Biggleswade is a busy town set on the River Ivel, which is easily accessible from London and the north of England, making it a popular spot for visitors to the county. The town is full of top quality accommodation from hotels to guesthouses offering a comfortable stay while you explore this interesting town.
Historically, Biggleswade was the heart of market gardening country, with much of the vegetables and produce being sold at the markets in London coming from the town. Many of the super markets all across the country still get their supply of UK grown vegetables from Bedfordshire Growers, who are based on the outskirts of Biggleswade. This is an important part of the town’s history and you’ll find that many of the original coaching inns that were in use during those days when fruit and veg were regularly transported to London and the neighbouring counties are still standing.
These original buildings are among some of the historical sites and attractions that can be found in and around Biggleswade. Perhaps Biggleswade's most famous son is Dan Albone (1860-1906), who invented his own bicycles and tractors at the Ivel Cycle Works, in fact the first practical tractor came out of his designs. This and other aspects of the agricultural heritage can be seen all over the town.
The Shuttleworth Collection, which is one of the UK’s largest collections of air craft can be found in the Biggleswade area and is a must for anyone interested in aviation and the region’s connection to war time history. You’ll find a whole host of interesting air crafts in the collection and is one of the region’s most popular attractions.
Biggleswade is the original home of Jordan’s Cereals, the original Jordans Mill is now a working museum and regular tours of the factory are hosted throughout the year, so keep an eye on the what’s on pages to see when the next tour is taking place. The town is also a great base for anyone wanting to explore the country houses and estates in Bedfordshire. Shortmead House is a nearby landmark with some glorious views and opportunities to take walks around the grounds.
If you’d rather spend some time getting back to nature, this agricultural town is a great place to start. Visit the Swiss Garden for some peace and tranquillity or view the town from above with one of the hot air balloon flights that are available.
While many of the original food businesses are now based elsewhere, Biggleswade is one of the places where you can still get the traditional Bedfordshire Clanger. This delicacy originated in the county from wives creating a portable meal for men working in the fields, it comprises of a suet pastry with a savoury filling at one end and a sweet one at the other. You’ll find them on sale at Gunns Bakery in the town. If you want something more substantial for your dinner, you’re in luck. Biggleswade has a busy high street which is full of independent restaurants and cafes as well as well known high street chains offering a wide range of cuisines, so you’ll find something to suit everyone’s tastes.
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