Whisby Nature Park - Lincolnshire

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Whisby Nature Park is west of Lincoln off the A46.  It was opened in 1989 and is owned by North Kersteven District Council.  It consists of a series of flooded gravel pits, covering some 375 acres, which now include woodland, ponds and grassland to name a few.

It was years since I last visited, and I didn't recognise any of it, such improvements had been made over the years.

One of the big differences was the impressive Natural World Centre which is against the car park, and which was proving very popular when I visited.

Just below this is the start of the paths, and I was particularly taken with the large board that listed all the birds that had been spotted over the last few days - and what an impressive list it was too!

One thing I really liked was the 6 miles of smooth, easy to walk paths, suitable for everyone.  No wonder they were so well used. 

 After strolling round the large lake it was time to explore the Natural World Centre.  There was the inevitable large shop, which seemed well stocked and organised.  Beside that was a large, and clearly popular, cafe.  However, the area that particularly appealed to me was just outside on a narrow, if slightly slippery, balcony overlooking the lake.  I couldn't think of a nicer place to enjoy a cup of coffee.

 At the end of the shop there was a flight of steps leading to the permanent 'Our Changing World' exhibition which was very interactive, and seemed mainly aimed at children and school parties.  There were lots of knobs to turn and buttons to push, and there were informative panels about solar panels, waste disposal and recycling.

I thought this the most marvellous place, and can't wait to return and spend more time exploring the various lakes and ponds, and finding the bird hides.  Certainly a treat to look forward to in the future.