Nestled in the east of England, Bedfordshire sits quietly between rolling hills and busy towns. While it may not shout for attention like some counties, those who look closer find a place rich in history, tradition, and natural beauty.
Bedfordshire is a mostly rural county near London, the only main towns being Bedford (which has England’s highest Italian population due to an immigration drive in the 50s).
And Luton (home to an airport with not-very-good reviews, yet there are plans to build a second terminal, which will negatively affect ancient hedgerows and wild orchids.
Wrest Park’s Grand House and Gardens
Wrest Park is a treat for garden lovers and anyone curious about history. The mansion and its 90 acres of parkland blend French, Dutch, Italian, and English garden styles—rare to see in England.
Walking here feels like stepping through history, with statues, fountains, and pretty woodland paths. The house itself traces different eras of design, making it easy to spot changes over the centuries.
Bedford’s Riverside Charm
Bedford, the county town, lies along the River Great Ouse. The Embankment, with its leafy walks and riverside cafés, brings people out all year.
Rowing is a big deal here, with regattas dating back to the 19th century. Bedford’s Victorian parks, museums, and regular street markets add to its easy charm.
Dunstable: Market Town at the Downs
Dunstable began as a market town, a legacy that lives on in its historic centre. The Market Square has traded goods for centuries, framed by sturdy stone buildings and the striking Priory Church.
At the edge of town, the chalk slopes of the Dunstable Downs rise up, giving Dunstable its striking setting.
Life here balances town comforts with rural calm. Shops, cafes, and markets fill the town with steady bustle. Dunstable offers the simple pleasure of a traditional English market town, with sweeping nature just minutes away.
Historic Villages Full of Character
From Old Warden’s thatched cottages to the centuries-old pubs in Clophill, Bedfordshire’s villages burst with character.
Many hold festivals and fairs, keeping old traditions alive. Explore village greens, tiny churches, and local tearooms for a true English countryside feel.
The Chilterns: Rolling Hills Just Outside London
The Chilterns (threatened by HS2 project) is a set of chalk hills covering over 660 square miles in Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to protect all creatures (keep dogs away from bluebells and other spring bulbs).
Nestled just outside London, the Chilterns offer rolling hills, leafy woodlands, charming market towns and sweeping countryside views. This National Landscape is packed with outdoor adventures, pubs with roaring fires and historic landmarks.
Nature thrives in the Chilterns. You’ll often spot badgers, deer, and foxes roaming hedgerows and fields. Red kites, once rare, glide above the valleys most days.
The Chilterns are a haven for walkers and cyclists. The Ridgeway, one of Britain’s oldest roads, weaves through ancient woodlands and chalky hillsides.
You’ll spot red kites soaring above, bluebells in spring, and peaceful villages on every route. Signposted trails suit every level, from family rambles to full-day hikes. Bring a bike for quiet lanes or challenging climbs with big views.
Villages here mix old English charm with friendly faces. Wendover, Amersham and Marlow stand out for their timber-framed houses and cobbled streets.
Each town has its own vibe, with cafés, bookshops and markets selling local honey and cheeses. Visit St Mary’s Church in Old Amersham or the riverside promenades in Marlow for a taste of Chilterns history.
The Chilterns are dotted with welcoming country pubs, some dating back centuries. Think low-beamed ceilings, roaring fires in winter and leafy beer gardens in summer. Many serve local beers and seasonal produce.
The Greensand Ridge, running east to west through Bedfordshire, links quiet woods, hidden lakes, and pretty heaths.
