Portland Park

Located on the edge of Kirkby in Ashfield, this tranquil park is ideal for taking a walk along the historic woodland paths and discovering an abundance of wildlife. Venture to the park’s ponds to spot a kingfisher and discover other birdlife habitats, or take a leisurely stroll through the woodland areas some of which are said to date back to 1600. This green space has many rare plant species, creating an area filled with fascinating natural history. The Green Flag Award winning park has pretty wildflower meadows that produce a stunning array of blooms in the spring months. Enjoy a picnic in the park or visit The Wild Rabbit Café, which has a fully-licenced bar serving hot and cold food and drinks. 


The history
Portland Park has woodland, grassland and a number of wetland areas found in the valley of a tributary of the River Erewash, bounded by used and disused railway lines. The meadow area was once a limestone quarry, which was infilled during the 1950s and the park is known locally as ‘The Quarries’. The site is based on a band of magnesium limestone that enables many rare plant species to grow, making it a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

How to get there
By car: Exit at Junction 27 on the M1, continue on Mansfield Road/A608. Take Derby Road/A611 and B6021 to B6020 in Kirkby in Ashfield.
By train: Kirkby in Ashfield station (0.9 miles).
Parking: There is a large main car park off Lindley’s Lane and a smaller car park a short walk from the Portland Park Visitor Centre with disabled parking.