Visitor FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions by visitors to Stanwick Lakes. If you are unable to find an answer to your question, please contact us on (01933) 625522 or email us via info@rftrust.org.uk.
When is Stanwick Lakes open?
Visitor Opening times
Please see the table below for the current opening times.
Date |
Site opening Times |
Visitor Centre Opening Times |
|
January to March |
7am – 5pm |
10am – 4.30pm |
|
April to September |
7am – 7pm |
10am – 5pm |
|
October – December |
7am – 5pm |
10am – 4.30pm |
Do I have to pay to get in to Stanwick Lakes?
Admission is charged for through a variable car parking charges. The site is free to those who walk or cycle in. Please see Car Park Charges for our charges.
There is limited parking for coaches for which there is a charge of £30 per coach. (Please note that anything larger than an 18 seater is classed as a coach.) This is effectively an admission charge for use of the facilities, and it applies whether large groups are dropped off or the coach stays on site.
Please contact the Rangers (01933 625522) in advance to book a coach parking space.
Do you have to pay for any other activities?
All other facilities on site are free. These include the adventure play area, assault course, adventure trail, bird hide and walking and cycle paths.
Cycle hire is offered in partnership with AJ Cycles at various times throughout the year, for which there is a charge. Bookings can be made directly.
We also run a programme of events throughout the year, including courses, historical talks, nature engagement activities and celebrations, with all event proceeds go towards the
Rockingham Forest Charitable Trust.
Can I walk my dog at Stanwick Lakes?
Dogs on leads are welcome at Stanwick Lakes. It is possible to let your dog off the lead as you head north out of the site along the former railway line – please refer to our reserve map for guidance. Dogs are not allowed in the adventure play area.
Are there any outdoor toilets?
Outdoor toilets are situated behind The Walker’s Rest. These facilities are accessible during site opening hours, and are locked at night. There are also toilets in the visitor centre, available during visitor centre opening hours only.
Am I able to have a barbecue at Stanwick Lakes?
An area just behind the adventure playground has been set aside as a dedicated area for barbecuing on our purpose-built brick BBQ stands. Bring along a disposable BBQ or your own portable BBQ, utensils and everything else required for an alfresco meal.
Before leaving the area, please ensure that you put out any embers using the water provided and dispose of the BBQ in the bin. We kindly ask that you take your rubbish home with you!
This is the only part of the site where barbecues are permitted as the majority of Stanwick Lakes is a nature reserve and conservation area.
Can I fly a drone at Stanwick Lakes?
Stanwick Lakes is a “no fly zone”. We are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (“SSSI”), a Special Protected Area (“SPA”) and a RAMSAR designated wetland – the flying of drones on site causes bird disturbance and is therefore strictly prohibited by members of the public.
Special permission may be granted to fly a drone in certain areas for environmental purposes.
Do not fly without explicit permission.
Can I fish at Stanwick Lakes?
Fishing is not permitted anywhere at Stanwick Lakes Nature Reserve & Countryside Attraction due to our conservation status. It is possible to fish just down the road at Stanwick Lakes Fisheries. The Fisheries have their own separate entrance off the A45. For further information telephone Phil Dunn on 07974 300015, www.stanwicklakesfisheries.com