Overview
Rushmere CP now includes what used to be called Stockgrove Country Park. There are two main vehicular entrances; Rushmere and Stockgrove, and both have their own car parks. Recently the National Nature Reserve of King’s Wood, Heath and Reach has been incorporated within the Country Park.
Managed by the Greensand Trust and jointly owned by Central Beds Council and Tarmac the CP covers 400 acres of woodland, meadow and heathland. There is also a large lake towards the Stockgrove end of the CP. A map of the park is at: https://www.greensandtrust.org/general-map-of-site
The 150ha National Nature Reserve (NNR) includes a large area of Rushmere Country Park, jointly owned by The Greensand Trust and Central Bedfordshire Council, and the parts of Kings Wood that are owned by The Greensand Trust, Wildlife Trust BCN, Central Bedfordshire Council and Tarmac Cement & Lime Ltd.
A Heronry is clearly visible from the Rushmere Visitor Centre and volunteers provide further information and telescope views.
Access
Situated along the Greensand Ridge, bordering with Buckinghamshire, the CP is located just outside the village of Heath and Reach, about 2miles north of Leighton Buzzard. The main entrance to Rushmere CP is at SP916278 along Linslade Road (W3W is ///tarnished.cuts.quitter) and the Stockgrove entrance on the Brickhill Road is at SP920294 (W3W is ///vibe.strain.half.)
Parking
There are two main car parks; they are ANPR monitored and both require payment. Signs to the Visitor Centre and main car park are clearly displayed at the Rushmere entrance. The Stockgrove entrance leads directly into the car park. Both locations within the park provide a café and toilets.
Birds
Grey Heron – Steve Blain
