Walton Colliery Nature Park
A serene nature park with lakes, wildflowers, and trails, offering a peaceful escape on a reclaimed industrial site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers in bloom, pleasant weather
Walton Colliery Nature Park
Best Time
Wildflowers in bloom, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene nature park with lakes, wildflowers, and trails, offering a peaceful escape on a reclaimed industrial site.
"A lovely place for a peaceful walk, a great use of an old colliery reclaimed back to nature."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can get slippery after rain, especially on the red route. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
No cafes or toilets on-site, so bring your own snacks and drinks. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildflower Meadows
Throughout the park
Vibrant wildflowers bloom in warmer months, creating a picturesque and colorful landscape.
Tranquil Lakes
Central areas
Peaceful lakes reflect the sky, offering serene spots for reflection and wildlife spotting.
Reclaimed Colliery Landscape
Various trails
Explore the unique terrain shaped by its industrial past, now a thriving natural habitat.
Buttons Food Van
Near Shay Lane entrance
A popular spot for gourmet burgers and hot drinks, perfect for refueling after a walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Pack Smart for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can get slippery after rain, especially on the red route. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
No cafes or toilets on-site, so bring your own snacks and drinks. :sandwich:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; be mindful of other visitors and potential horse droppings. :dog:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful landscapes and seasonal blooms make for great photo opportunities. 
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can get slippery after rain, especially on the red route. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
No cafes or toilets on-site, so bring your own snacks and drinks. :sandwich:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; be mindful of other visitors and potential horse droppings. :dog:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful landscapes and seasonal blooms make for great photo opportunities.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of parking spaces are usually available at the park entrance. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Walton Colliery Nature Park for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, highlighting it as a great spot for walks and picnics. The reclaimed colliery landscape and seasonal wildflowers are frequently mentioned positives. Some note the lack of facilities like toilets and cafes, and the occasional presence of horse droppings on paths, but overall, it's considered a well-loved local gem.
"A lovely place for a peaceful walk. On rainy days, some paths can get a bit slippery, but if you stay on the main route, you’ll be fine. The only drawback is the horse droppings on certain path areas, which can cover quite a bit of space, so you’ll need to watch your step to keep your shoes clean. Parking is free and there are plenty of spaces available."
Najam ul Asre
"Walton Colliery Nature Reserve
Was a revelation, living nearby and passing it many times before but never visiting.
Walking, cycling & very popular dog walking busy and well used.
Beautiful and very well appreciated by all I spoke to about it.
A great use of an old Colliery reclaimed back to nature."
Stephen Paver
"Beautiful place for a walk. We visited on a December morning, after a night of heavy rainfall. We had our 1 year old in his basic pram, and were easily able to walk the red path around the colliery and get to the war memorial. There is free parking on site, but no toilet or cafe. Fab walk, will definitely be back more often now!"
M T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Walton Colliery Nature Park is located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. Public transport options might involve local bus routes, but checking specific timetables for services to the Walton area is recommended.
Yes, there is free parking available at the park, and visitors generally find plenty of spaces.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular activity here, with trails suitable for bikes. It's a great way to explore the park.
The main red path around the colliery is generally accessible for prams and wheelchairs, even after rain. However, some smaller or less maintained paths might be more challenging.
Driving is the most straightforward method from Wakefield city centre, taking approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Local bus services might also be an option, but require checking specific routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Walton Colliery Nature Park is free for all visitors.
The park is generally open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy it throughout daylight hours.
There are no admission fees; the park is free to enter and explore.
Yes, the park is open on weekends and is a popular spot for local families and dog walkers.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more peaceful experience, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, hiking, cycling, and dog walking. It's also a great spot for picnics and nature photography.
Unfortunately, there are no toilet facilities or cafes directly within the park. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments.
Yes, the lakes and varied habitats make it a good location for observing local birdlife.
You might see various bird species, squirrels, and other small mammals. The lakes are home to waterfowl.
Yes, it's a lovely place for families, offering open spaces for children to explore and enjoy nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakes, wildflower meadows in bloom, and the changing seasonal foliage offer excellent photographic opportunities. The old colliery landscape also provides unique shots.
During spring and summer, the park is known for its beautiful wildflower displays, making it ideal for nature photography.
The open spaces and reflective lakes can offer lovely light for sunrise and sunset photography, though specific vantage points might require exploration.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is useful for landscapes and general shots. A macro lens can be great for wildflowers, and a telephoto lens for wildlife.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws or contact the park authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will love the open spaces for running around, discovering wildlife around the lakes, and exploring the woodland. It's a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with nature and burn off some energy in a safe and engaging environment.
🐶 Dog Owners
Just a heads-up: be mindful of horse droppings on some of the trails, so keep an eye on where your dog is stepping. Otherwise, it's a wonderful, free-to-access space for a refreshing walk with your dog.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more vigorous hike, the park's diverse landscape, from young forests to open meadows, provides an engaging and scenic experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially after rain, as some paths can become slippery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more rugged experience, other unmarked trails wind through the woodland and around the lakes. These can be more challenging, especially in wet conditions, and may require more robust footwear. The park is a fantastic place for walking, cycling, and dog walking, with ample space for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
Remember to be mindful of horse droppings on certain paths, as highlighted by visitors, and always stay aware of your surroundings to fully appreciate the natural beauty and diverse terrain.
A Haven for Wildlife and Nature
These diverse habitats attract a variety of wildlife. The lakes are particularly good for birdwatching, with waterfowl often seen gliding across the water. Keep an eye out for smaller creatures like squirrels and other mammals as you explore the wooded areas.
+1Visiting during different seasons offers unique perspectives. Spring and summer bring the vibrant colors of wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn paints the landscape in warm hues. Even in winter, the park offers a crisp, serene atmosphere, sometimes even dusted with snow.
Refueling and Refreshing
Buttons is known for its gourmet burgers, bagels, and hot drinks, making it the perfect spot to grab a warm bite on a chilly day or a satisfying meal after a long walk. They even provide a heated outdoor seating area, adding to the comfort of your visit.
It's important to note that the park itself does not have any cafes or toilet facilities. Therefore, it's highly recommended to bring your own food, drinks, and any other essentials you might need for your visit to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit