Priory Country Park
A 300-acre haven of lakes, woodlands, and grasslands, perfect for wildlife spotting, leisurely walks, and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness courtship rituals
Priory Country Park
Best Time
Witness courtship rituals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 300-acre haven of lakes, woodlands, and grasslands, perfect for wildlife spotting, leisurely walks, and family fun.
"A hidden gem in Bedford! One of the most pleasant country parks in the area."
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky; download a park map beforehand to easily find your way around. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore diverse terrains from lakeside paths to woodland trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lakeside Walks
Around the main lake
Enjoy picturesque views on a 1.3-mile tarmac path, perfect for all abilities and offering serene lake vistas.
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching hides
Spot diverse birdlife, including Gadwalls, from purpose-built hides around the main lake.
+1
Woodland Trails
Various wooded areas
Wander through mature willow trees and explore charming paths that wind through the park's woodlands.
Children's Play Area
Near the cafe
A large, enclosed play area provides hours of fun for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
+1Family & Dog Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky; download a park map beforehand to easily find your way around. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore diverse terrains from lakeside paths to woodland trails.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy good food, teas, and coffees at the park's cafe, with outdoor seating for dog owners. :coffee:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Spaces
Dogs are welcome on most paths, but must be leashed in conservation areas. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky; download a park map beforehand to easily find your way around. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore diverse terrains from lakeside paths to woodland trails.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy good food, teas, and coffees at the park's cafe, with outdoor seating for dog owners. :coffee:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Spaces
Dogs are welcome on most paths, but must be leashed in conservation areas. :dog:
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Fishing is available, but check notice boards for close season details. :fishingpoleand_வத:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Priory Country Park is a highly-rated, picturesque green space in Bedford, praised for its beautiful lakes, varied walking trails, and family-friendly amenities. Visitors appreciate the free parking and the pleasant cafe, though some suggest better signage for navigation. It's a beloved spot for picnics, dog walks, and enjoying nature.
"A hidden gem in Bedford! One of the most pleasant country parks in the area. Tucked away behind an industrial estate on the east side of the town - made up of flooded brick quarries, Priory park is very picturesque, lined with mature willow trees and has a set of interesting walks and paths around the lake. The café is a treat. Good food and teas/coffees."
Jeremy Bradley
"Decided to try this country park after coming across it on Google search.
There's plenty of parking, with an overflow car park and parking was free, with no time limitations.
We downloaded and printed off a map from the website before we left and decided to walk the red 4.5 mile circular route. Lovely area with lakes and rivers. We took a packed lunch with us and stopped on the way round at a bench and had our lunch. We was able to have our dog off the lead pretty much the whole time. Only in the conservation area we had to keep him on the lead.
We only managed half the route as we had our 7 year old with us. We found a suitable point on the route to head back to the car.
On the way back we stopped in the cafe for a slice of toffee cake and an ice cream.
Our son played in the park which was very well equipped.
We are already planning to go back and finish the other half of the red route."
Simon Roake
"The park is easy to access off Barkers Lane across a bridge over the river and into the car parks area. One is straight on and there's another to the left after going through the Park gates. The cafe is located by the car park that is straight ahead. Toilets are behind the cafe. Wheelchair access is via a ramp. Dogs aren't allowed in the cafe but there is a large deck seating area out front where dogs are allowed. The country park has picturesque lakes, river walks woodland walks and large open grassy areas for picnics and playing with the dog. There is a large enclosed play area for the children. Fishing is available and the site does observe the close season, see the notice boards for details. There is also a sailing club for those who like to get out on the water. Birdwatchers won't miss out either because there is a lot of wildlife in the park with purpose built hides around the main lake. The main lake has a tarmac path all the way around and is good for wheelchairs etc, it's nice and level, wide too. To go all the way round is 1.3 miles and about 45 minutes. Enjoy"
Heavy Dude
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible off Barkers Lane in Bedford. There are two main car parks, with the cafe located by the one straight ahead after entering the park gates.
Yes, there is plenty of parking, including an overflow car park, and it's free with no time limitations.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to reach the park, with routes like the one from Bedford Town Bridge.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, the park is located within Bedford, which has public transport links. It's recommended to check local bus schedules.
The nearest train station is Bedford Station, which is a short drive or bus ride from the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Priory Country Park is free, and parking is also complimentary.
The park is generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for exploration. Specific cafe hours may vary.
There is no admission fee for the cafe itself; you pay for any food or drinks you purchase.
While the park is open daily, specific activities like fishing observe close seasons, so check notice boards for details.
The park hosts various activities, including outdoor training sessions. It's best to check local listings or contact organizers for specific bookings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy lakeside walks on a tarmac path, explore woodland trails, and follow longer circular routes like the 4.5-mile red route.
Absolutely! The park has purpose-built hides around the main lake, making it a great spot for birdwatchers to observe wildlife. +1
Yes, there is a large, well-equipped, enclosed play area for children.
Yes, dogs are very welcome and can be off-leash in most areas, except for designated conservation zones. +1
The main lake path is tarmac, level, and wide, making it good for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Access to the cafe is also via a ramp.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located by the main car park that serves good food, teas, and coffees.
Definitely! There are many spots around the lakes and grassy areas perfect for picnics.
Dogs are not permitted inside the cafe, but there is a large deck seating area outside where they are welcome.
The cafe offers a selection of food, teas, and coffees, with reviews mentioning treats like toffee cake and ice cream.
Yes, you can find dining options in Bedford town, including places like Albero Lounge for brunch.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers beautiful scenery, including lakeside views, mature trees, and cornfields, perfect for capturing nature shots.
Yes, with its diverse birdlife and natural habitats, it's an excellent location for wildlife photography, especially from the hides.
Lazy summer evenings offer beautiful light, and spring mornings can be great for capturing active wildlife.
Look out for various bird species, reflections on the water, and the changing colours of the woodlands throughout the seasons. +1
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the park management or local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
+1 The cafe's outdoor seating area is a great spot to relax with your dog after a good walk. 🚶♀️ Nature & Birdwatching Enthusiasts
Take your time exploring the lakeside paths and woodland trails to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterways
The River Great Ouse also winds through the park, offering scenic riverside walks. These paths can be more natural and varied, providing a different perspective of the park's aquatic environment.
+1 Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk by the water or a more active exploration, the park's waterways are a central feature.A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond the birds, the park's diverse habitats—lakes, grasslands, and woodlands—support a rich ecosystem. Mature willow trees and cornfields add to the natural beauty and provide habitats for various creatures.
Visitors often enjoy spotting wildlife during their walks, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Family and Dog-Friendly Adventures
Dog owners will find the park particularly accommodating. Dogs are generally allowed off-leash, providing them with freedom to explore, though they must be kept on a lead in designated conservation areas.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit