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Museums, History and Heritage

While you might already be aware that Bedfordshire’s neighbouring counties are full of history and heritage, you might not be aware that Bedfordshire itself is a hugely important county in terms of history.

The county of Bedfordshire is steeped in history from interesting stately homes to museums, galleries and links to the world wars.
It has long been associated with the production of tanks and aircraft and evidence of this can be found at various points across the county, especially in Luton. A collection of aircraft can be seen at the Shuttleworth Collection in Biggleswade, where you’ll see examples of some of the most impressive aircraft from across the world, including a 1942 spitfire which is in flying condition. You can also see a full size replica of Captain Cook’s ship, Endeavour at Stondon Transport Museum near the town of Henlow where you can explore over 100 years of transport. It is hard to miss the link to transport history with the Cardigan Hangar being visible along the main roads through the county.

This military history is also proudly remembered at some of the region’s most well-known sites, such as the Luton Hoo Hotel, which was formally a grand country home and the site of the Eastern Command Headquarters. Many of Europe’s heads of state sought refuge in this part of the world and Sir Winston Churchill gave one of his famous wartime speeches on the steps of the former home. Even if you’re not planning on staying at the hotel, visiting the grounds and seeing the magnificent building is a must if you’re in the area.

Those of you who want to delve a bit deeper into the region’s history won’t be disappointed either, the whole county is a site of historic interest.

Head to the Priory Church of St Peter in Dunstable, where it is said the Church of England began. Dunstable is also the site of Catherine of Aragon’s incarceration during her divorce from Henry VIII. The town of Bedford is the site of several petroglyphs which date back more than 500 years. As of yet, no one has agreed how or why these petroglyphs came to be or what they mean, why not take a trip to the town to visit these ancient works of art and see what theories you can come up with. Bedford has many attractions, including a museum dedicated entirely to John Bunyan, the author of the Pilgrim’s Progress, who came from the town.

Bedfordshire was also a central hub for the Roman army during their time occupying Britain, so keep your eyes peeled when in the area for remains of Roman roads, buildings and walls, which can still be seen today. In fact, brick making, which has always been a big industry in Bedfordshire, began under the Romans!

So, take a look at the range of museums, history and heritage attractions that are dotted all across the region and learn some fun facts to wow your family back home!

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Greensand Country

Address

The Old School, Cardington, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK44 3SX

Telephone
(01234) 838774

team@greensandcountry.com

Cardington, Bedford

Greensand Country is an area of distinct, beautiful and loved countryside, stretching from Gamlingay to Leighton Buzzard. Its 40 miles of scenic landscape follows the Greensand Ridge and reaches three neighbouring counties, from Cambridgeshire in…

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The Shuttleworth Collection

Address

Old Warden Aerodrome, Old Warden, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP

Telephone
01767 627927

collection@shuttleworth.org

Biggleswade

A unique historical collection of aircraft from a 1909 Bleriot to a 1942 Spitfire in flying condition, and cars dating from an 1898 Panhard in running order.

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Jordans Mill and Gardens

Address

Holme Mils, Langford Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 9JY

Telephone
01767 603940

info@jordansmill.com

Biggleswade

Step back in time
Jordans Mill’s charming location on the banks of the River Ivel was first mentioned as a milling site in the Domesday Book of 1086. Centuries later, in 1893, the Jordans purchased what was then called Holme Mills to produce flour.

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Wrest Park

Address

Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR

Telephone
01525 860000

wrest.park@english-heritage.org.uk

Explore the evolution of the English garden with a stroll through three centuries of landscape design at Wrest Park. From dazzling parterres and fragrant borders, to sweeping views and woodland walks, Wrest Park is a real treat for the senses.

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Stevington Windmill

Address

Stevington, Bedfordshire, MK43 7QG

Telephone
01234 824330

bromham.mill@bedscc.gov.uk

Bedfordshire

A fully-restored 18thC postmill.

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The Glenn Miller Museum

Address

Twinwood Events Ltd, Twinwood Road, Clapham, Bedfordshire, MK41 6AB

Telephone
01923 282725

info@twinwoodevents.com

Clapham

Museums include: Glenn Miller Museum, Aviation Museum, Home Front Museum and 1940s house, Motor Transport Section, Summer of '44 Museum and the Axis Museum.

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The Olde Watermill Shopping Village

Address

Barton Mill Lane, Barton-le-Clay, Bedfordshire, MK45 4RF

Telephone
0845 8720507

info@oldewatermill.com

Barton-le-Clay

This unique historic watermill houses gifts including fairies, glassware and candles. Our garden centre surrounds the mill pond and there are places to rest and relax.

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Someries Castle

Address

Hyde, Bedfordshire, LU2 9PL

Telephone
0300 3005511

Bedfordshire

Someries castle's name was derived from William de Someries who had a residence on the site. The site was acquired by Magnate Lord Wenlock in 1430 and work commenced on building the mansion.

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De Grey Mausoleum

Address

Church Lane, Flitton, Bedfordshire, MK45 5EL

Telephone
01223 582766

customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Flitton

A large mortuary chapel of the de Greys of Wrest Park containing fine sculptured tombs of monuments from 16th-19thC and some brass and alabaster.

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Elstow Moot Hall

Address

Elstow Moot Hall, Elstow Green, Church End, Elstow, Bedfordshire, MK42 9XT

Telephone
01234 266889

moot.hall@bedford.gov.uk

Church End, Elstow

Medieval Market house set on tranquil village green. Collection of 17thC furniture and items relating to life & works of John Bunyan.

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Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

Address

Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA

Telephone
01582 546722

info@lutonculture.com

Luton

Extraordinary Everyday
Discover Luton’s history through the stories of the museum, house and the town.

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Stockwood Discovery Centre

Address

London Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 4LX

Telephone
01582 548621

info@lutonculture.com

Luton

Discover the stories of real people behind the collections from prehistoric times today. With free entry, beautiful gardens, children’s playground and café, Stockwood is the perfect place for an adventure.

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