While it is certainly getting colder, my love of nature and the outdoors still prevails. So it is well advised to wrap up warm when considering my top picks of nature spots in Wymondham. One of the best things about Wymondham is that, despite being a town, it is fortunate enough to retain some lovely pockets of nature.
The Lizard is a prime location, not just because it boasts grassy, wooded, and swampy areas to enjoy, but also because of the wonderful and relaxing ambient noise offered by the River Tiffey which runs alongside it. Following the public footpath from The Lizard, you can sometimes spot some cows or horses which makes for an enhanced walking experience.
Very near to the Lizard is the Silfield Nature Reserve. You can access it using the footbridge over the A11 via Rightup Lane. This area was specifically designed to offer habitat and protection for the Great-Crested Newt and thus is a great place to spot some wildlife. It's a very pleasant walk with lots of little ponds, which attract all sorts of different amphibians (frogs, toads etc.) and newts. As well as a real chance to spot some great wildlife, there is also lots of beautiful vegetation including wildflowers and lily pads.
Another top contender for me when it comes to nature in town is the Wymondham Cemetery. Just next to the station, this area is full of very tall and magnificent trees which attract lots of squirrels while offering lots of original charm. Apart from the occasional train, the cemetery is very peaceful with lots of paths to wander around the area. It's a great place for some quiet reflection or mindfulness. As well as the natural environment, the centre of the cemetery has an endearing chapel from the late 1800s to complement the scenery.
A similar location to the cemetery would be the grounds of Wymondham Abbey. It also offers a peaceful space with plenty of characterful trees and winding paths. Occasionally, there are some sheep in the field opposite which is always a nice addition to the ambiance.
Keeping with the tree theme, the small woods to the back of Kett’s Park is another gem. There is a very nice path which brings you through the woodland, though if you decide to venture off the path, I must mention that it can be incredibly muddy. As the trees are positioned in quite uniform lines, it's a particularly satisfying spot when sunbeams shine through them. This is a particularly great space to enjoy the turning of the leaves into wonderful oranges and yellows.
I hope this edition of Vic’s Picks spurs you to visit some of these nature spots or some of your favourites. I, for one, struggle to find the motivation to get outside and enjoy nature as the days get shorter and colder, but the benefit to my mood is definitely worth it.
