Further Afield

The Lodge Nature Reserve

The Lodge nature reserve opened in 1961. The woodland, heath and acid grassland here cover 180 hectares, and are being restored to form the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire.

 

Walking on the RSPB Reserve

You can explore this attractive nature reserve along 8 km of trails, visit the beautifully managed gardens, the Iron Age banks and ditches on Galley Hill, or watch woodland birds from the hide. You can see a wide range of woodland species throughout the year, and spotted flycatchers and hobbies during the summer.

 

The shop, facilities and gifts

The shop has an excellent range of binoculars and telescopes, books, bird food and gifts. Guided walks can also be booked there. There is a picnic area, and snacks are available at the shop. The hide, gardens and toilets are all wheelchair accessible.

 

Information for families

Several events in the events programme, such as mini-beast safaris, are designed for families. RSPB Explorer Backpacks are available for children to use on the reserve. These contain binoculars, bug viewers, wildlife guides and activity booklets.

Dog Owners

Dogs are only allowed on the bridleway, not on other paths due to the sensitive nature of wildlife and presence of sheep.

 

Cycling at The Lodge

The Lodge is fast becoming a real cycling destination, with three routes available from Sandy. You can explore the woodland, heath and acid grassland here; we're restoring the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire.

National Cycle Network route 12 heads down Stratford Road, immediately east of the railway station, and leads to the southern end of the reserve, where a bridleway leads up through the reserve to the Gatehouse.

 

Enjoy your visit to the RSPB and hope you enjoy the birds and the nature trails around the Lodge.