Things to do

Priory Sailing Club is a friendly sailing club based on Priory Country Park Lake in Bedford. The club offers sailing for all ages and abilities, including training, racing and social sailing sessions, with opportunities for both new and experienced sailors to get on the water.

Robinson Pools & Fitness is Bedford's flagship public swimming complex, offering a 33-metre main pool, learner pool and diving pool. The centre also features a gym, fitness classes and swimming lessons for all ages.

Royal & Derngate Theatre is the main producing theatre in Northampton, presenting a varied programme of drama, musicals, comedy, live music, dance and family shows. The venue also hosts touring productions, community events and creative workshops 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.

Shuttleworth is a heritage attraction near Biggleswade featuring a collection of vintage aircraft, historic vehicles and steam engines. Visitors can also explore Swiss Garden, enjoy a café and attend regular flying displays and family events throughout the year.

St Paul's Church is one of Bedford's most historic landmarks, featuring impressive Gothic architecture and a peaceful interior. Visitors are welcome to explore the church free of charge.

Standalone Farm is a working farm in Letchworth Garden City where visitors can meet farm animals, enjoy outdoor play areas and take part in seasonal activities. The farm offers hands-on experiences and educational events, making it a popular family day out throughout the year.

Stewartby Water Sports Club is a volunteer-run club on Stewartby Lake offering sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and open water swimming. The club welcomes members of all abilities and provides training, racing, social events and access to the lake throughout the season.

Bedford's famous riverside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk while enjoying views of rowing boats, bridges and landscaped gardens. It is one of the town's most photographed locations.

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.

The Higgins Bedford is the town's award-winning museum and art gallery, featuring archaeology, fine art and local history collections. General admission is free throughout the year.

The Kingfisher is a riverside pub and restaurant beside the River Great Ouse, offering food, drinks and a beautiful waterside setting. You can also hire Badger, its electric boat, for a relaxing trip along the river.