Vicar Water Country Park

General information

Vicar Water Country Park can be found just to the south of Clipstone village, 5 kilometres from Mansfield. The 80 hectare park has been mainly formed on former colliery spoil tips and lies in the shadow of the headstocks of Clipstone Colliery. Today the spoil tips have been transformed into rare heathland, mature woodland and species rich grassland and offer spectacular views across to Derbyshire and Lincolnshire.

These habitats now support a large array of wildlife ranging from herons, kingfishers, foxes, rabbits, great spotted and green woodpecker, and skylark along with countless butterflies and dragonflies.

The park is also home to 2 well known bodies of water, the larger Vicar Pond where Clipstone Angling Club gives people the opportunity to fish, and the smaller Vicar Water which is home to many a duck and also Vicar Water Model’s boat club.

Entry is free of charge and there are toilets located within the visitor centre. The car parks are open from dawn until dusk and have an optional donation charge. The park has excellent footpaths and bridleways, meaning Vicar Water is a fantastic resource for walkers, runners, horse riders and cyclists. Route 6 of the Sustrans National Cycle Route actually runs through the park giving great access. 3 walking trails are available from the visitor centre which is next to a good sized car park.

The centre is also home to the Rumbles Catering Project which provides training in catering and life skills for young people with learning disabilities. The café offers good food and light refreshments.

The park has received a Green Flag award for excellence every year since 2000 in recognition of its high standards and is a designated Local Nature Reserve. The park is also an officially accredited Country Park by Natural England.