We were really pleased when we discovered that there were so many stunning countryside walks near Leighton Buzzard. Ivinghoe Beacon is a great option, however, if we want something even closer, then we head to Rushmere Country Park. It is only a 10-minute drive from us. It will probably become our favourite local place for a walk. You can easily spend several hours here exploring different trails and paths. The park is part of The Greensand Trust, which consists of several nature reserves, visitor centres, woodlands and lakes. It is definitely a must-visit place in Bedfordshire!

Things to do at Rushmere Country Park

Mountain bike
Hike
BBQ at the allocated place
Walk your dog
Discover the Sculpture Trail
Have fun at the playground
Spot birds from The Deck
Take a picnic
Find the Sundial
Horse ride
Eat at the cafe

Stockgrove Lake

This is a lovely little lake with remnants of an old Boathouse. You can walk around the lake and see loads of wildlife from ducks to squirrels.

Walking routes

You will find plenty of woodland walks with links to Stockgrove lake, Greensand Way and even Milton Keynes Circular walk. So you can end up with a big hike if that’s what you are after.
For families with children, I suggest the sculpture trail. It starts at the visitors centre. You can spot fairy doors, benches, a giant chair and spider. There is also a sculpture trail in the Oak Wood. The sculptures are not signposted, so see how many you can find. It is quite fun trying to spot new ones. You can easily take an all-terrain pushchair on these paths.

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Cycling at Rushmere Country Park

You can cycle to the park from the nearby villages on free public access paths. See details on the Rushmere Bike Routes Map. However, if you want to use the downhill trails and bike jumps you will need to purchase a ticket. There are day tickets and annual passes available. You can buy tickets online. There are trails for people with different abilities and you can improve your skills here while having fun. There is a great network of volunteers who manage the trails and keep it tidy. You can get up to date information on their Instagram.
The Pump Track near the entrance to the Downhill Zone is available to use free of charge and is ideal for younger riders as well.

Facilities at Rushmere Country Park

Toilets: You can find toilets at both entrances.

Cafes: You will find a cafe at both entrances.

There are a number of benches throughout the park, where you can rest or have a picnic, however you will need to take your rubbish home as waste bins are not provided.

Rushmere Country Park Parking

There are two parking areas. £3 fee is payable on exit. Consider buying an Annual Greensand Parking Pass if you are a regular visitor. Both car parks can get busy on weekends, but once you’ve walked a few kilometres it’s really peaceful.

Main entrance: Accessed via Linslade road. This is a big car park. You can pay by cash or card.

Stockgrove entrance: access via Brickhill Road. Smaller car park with cash only machine. (Or you can get a token at the cafe)

Rushmere Country Park Map

There is a map located at the car park, which shows the whole area. Once you start exploring the park, there will be signs showing the way to different attractions.

Rushmere Country Park Opening Times

They close the parking area every evening, so make sure to visit during the opening hours if you don’t want to get locked in. Last entry is 5 pm.

9 am – 5:30 pm

Rules to obey

1. No drones, kites or other model aircraft
2. No camping or open fires are permitted in the country park
3. Only use the bike park and horse paths with a valid ticket
4. Take your litter home! The park doesn’t have any general waste bins. However, you will find dog waste bins for bagged dog waste only.
5. Certain areas of the park might be closed down to help social distancing. If that is the case, please don’t attempt to use closed down facilities. eg. playground.