RSPB Nature Reserve The Lodge

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

You can explore this attractive nature reserve along 5 miles (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 has an excellent range of binoculars and telescopes, books, bird food and gifts. Guided walks can also be booked here. There is a picnic area, and snacks are available at the shop. The hide, gardens and toilets are wheelchair accessible.

Opening times

The reserve is open from 7am-9pm (or sunset when earlier). The shop is open from 9am-5pm on weekdays and 10am-5pm at weekends and Bank Holidays.

Entrance charges

Non-members: £4 per motor vehicle. Members, and those just visiting the shop, can park for free. Please obtain a ticket from the ticket machine in the visitors car park and display it in your vehicle.