Sanbig two

Verified Slow Way

Verified by 100.00% of reviewers

A good walk between Biggleswade and Sandy (the way I walked it). Large section to the south of the route traverses the River Ivel, and the north section takes in the RSPB , a cafe and toilets (check opening times) and a pleasant woodand section down into Sandy. Can get overgrown at times, and not great for wheels based on terrain underfoot (very lumpy, undulating, narrow and overgrown in sections). The route gets steeper as you approach the RSPB, be aware of cyclists coming down hill on the Bridleway from the RSPB - be prepared to give way quickly.

There are some issues (a couple of which linked to the gpx), which although not 'critical' (I found my way) - leave a little to be desired especially in summer. I have sided on verifying this route as is (just taken off a star), but may make a Sanbig 3 in future to correct these. The route is also saved by Biggleswade Common being open access, making the gpx issues less critical. They are listed below for reference during a walk.

1. North of Fairfield Sports Ground, the plotted route could be clearer. It is easy to follow the tyre tracks of the forked path left (walking North) by accident which leads you astray to the west unless you are observant and have an OS map and can find the footpath that rejoins the gpx. My advice would be to follow the gpx and be aware the track that is mapped here hugs the east side of Biggleswade Common - it is less obvious and used, could become overgrown in future.
2. Section by Shortmead House could be better plotted but is good enough to get by.
3. Section by Sewage Works (just south of tunnel cutting under the train track technically follows the footpath route, but walkers have cut an easier path along the E edge of the field.

You *could* cut across Biggleswade Common (still open access) to the East of the trainline towards Sandy, but there are numerous male cattle and horses in the field and potential boggy sections *untested* and the route sensibly suggests hugging the west margin. The permissive path leading to the RSPB from the common has recently been dug up by an excavator (as of June 2024) and is tough to walk on as a result.

Be aware of cyclists coming down hill into the RSPB.

I walked this. From Bigglesswade to Sandy. Its as described in the previous review but for a coyote of issues. On Biggleswade Common there was one stretch of path which had mot been maintained and had to battle through Brambles and Nettles. Then after going under the railway line the field had not been grazed for some time and had to wade through waist high wet long grass, thistles and nettles. Hence the 3 stars.

I walked from Biggleswade to Sandy on a hot spring day.
Quickly out of Biggleswade town to a stunning riverside path next to the Ivel. Then around the edge of the floodplain (Biggleswade Common) across grassy fields and under the railway line. More fields (probably wet in winter). A lot of spring grass and wild flower growth made the path indistinct. These fields are used for livestock grazing. Across a bridge and up towards The RSPB Lodge which is very beautiful, The path goes past a visitor centre, but it was closed (Friday, 26th May). More wonderful woodland walking and down a steep 19% hill to Potton Road which has a wide pavement/cycle path beside it, good views too. After 600m cross the road just before the bridge, past Ceasar's Camp, then backstreets to Sandy town center.
Kissing gates and narrow paths make it unsuitable for wheels.
A very lovely walk full of wildlife and nature.

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