Biggleswade Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Biggleswade with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top things to do, places to stay, and local tips.


Introduction to Biggleswade

Biggleswade is a picturesque market town located in Bedfordshire, East of England, famous for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and attractive architecture. Home to over 17,000 residents, Biggleswade offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic English experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s cultural landmarks, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a cozy pub, Biggleswade has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Biggleswade

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Andrew’s Church: A beautiful medieval church that dates back to the 14th century and is known for its impressive spire.
  • Jordan’s Mill: A restored working mill that offers visitors an insight into the region’s industrial heritage.
  • Ivel Springs Nature Reserve: A picturesque park that has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique flora and fauna.
  • Biggleswade Museum: A local history museum that showcases the town’s rich heritage through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  • Old Warden Tunnel: A historic railway tunnel that has been converted into a nature trail, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s past.

Natural Attractions of Biggleswade: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sandy Hills: A hilly area that offers stunning views of Biggleswade and the surrounding countryside, and is home to a variety of wildlife.
  • Biggleswade Common: A popular spot for picnics, walks, and wildlife watching, featuring a vast expanse of heathland and woods.
  • River Ivel: A picturesque river that runs through Biggleswade and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxing by the water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Biggleswade

Biggleswade and the surrounding countryside offer several excellent hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Icknield Way: A historic trail that passes through Biggleswade and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Greensand Ridge Walk: A scenic route that covers about 40 miles and offers stunning views of the countryside.
  • The John Bunyan Trail: A 12-mile trail that takes you through the beautiful Bedfordshire countryside and historic villages.

Best Things to Do in Biggleswade: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Brewery Tour: Visit the local brewery and see how the famous Biggleswade beer is made.
  • Visit the Markets: Biggleswade hosts several weekly markets where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and other items.
  • Explore the Countryside: Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a bike ride or a picnic and soak in the natural beauty
  • Experience Local Culture: Attend a live performance, a concert, or local theatre performances.
  • Join a Group Ride: Join a local cycling club and explore the picturesque countryside while passing by historic landmarks.
  • Take a Food Tour: Try local delicacies and sample some of the region’s best cuisine.
  • Watch the Wildlife: Visit one of the area’s many nature reserves and see some of the local animal species in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Biggleswade

  • Day 1: Explore the town’s historical landmarks, including St. Andrew’s Church and the Old Warden Tunnel.
  • Day 2: Take a bike ride or hike through Biggleswade Common and enjoy a picnic.
  • Day 3: Visit Jordan’s Mill and take a tour of the restored working mill.
  • Day 4: Go on a food tour of the town’s local cuisine and try some of the region’s delicious dishes.
  • Day 5: Spend the day by the River Ivel and take a boat ride or go fishing.
  • Day 6: Visit one of the area’s nature reserves, such as Ivel Springs or Sandy Hills.
  • Day 7: Attend a live performance or concert and experience the local culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Biggleswade

Must-Try Dishes

  • Biggleswade Sausages: A local specialty made with pork and flavored with nutmeg, mace, and other spices.
  • Squab Pie: A savory pastry filled with pigeon meat, herbs, and spices, and topped with a puff pastry crust.
  • Cheese on Toast: A simple but delicious dish consisting of melted cheese on toast, served with salad and chutney.

Local Beverages

  • Biggleswade Beer: A traditional English ale brewed locally and known for its robust flavor and rich color.
  • Bedfordshire Clanger: A savory pastry made with suet pastry, meat, and vegetables, with a sweet pastry at one end.

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

  • The Crown Hotel: A historic hotel in the town center that offers luxurious rooms and excellent dining options.
  • The George Hotel: A stylish and modern hotel located near the River Ivel and the town’s many attractions.
  • The Old Piggery Guest House: A charming guesthouse that offers comfortable accommodation and a warm welcome.

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

  • Bedfordshire Lace: A unique and intricate form of lace-making that has been practiced in the region for centuries.
  • Biggleswade Ale: A traditional English ale brewed locally and known for its robust flavor and rich color.
  • Sandy Hills Honey: A delicious and fragrant honey made from bees that live in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Biggleswade

Biggleswade has a rich cultural heritage, and its residents take great pride in their local traditions and customs. Visitors to the town can expect to encounter friendly and welcoming locals who are always happy to share their knowledge and love of the region. Some local customs and traditions include:

  • Morris Dancing: A traditional English folk dance that is still practiced in Biggleswade and other towns across the country.
  • Plough Monday: An annual festival that takes place in January and celebrates the beginning of the agricultural year.
  • Biggleswade Carnival: A yearly event that features colorful parades, music, and other festivities.

Best Time to Visit Biggleswade

The best time to visit Biggleswade is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is in full bloom. However, the town is a great place to visit year-round, with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Biggleswade

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions: Take the time to learn about the region’s customs and traditions and show respect for them.
  • Try the local cuisine: Biggleswade has a unique and delicious culinary tradition that is definitely worth exploring.
  • Explore the countryside: The surrounding countryside is one of the town’s greatest treasures, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy it.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Help keep Biggleswade and its beautiful countryside clean and litter-free.
  • Be noisy: Respect the town’s peace and quiet, particularly in residential areas.
  • Leave without trying the ale: Biggleswade is known for its traditional English ale, so don’t leave without trying it!

Safety and Health

Safety in Biggleswade

  • Biggleswade is a safe town for visitors and residents alike, with low levels of crime and a friendly local population.
  • However, visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as locking their doors and windows at night and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Biggleswade

  • Biggleswade has several excellent healthcare facilities, including a local hospital and several clinics and pharmacies.
  • Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling to Biggleswade.

Getting to Biggleswade: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Biggleswade

  • London Luton Airport: The closest international airport, located about 30 miles from Biggleswade. Regular bus and train services connect the airport to the town.

Bus Stations Near Biggleswade

  • Biggleswade Bus Station: Located in the town center, this bus station offers regular services to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Train: Biggleswade has a railway station that offers regular services to London and other major cities.
  • Car: Biggleswade is easily accessible by car, with several major motorways in the region.

How to Get Around in Biggleswade

  • Biggleswade is a small town that is easy to explore on foot or by bike.
  • Taxis and car hire services are also available for visitors who prefer not to walk or cycle.

Where to Go Next from Biggleswade: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cambridge: A historic university town located about 35 miles from Biggleswade, famous for its beautiful architecture and winding waterways.
  • Oxford: A lively university city located about 60 miles from Biggleswade, known for its historic colleges and world-class museums.
  • London: The capital of England and one of the world’s greatest cities, located about 50 miles from Biggleswade.

Conclusion

Biggleswade is a hidden gem in the heart of England, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich heritage, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing and soaking in the local culture, Biggleswade has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover this enchanting corner of England for yourself!

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