A River Keeper's Year - guided walk

Take a stroll along the River Lark and find out what life is like as a river keeper, led by Bury St Edmunds Trout Club’s, Dr John Urquhart, and local Conservation officer; Rob Mulgovan.

The river Lark is one of only 200 chalk streams in the world; over an hour, you will be guided along half a mile of the river as it flows through West Stow Country Park, introduced to some of the wildlife and shown some of the restoration projects that Bury St Edmunds Trout Club has been undertaking in conjunction with WSCP. John and his wife, April, will also demonstrate upstream dry fly fishing. (in season). John and Rob will be available at the end of the walk to answer any questions and will be pleased to show any interested participants further aspects of the river

Dr John Urquhart, brought up in Scotland, has been fishing from an early age. Now retired, John spends his time as a volunteer river keeper and has written on the subject:

A River Keeper's Year
River Keeper's Year- Spring
River Keeper's Year- Summer
River Keeper's Year-Summer gives way to Autumn

Rob has always been in rivers, whether that be exploring streams as a child or rivers with a rod in hand as a teenager to man, water has fascinated him. His interest in fly fishing taught him to understand rivers, and to appreciate that rivers and their fish need conservation. Having worked previously for the Environment Agency and South Cambs DC, his wealth of environmental knowledge has put him in good stead to lead the Wild Trout Trust as their Conservation Officer for the East of England since 2017.

Further info
This is an outdoor event, please dress accordingly
Please be aware there is uneven terrain in the park, please ensure you wear suitable footwear.
Under 16s must be accompanied by a paying adult
Recommended for ages 8+
Dogs on leads permitted
Meet at the visitor centre
Parking fees apply (£3 all day)
Excludes admission to the Anglo-Saxon Village


Dates:14 August, 18 October 2025, 28 February 2026
Time: 11:30am (duration 1.5 hours)
Admission: £3 per person (under 16s FREE)
Booking: Please click the 'book now' button or call The Apex Box Office on 01284 758000

This event is promoted by West Stow Country Park, the Bury St Edmunds Trout Club & the Wild Trout Trust.