
Free woodland-edge parking at Lodge Lake – easy access to fishing, walking trails & play areas, 24/7 no-charge bays in Great Holm.
🚗 Type: Free Public Car Park (Milton Keynes Council)
🕒 Open: 24 hours daily (no gates or enforced hours)
🌟 Rating: 4.3 / 5 (visitor feedback for convenience & proximity to trails)
💰 Pricing & Permits
Cost: Free (no ticket or permit required)
Enforcement: Informal council patrols; please park considerately and keep clear of emergency access routes
Blue Badge Holders: Free parking applies; no marked bays but level spots nearest the lake
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Spaces | ~25 informal bays |
| Surface | Compact gravel |
| Lighting | None (daylight use only) |
| Security | No CCTV; passive oversight by park staff |
| Height Limit | None (suitable for leisure vehicles & vans) |
♿ Accessibility
General Access: Level gravel bays; firm surface suitable for wheelchairs to picnic areas
Drop-Off Point: Layby immediately outside car park entrance
Accessible Routes: Tarmac path from car park to fishing platforms and play area
🔌 EV Infrastructure
On-Site Charging: None
Nearest Chargers:
Caldecotte Lake Park & Ride (4×7 kW) – 5 min drive
Westcroft District Centre (1×50 kW) – 6 min drive
📅 Peak Times & Occupancy
| Timeframe | Occupancy | User Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays 07:00–09:00 | 30 % | Early dog-walkers |
| Weekdays 12:00–14:00 | 20 % | Lunchtime leisure visitors |
| Saturdays 10:00–14:00 | 70 % | Weekend families & anglers |
| Sundays 11:00–15:00 | 80 % | Groups & nature enthusiasts |
Pro Tip: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends for lakeside bays nearest the picnic shelter.
🚶 Walkability Score
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Lodge Lake Fishing Platforms | On-site | Direct access to licensed pegs |
| Adventure Play Area | 2 min | Natural-wood play features |
| Great Holm Woodland Trail | 3 min | Signposted walking & cycling loops |
| Loughton Lodge Pavilion Café | 5 min | Hot drinks, snacks & toilets |
| Caldecotte Lake (via cycle path) | 10 min | Extended lakeside walking & sailing |
🛒 Nearby Amenities
On-Site Essentials
Toilets: Pavilion block (open daily)
Refreshments: Café (weekends & holidays)
Boot Wash Station: Adjacent to main car park entrance
Local Services (by car)
ATM & Pharmacy: Westcroft District Centre – 6 min drive
Supermarket: Tesco Express (Caldecotte) – 5 min drive
⚠️ Important Notices
Parking is for day visitors only—no overnight camping or campervans.
Keep bays clear for emergency and maintenance vehicles.
Respect fishing licenses—car park is adjacent to permit-only waters.
📌 Expert Tips
Fishing Club Hack: Book pegs early in the week and arrive off-peak to unload tackle at the layby.
Family Day: Use picnic shelter next to play area—park close to the pavilion for quick trips.
Cyclists: Secure bikes at the rack by the café then enjoy the 5 km woodland loop.
🔮 Future Developments
2025 Consultation: Council exploring installation of 2×7 kW EV bays in overflow parking zone.
2026 Plans: Proposal to add solar-powered LED bollards and formalize bay markings.