Bedfordshire is a small, densely populated county that lies in the heart of the East of England. Often overlooked because of the nearby well-known counties of Oxfordshire and Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire has many things to offer and places to see for tourists and visitors alike. With a focus on art and heritage, as well as wildlife in the countryside, Bedfordshire is a hub of interest. Read more
A welcoming waterside retreat sitting alongside the Grand Union Canal on the borders of Bedfordshire/Buckinghamshire. Perfect for large groups of up to eleven wanting to holiday together, relax by the waterside, fish, canoe or explore the area. Reduced rates for smaller parties. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Four very comfortable holiday cottages located on a three hundred acre arable farm on the Bedfordshire/Cambridgeshire borders nestling amongst beautiful rolling countryside. Sleeping from 2-18 guests, the cottages are ideal for couples, families and large groups. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Perfect for couples, Walnut is a comfortable holiday retreat sleeping two, situated on an extensive arable farm of some three hundred acres on the Bedfordshire/Cambridgeshire borders. Nestling amongst glorious rolling countryside, this welcoming cottage offers all the right ingredients to relax and is a good base for discovering the areas many attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Four very comfortable 4 Star holiday cottages located on a three hundred acre arable farm on the Bedfordshire/Cambridgeshire borders amongst beautiful rolling countryside. The largest of them all, Acorn sleeps up to eight guests with the other cottages accommodating parties of four and two, making them a popular choice with couples, friends and large groups of extended family. Plenty of attractions in the area for day trips out. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Four very comfortable holiday cottages located on a three hundred acre arable farm on the Bedfordshire/Cambridgeshire borders, perfect for large groups of up to eighteen. Sitting amongst beautiful rolling countryside, the cottages welcome couples, families and large groups of friends wanting to getaway together. Plenty of attractions for day trips out with convenient access to motorways. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Escape to the country in less than an hour from London Euston? Yes, please! This delightful self-catering cottage is in the quiet village of Winfield, only 15-minutes from Leighton Buzzard and within walking distance of a good pub. There is space for four people in two bedrooms, so it is ideal for couples, small families, friends and even people on business who are sick of cramped, boring hotels. Bedfordshire has beautiful country walks, excellent dining and shopping, theatres, country houses, zoos, museums, golf courses and spas. It is perfect for a romantic break or a family holiday.
Bellows Mill is perfect for families who can't decide between a holiday in the town or the country. It sits within 17 private acres on the edge of the Chiltern Hills AONB yet is within striking distance of places like Milton Keynes, St Albans and Watford. London, Oxford and Cambridge are all within reach for a day of shopping and sightseeing, or stay closer to home and explore the beautiful countryside footpaths and cycling routes. Nearby attractions include Whipsnade Zoo, Bletchley Park and Woburn Safari Park, and there are seven golf courses within a short drive. With space for up to seven people to sleep in three bedrooms, this former mill is an ideal year-round holiday destination that will keep everyone happy.
Located on a four hundred and twenty acre farm within Bedfordshire amongst beautiful rolling countryside, this 4 Star (Gold Award) holiday cottage sleeps two/three guests and is an ideal place to enjoy peace and quiet or explore the many attractions of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
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Home to many culturally significant buildings, Bedfordshire is great for the culture vultures out there. The Castle Lane Quarter is home to many of these, including the Higgins Art Gallery and Museum, which hosts a variety of artworks and exhibitions to visit. Surrounded by picturesque gardens and set in the beautiful Victorian house of Castleside, is the Panacea Museum. A unique place that is guaranteed to intrigue visitors, it focuses on the beliefs of a religious group called the Panacea Society. A trip to Bedfordshire would not be complete without visiting the John Bunyam Museum, author of The Pilgrim's Progress. Charting the life and times of Bunyam, it exhibits many of his personal belongings and unseen works.
The River Ouse and surrounding area provide a scenic backdrop to those who want to experience the outdoors of Bedfordshire. The Stotfold Water Mill and Nature Reserve are a great stop off for a bit of culture outside of the city. Boat trips are available down the river, as well as walking and cycling trails. Discover the woodlands and explore down by the riverbanks to find all sorts of natural treasures. For those interested in the sky rather than the ground, the Bird of Prey Centre is ideal. Based on the Shuttleworth Estate, it offers the opportunity to see over 200 birds of prey including eagles, falcons and hawks. The theme of animals and nature carries on with Whipsnade Zoo and Woburn Safari Park. Home to many rare and exotic animals including lions, rhinos, cheetahs and giraffes, the sights are unmissable. Whipsnade is the UK's largest wildlife park and the scenic views of Bedfordshire provide an amazing background to the adventures you can find yourself experiencing within the park.
For something a little less wild, the countryside of Bedfordshire is also home to many stately residences. Woburn Abbey offers the chance to learn about Bedfordshire over afternoon tea in an amazing setting. The Abbey holds a range of interesting trinkets and artefacts from the county. Another option is Turvey House, which has a collection of 18th and 19th century furniture, art and books. The beautiful gardens that enclose this stately home are open for visitors to meander around.
Bedfordshire is a perfect place for lovers of the arts. Whether you opt for a day in the museums, galleries or affluent countryside homes, there are opportunities to see art, history and literature everywhere. For those who want to be more free, the natural parks and wildlife reserves of Bedfordshire provide great entertainment and exciting days out for the whole family.
