In Things to do

If you want to escape the bustle of London this summer, why not head into Bedfordshire? Bordering the capital, Bedfordshire is full of fascinating places to visit, wide open countryside to explore and canals to ride as well as host of other family friendly things to see and do.

Here are some of our suggestions for things to do when in the county over the next few months.

Get outside

While there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy open spaces in the city, they are often crowded with others with the same idea, so heading to Bedfordshire is a must for anyone who craves wide open spaces. Bedfordshire is full of beautiful areas of wide open, green spaces for you to enjoy, some are privately run with entry fees, while other are completely open to the public and free to visit. In the warm weather, there are few things better than having a picnic out in the grass or going for a gentle stroll with stunning views. With the Chiltern Hills and Dunstable Downs among the many open spaces just waiting to be explored, you’ll find plenty to delight you here.

Learn something new

Bedfordshire is full of fascinating places to visit. Did you know it became the base of the BBC during WWII? Or that many European leaders sought refuge in Bedfordshire’s hotels during the war? Or how about that Henry VIII’s first wife was banished to the county while he was pursuing a marriage to Anne Boleyn? That’s not all, the concept of Afternoon Tea and tractors were also invented in Bedfordshire – these fun facts and more are all just a visit away, you can find out about several historical periods and notable people by heading to the county’s museums and castle ruins – many are free to visit! Alternatively, there is the Shuttleworth Collection where you can find a collection of war time vehicles among other things.

Meet some animals

Bedfordshire is home to two animal collections – ZSL Whipsnade Zoo and Woburn Safari Park, both of which are well worth a visit. That’s not the only places you can find some new friends, a stroll along the River Ouse might bring you face to face with an otter or two or there are a host of farm parks and even alpaca walking sessions for you to get involved with.

Looking for more suggestions of things to do in Bedfordshire this summer? Take a look at attractions and activities on offer here.

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