Harrold-Odell Country Park

Harrold-Odell Country Park is made up of 144 acres of award winning green space which includes a nature reserve, two picturesque lakes and a stretch of the River Great Ouse. From April to November cattle roam in the river meadow. 

DISABLED ACCESS

Reserved spaces for the disabled are located to the left of the main car park, facing Grebe Lake.

Wheelchairs (x2) are available on loan for use in the Park. Please contact a Park Warden to arrange by telephoning 01234 720016.

A ramp provides wheelchair access to the Visitors' Centre on the Carlton Road side of the Centre. This also provides access to toilet facilities for the disabled.

The main pathway through the Park and around Grebe Lake has a hard but unpaved surface that is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs for most of the year. However, parts of the path can be wet in winter and after heavy rain.

All kissing gates in the Park have radar key access as does the Visitors' Centre toilet.

Both the bird hides in the Park are accessible to wheelchair users.

Wardens are available in the Park every day but are likely to be out and about. If you need to speak with a Warden, this is best done at lunchtime or at 5:00pm. Alternatively, they can be contacted on 01234 720 016 or messages left.

ACCESS 

Cars can enter the Park from the entrance on the Carlton Road, Harrold. The main car park is on the right and is free; visitors are encouraged to leave a donation in the boxes provided. The money collected is all used by the Friends of the Park to improve the environment for visitors and wildlife.

There are reserved parking spaces for the disabled to the left of the main car park and overlooking the lake.

An overspill car park operates when the main car park is full. However, this car park is locked after 5:00pm each day.

Pedestrians can enter the Park from a number of entrances, the main ones being at the Harrold and Odell ends of the Park. All areas of the Park are open to walkers.

Cyclists are welcome to visit the Park but cycling is restricted to the Harrold to Odell bridleway leading from the main entrance. The footpath around the main lake is limited to pedestrians only.

Bike racks are provided on the lake side of the Visitors' Centre.

Friends of Harrold-Odell 

The Friends of HOCP is a voluntary organisation that takes an interest in the Park, volunteers and supports the work of the park rangers. The Friends were awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2018. Membership is open to anyone and is free. Please email hocp@bedford.gov.uk for more information