Stotfold Water Mill Local Nature Reserve

Situated on Mill Lane on the eastern edge of the town, Stotfold Mill Meadows Nature Reserve is a real hidden gem. Created on land leased by Stotfold Mill Preservation Trust from Central Bedfordshire Council, the Nature Reserve has been developed into a fantastic haven for wildlife by TEASEL the local conservation volunteer team.
When the site was taken over in 1999 it was featureless riverside pasture, but now after a lot of hard work, it is teeming with wildlife and is a welcoming place for the local community and visitors. In recognition, the site has been awarded both Local Nature Reserve and County Wildlife Site status as well as a CPRE Mark and Green Flag Awards every year since 2012.
The beautiful River Ivel is a major feature of the site and along with ponds, restored ditches and tree planting, the site now attracts a huge variety of wildlife. Look out for kingfishers, swans, buzzards, little egrets, heron, red admiral and painted lady butterflies, and if you’re really lucky, a water vole or an otter.
The path which meanders through the grassland and wetlands reveals some fantastic views along the river to the beautifully restored Stotfold Watermill, which is also well worth a visit. The reserve is mainly accessible for all, with board walks in the wettest areas. There is a car park open during the day, visitor information shelter, benches, pond dipping platforms and bird hide.
There are regular conservation tasks and a wildlife watch group meets monthly. For more information contact [email protected].