Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

For a number of yearsyears this was the official webstie for the Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park.
Content is from the site's archived pages.

The current website for the Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park is found at: http://www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk/ where you will find the most up to date information.

 


Whisby Nature Park was opened in 1989. There are two full-time wardens who undertake habitat management and amenity maintenance and development on behalf of visitors. The Nature Park comprises of a complex of small, medium and large flooded gravel pits. Some former pits in the area have been used as sediment lagoons and now form wet willow scrub or clay grasslands where the appropriate management has been undertaken. There is only one major stream, an agricultural drain of some local importance, the Pike Drain. Highlights: A total of twenty eight species of butterfly have been recorded on the Nature Park over recent years, of which twenty two occur annually. A huge diversity of birds can be seen here, including Summer migrants like the Nightingales that breed at Whisby, this being regarded as the most Northerly part of their range. Guided walks are available with the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and there are interactive exhibitions and many educational activities for children. Visitors can enjoy a great day out in the Reserve, which includes a large gift shop and excellent Cafe.

 

 

Enter the Natural World to discover ..
 
  • A beautiful Nature Park with lakes, woodland, ponds, grasslands, heath and a wealth of wildlife.
  • The fantastic Natural World visitor centre situated on a lake edge
  • Our Changing World where nature and technology collide in a stunning display of interactive fun
  • An Education Centre offering curriculum-linked courses
  • Year round events for all the family

 

Welcome to the Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

 
 
 
 Visit Us and Enjoy      
 
A Glorious Day Out
packed with
 
  Acres of Local Nature Reserve- 6 Miles of Walks
Guided Walks with Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust
 
 Interactive Exhibitions - Holiday Activities for Children
Birthday Parties
 
Improved Giftshop
 
Fair Trade Gifts - Traditional Wooden Toys 
Environmentally Friendly Presents- Country Goods
 
Boardwalk Cafe
Tastes of Lincolnshire - Beautiful Views 
Drinks, Snacks and Lunches - Sunday Roast Every Week
Celebrations, Weddings and Business Lunches
 
A Friendly Welcome For All!

 

Reasons to Visit

 

The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

Opened by HRH Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh on 26th March 2001 The Natural World Centre is a state of the art visitor centre in the heart of Whisby Nature Park, a local nature reserve with six miles of walks around five lakes.
 
Inside The Natural World Centre visitors are welcomed by our team who are keen to make the visit a memorable one. The Centre is on two levels, a ground floor and lower ground floor and has been designed to ensure access for all.
On the ground floor to the right of the entrance is an extensive giftshop which stocks not only mementos of the visit but also many fair trade and environmentally friendly gifts. For example, our popular round pillow dog beds are made from colorful recycled fabrics and are considered a luxurious perk for man's best friend. They are the most practical eco-friendly beds - washable and come in sizes to match your dog. The centre's mascot, Georgie, is photographed on the large round bed and that photo is prominently displayed in the entranceway. Walking through the giftshop enables the visitor to talk to our team about all aspects of their visit at reception and go on to one of two exhibition spaces. On the ground floor exhibitions change on a regular basis in an area overlooking both the 'Boardwalk' balcony and Thorpe Lake, and through a curved introduction area visitors can descend to the lower ground floor exhibition 'Our Changing World'
 
To the left of the entrance visitors can enjoy the fayre offered in the Boardwalk Cafe , the Cafe provides visitors with a chance to buy fairtrade drinks and homemade cakes or partake of a delicious breakfast or lunch.
 
Through doors at the rear of the building visitors emerge onto the Boardwalk balcony with stunning views over Thorpe Lake. From this balcony it has been possible in previous years to watch swans and their cygnets in close proximity, or to watch stunning sunsets at all times of the year.

 

 

 

Eco- Information

 
 
The Natural World Centre is keen to help our visitors and we want to work with you to be an ECO-INFORMATION CENTRE.
 
 
Why is this happening?
Born from customer interaction over the past six years with the NWC Team, Leisure Connection, North Kesteven District Council and the NK Local Strategic Partnership recognised this need in the community.
 
How will it happen?
 
1.       Leaflets will be available for pick up from a wide number of eco providers.
  
 
2.       Our website www.naturalworldcentre.com can be used to obtain links to a variety of information or to find out answers to the simpler questions. You can also email in any questions the website is unable to answer to the NKDC Sustainability Project Officer.
 
 
 
3.       Exhibitions will provide information on a variety of different issues throughout the year, in conjunction with SustainNK
 
 
4.       Sign up to become a free member of the Eco-Friends database and receive all the information first hand.
 
5.       Advice and assistance with larger projects in North Kesteven can be provided by the NKDC Sustainability Project Officer 
 
 
6.       Development in helping Schools become Eco-Schools or businesses become more sustainable is also available, through a free consultation service.

 

NEWS

 

This section of the website contains news articles and press releases from the Natural World Centre and related topics.
 
 
NEWS! NEWS! NEWS!
 
July 2008
 
Sunset Dining - AUGUST
 
This August we introduce Sunset Dining to our programme. On Saturdays in August  different artistes will provide beautiful music whilst you dine on a wonderful three course meal.  
2nd August - Masiya sings classic ballads such as 'In the air tonight' in stunning surroundings.
9th August- Heyes Ensemble, Lincolns leading flute quartet perform classics and unusual music
16th August- Double Take, a guitar jazz duo perform all kinds of jazz from Bossa Nova to Miles Davies.
Tickets are 35 and available now, so enjoy the tranquility that is the Natural World Centre at night.    
 
To book your ticket, call the Natural World Centre on 01522 688868.
 
June 2008
 
Wine Tasting Evening 20th June
 
To mark the end of the Locavore exhibition which has been hosted by the Natural World Centre since February, an evening of wine tasting has been organised. British wines are the speciality at this enjoyable evening and if something really tickles your fancy you can purchase an entire bottle! Tickets only 10 per person to include wine tasting and locally produced nibbles and canapes.   
 
To book your ticket, call the Natural World Centre on 01522 688868.
 

 

Natural World Centre Functions

The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

 

 

 

Book Your upcoming Party or Function at the
Natural World Centre!!
 
We provide plenty of action for every visitor whether it is in the Upper Gallery, Our Changing World Exhibition, Gift Shop, Whisby Nature Park or the Boardwalk Cafe and its stunning views over Thorpe Lake!
The Boardwalk Cafe Functions
Why not book your function in the scenic Boardwalk Cafe for all your celebratory needs. The team can cater for Weddings, Adults Birthdays, Childrens Birthdays, Business Meetings or Special Events, the choice is yours.
Is The Tastes Of Lincolnshire Buffet for you.

 

The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

 

 

By Car or Coach

 
SATNAV: Use the postcode LN6 9BW
 
The Natural World Centre and Whisby Nature Park are five miles west of Lincoln City at Thorpe on the Hill, near Whisby.  Remember to look out for our Brown AA Signs on local roads signposting you to Whisby Nature Park.
 
From the A1 take the A46 towards Lincoln and follow the brown signs from the A46 to Whisby Nature Park.
 
From the A15 take the A46 bypass around Lincoln and follow the brown signs
 
From the A57 take the A46 Lincoln bypass and follow the brown signs to Whisby Nature Park.
 
Parking is free for coaches and cars, and we have ten spaces for Disabled Badge holders directly outside the visitor centre, please call 01522 68 88 68 or contact us via email for more information.
 

By Public Transport

 
The nearest station to the Nature Park is North Hykeham, but this station is rural and not well-served by public transport or a safe walking route, at the moment.  There are plans to put in a safe footpath and cycle route from Hykeham station to the Nature Park in the next couple of years, which will take people under the A46 bypass.  
 
For cyclists the best station to disembark is Swinderby although 5 miles away from the Nature Park, the route along quiet country lanes is very pleasant.  Central Trains run daily services from Newark Northgate to both Swinderby and Hykeham (National Train Enquiries ).
 
Arriva Northern and Central Trains also run daily services to Lincoln from the Doncaster, Gainsborough, and Grimsby.  For visitors disembarking at Lincoln station, there is a taxi rank outside and the bus station is situated directly across the road (follow the finger point signs).
 
From Monday Saturday, there is a two-hourly bus service (number 65) running from Lincoln bus station to Thorpe on the Hill village, which stops at Foss Lane. On leaving the bus, you will need to pass both Thorpe Church and Methodist Chapel along Foss Lane until you reach Middle Lane.  At this junction, you need to turn right, then an immediate left onto Little Thorpe Lane.  Passing the school exit you will come to a T-junction with Moor Lane the pedestrian entrance to the Nature Park is directly opposite.  The walk from the bus stop takes about 10 minutes. 
 
On Saturdays, there are three buses stopping directly outside the Nature Park entrance on Moor Lane you will need to ask the driver to stop here.
 

By Bicycle or Walking

 
The location is rural, so walking and cycling access is quite difficult from Lincoln and the surrounding villages.  The main problem for pedestrians and cyclists is crossing the busy, trunk road (A46), which passes the Nature Park at the junction with Moor Lane.  However, quiet road routes exist from Whisby, Doddington and Swinderby for cyclists, although none of these road have footways.  We have racks for up to 20 bikes and there are plans to link to the Nature Park with quiet road cycle routes from Lincoln city and North Hykeham.
 
Cycling is not permitted along the way marked footpaths please leave only footprints in the Nature Park and your bike in the racks for the duration of your visit!  
 
You may wish to combine your visit to the Natural World Centre with a trip to City of Lincoln, famous for its Norman Cathedral, Medieval Castle and excellent shopping. For more information please visit the Lincoln City Council Tourism website.
 

 

More Background on The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park

Situated within the heart of Whisby Nature Park, just west of Lincoln in Lincolnshire, England, the Natural World Centre stands as a testament to sustainable tourism, community learning, and wildlife appreciation. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the region's premier destinations for families, nature enthusiasts, and visitors keen to explore the rich biodiversity and innovative public facilities that define contemporary green spaces.

This guide will familiarize readers with every important aspect of the Natural World Centre, from its ownership and history to its cultural impact and detailed visitor information.

History and Ownership

Origins and Development

Whisby Nature Park was established in 1989 as a result of a visionary plan to transform disused gravel pits into a living nature reserve. What began as an industrial landscape covered in sediment lagoons, willow scrub, and clay grasslands has become a complex mosaic of lakes and wild habitats carefully managed for wildlife and visitor enjoyment.

The Natural World Centre itself opened in 2001 and was inaugurated by HRH Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh, further emphasizing its community and ecological importance. The Centre serves as the park’s focal point for visitor engagement.

Management and Governance

The Centre is owned and managed by North Kesteven District Council. Over the years, close collaboration with partners such as Leisure Connection (for operations), the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust (for guided wildlife walks and educational activities), and local government bodies has helped the Centre maintain its focus on sustainability, education, and public service.

Location, Access, and Proximity

Setting and Directions

The Natural World Centre is located at Thorpe on the Hill, approximately five miles west of Lincoln. The area is rural but well-signposted and easily accessible via car, coach, or limited public transport. The full postcode for navigation is LN6 9BW.

By Car or Coach

  • The site is signposted by brown AA road signs.

  • Free parking is provided for both coaches and cars.

  • Ten dedicated spaces are directly outside the visitor centre for disabled badge holders.

By Public Transport

  • The closest rail stations are North Hykeham and Swinderby, although current pedestrian and cycling access from these stations is limited.

  • Plans have been made to improve footpath and cycle access from North Hykeham station in the future.

  • The number 65 bus serves Thorpe on the Hill, with stops in the village and limited services stopping directly outside the park’s entrance on Saturdays.

  • Walking and cycling routes exist from nearby villages, and bike racks are available at the Centre, though cycling is not allowed on the footpaths within the Nature Park itself.

Proximity to Lincoln

Being close to the historic city of Lincoln—known for its celebrated Cathedral and Medieval Castle—makes the Natural World Centre a popular day trip or complementary destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Natural World Centre Visitor Experience

Facilities and Features

The Building

The Centre’s architecture is modern and state-of-the-art, built with inclusivity and environmental consciousness in mind. The two-level building ensures full accessibility for visitors of all abilities, with ramps, lifts, and accessible pathways throughout.

Grounds and Surroundings

The Centre sits on the edge of one of the park's most picturesque lakes, Thorpe Lake, and is surrounded by diverse ecosystems: lakes, woodlands, grasslands, heath, scrubland, and ponds—creating habitats for a stunning array of wildlife.

Walking Trails

There are over six miles of well-maintained walks around the reserve. Trails are suitable for all ages and abilities, allowing visitors to spot up to 28 butterfly species (22 annually recorded) and a rich diversity of native and migratory birds. Nightingales, summer migrants, and waterfowl are notable attractions.

Menus, Shops, and Amenities

Boardwalk Cafe

Located to the left of the entrance, the Boardwalk Cafe is famed for:

  • Serving fair trade drinks and homemade cakes

  • Offering a range of locally sourced breakfasts and lunches

  • Weekly Sunday roasts

  • Catering for special events, including weddings, birthdays, celebrations, and business lunches

Stunning views of Thorpe Lake can be enjoyed from both inside the Cafe and from its outdoor Boardwalk balcony, a favoured spot for nature watching, especially at sunset.

Gift Shop

To the right of the entrance, the Centre’s gift shop stocks:

  • Local souvenirs and mementos

  • A wide selection of Fair Trade and environmentally friendly gifts

  • Traditional wooden toys and country goods

  • Unique items like dog beds made from recycled fabrics, with the centre’s mascot Georgie featuring in photographic displays

  • Seasonal and rotating products aligned with eco-friendly values

Educational and Interactive Opportunities

Interactive Exhibitions

Our Changing World, a lower ground floor exhibition, offers hands-on and technological displays focusing on ecology, sustainability, and our interaction with nature. These exhibitions are dynamic, changing regularly to reflect new scientific insights or community partnerships.

Education Centre

The Education Centre’s mission is to:

  • Provide curriculum-linked courses for local schools

  • Host teacher training sessions and workshops

  • Connect pupils with outdoor science and environmental studies

  • Organize themed event days, craft workshops, and seasonal activities for families

Family and Group Events

  • Birthday parties for children and adults

  • Themed holiday activities and events year-round

  • Guided walks led by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust

  • Community and cultural programs in partnership with local organizations

Goals and Mission

The Centre’s overriding goals are:

  • To foster appreciation and understanding of the natural world among visitors of all ages

  • To lead by example in sustainability, offering resources and inspiration for visitors to make environmentally-conscious choices

  • To support community well-being through accessible green space, education, and recreation

  • To act as a hub for eco-information: providing advice, leaflets, exhibitions, and direct support for local sustainability initiatives, schools (Eco-Schools), and businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact

Reviews, Reputation, and Awards

Visitor Feedback

Visitors consistently rate the Centre highly for:

  • The family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere

  • Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff

  • High quality of the cafe and amenities

  • Beautiful, accessible walks and nature viewing opportunities

Accolades

While no specific awards are cited directly in the available sources, the Centre’s opening by HRH Prince Phillip and regular features in local press and Lincolnshire tourism literature point to widespread recognition within the region for excellence in public service and conservation.

Press, Media, and Cultural Significance

Media Coverage

Over the years, the Natural World Centre has featured in:

  • Local news stories about environmental outreach, renewable energy exhibitions, seasonal wildlife sightings, and major events such as Sunset Dining evenings and special exhibitions

  • Tourism features for the region, highlighting its accessibility and family value

These features reinforce its role as a vital community hub and a showcase for Lincolnshire’s natural heritage.

Cultural and Social Impact

  • The Centre provides a tangible link between local communities and their environment, encouraging stewardship and pride in regional biodiversity.

  • It serves as a venue for public discussions and eco-events, blending cultural life with environmental awareness.

  • Seasonal events—from wine tastings and live music to art shows and craft workshops—give the Centre a lively, year-round presence in the local social calendar.

Noteworthy Programs and Services

Special Functions

  • Sunset Dining Evenings: Summer program of themed dinners with live performers, set against lake views.

  • Wine Tasting Events: Featuring local and British wines, often paired with produce sourced from the region.

  • Corporate or Community Event Bookings: The Boardwalk Cafe and various Centre spaces can be booked for celebrations and meetings, adaptable to both formal and informal occasions.

Eco-Information Centre

The Centre’s innovative ECO-INFORMATION service includes:

  • Distribution of green living advice leaflets

  • An Eco-Friends database for news and updates

  • Dedicated support for North Kesteven businesses seeking to improve sustainability

  • Partnerships with SustainNK and other local eco-projects

  • Public engagement through advice sessions with sustainability officers and free consultations for schools and community groups

Audience and Community

Who Visits?

The Centre attracts:

  • Families seeking educational recreation

  • School and youth groups for outdoor learning

  • Wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers

  • Walkers, dog owners, and casual visitors

  • Community organizations and event-goers

Community Role

  • An anchor for eco-education and local engagement

  • A gathering place for volunteers and conservationists

  • A source of pride for North Kesteven and the wider Lincolnshire area

Example Experiences and Testimonials

  1. Wildlife Walk: Join a Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust guide for a dawn walk, spotting nightingales (the site is the most northern breeding ground in the UK) and learning about butterfly conservation.

  2. Family Day Out: Spend a morning at the interactive exhibition, have a locally sourced lunch in the Cafe, and enjoy an afternoon lakeside walk—perhaps ending with ice cream on the Boardwalk balcony.

  3. Special Event: Attend a wine tasting evening featuring British wines, complemented by locally made canapés, or book a child’s birthday party themed around pond dipping and native wildlife.

Details and Practical Insights

  • Opening Hours: The Centre generally operates daily, with hours varying seasonally.

  • Access: Full disabled access, including toilet facilities and parking.

  • Cycling: Racks provided outside; no cycling on reserve’s marked footpaths to preserve wildlife.

  • Pets: Dogs on leads welcome on some trails and open spaces (restrictions may apply in the reserve).

  • Parking: Free for cars and coaches; disabled spaces available.

  • Transport Limitations: While rural setting adds to tranquility, public transport and foot/cycle access improvements are ongoing priorities.

 

The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park is far more than just a visitor attraction. It is a living example of how public spaces can successfully combine education, entertainment, conservation, and community spirit. Through its careful stewardship of the site’s habitats, commitment to accessibility, focus on sustainability, and role as a forum for local and regional culture, the Centre remains a beacon of eco-friendly recreation. Its legacy and ongoing work help define the greater Lincolnshire area as one of England’s environmental leaders.

 

NaturalWorldCentre.com