In Things to do

With a heatwave predicted for this spring, it’s a good time to get out and enjoy the countryside by visiting some of Bedfordshire’s prettiest parks and gardens. There are a host of places where you can set up a picnic or do a little sunbathing all without having to fork out any money and here are five of our favourites.

Rushmere Country Park
Leighton Buzzard
With over 400 acres of woodland, heathland and meadows, a sculpture trail, plenty of wildlife and a cycle track, this is a great place to spend a sunny day with the whole family. There are a host of facilities, like a café, toilets and specialist cycling facilities so children will be well catered for and it is dog friendly. In fact, the park is also horse friendly – there are riding trails and you’re welcome to bring your own horses for a ride across the park.

Wardown Park
Luton
Located in Luton is Wardown Park, which is also home to Wardown Park Museum and Galley. This is one of the busier parks in the county and is popular with families and tourists, particularly in the warmer weather when the boating lake comes alive. During the school holidays, there are a host of family friendly activities held at the Museum and a children’s play park, providing something for everyone.

Priory Country Park
Bedford
Famous in the region for its views and riverside walks, this is a lovely park for those that love being out in nature. The park is home to a variety of birdlife, with swans lazily swimming past and other water birds to spot while you make your way around. The onsite restaurant is the perfect spot for enjoying some refreshments in the sunshine.

Houghton Hall Park
Dunstable
For those of you who want a park suitable for dogs, head to this one. With 42 acres of parkland to explore and a dog friendly café for refreshments, this is a real hidden gem. Plus, for those of you coming from a little further afield, there is even a car park which offers free parking for several hours – plenty of time to enjoy the sun!

Bedford Park
Bedford
Another option in Bedford is this large park on the edge of the town centre. It is the larger of the town’s parks and has a lake, several play areas, an outdoor gym and several sports areas for those that want to grab some friends and have a kick around or a game of rounders.

Looking for other places to enjoy the sun while in Bedfordshire? Take a look at some other suggestions here.

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