The reserve was created by quarrying for sand and gravel, but nature has reclaimed the pits and bare sand, creating habitats for many species.
Parking
Toilets
Gift Shop
Dogs Welcome- Gateway Site
- Dog Friendly
Gift Shop
Dogs Welcome
Dog Friendly
what species and habitats can you find?
The lakes at Whisby Nature Park are surrounded by grassland, marsh, scrub and willow carr. Elements of the original quarry landscape remain, with fragments of heathland, old hedgerows and a small oak woodland.
In spring and summer, flocks of tits and finches are joined by warblers. It is an excellent site for garden warbler and other summer migrants such as whitethroat, chiffchaff, reed warbler and willow warbler. Sadly, nightingale no longer breed.
The lakes attract feeding sand martins and swallows, and black-headed gulls nest on the islands. In some years, they may be joined by mediterranean gull. Little ringed plover and oystercatcher are usually present in the Spring but do not always breed.
Autumn brings the first sight of winter birds such as goldcrests, redpolls and grey wagtails. In winter, the water levels are at their highest and wildfowl are numerous. Species such as goldeneye and pochard join the resident gadwall and tufted duck.
Winter is notable for the large mumurations of starlings. There can be tens of thousands of birds and it is understandably popular with visitors. At the same time, lucky observers may also see a wintering bittern as it flies across the reeds at the end of the day.
Autumn & Winter species
starling, goldeneye, wigeon, shoveler, pochard, bittern, Cetti’s warbler, redpoll, siskin, brambling, Egyptian goose.
Spring & Summer species
peregrine, gadwall, reed warbler, garden warbler, Mediterranean gull, sand martin, little ringed plover, great crested grebe.
useful tips
The area north of the railway line is wilder and less structured but the whole site can be excellent for wildlife.
In the summer, carefully check the wooden fence along the steps to the railway bridge as common lizard regularly bask on the lower sections.
Whisby Nature Park has been designated a Dragonfly Hotspot by the British Dragonfly Society.
Volunteers are often present in the wildlife barn and will happily share their knowledge of the site and point out any species that are present.
facilities
There is a car park and six trails are available. Maps are available at the visitor centre.
A number of hides and screens provide excellent viewing facilities.
Lincs Inspire manage the visitor centre and it is open daily and serves hot and cold food in the café, along with children’s play area and a shop.
getting here
Whisby Nature Park is located close to Lincoln and can be easily accessed from the A46 near North Hykeham. The entrance is off Moor Lane, close to Thorpe-on-the-Hill.
Postcode LN6 9BW
OS Map Reference: SK 911 661
access
Dogs are allowed around Thorpe Lake but must be kept on a lead on other parts of the site.
Parking costs £3 for the day and there are ticket machines available
opening times
Nature reserve open all year. Please note, the car park gate is closed at 20:00.
Natural World Centre is open:
reserve & Observatories
Whisby Nature Park
A barren quarry site reclaimed by nature. The once bare sand pits are now full of plant communities and habitats for various wildlife. Just a short distance from Lincoln City centre is this relaxing natural environment.
