Wetlands Nature Reserve The natural place to connect with nature Whether you’re a keen wildlife spotter or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Wetlands Nature Reserve is the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Nestled in the Millennium Country Park, it's a haven for a vast array of species from marsh harrier and otter, to water shrew and marbled white butterflies. Follow the Wetlands Trail for tranquil views across lakes, meadows, reedbeds, and woodlands. To protect these special habitats, dogs and bikes aren’t allowed in the Reserve, though they’re welcome elsewhere in the Park.Entry to the Reserve is £2.50 adults/£1.75 concessions - please pay at Reception in the Forest Centre(Photo: Marsh Harrier by Paul Fourie) Explore the Wetlands Trail The Wetlands Trail is a surfaced, circular route just under 2km (around 1.2 miles) long, starting from the meadow behind the Forest Centre and winding around the Pillinge lake. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk, whether you’re hoping to spot wildlife or simply enjoy the fresh air. Families and younger visitors will love following our Wetlands Safari boards along the trail, which bring the sights and sounds of the Wetlands to life. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, insects, and other wildlife that call this special place home! Download our seasonal wildlife maps: Spring map • Summer map • Autumn map • Winter map The Wetlands' bird hides The Wetlands Nature Reserve is home to three bird hides, and two viewing platforms - each offering a unique window into the lives of the wildlife that thrives here. Overlooking reedbeds, woodlands, and our purpose-built sand martin wall, these hides are perfect spots for quiet observation and photography. Don’t miss our unique tower hide and woodland walkway, where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view across the Reserve from six metres up - the perfect vantage point for spotting bittern, marsh harrier, and many other wetland species. Our expert volunteers also lead guided bird walks throughout the year, helping you discover even more of the Reserve’s feathered residents. Find a guided walk Become a Friend of the Forest Help protect and grow your Community Forest - and enjoy great benefits like free parking at the Millennium Country Park, free entry to the Wetlands Nature Reserve, and discounts in our gift shop, café, and more! Join today Wildlife and views from the Wetlands About the Trust We’re the Forest of Marston Vale Trust, a charity leading the environmental, social and economic regeneration of 61 square miles between Bedford and Milton Keynes through the creation of the Forest of Marston Vale. By planting trees, creating and managing diverse habitats, we’re transforming this area from a landscape scarred by industry to one where people want to live, work, and spend time. Because when nature thrives, we all do. We believe that trees make life better, for people, for nature, and for the planet. Find out more Opening times and directions About the Forest Centre About the Millennium Country Park Manage Cookie Preferences