There are many up and coming local tourist destinations globally that did not grab much attention from the public prior to the pandemic. Yet, as local tourism is expected to boom in the years to come, small towns and cities around the world are starting to gain momentum. In fact, they often have much more to offer than many might think. A great, world-class tourist attraction you have never seen before might be just a short train ride away from where you live.
The United Kingdom is undoubtedly one of the world’s leading nations, particularly in terms of tourism. With countless UNESCO world heritage sites across the country and globally celebrated cities, the nation has established itself as the real mecca for international holidaymakers. London alone hosts more international visitors each and every year than New York, Paris, or Rome. This should not be a surprise as the British capital has a lot to offer. Anyone with any taste in entertainment, vulture, and sightseeing will find something suitable for them.
However, amid the presence of many well-known and popular cities, such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Bristol, others across the nation are often left overlooked. Now is exactly the time to explore and celebrate towns, cities, and sites that have not had a chase to shine globally before. That is why in this article today, we will discover the exquisite town of Bedford, located merely 90km north of London.
Home to just over 100 thousand people, the city of Bedford is a true gem hidden north of London. There are countless attractions the city has to offer, particularly due to historical reasons. It is an ancient marketplace and a marvelous architectural assembly, uniting a number of styles and eras in it. Its small, narrow and beautifully preserved streets tell the history from the medieval times while being surrounded by modern shopping centers and department stores.
The settlement was built on the River Great Ouse and is considered to be the burial place of many Royalties, including Offa of Mercia, amid its proximity to the capital. The large medieval castle of Bedford is a well-preserved site that tells the story not only of the city but also of the entire United Kingdom. It has witnessed a lot, which is quite apparent at the museum and exhibition staged at the historical site.
The River and bridges over it create the environment of a true, small European city in a modern country. The St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the central pieces of the urban net of Bedford. The 13th-century building overlooks the rest of the city, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually. Bedford is surrounded by wide, endless English greenfields, offering the real escape to the countryside for those who crave it. Yet, all of these are even difficult to reach. Being just 92km north of London, on the Midland Main Line, non-stop trains to London and Brighton run almost every 10 minutes. So what are the top entertainment spots across Bedford? What should you not miss by any means?
Visit the priory country park
The vast majority of people visiting Bedford are looking for recreation and relaxation in a green area. The city is packed with parks, surrounded by woodlands and greenfields but the Priory Country Park is undoubtedly the most attractive place to visit. Located in Bedford’s Newnham area, the park is managed by the city council. It has a short history, first established in 1977, it soon became the locals’ favorite spot for hanging out and spending weekends. It runs along the river which creates a dull lake-like area. Lots of people enjoy riding Dinghy Boats and swimming while others go for picnics.
Casinos for gambling lovers
Not many people know that this part of England is home to some of the leading gambling companies in the United Kingdom and beyond. There are quite a few overseas gambling businesses, particularly from countries that have tight business relations with the UK. Some of the largest investors in the area come from Canada. This is exactly why the majority of live casino games to play in Canada are also available for UK resident players whilst many of them live in Bedford. However, besides remote services, there are quite a few casino venues in and around Bedford. Those like the ‘Merkur Casino’ and others attract not only locals but visitors from London, other parts of the United Kingdom, and the world. Many people who like relaxing on weekends in Bedford spend their time entertaining in local casinos which have more personal touch and character to them than big ones in London. Therefore, if you are keen on this kind of entertainment, make sure to visit local gambling venues of Bedford.
John Bunyan Museum
For those who prefer less active or risky types of entertainment or simply love cultural venues and museums, this museum will be a perfect fit. John Bunyan, a prominent English writer, and the author was born in Bedfordshire. His legacy is still celebrated across the country but very few know about this museum located in Bedford. It offers a deep dive into the life and works of John Bunyan and most certainly should not be missed by literature lovers.
Mowsbury Golf Course
The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of Golf Courses per capita in the world. Therefore, there is some tough competition between different courses around the country. Mowsbury Golf Course is a private venue, located within the limits of Bedford and is acknowledged as one of the leading golf courses in the area. If you are in love with this sport, Bedford will most certainly provide you with a decent venue.
