Lakeside’s unique heritage

Built by the City of Nottingham Water department, Lakeside started life as a Victorian Pumping Station. The imposing buildings were built between 1870 and 1873 and set in 5.5 acres of landscaped gardens, including our picturesque ornamental lake with fountain and island.

Sadly, the Pumping Station fell into disuse in the 1960s and this magnificent building became derelict.

Restoration in modern times

After more than 35 years of neglect, the Healthworks Co. (Notts) Ltd bought the Pumping Station and its grounds from Severn Trent Water in 1997. Two years later, we were granted planning approval to start the £2.5 million restoration programme that’s made Lakeside the beautiful and idyllic leisure venue it is today.

We’re proud to have retained many of the building’s original architectural features, which give our Great Hall and Tower Suite areas in particular such unique character and atmosphere.

Recognising our historic significance

The importance of Lakeside’s buildings, including our landmark 172 foot tower, has been recognised with Grade II* listed status. And our grounds are one of 1,200 locations in the UK to be included in the English Heritage register of parks and gardens of special historic interest.

Historic photographs

Click here to view images of Lakeside as it was in Victorian times, and more recently during restoration.