Harrold-Odell Country Park

If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Harrold-Odell Country Park is one of Bedfordshire’s most beautiful country parks. Set across 144 acres of lakes, meadows, woodland and riverside scenery, the park is a haven for wildlife and a fantastic destination for families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.

Located around 20 minutes north of Bedford, this award-winning park is known for its tranquil setting, excellent walking trails and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the nature reserve, relaxing by the lakes or enjoying lunch at the café, Harrold-Odell Country Park offers the perfect escape into the countryside.

Location

Harrold-Odell Country Park is located on Carlton Road, Harrold, Bedford (MK43 7DS), approximately 12 miles north of Bedford town centre. The park sits between the picturesque villages of Harrold and Odell, making it easy to combine your visit with a stroll through the villages or lunch at one of the nearby pubs.

Things to Do

There’s plenty to discover throughout the park, with activities suitable for visitors of all ages.

Popular things to do include:

• Walking around the two picturesque lakes
• Exploring woodland and meadow trails
• Following riverside paths along the River Great Ouse
• Birdwatching from two dedicated bird hides
• Visiting the Dragonfly Pond boardwalk
• Nature photography
• Picnicking beside the lakes
• Cycling along the park’s network of paths

The park is a designated nature reserve and supports a wide variety of wildlife, including kingfishers, herons, dragonflies, butterflies and, if you’re lucky, even otters. Grazing cattle can also be seen in the river meadows during the warmer months.

Children’s Play Areas

Harrold-Odell Country Park is an excellent destination for families, with two separate play areas designed for different age groups.

These include:

• Play area for children aged 2–8 years
• Adventure play area for children aged 8–12 years
• Open grass areas for games
• Nearby picnic areas
• Skate park and basketball hoop

The play areas are located at opposite ends of the park, encouraging families to explore while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Wildlife and Conservation

One of the park’s biggest attractions is its rich wildlife. Managed by Bedford Borough Council, Harrold-Odell Country Park has held the prestigious Green Flag Award for many consecutive years in recognition of its outstanding management and conservation work.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Two bird hides overlooking the lakes
• Dragonfly Pond
• Wetland habitats
• Woodland and meadow ecosystems
• Seasonal wildflowers
• Excellent birdwatching opportunities throughout the year

The park is also supported by the Friends of Harrold-Odell Country Park, a volunteer group that helps protect and enhance this beautiful natural space.

Food and Facilities

At the heart of the park is the popular Dragonfly Café, serving breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes, hot drinks and light refreshments. Indoor and outdoor seating overlook the surrounding countryside, making it a wonderful place to relax after a walk.

Other facilities include:

• Visitor Centre
• Public toilets
• Baby changing facilities
• Accessible toilets
• Free main car park
• Cycle racks
• Outdoor gym
• Wheelchairs available to borrow
• Fishing platforms (permit required)

The park’s well-maintained paths make much of the site suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, although some routes may become muddy after heavy rain.

Admission

One of the best things about Harrold-Odell Country Park is that entry is completely free.

The main car park is also free and open 24 hours a day, making it easy to visit whenever you choose. Fishing is available in designated areas with the appropriate permits and Environment Agency rod licence.

Opening Times

The park is open 365 days a year, with the main car park accessible 24 hours a day.

Typical visitor facilities include:

• Dragonfly Café: Daily, approximately 9:00am – 4:00pm
• Visitor Centre and toilets: Daytime hours (times may vary seasonally)

Tips for Visiting

• Allow 2–4 hours to explore the park.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• Visit the Dragonfly Pond during spring and summer to see dragonflies and butterflies.
• Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at the Dragonfly Café.
• Wear sturdy footwear if you’re planning longer walks, especially after wet weather.
• Combine your visit with a stroll around the attractive villages of Harrold and Odell.

Why Visit Harrold-Odell Country Park?

Harrold-Odell Country Park offers a quieter, more natural experience than many urban parks. Its peaceful lakes, beautiful riverside walks and excellent wildlife habitats make it one of Bedfordshire’s finest outdoor destinations. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, a scenic walk, somewhere to spot wildlife or simply a relaxing place to unwind, the park delivers throughout the year.

One of Bedfordshire’s Finest Country Parks

With award-winning green spaces, beautiful lakes, family-friendly facilities and miles of scenic walking trails, Harrold-Odell Country Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bedford area. Just a short drive from Bedford, it offers the perfect combination of nature, recreation and tranquillity, making it one of the county’s very best parks.