Nottingham to Lowdham Walk

Starting near the vibrant city of Nottingham, England, this 19 km (approximately 12 miles) point-to-point trail offers a delightful mix of urban and rural landscapes. The trailhead is conveniently accessible by public transport, with Nottingham Station being a major hub for trains and buses. If you're driving, you can park near the Nottingham Castle, a significant historical landmark that dates back to the Norman Conquest.### Initial Urban Stretch The first few kilometers of the trail take you through the bustling streets of Nottingham. As you leave the city center, you'll pass by the Nottingham Arboretum, a beautiful Victorian park that offers a serene escape from the urban environment. This section is relatively flat, making it an easy start to your hike.### Transition to Countryside Around the 5 km (3 miles) mark, the trail transitions from urban to rural settings. You'll cross the River Trent via the Lady Bay Bridge, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The elevation gain starts to become noticeable here, with gentle inclines that gradually prepare you for the more challenging sections ahead.### Historical Landmarks As you continue, you'll come across Holme Pierrepont Hall, one of the oldest brick buildings in the country, dating back to the 16th century. This is a great spot to take a break and soak in some history. The trail then meanders through the Holme Pierrepont Country Park, where you might spot various bird species and other wildlife.### Midway Point: Shelford At approximately 10 km (6 miles), you'll reach the village of Shelford. This quaint village offers a perfect midway rest stop. You can visit the Shelford Manor, a historic building with roots in the medieval period. There are also a few local pubs where you can grab a bite to eat and refresh yourself.### Elevation Gain and Scenic Views The next section involves a bit more elevation gain, around 200 meters (656 feet) in total. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Nottinghamshire countryside. The trail takes you through lush fields and woodlands, offering a peaceful and scenic hiking experience.### Approaching Lowdham As you near the end of the trail, you'll descend into the village of Lowdham. This charming village is known for its historic church, St. Mary's, which dates back to the 13th century. The village also hosts a variety of local shops and cafes where you can relax and celebrate the completion of your hike.### Navigation and Safety For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool will ensure you stay on track.### Wildlife and Nature Throughout the hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The diverse habitats along the trail, from riverbanks to woodlands, make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.### Getting Back Once you reach Lowdham, you can easily catch a train back to Nottingham from the Lowdham Railway Station, which is well-connected to the city. Alternatively, if you parked your car in Nottingham, you can take a bus or arrange for a taxi back to the trailhead.This trail offers a perfect blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and moderate physical challenge, making it an excellent choice for hikers looking to explore the Nottinghamshire region.