynamo House will be open as an indoor space to look at the moths and for use of the toilet.
Also, it will be an opportunity to say goodbye to Craig and Grenville, (the twins) who have been working in Bestwood Country Park since 1986 and are being made redundant by the County Council. They have said they are coming and Imogen is making their favourite cake.
Watch Your Step!
12 August 2025
While taking a stroll around Mill Lakes today, one visitor was startled to find this little fella on the path, almost under her feet. Lots of creatures are on the move at the moment, often in search of water, as there has been so little rain lately. So, as you move about the park, do take care to watch your step and avoid trampling any little critter that may have strayed onto the paths. This guy was safely placed in undergrowth by the lakes to happily carry on his day.
Darling Buds of May
16 May 2025
Moss & Lichen Walk at Mill Lakes
8 April 2025
Have you ever wanted to know more about the complicated world of Moss
and Lichens? if so, come along to our FREE Moss & Lichen Walk at Mill Lakes - Sunday 27 April at 10:30am. Meet at Mill Lakes entrance what3words trail.indoors.leap.
If you have one, please bring a field loope or magnifying glass (we have some you can borrow). It will allow you to get a much closer view of these interesting organisms.
Bestwood Country Park wildlife group have organised for a local expert to come along to guide the walk and offer advice and help in identifying what you find on the walk.
Adults and children are welcome. Please wear suitable clothing for walking around the Mill Lakes.
and Lichens? if so, come along to our FREE Moss & Lichen Walk at Mill Lakes - Sunday 27 April at 10:30am. Meet at Mill Lakes entrance what3words trail.indoors.leap.
If you have one, please bring a field loope or magnifying glass (we have some you can borrow). It will allow you to get a much closer view of these interesting organisms.
Bestwood Country Park wildlife group have organised for a local expert to come along to guide the walk and offer advice and help in identifying what you find on the walk.
Adults and children are welcome. Please wear suitable clothing for walking around the Mill Lakes.
Litter Pick Weekend
18 March 2025
Friends of Bestwood Country Park are taking part in the Gedling "spring cleaning" litter picks in the park this coming weekend. They have arranged two events :-
The first one will start at 11am on Saturday 22 March at the Bestwood Lodge Hotel. We will be meeting between the hotel car park and the hotel entrance.
The second one will start at 2pm on Sunday 23 March at the Dynamo House, Bestwood Village.
We will have litter pickers and bin bags available for you to use. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing, and bring gardening gloves, if you have them.
Please let us know if you are planning to come, to give us an idea of numbers, by emailing [email protected]
The first one will start at 11am on Saturday 22 March at the Bestwood Lodge Hotel. We will be meeting between the hotel car park and the hotel entrance.
The second one will start at 2pm on Sunday 23 March at the Dynamo House, Bestwood Village.
We will have litter pickers and bin bags available for you to use. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing, and bring gardening gloves, if you have them.
Please let us know if you are planning to come, to give us an idea of numbers, by emailing [email protected]
Darling Buds of May Needs Your Help
16 February 2025
We are in need of volunteers to help with our flagship event of the year which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday 26 of May from 12noon to 4pm.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated to help with planning or the day itself. Help is needed to man stalls, set up and tidy away etc. Even if you can only help for an hour or two that would be welcome.
Our next planning meeting is on Friday 28 February at 2pm in the Dynamo House.
Please do let me know if you can attend the meeting or offer help on the day. email [email protected]
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated to help with planning or the day itself. Help is needed to man stalls, set up and tidy away etc. Even if you can only help for an hour or two that would be welcome.
Our next planning meeting is on Friday 28 February at 2pm in the Dynamo House.
Please do let me know if you can attend the meeting or offer help on the day. email [email protected]
Edible Hedge Planting
16 February 2025
Bestwood Edible Hedge Planting Event
Date: Saturday 1 March 2025
Time: 10am start to 1pm.
You will need to sign in at the DH (see LINK below,) but you can leave at any time - no obligation to stay for the whole session.
Meeting point: Dynamo House - to be signed in and then walk to planting site (about 15 minutes walk).
Tools and trees provided etc but people welcome to bring their own spade.
Essentials Info: Wear gloves, and sturdy boots / wellies as the site is likely to be wet / muddy.
Here is the link https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bestwood-country-park-edible-hedge-project-tickets-1237367983949?aff=oddtdtcreator
Background
The purpose of the hedge is:
Date: Saturday 1 March 2025
Time: 10am start to 1pm.
You will need to sign in at the DH (see LINK below,) but you can leave at any time - no obligation to stay for the whole session.
Meeting point: Dynamo House - to be signed in and then walk to planting site (about 15 minutes walk).
Tools and trees provided etc but people welcome to bring their own spade.
Essentials Info: Wear gloves, and sturdy boots / wellies as the site is likely to be wet / muddy.
Here is the link https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bestwood-country-park-edible-hedge-project-tickets-1237367983949?aff=oddtdtcreator
Background
The purpose of the hedge is:
- To screen the open ground / ground nesting bird area and provide a natural barrier against unauthorised access from the proposed footpath.
- To produce a mix of food sources (blossom, nuts, berries, fruits) for both people and wildlife.
Step Back In Time
23 January 2025
We have been reminded just how far the Mill Lakes area has developed since its creation over 50 years ago in 1973. We've recently been sent copies of a set of photos taken back in 1978 when it was in its infancy. They show a very different environment to that we see today.
Before your next walk around the Mill Lakes why not check out these early photos and see if you can find the same locations and compare the current views.
Check out the photos in our 2025 Gallery.
Before your next walk around the Mill Lakes why not check out these early photos and see if you can find the same locations and compare the current views.
Check out the photos in our 2025 Gallery.
First Bird Walk of 2025 - places get snapped up!
15 January 2025
The next bird walk has been organised for Sunday 26 January
Meet at the Dynamo House for a prompt 9.30am start.
There will be a two-hour walk to Mill Lakes and back, with our guides Hayley and Carl. They can help you spot elusive birds, identify anything you find and answer your questions.
Please bring binoculars if you have them, wear stout footwear, and wrap up warm. Even the paths can be very muddy.
Everyone is welcome but booking is essential as places are limited and it is always a sell out.
To book, email [email protected]
Meet at the Dynamo House for a prompt 9.30am start.
There will be a two-hour walk to Mill Lakes and back, with our guides Hayley and Carl. They can help you spot elusive birds, identify anything you find and answer your questions.
Please bring binoculars if you have them, wear stout footwear, and wrap up warm. Even the paths can be very muddy.
Everyone is welcome but booking is essential as places are limited and it is always a sell out.
To book, email [email protected]
Free Amphibian Training
15 January 2025
If you have an interest in amphibians, please see the email below for details of a training opportunity
If you do go along, please do let me have some feedback on the session.
Please find attached details about an opportunity to find out more about amphibians with an online event being led by the Notts ARG (Amphibian and Reptile Group). The event will cover information including amphibian ID and ecology, about why and how the group conduct toad patrols and the importance of biosecurity. It is hoped this might inspire you to join one of the many toad patrols that are active across the county. See below (and attached) for more details.
If you’d like to find out more please contact
[email protected]
If you do go along, please do let me have some feedback on the session.
Please find attached details about an opportunity to find out more about amphibians with an online event being led by the Notts ARG (Amphibian and Reptile Group). The event will cover information including amphibian ID and ecology, about why and how the group conduct toad patrols and the importance of biosecurity. It is hoped this might inspire you to join one of the many toad patrols that are active across the county. See below (and attached) for more details.
If you’d like to find out more please contact
[email protected]
Greenwood Courses
15 January 2025
You are invited to apply for a variety of short courses run through Greenwood Community Forest.
Check out the full list of courses on the document below. Greenwood are offering these in partnership with Inspire, and they are free to those who are in receipt of benefits. We would like to ensure everyone is offered the opportunity to join in and that places get filled. Use the links on the document to find out more info on how to apply.
2025 Greenwood Spring Courses Document
Check out the full list of courses on the document below. Greenwood are offering these in partnership with Inspire, and they are free to those who are in receipt of benefits. We would like to ensure everyone is offered the opportunity to join in and that places get filled. Use the links on the document to find out more info on how to apply.
2025 Greenwood Spring Courses Document
Extra Slice
23 December 2024
As you have all been so good, we have a little extra for you this Christmas.
The Dynamo House Community Cafe will be open 26 December 2024 from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Escape the family, or bring them with you. Freshly made cakes and hot & cold drinks will be available with our usual warm welcome. Merry Christmas!
The Dynamo House Community Cafe will be open 26 December 2024 from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Escape the family, or bring them with you. Freshly made cakes and hot & cold drinks will be available with our usual warm welcome. Merry Christmas!
Darling Buds of May 2025
18 December 2024
Dear Friends,
A date has been set for next year's event, it will be on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May.
We have started to hold planning meetings and hope that new members may join us to plan for this event which is well attended and appreciated by all.
The event is planned with members of the Greenwood Community Forest team at Notts. County Council but volunteers are needed on the ground to help on the day. This could involve erecting gazebos, manning stalls, clearing up and generally being useful.
We should have the usual entertainment, music, children's activities, plant stalls etc but if you have any new ideas please do join us in the planning.
I will let you know when the next planning meeting is to be held in the New Year and hope that you may be able to join us.
A date has been set for next year's event, it will be on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May.
We have started to hold planning meetings and hope that new members may join us to plan for this event which is well attended and appreciated by all.
The event is planned with members of the Greenwood Community Forest team at Notts. County Council but volunteers are needed on the ground to help on the day. This could involve erecting gazebos, manning stalls, clearing up and generally being useful.
We should have the usual entertainment, music, children's activities, plant stalls etc but if you have any new ideas please do join us in the planning.
I will let you know when the next planning meeting is to be held in the New Year and hope that you may be able to join us.
Dynamo House Cafe Cancelled
05 December 2024
CANCELLED - The Dynamo House Cafe will be closed on Saturday 7th December.
We are sorry to have to let our valued customers down but illness has struck.
The weather looks rather horrible on Saturday so maybe stay in and keep warm.
We will be back on the 14th for our usual offerings plus Ian's homemade soup and rolls.
Friends of Bestwood Country Park Meeting
30 November 2024
Bestwood Country Park Meeting
To be held in the Dynamo House Monday 6th January 2025 at 10am.
You are all warmly welcome please come along and find out What is Going on!!!
To be held in the Dynamo House Monday 6th January 2025 at 10am.
You are all warmly welcome please come along and find out What is Going on!!!
News Flash
Some incredible news: A very rare fungi has been identified in the Country Park by Hayley and Rory from the FoBCP Wildlife Group. It is Ramaria decurrens - common name is ochre coral. Craig Levy who works at the park and a member of the Notts fungi group said that it had only been recorded in the country once before!
News from October 2024 - November 2023 is stored on our News Archive page here
News from October 2023 - November 2022 is stored on our News Archive page here
News from October 2022 - November 2021 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2021 - November 2020 is stored on our News Archive page here
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 2023 - November 2022 is stored on our News Archive page here
News from October 2022 - November 2021 is stored on our News Archive page here.
News from October 2021 - November 2020 is stored on our News Archive page here
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.
In partnership with
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We are on Instagram
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Useful Contact Details
Bestwood Country Park Ranger via the Notts County Council Customer Services Team on 0300 500 8080
Please report any overflowing bins directly to Gedling Borough Council – 0115 9013901.
Gedling Borough Council out of hours number 0800 0960306
Please report any overflowing bins directly to Gedling Borough Council – 0115 9013901.
Gedling Borough Council out of hours number 0800 0960306
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, 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, 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 like baking or serving coffee and cake you might want to join our Dynamo House Cafe volunteers. If you’re into engineering, you might be interested in joining the Winding Engine House volunteers. If you’re into practical conservation, there are conservation groups that meet on certain weekdays to help the rangers with their work. No experience necessary and tools will be provided.
To find out more check out out volunteering page under the Events tab, or the What's On page.
To find out more check out out volunteering page under the Events tab, or the What's On page.
Useful Links
Read the Richard the Ranger's blog - click here
Read Rob's blog - click here
Read Rob's blog - click here
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
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 [email protected]
You can discuss the format we need using the contact us form.
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
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 [email protected]
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.
