November 24, 2025

The Wildlife Lodge with Kettering Nature Group

Kettering Nature Group (KNG) is working with Wicksteed Park to create something special: a building that will be alive with wildlife.

This project, called The Living Lodge, will turn an ordinary structure into a sanctuary. Bat boxes, bird boxes, insect hotels, climbing plants, and rainwater features will all be part of the design. Every wall and corner will be used to give nature a home.

More Than Just a Building

The Lodge is not about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a place where people and wildlife can meet. Imagine:

  • Birds nesting in boxes tucked safely under the eaves
  • Bats roosting in hidden spaces designed just for them
  • Bees and butterflies drawn to flowers climbing up the walls
  • Insects sheltering in hotels built from natural materials
  • Rainwater features that provide drinking spots and cool refuges

Every detail will be chosen to help wildlife thrive.

The Wildlife Lodge - Kettering Nature Group

A Place for People Too

The Lodge will be open to everyone who visits Wicksteed Park. Families will be able to stop, look, and learn. Children will discover how small changes, like adding a bird box or planting flowers, can make a big difference. Visitors will see how nature can be welcomed into everyday spaces.

The lessons won’t stop at the Park. The Lodge is meant to inspire people to take ideas home to gardens, schoolyards, and even city streets. A single act of care, like planting pollinator-friendly flowers, can ripple outward and encourage others to do the same.

A Vision for the Future

Kettering Nature Group believes the Lodge will become a beacon of care and creativity. It will show that buildings don’t have to be lifeless, they can be places where nature thrives. Visitors will be able to walk past it, sit beside it, and feel proud knowing they helped make it possible.

Community Support

This project depends on community support. Donations, large or small, will help bring the Lodge to life. Every contribution will play a part in turning walls into a sanctuary and creating a space that future generations can enjoy. Use the link below if you would like to donate.

Donate Here

Other News

world puddle jumping championships 2026

World Puddle Jumping Championships 2026 Winner Announced

A five-year-old girl from Leighton Buzzard has been crowned the World Puddle Jumping Championships 2026 winner after recording one of the highest scores in the history of the competition. Bonnie Howard scored top marks for enthusiasm and the distance of her splash in the annual event, held by Wicksteed Park, Kettering, since 2013.

New addition at Wicky's Farmyard: Budgies!

New addition at Wicky’s Farmyard: Budgies!

There is a new addition at Wicky's Farmyard: Budgies! 12 new budgies (budgerigars) have been introduced to Wicky's Farmyard at Wicksteed Park. This species of beautiful birds originally come from Australia and are very interesting.

Wicksteed Park Hedgehog Charter

Wicksteed Park Launched New Hedgehog Charter

Hedgehogs play a vital role within our ecosystems, predating on pest species such as beetles and grubs, aerating the soil and dispersing seeds. They are a gardener’s best friend! Their presence is a good sign of a healthy environment. Hedgehogs live in a variety of habitats including woodland, farmland, parks and gardens. They can also thrive in urban areas.