Bedford,
Bedford is a historic town located in the heart of England, along the River Great Ouse. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with attractions such as the 13th-century Bedford Castle Mound and the iconic St Paul's Church. The town is known for its diverse population and vibrant community events, including the popular Bedford River Festival.
With a mix of modern amenities and picturesque surroundings, Bedford offers a charming blend of urban and rural living.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historic Bedford
morning:Start the day with a visit to the charming Bedford Park, enjoying a peaceful walk among the beautiful flora and fauna. Be sure to grab a delicious breakfast at The Longholme Cafe, offering a selection of freshly baked pastries and hearty English breakfasts.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon exploring the fascinating exhibits at The Higgins Bedford, a stunning art gallery and museum. For a delightful lunch, head to La Piazza, a cozy Italian restaurant serving authentic pasta and pizza dishes.
evening:In the evening, make your way to The Embankment, a picturesque riverside location offering a wonderful dining experience with stunning views of the River Great Ouse. Later, head to Herd Bar for a vibrant night-out, featuring live music and a great selection of cocktails.
Riverside Relaxation by Great Ouse
morning:Start your day with a leisurely boat trip along the scenic River Great Ouse, admiring the tranquil surroundings. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at The Lane Kitchen, a cozy cafe known for its delectable pastries and artisan coffee.
afternoon:Continue your day with a visit to Priory Country Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll through nature and even have a picnic by the stunning lake. For a delicious lunch, head to The Barns Hotel, offering a delightful riverside dining experience.
evening:In the evening, visit the Riverside Bedford, where you can enjoy a scenic sunset while strolling along the picturesque embankments. For a delightful evening meal, try Riverside Grill, serving delicious dishes with stunning river views.
Cultural Heritage and Culinary Delights
morning:Start your day with a visit to the iconic Bedford Castle Mound, offering panoramic views of the town and its historic landmarks. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at The Lane Kitchen, known for its delicious pastries and artisan coffee.
afternoon:Explore the renowned Panacea Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating history of the Panacea Society. For a delightful lunch, visit the Pavilion at Bedford Park, offering a selection of delectable dishes in a beautiful setting.
evening:For the evening, dine at The Embankment, a charming riverside restaurant offering a delightful dining experience with picturesque views of the River Great Ouse. Afterward, head to The Foresters Arms, a cozy pub known for its welcoming atmosphere and selection of fine ales.
Shop, Dine, and Unwind in Bedford
morning:Start your day with some retail therapy at the Harpur Shopping Centre, where you can explore a variety of shops and boutiques. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Paddle Steamer, a charming cafe offering a selection of scrumptious morning treats.
afternoon:Continue your day with a visit to St. Paul's Square, where you can relax and soak in the charming atmosphere. For a delectable lunch, visit The Embankment, a riverside location offering a wonderful dining experience with stunning views.
evening:In the evening, indulge in a tranquil dinner at The Swan Hotel, renowned for its elegant ambiance and delectable cuisine. Afterward, visit the Bedford Esquires for a vibrant night-out, featuring live music and a lively atmosphere.
Bedford Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Bedfordshire Clanger
A unique local specialty, the Bedfordshire Clanger is a pastry containing both sweet and savory fillings, traditionally a combination of meat and apple. It can be found at various bakeries and cafes in Bedford, including Gunn's Bakery.
Must-Try!
Bedfordshire Lardy Cake
A delicious and indulgent dessert, the Bedfordshire Lardy Cake is a sweet bread dough containing raisins and sugar, baked until golden and crispy. Look for it at local bakeries like Bread & Roses.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Bedford Charter Market
The Bedford Charter Market is a bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food stalls. Visitors can sample an array of global flavors from Asian to Mediterranean cuisine.
Pet sitters in Bedford
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!