Find places in Bedford

Box End Park is an outdoor leisure destination near Bedford centred around a series of lakes. Visitors can enjoy watersports including cable wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and open water swimming, as well as a café, accommodation and activities for all ages throughout the year.

Harrold-Odell Country Park is a popular nature reserve on the banks of the River Great Ouse, offering lakes, woodland and riverside walks. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, a children's play area, picnic spots and a café, making it a great destination for a relaxing day outdoors.

The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park in Marston Moretaine is a beautiful outdoor destination just a short drive from Bedford. The park features lakes, woodland, meadows and walking and cycling trails, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Forest Centre also offers a café, visitor facilities and activities, making it a great day out for families, walkers and cyclists. It wins extra points for accessibility.

Mowsbury Park is a pleasant and spacious local park in Bedford, with plenty of open grassland, walking routes, play areas and sports facilities. It’s a quieter, greener spot that’s great for families, walking the dog, getting some fresh air or enjoying a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

Jubilee Park is a well-used local green space in Bedford, with play areas, sports facilities, open space and a particularly good skate park. It’s a genuine neighbourhood park that’s popular with local children, young people and residents looking for somewhere outdoors close to home.

Russell Park is a beautiful riverside park in Bedford, perfect for relaxing, walking, picnics and family days out. Enjoy open green spaces, mature trees and lovely views along the River Great Ouse, just a short walk from the town centre.

The Kiosk in Russell Park is a great place to stop for refreshments while enjoying the park. Serving freshly made drinks, coffee, milkshakes, cakes, brownies and other treats, it’s perfect for a quick break after a walk, while the kids play, or before or after a round of Landmark Golf. Its location in the heart of Russell Park makes it a convenient spot for families, walkers and visitors looking to relax and enjoy something tasty.

Dive With Jimmy offers scuba diving experiences and training for divers of different abilities, providing opportunities to explore the underwater world with experienced guidance. Whether you’re new to diving or looking to develop your skills, it’s a great option for discovering local and overseas dive sites in a friendly, relaxed environment.

Canoe Trail is a family-run outdoor adventure business in Kempston, offering canoe, kayak and SUP hire, guided trips, courses and camping on the River Great Ouse. With climbing, high ropes, bushcraft and group activities also available, it’s a great choice for families, schools, corporate groups and outdoor adventurers.

Great Denham Country Park is a peaceful green space beside the River Great Ouse, offering scenic walking and cycling routes close to Bedford. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying nature, or getting some fresh air away from the town centre.

Tinsleys Riding School offers horse riding and equestrian activities for a range of ages and abilities. Visit to enjoy time with horses, build confidence and riding skills, and experience the outdoors in a welcoming setting.

Wrest Park is a spectacular historic estate and garden in Silsoe, Bedfordshire, cared for by the National Trust. Set within more than 90 acres of beautiful parkland, it combines grand historic architecture with formal gardens, lakes, woodland and peaceful walking routes. Visitors can explore the impressive mansion, discover centuries of history and enjoy the changing landscape throughout the seasons.