Wildlife and parkland at Nostell

swans, ducks and waterfowl enjoy the spring sunshine at Nostell

Home to hundreds of different creatures, Nostell's parkland spans 300 acres awash with amazing wildlife and places to savour.

Engine Wood and Joiner’s Wood

Joiner’s Wood is planted with standard oak trees which were historically used for timber around the estate. The wood was originally the site of workshops used during the 18th and 19th-century modifications to the house. Today, many of our visitors enjoy den building in this area, where families can make their very own woodland hideaway. Head to Engine Wood in June to see bluebells and listen to the sounds of woodland birds such as blue tits and robins. Lucky nature spotters will also glimpse the occasional Roebuck deer.

Bring your bike and explore the parkland on two wheels
Two visitors cycling in front of the Nostell mansion
Bring your bike and explore the parkland on two wheels

Far Vista and Sheep Wash Field

This area of the parkland is under development, having been reseeded in 2014, returning it to meadow land from arable land and is currently being managed for ground nesting birds. In the Far Vista, you’ll find four small wooded areas named Chestnut Wood, Peggy Wood, Fox Covert and Longley Wood, which you'll see start to grow up over the coming years. Sheep Wash field is the site of an original mill and you'll find a perfect spot for picnics at Hardwick Beck.

Lower Lake

At the edge of the Lower Lake, you’ll see the Boathouse with Boathouse Bridge opposite, making stunning reflections in the water on a bright day. The lakeside is a popular nesting site for daubenton bats, kingfishers and swans - remember to keep your eyes peeled for cygnets. Explore the nearby oak plantation, which is managed for nesting birds such as finches, longtail tits, wrens and robins.

You'll see bursts of colour in the wild flower meadows during spring and summer
Dandelions across Nostell's Vista with the house in the background
You'll see bursts of colour in the wild flower meadows during spring and summer

Obelisk Park

Obelisk Park is being returned to how it was originally set out, using the blueprint of an 1849 map. The previously arable land has been returned to a wild flower meadow and trees planted in the spots originally planned out. In summer 2015 new paths were laid, one of which follows the route of the original carriageway from the 18th-century entrance, the distinctive stone structure of Obelisk Lodge. The new Hardwick Beck and Carriageway paths are now enjoyed by visitors for walking, running, cycling, scooting. Nature lovers can spot butterflies, bees and moths in the park as well as buzzards and hunting kestrels.