Harrold-Odell
Country Park is an area of north Bedfordshire's beautiful countryside
for you to explore. Set in 144 acres, the Park's main features are
two picturesque lakes, which along with river meadows, woodland and
tranquil banks of the Great Ouse river, give a great variety of scenery
and makes for a great day out.
Harrold-Odell Country Park is owned by Bedfordshire County Council. |
| This
whole area of north Bedfordshire is of great archaeological importance.
There has been human occupation of the area since early prehistoric
times, with the river valley being the focus of activity. The Park
itself has a rich history of human activity which was uncovered in
excavations prior to mineral extraction. The remains of an Iron Age
farm dating back to the first century AD and evidence of a Roman Settlement
have been found. The area remained as farmland until sand and gravel
were extracted after the Second World War. Once the extraction had
finished, the area was restored to farmland with the addition of the
lakes - a common feature along Bedfordshire's quarried river valleys.
the lakes rapidly became important for wildlife and the area was acquired
by Bedfordshire County Council for a Country Park in the 1980's. |
| The
Friends of Harrold-Odell Country Park are volunteers from all walks
of life, and are vital to the management of the Park. We are pleased
to hear from anyone who has time to spare and who can help us with: |
- Conservation work
- Voluntary wardening
- Events
|
| Working with
us is a great opportunity to learn new skills or keep old ones alive.
Click here for further
details. |
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