Bedfordshire On A Map
Introduction
Located in the heart of England, Bedfordshire is a beautiful county that offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover or adventure seeker, you’ll find something to suit your interests here. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top things to see and do in Bedfordshire, including hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
Bedfordshire is home to many top attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most famous is the Whipsnade Zoo, which is the UK’s biggest zoo and home to over 3,500 animals. Other popular attractions include the Woburn Safari Park, the Shuttleworth Collection, and the Bedford Corn Exchange. If you’re interested in history, make sure to visit the Wrest Park, which is a stunning stately home with beautiful gardens.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are great, don’t overlook some of Bedfordshire’s hidden gems. For example, the Swiss Garden is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon. The John Bunyan Museum is also worth a visit, as it tells the story of the famous author and preacher who was born in Bedfordshire. Finally, the Dunstable Downs is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a walk with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Food Scene
Bedfordshire has a fantastic food scene with many great restaurants and cafes. For a taste of local cuisine, try the Bedfordshire Clanger, which is a pastry filled with meat at one end and fruit at the other. There are also many great pubs in the area that serve traditional English food, such as fish and chips and roast beef with all the trimmings.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting Bedfordshire doesn’t have to break the bank. Many of the top attractions, such as the Dunstable Downs and the John Bunyan Museum, are free to visit. There are also many great walking and cycling routes in the area that are free. Finally, if you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel or camping to save money on accommodation.
Outdoor Adventures
Bedfordshire is a great place for outdoor adventures, with many beautiful parks and nature reserves to explore. Some of the best places for outdoor activities include the Woburn Safari Park, the Dunstable Downs, and the Forest of Marston Vale. There are also many great walking and cycling routes in the area, as well as opportunities for horse riding and fishing.
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, Bedfordshire is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. Some of the most famous include the Wrest Park, the Luton Hoo Estate, and the Bedford Castle Mound. If you’re interested in military history, make sure to visit the Shuttleworth Collection, which has a large collection of historic aircraft and vehicles.
Family-Friendly Activities
Bedfordshire is a great place for families with children, with many activities and attractions that are suitable for all ages. Some of the best family-friendly activities include the Whipsnade Zoo, the Woburn Safari Park, and the Gulliver’s Land Theme Park. There are also many great parks and nature reserves in the area that are perfect for a family picnic or a walk.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Bedfordshire has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. For example, you could take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside, visit the Stevington Windmill, or explore the underground tunnels at the Chalk Pit Museum. There are also many great local markets in the area that are perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
Natural Wonders
Bedfordshire is home to many natural wonders, including the beautiful Chiltern Hills and the Ivinghoe Beacon. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, head to the Stockgrove Country Park or the Rushmere Country Park. There are also many great walking and cycling routes in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Bedfordshire may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of great bars and pubs in the area where you can enjoy a night out. Some of the best include the Bear Club in Luton, the Bedford Esquires, and the White Lion in Dunstable. For live music, check out the Bedford Corn Exchange or the Stables in Milton Keynes.
Local Markets
Bedfordshire has many great markets where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Some of the best include the Bedford Farmers’ Market, the Leighton Buzzard Market, and the Ampthill Market. There are also many great antique shops and vintage stores in the area where you can find one-of-a-kind treasures.
Beaches and Mountains
While Bedfordshire may not have any beaches or mountains of its own, it’s still a great base for exploring nearby areas. The beautiful sandy beaches of Norfolk and Suffolk are just a short drive away, as are the stunning Peak District Mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider booking a day trip to one of these areas.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning more about the local culture and history, there are many great ways to immerse yourself in Bedfordshire’s rich heritage. Some of the best include taking a walking tour of the historic town of Bedford, visiting the Bunyan Meeting Free Church, or exploring the many local museums and galleries.
Art and Music Scene
Bedfordshire has a thriving arts and music scene, with many great events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the best include the Bedford River Festival, the Ampthill Festival, and the Bedfordshire Music Festival. There are also many great art galleries and theatres in the area where you can enjoy live performances and exhibitions.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Bedfordshire is on foot, and there are many great walking tours available. Some of the best include the Bedford Town Centre Trail, the Bedford Castle Mound Trail, and the Stevington Circular Walk. There are also many great guided tours available, which can help you to learn more about the local history and culture.
Architectural Marvels
Bedfordshire is home to many beautiful buildings and architectural marvels. Some of the best include the St Mary’s Church in Bedford, the Woburn Abbey, and the Luton Hoo Estate. If you’re interested in modern architecture, make sure to visit the iconic Hat Factory in Luton, which is a great example of industrial design.
Historical Sites
Finally, Bedfordshire is home to many important historical sites that are worth visiting. Some of the most famous include the Bedford Castle Mound, the Bunyan Meeting Free Church, and the Dunstable Priory. There are also many great local museums and galleries where you can learn more about the area’s rich heritage.
Biking Routes
For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, Bedfordshire has many great biking routes to offer. Some of the best include the Bedfordshire Cycle Route, the Dunstable Downs Cycleway, and the Greensand Ridge Cycle Route. There are also many great mountain biking trails in the area for those who are looking for a more challenging ride.
Wellness Retreats
Finally, if you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, Bedfordshire has many great wellness retreats to offer. Some of the best include the Champneys Henlow Health Resort, the Luton Hoo Hotel, and the Bodyflight Health Club. These retreats offer a range of treatments and activities, including yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.
Conclusion
As you can see, Bedfordshire is a beautiful county with a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, food, nature or adventure, you’ll find something to suit your interests here. So why not plan a trip to Bedfordshire and discover all that this amazing county has to offer?