Felmersham Gravel Pits
Sightseeing attraction | Bedford | England | United Kingdom
The "Felmersham Gravel Pits" in Bedford, England, are a fascinating sight that serves as an impressive example of the transformation of an industrial site into a valuable nature reserve. This 21.6-hectare area is located between the villages of Felmersham and Sharnbrook in Bedfordshire and was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1986 under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981. The area is managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire, which works to protect and promote local flora and fauna. The former gravel pits, which were used until around 1945, have evolved into a mosaic of lakes, grassland, scrub, and deciduous woodland that now hosts a rich biodiversity.
The origins of the Felmersham Gravel Pits date back to the time of World War II, when gravel and sand were extracted to build local airfields and other military facilities. After the extraction ceased, the pits filled with water, creating the basis for the landscape we see today. Over time, the disused gravel pits transformed into an ecological paradise cherished by nature enthusiasts. The proximity to the River Great Ouse enhances the diversity of species, serving as a corridor for migrating animals and providing additional habitats. Today, the area is considered one of the best in Bedfordshire for observing dragonflies and damselflies, with at least 18 species breeding here, including rare representatives like the hairy dragonfly or white-legged damselfly.
The nature reserve encompasses several different habitats. The lakes, which form the heart of the Gravel Pits, attract a variety of waterfowl, including great crested grebes, teal, and tufted ducks that gather on the open water, while grey herons lurk along the shores for prey. Rare aquatic plants such as water milfoil and water chestnut thrive in the deeper water areas due to undisturbed conditions. The shallower shore zones are characterized by reed beds and common reed, providing not only shelter but also enriching the aesthetics of the landscape. The surrounding grassland is rich in wildflowers like black knapweed, spotted orchid, and lady's bedstraw, flanked by hedges of dog rose, hawthorn, and blackthorn serving as a food source for insects. The area is complemented by deciduous woodland dominated by willows, providing habitat for numerous bird species such as reed warblers, marsh tits, and willow warblers.
The ecological significance of the Felmersham Gravel Pits is underscored by their role as breeding and resting sites for migratory birds. In addition to waterfowl, rare species like the cuckoo or green woodpecker can be found here, while butterflies like the white admiral benefit from the regrowing elm trees. The Wildlife Trust maintains the area through targeted measures such as pruning willows, managing scrubland, and grazing meadows with cattle to control vegetation and promote habitat diversity. These efforts help maintain the balance between open spaces and dense vegetation, benefitting both wildlife and the beauty of the place.
For visitors, the Felmersham Gravel Pits are an ideal spot for peaceful walks and nature observation. A well-maintained circular path leads through the site, allowing exploration of the various habitats. The path is mostly flat but can become muddy in wet weather, and includes a low fence stile at one point leading to an adjacent field before returning. The lakes are dotted with tree islands providing shelter for birds and adding a special touch to the landscape. The peaceful atmosphere, interrupted only by bird songs and the sound of water, makes the area a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Anglers have the opportunity to fish with a special permit from the Wildlife Trust, with a clear focus on conservation.
The surroundings of the Gravel Pits are characterized by the gentle landscape of Bedfordshire, with the River Great Ouse serving as a natural boundary to the north, east, and south of the nearby Felmersham. The proximity to other villages like Sharnbrook and Odell offers opportunities to combine a visit with further explorations in the region. However, the Felmersham Gravel Pits are not an overcrowded tourist attraction – their seclusion and modest infrastructure contribute to a sense of discovery appreciated by many visitors.
In summary, the "Felmersham Gravel Pits" in Bedford are a sight that combines nature, history, and ecology in an impressive way. They tell the story of the transformation of a gravel extraction area into a thriving nature reserve, providing a sanctuary for rare plants and animals as well as nature lovers. For visitors, it is a place of tranquility and observation, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Bedfordshire landscape - a hidden gem that vividly demonstrates the power of nature and the importance of conservation.
