11 Great Reasons to Live in Bedford
Bedford, located on the banks of the River Great Ouse, is a highly sought-after location within Bedfordshire County.
It has much to offer those seeking a change in lifestyle with connectivity, charm, access to great amenities, and top-tier educational institutions, all within easy reach.
Once considered just another commuter town, Bedford has become an extremely desirable place to live in recent years.
The area’s popularity is partly thanks to the range of amazing benefits people can make the most of when living here.
The town is rich in culture and heritage, with the Higgins Bedford, an impressive art gallery and museum, showcasing local history and art, providing a great look into the town’s storied past.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the beautiful parks and the unique Bedford Green Wheel, a network of cycling and walking paths that connects various outdoor spaces around the town.
Ultimately, what makes the Bedford lifestyle truly special is its strong sense of community, something many appreciate and actively search for in a place to settle in the long term.
Regular events, vibrant markets which have been held weekly since the 1500s and friendly neighbourhoods create an inviting atmosphere that makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Whether you’re drawn by its convenience, cultural richness, educational opportunities, or community spirit, living in Bedford promises a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
Here are 11 amazing factors to keep in mind when considering moving to the area.
1.) Discovering Bedford’s Historic Charm
The town is packed with a rich history ready to be explored.
Let’s kick things off with a quick walk through the historic streets of the town.
Bedford’s history dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period when it was established as a ford across the River Ouse.
It became a significant settlement in the medieval era as the site of Bedford Castle, a stronghold during the Norman Conquest.
Bedford’s role in trade and agriculture flourished throughout the centuries, later becoming a hub for lacemaking.
In the 20th century, it experienced an influx of Italian immigrants, shaping its modern multicultural identity.
Today, Bedford combines its historical past with modern life, which is reflected in its diverse heritage.
For those eager to connect with the town’s past, the Panacea Museum is an intriguing attraction that delves into the life of a secretive religious society that once believed Bedford to be the site of a new Garden of Eden!
Here, you’ll uncover the remarkable stories of the Panacea Society, which flourished in the 20th century and left a lasting legacy on the town’s cultural landscape.
Visitors are guided through the group’s curious practices, historical roots, and the influence they had on Bedford, the ramifications of which can still be seen today!
Another must-see is the Higgins Bedford, a museum and gallery celebrating local history and international artistry.
The museum houses an extensive collection from Cecil Higgins and offers a look into Bedford’s development through the ages, from its Roman beginnings to its more recent industrial significance.
2.) About Property for Sale in Bedford
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to properties in Bedford.
Before you decide if Bedford is a place you would like to settle down in, you need to find somewhere to live at a price you can afford.
Although Bedford’s growing reputation as a desirable place to live has made it increasingly popular, somewhat surprisingly, the cost of homes is quite affordable!
According to the Office of National Statistics, the average house price in Bedford is currently £346,000, and the average rent is £1,046.
Though the average seems quite pricey, a two-bedroom home can be purchased for as little as £140,000, and one-bedroom rentals start from just £500 per month.
Bedford provides a variety of housing options for those considering a move.
Terraced homes are among the most affordable, making them ideal for first-time buyers.
Flats are another great option if you are just entering the property market, with a good selection available, allowing new buyers to climb the property ladder.
Detached and semi-detached houses also provide options for those looking for more space or family homes, with plenty of options available in the town.
Prospective buyers should monitor market trends to ensure they get the best deal, with this in mind, we would advise you to regularly check platforms like Rightmove for the latest listings and prices.
Whether you’re looking for a starter home or a larger family property, a rental or home ownership, Bedford is bound to have something to suit at a competitive price.
3.) Where to Live in Bedford
Bedford is home to a choice of great areas to live in, so finding your dream location should be easy.
Once you are sure Bedford is for you, the next step is to find a location that best suits you.
Everyone has a different idea of what they are looking for in a new home, and finding the best place to live will be an essential step to take when you look for a suitable neighbourhood in Bedford.
Each of the neighbourhoods in the town offers their own benefits, catering to a variety of lifestyles and needs, here are a few of our favourites you might want to look at more closely:
Castle Quarter
Castle Quarter is renowned for its stunning River Ouse views and colourful community.
This area boasts top-notch amenities, including Russell Park and Castle Newnham Primary School, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, making it perfect for families.
Putnoe
Putnoe has a suburban feel and plenty of green spaces, including Putnoe Woods and Mowsbury Park.
The area is popular with families thanks to its well-regarded schools, such as Putnoe Primary School.
With a great selection of local shops and easy access to Bedford town centre, Putnoe provides a great lifestyle that balances convenience and safety.
Biddenham
Biddenham is a charming village known for its picturesque landscapes and historic architecture.
It is ideal for those seeking a peaceful rural retreat whilst still maintaining easy access to Bedford’s town centre.
Local amenities in the village include Biddenham International School, making it an attractive choice for expat families in the area.
Kempston
Kempston, located just southwest of Bedford, combines suburban convenience with a strong community spirit.
The area features good schools, parks, and local shopping centres.
With its excellent facilities and proximity to Bedford, Kempston is ideal for those looking for a range of urban benefits with excellent connectivity.
Brickhill
This ever-popular residential area is known for its beautiful green spaces.
Brickhill features several parks, good schools, and local amenities.
Its quiet streets and community spirit make Brickhill one of the most desirable spots for families and retirees looking to move to Bedford.
As you can see, Bedford’s numerous locations provide a great choice no matter what you are looking for in a neighbourhood.
4.) Travel Connections in Bedford
Bedford offers its residents a host of different transport options.
One of Bedford’s standout features is its exceptional connectivity – the excellent transport links have certainly been a key factor in the town’s surge in popularity.
Whether you’re commuting to London for work or exploring the surrounding areas, Bedford’s well-connected transport network ensures a stress-free and convenient journey.
With two main train stations, including the busy Bedford Station, you can reach London St Pancras International in under 40 minutes!
Driving to London on the A6 takes over an hour and a half, which might not be ideal for daily commuting.
However, Bedford offers convenient access to several nearby regions, making it an attractive option for those not working in the capital who prefer a shorter drive.
For instance, commuting to Cambridge takes approximately 40 minutes, which is certainly a feasible daily journey.
Locals can also easily reach nearby Milton Keynes, Luton, and Hitchin, opening up your access to the wider area whether it be for work or leisure.
This network of roads ensures that residents have multiple options for reaching their destinations as easily as possible.
Whether you travel by bus, rail, or car, you can enjoy a more peaceful lifestyle in Bedford without sacrificing access to the capital’s opportunities and attractions.
5.) Finding Employment in Bedford
There are plenty of opportunities for work in a range of industries.
As we have just seen, Bedford has become an increasingly popular location for those who commute to London for work.
However, this doesn’t mean that you need to look elsewhere to find a job, there are in fact plenty of options in the local area as well!
Historically, the town’s economy focused on wool, brewing, and engineering, which flourished particularly well during the Victorian period.
Today, Bedford boasts a broader economic base with various industries driving its growth.
The largest employers in Bedford include major distribution centres such as Asda Distribution, Argos Distribution, and Aldi, which recently established a centre in the town.
Additionally, Unilever and Capita Children’s Services significantly contribute to local employment.
These companies offer a range of job opportunities in logistics, management, and operations – so there should be a role available to suit your talents.
Finance, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and manufacturing are also thriving sectors in Bedford.
The town’s strategic location and excellent transport links make it an attractive hub for businesses and industries, with an increasing number making base in and around the town itself.
For those looking to find a job within Bedford, there are several local resources available to you:
- Job Search Websites: Platforms like Indeed list hundreds of vacancies across various sectors. Websites like this allow you to filter jobs by industry, salary, and employment type, meaning you can find your dream position in no time.
- Local Recruitment Agencies: Agencies such as 1st Choice Recruitment specialise in matching job seekers with local employers. These agencies provide personalised assistance and have extensive knowledge of the Bedford job market, meaning their expertise could be invaluable.
Bolstered by Bedford’s growing economy and numerous resources for job seekers, it is an attractive location for both new graduates and seasoned professionals looking to advance their careers.
6.) Educational Excellence in Bedford
Bedford is a great place to move with a family thanks to the choice of schools.
For any families considering relocating, you’ll be pleased to hear that moving to Bedford will not mean compromising on your children’s education.
Bedford is particularly appealing to families thanks to its excellent educational facilities, from pre-primary school right through to the university level.
As of September 2018, all the borough’s schools have converted to a two-tier education system – simplifying the process of changing schools to primary and secondary institutions.
The town boasts numerous top-rated schools, including several that have received ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted.
The presence of the University of Bedfordshire further enhances the town’s educational landscape, offering specialised programs and state-of-the-art facilities for those looking to continue their learning.
For those who choose to educate their children privately, there are several independent schools in the town including Bedford School, Pilgrims Pre-Prep and Bedford Girls School, which are all very highly rated.
Bedford College and the Bedford Sixth Form serve the town’s further education needs, ensuring students of all ages have access to a top-quality education.
Also, Stella Mann College is a private college offering various performing arts courses.
Bedford hosts a campus of the University of Bedfordshire, which is a modern, innovative university with a heritage of top-quality education going back more than 100 years!
7.) Healthcare Services in Bedford
Healthcare provisions in the town are very good.
Residents of Bedford benefit from a well-rounded healthcare system that caters to a range of diverse medical needs.
Bedford Hospital NHS Trust sits at the heart of the town’s healthcare, delivering essential services such as emergency care, maternity services, and specialised treatments.
The hospital is recognised for its skilled staff and patient-centric approach, ensuring compassionate care for all who seek treatment here.
This central healthcare hub is complemented by a network of local GP practices and dental clinics, making everyday healthcare accessible for everyone across the town.
For added convenience, you can find your closest doctor’s surgery via the Find My Doctor website.
Alongside medical treatment, Bedford’s commitment to public health is evident in its fitness centres and wellness programs, which offer personal training and nutritional advice aimed at preventive care for the town’s residents.
8.) Shopping in Bedford
Treat yourself to a spot of shopping.
Bedford’s retail provisions are extremely convenient, with everything you need based within the town itself.
However, for a wider choice, London is a quick hop away on the train.
Turning the spotlight back to Bedford, the Harpur Centre is one of the most popular shopping destinations, featuring well-known retailers such as WHSmith, Primark, and Boots.
It is in a practical location in the town centre and is easily accessible by public transport and car, with free parking available on Sundays!
Bedford’s local markets, an integral part of the town’s culture, are a must-visit for those who prefer a unique shopping experience.
The Bedford Gourmet Market and Bedford Farmers’ Market offer an array of fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts.
Additionally, the Bedford Charter Market, held twice a week, provides a variety of goods, from fresh produce to household items – the markets are a great way to find one-off items and offer a more personalised shopping experience.
More information about Bedford’s markets can be found on the Bedford Borough Council website.
When you need to do a large shop, there are plenty of big supermarkets to choose from, such as Aldi, Lidl and Morrisons.
9.) Dining Options in Bedford
There are a range of restaurants to suit every tastebud.
When you don’t fancy cooking, you can take full advantage of the massive choice of restaurants located within the town.
The eclectic mix of communities found throughout the town creates a cosmopolitan dining experience where almost all types of cuisine are available – perfect for even the most refined tastebuds.
The Embankment, located by the river, is known for its seasonal menus and stunning views, making it a must-visit spot.
Rice Thai Restaurant and Albero Lounge offer delightful dining experiences for international cuisine.
While Italian food and culture thrive in the Castle Quarter, don’t miss the charming Italian bistro, 2likeusbistro! which has an amazing 5-star rating on TripAdvisor.
For a comprehensive list of eateries in the Bedford area, Love Bedford provides detailed information on local dining options.
These resources will help you explore and enjoy Bedford’s best dining scenes.
10.) Green Spaces in Bedford
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors.
When it comes to enjoying your leisure time, there is a vast choice of things to do, see and experience both within the town and further afield.
In 2021, Bedford was crowned the third-best location in the UK for green space!
Bedford Park, Russell Park, Priory Country Park and Mowsbury Park, are just a few places where you can get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.
The most popular outdoor space in the town is Bedford Park, a Grade Two Listed English Heritage Victorian Park that has been awarded Green Flag status.
Created in 1888, it is the largest urban park in Bedford and contains a lake, multiple play areas, and sports facilities – be sure to check it out if you are moving to the town.
11.) Activities in Bedford
Bedford is packed with fun things to see and do.
Aside from eating and shopping, when the weekend comes around, or you can book a few days off work, Bedford has some exciting attractions to enjoy.
Here are some top choices:
St Paul’s Square
St. Paul’s Square is a prominent and historic area in the heart of Bedford town centre. It is known for its architectural beauty, cultural significance, and hub for various activities and events. It is an ideal place to wander and explore.
Herrings Green Activity Farm
A hands-on experience boasting over 200 birds of prey. Kids can interact with falcons, owls, eagles, milk cows, and groom horses.
The petting zoo features rabbits, hedgehogs, alpacas, and more. Enjoy tractor rides and the “Critter Encounter” just 10 minutes from the city centre.
The Panacea Museum
Set in a grand Victorian house, it explores the early 20th-century Panacea Society’s apocalyptic beliefs and their Bedford-based Garden of Eden idea.
It houses original propaganda and a wood-panelled meeting room and is just two minutes south of the city centre.
The Higgins Bedford
An art gallery and museum founded by brewer Cecil Higgins in 1949, showcases 500 years of nationally recognised design and collections.
Exhibits include works by William Burges and Edward Bawden and various ceramics, glass, and applied arts. It is just a 2-minute drive south of the city centre.
Summerfields Miniature Railways
Featuring three scenic miniature railways operated by the Bedford Model Engineering Society, with steam, diesel, and electric trains.
Visitors enjoy riding the trains on the 1.2-hectare site. Located between Bedford and Hitchin, it’s less than a 20-minute drive from Bedford city centre.
Subtropical Swimming Paradise
This popular indoor waterpark is maintained at an inviting 29.5°C year-round, featuring tropical plants, whirlpools, waterslides, and Wild Water Rapids.
Pre-booking is essential, with slots available up to 4 weeks in advance. Visitors can enjoy 2-hour slots or overnight stays. It’s a 26-minute drive south of the city centre.
The Bedford River Festival
Held biannually, the Bedford River Festival is the second-largest outdoor festival in the UK, second only to the Notting Hill Carnival. Residents join to take part in various water-based activities; live entertainment is provided.
There is a wide array of food stalls, beer tents, and special activities for the little ones, such as face painting and a funfair. It is a great all-rounder day out.
More attractions in and around Bedford can be found by exploring the Crazy Tourist website.
For a more in-depth look at the best things to do in the area check out our full guide where we explore 12 of Bedford’s best attractions.
How to Make Your Move to Bedford
Whether you want to make the most of the excellent commuter links, revel in the diverse community, or soak up some of the town’s fascinating history, Bedford has something for everyone.
When it comes to making your move, White & Company’s Bedford branch is your ideal partner.
Our top priority is ensuring that your house move is easy and stress-free.
We take great pride in our ability to manage every detail of the move seamlessly, allowing you to settle into your new home without a hitch.
White & Company offers competitively priced removal packages tailored to your specific needs.
Additionally, we provide extra services such as temporary or long-term storage facilities, which can be particularly useful if you need flexibility during your move.
We also now offer a home video survey service.
Using the latest technology, we can gather all the necessary information from the comfort of your home, saving you valuable time.
White & Company are proud to be founding members of the British Association of Removers (BAR), the leading regulatory body in the removals industry.
Using a BAR-registered removal company for your move helps to ensure your items have the very best protection, providing you with an extra level of security and support should any issues arise.
To learn more about how we can help make your dream move to Bedford or any other location a reality, do not hesitate to call.
Alternatively, you can fill out a quick quote form or click on our live bot at the bottom right corner of this page, and a member of our customer services team will contact you shortly.
Experience the ease and efficiency of moving with White & Company, where your satisfaction is our commitment.
We look forward to helping you start your new chapter in Bedford!
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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