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Priory Country Park

Bedford, United Kingdom•4.6(3k)•Country Park, Nature Reserve, Playground

Explore 360 acres of lakes, meadows and woodland with walking trails, play areas, fishing, water sports and a lakeside café.

Priory Country Park is a expansive 360-acre green space featuring diverse habitats including lakes, meadows, woodland and reed beds, set within a bend of the River Great Ouse. This award-winning park holds Green Flag status, recognising its quality and management as one of four such parks in Bedford Borough. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities across the park's different zones. The park features multiple walking trails (red, blue and green routes) suitable for all abilities, dedicated bird watching areas with hides, and designated play areas for children. The on-site Cloverdale Retreat café offers fine homemade cuisine and refreshments with elevated decking overlooking the lake. For water enthusiasts, Priory Sailing Club offers dinghy sailing, windsurfing and paddle sports (day tickets available at weekends), while paddle boarding and kayaking are permitted on navigable sections of the River Great Ouse. Fishing is available with appropriate permits during the season (16 June to 14 March). As a County Wildlife Site, certain areas remain undisturbed to protect the wildlife habitats that thrive throughout the park. The park is ideal for families with children of all ages, offering free entry and facilities including toilets and on-site car parking.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 06:00 – 22:00
Tuesday: 06:00 – 22:00
Wednesday: 06:00 – 22:00
Thursday: 06:00 – 22:00
Friday: 06:00 – 22:00
Saturday: 06:00 – 22:00
Sunday: 06:00 – 22:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

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

☕ Food & Drink

Cloverdale Retreat

Cafe with elevated decking offering homemade cuisine, teas, coffees and cold drinks with views across the lake

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Google Reviews

4.6(3k reviews)
B
Ben Payne

Ben Payne

2 months ago

A fairly pleasant stroll awaits those who decide to meander around this park. It is large enough to get a nice decent walk or a 5k run if you do two laps. Whilst i haven't personally tried the food or drink available at the cafe, it provides a nice spot to chill and appreciate the sights and sounds. Nice big lake in the middle, however this is where the park slightly falls short for me as the water itself contains highly dangerous algae which prevents any form of swimming in the lake.

I
Isabel Prado

Isabel Prado

2 months ago

Priory Country Park is one of those simple places that ends up feeling special. In Bedford, it’s one of the main spots people go to watch the sunset, with a beautiful area where you can sit and enjoy the view right in front of you. It’s great for walks, slowing down for a moment and enjoying nature. The park also has a children’s play area, occasional events and live shows throughout the year, as well as a café inside the park. The café can be a little expensive, but it’s the only one there and I think it’s nice to support local businesses. I just wish there were a few more options on the menu and slightly more attentive service. Still, it remains one of the nicest places to relax in Bedford.

M
Mohammad Monerul Islam (Denar)

Mohammad Monerul Islam (Denar)

3 months ago

Parking: Entry is free, and there is a large main car park on Barkers Lane, plus an overflow area. Walking Trail: A popular circular route around the main lake is roughly 1.3 to 1.5 miles. Most of it is paved and flat, making it suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.

J
Jeremy Bradley

Jeremy Bradley

10 months ago

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.

S
Simon Roake

Simon Roake

11 months ago

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.

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Priory Country Park

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Priory Country Park

Is Priory Country Park free to visit?

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

What ages is Priory Country Park suitable for?

Priory Country Park is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Priory Country Park dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Priory Country Park.

Is there parking at Priory Country Park?

Yes, Priory Country Park has on-site parking.

Is there food at Priory Country Park?

Yes — Cloverdale Retreat is on site at Priory Country Park. Cafe with elevated decking offering homemade cuisine, teas, coffees and cold drinks with views across the lake

Is Priory Country Park pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Priory Country Park 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 Priory Country Park?

Priory Country Park is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Priory Country Park by public transport?

Priory Country Park is well-served by public transport.
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