Friends of Hill Rise Local Nature Reserve
A hidden gem near the centre of Bedford – Hill Rise Local Nature Reserve is a 0.9 hectare site owned by Bedford Borough Council and jointly managed by local volunteers and the Council. Despite its small size, the reserve is able to support a great variety of wildlife and there is always something to see at any time of the year.
We undertake lots of different activities, including path clearing and maintenance, dead hedging, raking and clearing the meadows along with general tidying. Volunteers are welcome to join as often as they are able, and do not have to stay for the full duration of the session.
The work to be done depends on the season, in late summer we clear the meadows, so lots of raking and grass composting. Over autumn and winter we clear any wood that needs to be cleared and build the dead hedge barriers back up. And then there’s always path clearing and general cutting back and tidying.
New volunteers are always very welcome, come and join us, tools and training provided. We’re a friendly bunch, and it’s great seeing the nature reserve prosper, plus there’s always tea, coffee and cake at the sessions.
Contact this activity
Details on this page are supplied by a third party and intended for information only.
We cannot completely guarantee the accuracy of third party information provided on this website.
We suggest that you contact the organiser to check details about the activity.
If this entry is not correct please let us know.
Date and time
We have regular volunteer sessions on the last Sunday of the month from September to March, usually in the morning 09:30 – 12:30. Plus ad hoc sessions through the year.
Accessibility
Access for wheelchair users and pushchairs is available but assistance may be required due to the steep slopes and uneven terrain. There are also some steep paths and uneven ground.
What to bring
We have some equipment, but if you can bring decent gloves and loppers that would be great, and of course a mug for tea/coffee.
Facilities
There are no facilities at Hill Rise, the closest public toilet in in Bedford Park, 5-10 minute walk away. Bedford park carpark is a 2 minute walk away.