Priory Country Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape without leaving Bedford, Priory Country Park is one of the town’s most popular outdoor attractions. Covering 360 acres of lakes, woodland, meadows and riverside paths, the park is perfect for walking, cycling, wildlife spotting and family days out.

Awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for its high-quality green spaces, Priory Country Park welcomes thousands of visitors each year and offers something for everyone, whether you’re enjoying a gentle stroll, entertaining young children or simply relaxing with a coffee overlooking the lake.

Location

Priory Country Park is located on Barkers Lane, Bedford (MK41 9DJ), less than 10 minutes from Bedford town centre and easily accessible from the A421. The park offers ample on-site parking and is also connected to the National Cycle Network and local walking routes. Priory Country Park

Things to Do

There’s plenty to enjoy throughout the year, making every visit a little different.

Popular activities include:

• Walking around the scenic lakes and woodland trails
• Cycling along dedicated paths
• Birdwatching from several hides
• Visiting the children’s play area
• Picnicking in the open meadows
• Nature photography
• Seasonal events and guided walks

The park is also a designated County Wildlife Site, with reed beds, grassland and woodland providing habitats for a wide variety of birds, insects and mammals.

Water Sports and Fishing

The park’s lakes are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Dinghy sailing
• Windsurfing
• Canoeing
• Kayaking
• Stand-up paddleboarding on the River Great Ouse

Priory Sailing Club operates from the park, with day access available for some activities at weekends. Fishing is also available in designated areas with the appropriate permits and Environment Agency rod licence.

Please note that swimming is not permitted anywhere within the park.

Family Facilities

Priory Country Park is well equipped for families spending the day outdoors. Facilities include:

• Children’s playground
• Lakeside café
• Public toilets
• Picnic areas
• Free parking
• Accessible pathways across much of the park
• Bird hides
• Visitor information

The park’s wide, mostly level paths make it suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and family bike rides.

Food and Drink

Overlooking the main lake is The Cloverdale Retreat, a popular café serving breakfasts, homemade lunches, cakes, hot drinks and cold refreshments. The outdoor decking offers beautiful views across the water, making it an ideal place to relax after a walk.

Admission

One of the best things about Priory Country Park is that entry is completely free.

Parking is also free, making it one of Bedford’s best-value family attractions.

Opening Times

The park is open daily:

• 6:00am – 10:00pm

The café and visitor facilities operate separate opening hours, typically during daytime.

Tips for Visiting

• Allow 2–4 hours to explore the park at a relaxed pace.
• Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
• Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at the lakeside café.
• Wear comfortable footwear, especially if exploring the longer walking trails.

Why Visit Priory Country Park?

Priory Country Park offers the perfect combination of nature, recreation and family-friendly facilities. Whether you’re feeding your curiosity about local wildlife, taking the children to the playground, enjoying a peaceful lakeside walk or getting out on the water, it’s one of Bedford’s most versatile outdoor destinations.

Its beautiful scenery, excellent facilities and free admission make it a favourite with both locals and visitors throughout the year.

One of Bedford’s Best Outdoor Attractions

Just minutes from the town centre, Priory Country Park is an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. With picturesque lakes, miles of walking trails, children’s play areas, water sports and a welcoming café, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the very best parks in Bedford.