Location: Bedford
Top Things to do in Bedford
Top 10 Free Things to do in Bedford, England
Bedford is the county town of Bedfordshire, England. The town has a population of around 80,000, whereas the Borough of Bedford had a population of 166,252 in 2015 together with Kempston.
Restaurants in Bedford
1. Eagle Bookshop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
We sell a huge range of secondhand books from rare and collectable gems to good quality paperbacks. We also have a comfortable (ie with lots of squishy seats) 'Bargain Book Zone' which is stuffed full of books at £1 or £2. Our books cover all subjects, and come from all ages. The earliest we have sold was printed in 1476! We now operate from magnificent premises in the heart of Bedford and welcome all who love books. We love books - and we love people who love books.
Reviewed By Tourist84903
The bookshop moved in October from the site pictured in Castle Road to one in St Peter's Street, next to Pizza Express and The Quarry Theatre. The change has been a huge success and everyone raves about it. Much larger range of books, and really committeed involved staff.
2. Rogan's Books
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Independent children's bookshop, original artwork gallery and welcoming space for book lovers! Specialises in books on feminism, LGBTQ+ and social issues.
Reviewed By HMDo70 - Bedford, United Kingdom
Rachael talks to every customer to understand the age, needs and interests of the children you're buying for. She has a particular interest in books with strong social messages and helping kids make sense of things so excellent for children with differences or going through challenging times in life. The shop also hosts other events so is really part of he community. Have a magical time and support a fantastic local business by spending your time and £££s here.
3. Butterfly Bridge Bedford
4. Priory Country Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 369 reviews
Reviewed By LINDAE129 - Grimsby, United Kingdom
Took the family to the Beefeater Restaurant, found on entering the park, for lunch, which was appreciated by all then decided to walk it off around the park and lake This park is well worth a visit A beautiful lake is the centrepiece and sets the scene and this is surrounded by the park This consists of a large area of grass (this was being cleared of equipment following a concert) but there was an enormous area for children to run about kicking a football or playing chase games There was also an area with weird park equipment which the children loved as it was so different There was also a couple of woodland walks which we ventured on These passed a hidden lake and had beautiful narrow walkways covered by overhanging bushes which formed an archway in places and made it all seem a bit fairytaleish. Quite idyllic We then stopped for a very nice ice cream from the small cafe on site Delicious All in all a good afternoons enjoyment was had by all Well worth a visit
5. The Higgins Bedford
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 186 reviews
The Higgins Bedford is Bedford's art gallery and museum. It's a place to explore collections of fine & decorative arts, world-class watercolours, local stories and find out about great Bedfordians. Changing exhibitions mean there is always something new to see. There is lots to do for all the family.
Reviewed By debrichgil - Bedford, United Kingdom
Should be nationally recognised. Firstly you have the rooms celebrating the history of Bedford from prehistoric to present. Then the exhibitions displaying the recent histories of immigrants to the town. Then a fantastic art gallery/rooms with pictures by Turner , impressionists, modernists, contemporary Art, etc. Then upstairs rooms of fantastic glassware, and pottery. Can take a few hours to browse your way round, then a look round the shop, before dining at the very highly rated Higgins Pantry. If you have any time left a visit to the next door Bunyan Museum, and .......Panacea museum. Three treasures in the centre of Bedford.
6. Panacea Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 135 reviews
Discover the amazing story of the unique religious community who created their own Garden of Eden in the centre of Bedford.
Reviewed By RabbitRoamer
If you are of a certain age you may recall the curious newspaper advertisements regarding Joanna Southcott’s Box and a form of spiritual healing ... this peculiar offshoot of Anglicanism and middle-class eccentricity was the source of these ... The Panacea Society itself existed as a religious organisation for nearly a hundred years until the last members died in 2012 ... but in its last years arrangements were made to transfer its work and assets to a charitable trust that became the Panacea Trust of today ... This is their Museum ... A fascinating place that strikes a neutral tone (it does not proselytise) as it guides you on a journey through social, political and religious thought of the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries (via Southcott, Wroe, Jezreel et al.) to arrive at the origins of the Panacea Society, and their surprisingly Feminist flavour of Anglicanism ... … and then there is THE BOX … All of this is excellently presented in various buildings around the Campus, which is a lawn area that the Society considered to be on the site of the Garden of Eden … you are most welcome to rest here in pleasant surroundings. There is a small but peaceful Chapel and a tea shop in the Founder’s House. Recommended for those with an interest in social history … and Edwardian interior design … An excellent visit, allow a couple of hours, there’s more than you expect, and could also be combined with a visit to the Bedford Museum and Art Gallery opposite … An unexpected Gem that is highly recommended ..!
7. Russell Park
8. Saint Paul's Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By futtock21 - London, United Kingdom
There are records of a church on this site in Anglo-Saxon times although the present building although essentially medieval has Victorian accretions. It was, however, during the Second World War, when the BBC moved most of its operations to Bedford, that Trinity Chapel achieved international prominence as the venue for services broadcast around the war. Today as the Civic Church for the Borough of Bedford and the County of Bedfordshire it is a focus for special commemorations and celebrations. There are regular concerts on Tuesday lunchtimes as well as recitals on the organ which was refurbished as recently as 2010. I was impressed by some contemporary paintings almost abstract in feel commemorating the stations of the Cross.
9. Bedford Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
Reviewed By RLDuke - Bedford, United Kingdom
Bedford Park is quite simply a stunning park with plenty of space for picnics (no BBQs!) and long walks with your friends. Picking up dog poo is an absolute must as this park is immaculate!
10. Art Centre & Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By kimdR8299SM
Found this little Gem while researching real Sourdough bread. Popped in this morning to buy some bread from the Companions bakery which is behind the Cafe. Though the Cafe could not serve at the moment I bought some delicious bread and locally sourced Honey and Jam. The Gentleman who served me was very polite. I will certainly be back
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