Bedford Tourist Information Guide
Bedford, in the centre of the county, is the county town, and also includes the nearby Kempston. No hills in the town centre to walk up here ! It's easy access to London means lots of houses as commuters enjoy a country life when they get home.
The town's history goes back to Saxon times, and was important in the reign of King Alfred before the Danes attacked it in 1010.
Bedford and Kempston has excellent shops the River Great Ouse making an attractive feature of the town. Take a stroll in Bedford Park, or walk the The Embankment, along the river with gardens and bandstand, watch the lights come on at dusk
The Harpur Centre has 30 quality shops under one roof. Bedford also has two theatres; Bowen West and the Civic.
One of the town's "claims to fame" is that John Bunyan wrote Pilgrims Progress while in Bedford jail from 1660 to 1672 and in 1676. His statue is in the town, and the site of the prison in Silver Street is marked.
Park and Ride scheme in operation to ease traffic jams.
Bedford Market is every Wednesday and Saturday alongside the River Great Ouse.
For visitors a Tourist Information Centre in the town will help you.
Bronham Mill Bridge End, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8LP
An 18th century Watermill. Bronham Mill information
Bushmead Priory Off Top End Road, Staploe, Bedford MK44 2LD
A 12th century Priory. Bushmead Priory information
Ceil Higgins Art Gallery and Museum Castle Close House, Bedford MK40 3XD
Art Collections in a Victorian Mansion. Ceil Higgins Art Gallery and Museum information
Bedford Museum Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD
In a converted brewery with local exhibits. Bedford Museum information
John Bunyan Museum Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU
The life of the famous author, pastor and preacher. John Bunyan Museum information
Priory Country Park Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9DJ
Lake set in a country park. Priory Country Park information
Elstow, Bedford
A lovely village on the southern outskirts of Bedford. Elstow information
Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL
Holds concerts and events. Bedford Corn Exchange information
Hotels
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The Embankment Bedford MK40 1RW MAP With a stunning location overlooking the Great Ouse River in Bedford’s town centre, the 18th-century Bedford Swan Hotel features a Roman-style pool and a hot tub. Its elegant restaurant boasts 2 AA Rosettes. Bedford Rail Station is only 1 mile from the... More Information and Book ... |
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Church Rd, Flitwick Bedford MK45 1AE MAP Nestled amid the tranquillity of acres of rolling gardens and parkland, this classical Georgian house aims to continue its ancestral traditions of hospitality throughout its 18 individually furnished bedrooms. For private functions or business meetings, ... More Information and Book ... |
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Cardington Road Bedford MK44 3SA MAP The Barns Hotel is situated in a beautiful riverside location, within 3.5 acres of landscaped gardens, yet just 10 miles (16 km) from the M1 and 8 miles (13 km) from A1. The tranquil setting offers views of the great River Ouse and the local country park... More Information and Book ... |
Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and other Hotels
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27 Shakespeare Road Bedford MK40 2DX MAP A 10-minute walk from Bedford town centre, Shakespeare Hotel offers rooms with free Wi-Fi, a bar and a restaurant. There is free private parking. The traditional en suite rooms at Shakespeare Hotel have TVs, tea/coffee, hairdryers and a wake-up system. A... More Information and Book ... |
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2 Rushden Rd, Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1RU MAP Located on the A6, this hotel is 5 miles from Bedford. It has a restaurant and welcoming bar with excellent food and a good range of Real Ales. The Queens Head Hotel was once frequented by musician Glen Miller During World War II. Now, guests who visit c... More Information and Book ... |
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Great North Road, Wyboston Bedford MK44 3AR MAP A 10-minute drive from St Neots, Robinson Executive Centre is located just off the A1/A428 junction. It offers executive-style accommodation, 24-hour reception, free parking and free wireless internet. Each room is spacious and modern, with a flat-screen... More Information and Book ... |
After you have exhausted the delights of this town, visit Harrold, a pretty village, or the Shuttleworth Collection of old aircraft at Old Warden
Towns Near Bedford To Visit - straight line distance:
Old Warden Tourist Information (6.50 miles) Sandy Tourist Information (7.47 miles) Harrold Tourist Information (7.58 miles) Ampthill Tourist Information (7.61 miles)
Bedford Tourist Information Centre
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Town Hall
10 St Paul's Square
Bedford
MK40 1SJ
Tel: 01234 221712
Email: touristinfo@bedford.gov.uk
- 01234
