Bedelands Nature Reserve - Image 1

Bedelands Nature Reserve

Burgess Hill, United Kingdom•4.6(426)•Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore 33 hectares of ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and protected wildlife including Hazel Dormice at this free local nature reserve.

Bedelands Local Nature Reserve is a 33-hectare green space in the north east of Burgess Hill, owned by Mid Sussex District Council. The reserve features seven meadows set within ancient woodlands and is home to abundant wildlife, including the protected Hazel Dormouse. The site is particularly notable for its wildflower meadows, which are increasingly rare in the UK—only about 3% of the original number survive today. Both the Millennium Seedbank and High Weald Landscape Trust harvest seeds from these meadows. The reserve offers diverse habitats for exploration and discovery. Visitors can enjoy the natural landscape bordered by the River Adur and a large Mill Pond along the northern boundary, with several smaller ponds throughout the site. A fenced Dipping Pond with platform provides an ideal spot for children's groups and schools to observe aquatic wildlife. Bedelands is crossed by several public rights of way and remains open year-round, making it accessible to families and visitors from the wider area. The reserve is easily signposted from Maple Drive and Valebridge Road, and its free entry makes it an excellent destination for nature-loving families seeking outdoor education and wildlife observation.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

Google Reviews

4.6(426 reviews)
A
Alice Email

Alice Email

10 months ago

A nice nature reserve with a variety of different habitats. The dog walkers were very respectful as well. Unfortunately, it's located very close to some construction works right now, but otherwise a lovely place to walk your dog. The area is clearly well-managed, with little to no litter, and logs from nearby trees line the pathway in places to encourage sticking to it.

J
James Ho

James Ho

11 months ago

Bedelands Nature Reserve is a real hidden gem tucked away on the northern edge of Burgess Hill. The reserve offers a peaceful escape into nature, with a wonderful mix of meadows, ancient woodlands, hedgerows, and ponds. It feels surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to the town, making it a perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind, walk, or enjoy a bit of wildlife watching. The meadows are particularly beautiful in summer, when wildflowers are in full bloom and butterflies are everywhere. What makes Bedelands special is its rich biodiversity. If you are lucky you may spot woodpeckers, owls, and a variety of songbirds, while the ponds and streams are home to frogs, newts, and dragonflies. The management of the reserve has struck a good balance between conservation and accessibility, with footpaths that are well maintained but not overly formal, keeping the natural feel intact. It’s not a place for big facilities – you won’t find cafés, toilets, or playgrounds here – but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a nature reserve first and foremost, designed to be enjoyed quietly and respectfully. Parking nearby is limited, so it’s often best accessed on foot or by bike if you live locally.

P
Peter Perhac

Peter Perhac

2 years ago

Great place for a dog walk. Many friendly dog walkers there too. It is usually very muddy in the winter months so bring your Wellies. It's a lovely place for a picnic in summer. Most beautiful wild flower meadows to see in the spring. Winter is also very beautiful in Bedelands. We're so lucky to have such a wonderful place here in Burgess Hill.

S
Sabine Eifert

Sabine Eifert

2 years ago

What a pleasant surprise this place turned out to be. Just 7 min away from us, we were not aware of it before. Nice walks and a lot of information about the history of the farm. Very well done, very well signed, nobody can get lost here. We will be back.

R
Rebecca Vallance

Rebecca Vallance

4 years ago

Lots to explore, a brilliant place for a dog walk!, For family young and old. Good pump tracks for bikers. Beautiful open fields, woodland and a lake. My son found a swing and had a great time. Not a flat terrain, hilly in places. Social and friendly🙏♥️

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Bedelands Nature Reserve

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Bedelands Nature Reserve

Is Bedelands Nature Reserve free to visit?

Entry to Bedelands Nature Reserve is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Bedelands Nature Reserve dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Bedelands Nature Reserve.

Is there parking at Bedelands Nature Reserve?

Yes, Bedelands Nature Reserve has on-site parking.

Is there food at Bedelands Nature Reserve?

Bedelands Nature Reserve doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Bedelands Nature Reserve pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Bedelands Nature Reserve is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Bedelands Nature Reserve?

Bedelands Nature Reserve is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Bedelands Nature Reserve by public transport?

Bedelands Nature Reserve is well-served by public transport.
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