
Mowsbury Park – free car park, 24/7 access, steps from sports pitches & country trails.
🚗 Type: Public Free Car Park (Bedford Borough Council)
🕒 Open: 24/7 (no charges or time limits)
🌟 Rating: 4.4/5 (Google Reviews)
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Spaces | ~80 bays |
| Disabled Bays | 4 marked bays (nearest main entrance; free with Blue Badge) |
| Surface | Level tarmac with painted bay lines |
| Lighting | LED bollards around perimeter (dusk–dawn) |
| Drainage | Channel drains; cleared bi-annually |
| Security | CCTV coverage; periodic Council patrols |
| Signage | Traditional “P” signs & Bedford BC information panels |
♿ Accessibility & Adapted Facilities
Blue Badge Bays: Four bays adjacent to paved path—free with badge displayed
Drop-Off Zone: Kerbside pull-in by community centre entrance
Pathways: Smooth asphalt routes to sports pavilion & playground
🚶 Walkability & Recreation Links
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Mowsbury Golf Course | 2 min | 18-hole course & clubhouse |
| Pavilion Leisure Complex | 1 min | Gym, pool & classes |
| Woodland Trail & Country Park | Adjacent | Walking, cycling & wildlife spotting |
| Tennis & Football Courts | 3 min | Bookable sports facilities |
🛒 Nearby Amenities & Services
Public Toilets: Pavilion Complex (access with leisure membership)
Café & Kiosk: Seasonal drinks & snacks by pavilion
Picnic Areas: Tables under pavilion canopy & lakeside benches
📅 Demand Patterns & Seasonal Variations
| Period | Occupancy | User Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday Mornings | 30 % | Golfers & walkers |
| Weekday Afternoons | 40 % | Leisure centre visitors |
| Evenings & Weekends | 60 % | Families & sports teams |
| Summer Weekends | 90 % | Picnic groups & tourists |
📌 Expert Tips
Early Bird: Arrive before 09:00 on weekends for easiest bays.
Blue Badge Holders: Use marked bays close to pavilion for shortest walk.
Weather Alert: Northern edge can pond after heavy rain—choose central bays.
Event Days: Sports tournaments can fill bays; use overflow at The College car park (5 min).
🔮 Future Developments & Planning
2025 Q3: Feasibility study for 4×7 kW EV chargers by pavilion
2026: Potential +20-bay extension on adjacent field (ref: BBC/PLN/2024/1152)
Accessibility Audit: PAS 1899 review scheduled for Nov 2025