Ampthill Park Manor That Was Held By The Family Of The Albini

Opening Times:
Daily 9:30am-4pm

Address:
Woburn Street, Ampthill
Bedfordshire

Phone: 01525 404355

URL: http://www.ampthill.org.uk/

Type of Attraction: Park

Some 18 minutes away from Bedford, you will find Ampthill Park, which is one of the most historic parks in the entire Bedfordshire County. One of the favorite hunting sites of Henry VIII, this former deer park is now comprised of an estimated 160 acres of parkland as well as woodland. These large expanses of space hold such amenities as children’s play area and the Ampthill Town Cricket, Angling and Football Clubs, as well as tennis courts and public toilets.

The Ampthill Park is more than just an amusement area where people can relax and take some time to take in the beauty of nature. It is a place that is steeped with historical significance, being the hunting seat of Henry VIII some 400 years ago and having been developed primarily by Lancelot “Capability” Brown during the 18th century. It is also the home to a diverse wildlife, especially insects, who depend greatly on the rushes and lush reeds that are abundant in the grasslands near the reservoir.

The Ampthill Park is quite old and can be traced back as far as 1086, when it was part of the Ampthill manor that was held by the family of the Albini. It has been the location of a royal residence since the 15th century and a hunting ground as well. In the early medieval times, the park also served as the market area of the town.