[Dummy page] Rectory Wood, Cranfield

About Rectory Wood

Rectory Wood is one of the largest sites within the Forest of Marston Vale, covering 70 hectares (173 acres) alongside the village of Cranfield.

Planting began in 2003 and took place in phases over ten years, with the woodland completed in early 2013. Today, Rectory Wood is a well-established woodland, shaped by careful planning and ongoing management. Parts of the site were specifically planted with blackthorn and oak to support the rare black hairstreak butterfly, helping encourage the species to expand its range across the area.

Designed with both people and wildlife in mind, Rectory Wood combines native broadleaf woodland, open grassland and ponds with a network of paths that make it easy to explore throughout the year.

What you'll discover

Alongside its mixed native broadleaf woodland, Rectory Wood features woodland glades, open grassland and three large ponds, creating a varied landscape to explore throughout the year.

From the highest point of the site, visitors can enjoy views across the Marston Vale, while benches and picnic tables provide plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the surroundings. Rectory Wood also sits alongside the ancient woodland of Marston Thrift SSSI, adding to the site's rich mix of habitats.

Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore – from butterflies and birds in spring and summer to colourful fungi and changing woodland colours in autumn.

Visiting Rectory Wood

Rectory Wood is best accessed on foot, by bike or on horseback. There is no public car parking at the site, so we kindly ask visitors not to drive directly to the woodland.

On foot, Rectory Wood can be accessed from Holywell Road and Rectory Lane, with several entrances into the site, all shown on the map alongside. The woodland can also form part of longer walks, including a circular route from the Forest Centre (approximately 10 miles).

Cyclists can access the site via local roads and paths, with connections to National Cycle Route 51. Horse riding is also permitted throughout Rectory Wood, with riders able to enjoy the network of woodland paths and tracks, including a circular route from the Forest Centre of approximately 10 miles.

Planning your visit

Level, surfaced paths suitable for buggies and wheelchairs

Benches available around the site to rest and enjoy the woodland

Dogs welcome, please keep them under control and clean up after them

There is no public car park at Rectory Wood

No toilets on site

No swimming, fishing or fires/BBQs anywhere on site

By following this guidance, you’re helping the Forest of Marston Vale Trust care for Rectory Wood, for people and wildlife now and in the future.