Bedfordshire Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bedfordshire with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring a list of places to visit, where to stay, what to buy and more.


Introduction to Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire is a historic county located in the East of England, UK. Known for its stunning countryside, medieval market towns, and picturesque villages, it is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its central location makes it an easy-to-reach destination from London and other major cities in the UK.

In this travel guide, we have compiled a list of the best places to visit, top things to do, and where to eat and stay in Bedfordshire.

List of Places to Visit in Bedfordshire

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Shuttleworth Collection: A museum that exhibits historic aircraft, cars, and motorcycles, located in Old Warden near Biggleswade.
  • Knebworth House: A picturesque house with beautiful gardens that dates back to the 1600s. Located in Stevenage.
  • Woburn Abbey: A 17th-century mansion that houses a collection of fine art and antiques. Situated in Woburn, Bedfordshire.
  • The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum: An art gallery and museum that showcases art and artifacts from around the world, located in Bedford.

Natural Attractions of Bedfordshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Chiltern Hills: A range of rolling hills that stretch across Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, offering stunning views and great hiking and cycling trails.
  • Whipsnade Zoo: One of the largest zoos in the UK, with over 3,500 animals, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Located in Dunstable.
  • The Forest of Marston Vale: A nature reserve with over 60 miles of walking and cycling trails, and plenty of wildlife to see.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire has plenty of hiking and biking trails for nature enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes to try during your visit:

  • The Greensand Ridge Walk: A 40-mile walk that starts in Leighton Buzzard and takes you through the scenic hills and valleys of Bedfordshire.
  • The John Bunyan Trail: A 16-mile trail that runs through the heart of Bedfordshire, passing by historic sites, churches, and peaceful countryside.
  • The Chiltern Way: A 134-mile circular walk that passes through Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Oxfordshire, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Bedfordshire: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Enjoy the stunning views of Bedfordshire from above with a hot air balloon ride.
  • Fishing: There are several fishing lakes and rivers in Bedfordshire, including the River Great Ouse, offering a relaxing fishing experience.
  • Stargazing: Bedfordshire has several dark sky sites that are perfect for stargazing, including the Barton-Le-Clay Observatory.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bedfordshire

Day 1: Visit Woburn Abbey and Gardens, and explore the town of Woburn.

Day 2: Hike the Greensand Ridge Walk and enjoy the views from the hills.

Day 3: Visit the Shuttleworth Collection and the Swiss Garden in Old Warden.

Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside of Bedfordshire.

Day 5: Explore the market town of Ampthill and visit the nearby Houghton House.

Day 6: Drive to Dunstable and visit Whipsnade Zoo, and then take a stroll through the beautiful Priory Gardens.

Day 7: Take a day trip to Cambridge, located just an hour away from Bedfordshire.

Food and Drink Scene of Bedfordshire

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bedfordshire Clanger: A local dish that is a savory pastry with meat and vegetables at one end, and a sweet filling at the other.
  • Luton Fried Chicken: A spicy, crispy, and juicy chicken dish that is a specialty in the town of Luton.
  • Plum Bread: A traditional bread made with dried fruit, honey, and flour, popular in Bedfordshire.

Local Beverages

  • Woburn Abbey Ale: A locally brewed beer that is available in pubs and bars throughout the county.
  • Bedfordshire Clanger Cocktail: A cocktail inspired by the Bedfordshire Clanger, made with gin, lemon, and honey.

Where to Stay in Bedfordshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Mansion House: A luxurious hotel located within the grounds of Luton Hoo estate, offering an indulgent stay in beautiful surroundings.
  • The Old Palace Lodge: A historic hotel situated in Dunstable, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  • Embankment Hotel: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Bedford, close to shops, restaurants, and the River Great Ouse.

What to Buy in Bedfordshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bedfordshire Lace: A traditional form of handmade lace that has been produced in the county for hundreds of years.
  • Bedfordshire Clanger: A frozen or pre-cooked Bedfordshire Clanger that you can take back home and enjoy.

Local Culture and Customs of Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to respect their traditions and values.

Best Time to Visit Bedfordshire

The best time to visit Bedfordshire is between April and September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the county has plenty to offer all year round, with its scenic countryside and historic attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bedfordshire

Do:

  • Do explore the countryside and take advantage of the hiking and biking trails.
  • Do try the local food and drink, including the Bedfordshire Clanger and Woburn Abbey Ale.
  • Do visit the historic attractions and learn about the county’s rich cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car when parked in rural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire is a safe place to visit, but visitors should take the usual precautions such as keeping valuables safe, locking doors and windows, and avoiding unlit and isolated areas at night.

Health in Bedfordshire

There are no significant health risks in Bedfordshire, but visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and obtain any necessary vaccinations before traveling.

Getting to Bedfordshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bedfordshire

London Luton Airport is the nearest airport to Bedfordshire, serving both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Bedfordshire

The main bus stations in Bedfordshire are in Luton and Bedford, with regular services to London and other major cities in the UK.

Other Options

The county is easily accessible by car, with good motorway links to London and other major cities in the UK. Trains from London also run frequently to Luton and Bedford.

How to Get Around in Bedfordshire

The best way to get around in Bedfordshire is by car. However, there are plenty of public transport options available, including buses, trains, and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Bedfordshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cambridge: A historic university city that is just an hour’s drive from Bedfordshire, offering beautiful architecture, museums, and punting on the River Cam.
  • Oxford: Another university city that is famous for its stunning architecture, museums, and galleries.
  • St. Albans: A historic market town that dates back to Roman times, located just south of Bedfordshire.

Conclusion

Bedfordshire is a beautiful county with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just want to relax and enjoy the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming part of the UK.

Lion Enclosure, Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire Lion Enclosure, Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire


    Ampthill
    Biggleswade
    Flitwick
    Luton