Hotels in Bedford

Bedford: Where Rivers Whisper and Lakes Reflect

Nestled in the heart of England, Bedford offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Stroll along the banks of the River Great Ouse, where serene lakes and lush parks invite relaxation. Discover the stunning architecture of the Bedford Cathedral and the remnants of Bedford Castle, which whisper tales of the past. The vibrant town centre boasts charming shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely day out. With its rich cultural tapestry and picturesque landscapes, Bedford is an enchanting destination that appeals to both the curious traveller and the romantic at heart. For our best hotel rates in Bedford and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Bedford

Some of the best places to stay in Bedford are St Neots, Woburn and Elstow. Bedford serves as a great base for exploring nearby charming towns. St Neots offers picturesque riverside views and vibrant markets, while Woburn is famous for its stunning safari park and historic estate. Elstow charms with its quaint village atmosphere and ties to John Bunyan. All three locations provide comfortable accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays. For first-time visitors, St Neots is ideal due to its scenic beauty and lively community vibe. Here are some of the best hotels in Bedford that our travelers love:

1. St NeotsOpens in a new window: St Neots is a charming destination known for its outdoor attractions and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, dive into creativity at Crafty Monkey Pottery Painting, or learn about the area’s history at St Neots Museum. For accommodation, consider The Blue CowOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets and offers high-end amenities. Another option is The Eaton OakOpens in a new window, a comfortable 4-star hotel perfect for pet owners. For those seeking adventure, The Waterfront Hotel Spa & GolfOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that caters to business travellers while providing exciting recreational activities like fishing and hiking.
2. WoburnOpens in a new window: Woburn is a family-friendly locale packed with cultural and adventurous attractions, including the historic Bletchley Park and the fun-filled Gullivers Land amusement park. Bell Hotel & Inn by Greene King InnsOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4-star inn, ideal for business travellers with essential meeting facilities. The Woburn HotelOpens in a new window offers a variety of dining options and entertainment, making it suitable for families. Woodleys FarmhouseOpens in a new window is a guesthouse that provides access to adventure sports, perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
3. ElstowOpens in a new window: Elstow is a picturesque area featuring family-friendly parks and historical sites like the Shuttleworth Collection. It is perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed environment. Mercure Bedford Centre HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that accommodates families and offers business amenities, making it versatile for various travellers. The EmbankmentOpens in a new window is an inn that allows pets, featuring essential services for a comfortable stay. Additionally, The Kingfisher Pub and HotelOpens in a new window caters to both business and pet-friendly needs, ensuring a pleasant experience for all guests.

Things to do in Bedford for first times

Three days in Bedford offers a delightful escape with its picturesque rivers and serene lakes, perfect for boating and rowing. Visitors can unwind at spas, enjoy leisurely golf, and explore scenic parks, all while soaking in the charm of this quaint town's natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bedford:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Bedford Park, where you can take a relaxing stroll amid its beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the serene environment. After soaking in the natural beauty, make your way to St. Paul's Church, a stunning example of Victorian architecture. Here, you can admire the intricate stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your day at Priory Country Park, where you can wander along the scenic paths, enjoy the tranquil lakes, and perhaps have a picnic while watching the local wildlife.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Shuttleworth Collection, home to a fascinating array of vintage aircraft and vehicles. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and learning about the history of aviation. Next, head to Shortmead House, a charming Georgian mansion that offers a glimpse into the past with its beautiful architecture and gardens. End your day at Potton Library, where you can delve into local literature and history, soaking up the cozy atmosphere of this community hub.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Bletchley Park, the historic site of World War II codebreaking, where you can immerse yourself in intriguing exhibits and learn about the fascinating stories of espionage. Afterward, make your way to Wrest Park & Gardens, a stunning estate featuring magnificent gardens and a grand house. Spend your afternoon exploring the beautifully landscaped grounds and discovering the park's history, before wrapping up your visit with a leisurely stroll through the gardens, taking in the stunning floral displays.

4 tips to find a great Bedford hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Bedford is during January, March, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For domestic travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure cheaper fares. International travellers should aim to book at least three months ahead for the best prices. A stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to take in the area’s main attractions, which include the picturesque river and lake, as well as historic churches. This budget-friendly destination offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore without overspending.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Bedford, look no further! You may discover great savings on hotels by visiting the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you're more likely to find discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging the best hotel deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Don't miss out on these potential opportunities for cheap hotels!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Bedford.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Bedford

Bedford experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.8°F (3.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 62.4°F (16.9°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Bedford are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.