Bedfont Lakes Country Park

Bedfont Lakes Country Park is a 72.5-hectare Local Nature Reserve located in Bedfont, within the London Borough of Hounslow. It is recognised as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation due to its rich biodiversity and ecological value. The park features a mix of habitats including lakes, wetlands, wildflower meadows, and woodlands, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.

The land has a varied history. Originally part of Fawn’s Manor Farm, it was used for agriculture and was owned by the Duke of St Albans until the late 18th century. In the 20th century, the area was used for gravel extraction and later as a landfill site from the 1950s to the early 1970s. In 1988, The Rutland Group acquired the site and, working with Hounslow Council, transformed it into a country park as part of a planning agreement linked to nearby development. The park officially opened to the public in 1995 and was later donated along with an endowment to ensure its long-term care.

Today, Bedfont Lakes is home to over 350 species of plants, including field scabious, lady’s bedstraw, and the rare black poplar. It also supports over 150 species of birds, 124 species of moths, and a variety of mammals and fungi. The park has become a haven for wildlife in an otherwise urban area.

Facilities at the park include walking trails, a fitness trail, picnic areas, children’s play areas, and a dedicated dog exercise zone. It is a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature, and it serves as a successful example of urban land restoration and community-focused conservation.

Created: 20  April  2025  Edited: 20  April  2025