‘Hidden’ Nottinghamshire waterfall that ‘hardly anyone knows about’ is the perfect place for a winter walk
The Lambley Dumbles were created during the last Ice Age
These days there are plenty of things that cost money despite never being used to, but thankfully enjoying the rich Nottinghamshire countryside remains absolutely free.
Obviously some of the county’s National Trust sites and historic estates charge visitors a small entry fee, but the majority of walking routes and nature reserves can be used for free all year round.
Some would argue that our neighbours in Derbyshire have the upper hand when it comes to natural beauty thanks to the Peak District, but Nottinghamshire more than holds its own in that department.
It’s just a case of knowing where to explore, with some beauty spots more well known than others.
Nottinghamshire perhaps isn’t a part of England you’d associate with idyllic waterfalls, but one area just outside Nottingham is crying out for visitors this winter.
The little-known waterfall at Lambley Dumbles
Located just east of Mapperley and Arnold, the Lambley Dumbles are an often-overlooked part of the Nottinghamshire countryside.
Before we go any further, it’s worth clearing up exactly what a dumble is.
Dumble is a Midlands term for a small wooded dell through which streams have carved out twisting and steep-sided gullies.
There are many different dumbles scattered throughout Nottinghamshire, particularly in areas close to the Peak District.
The Lambley Dumbles, however, lie just a few miles east of Nottingham city centre: not somewhere you’d expect to find a majestic waterfall.
It’s thought that the dumbles were formed thousands of years ago during the last Ice Age, having been carved from the soft sandstone beneath Nottinghamshire.
Those looking to explore the dumbles are advised to start their walk from the footpath running parallel with Lambley Primary School.
The footpath leads to a wooded area called Bonney Doles, from which the dumbles are accessed.
The full circular walk, taking in Lambley village as well as the dumbles, is 6.75 miles and should take around three-and-a-half hours to complete - so maybe leave it until a crisp winter’s day!
You can find the full route here.