John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Centre in Bedford is a comprehensive leisure facility offering a wide range of activities for the local community. Located on Mile Road, the centre features a modern gym with over 45 stations, including cardio and resistance machines, free weights, and a functional training zone. It also houses an 8-court sports hall, four squash courts, group exercise studios, a cycle studio, and a sensory room for SEND users. Additional amenities include meeting rooms, a café, and free car parking. The centre is fully accessible, making it inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.
The centre is managed by Better, the public brand of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise committed to providing affordable and accessible leisure services. Better reinvests profits to improve facilities and community wellbeing, focusing on creating opportunities for people to lead healthier, more active lives. Their partnership with Bedford Borough Council enables them to deliver quality leisure services while supporting local health and fitness initiatives.
A highlight for families is the centre’s soft play area, a bright and engaging multi-level play zone designed for young children. It includes a ball pit, slide, and soft climbing structures, all within a safe, padded environment. Parents and carers can relax in the adjacent seating area while supervising their children. The soft play is available during timed sessions and can also be booked for birthday parties with exclusive or shared access, food packages, and use of a party room. The centre also offers specialist SEND soft play sessions and respite services to cater for children with additional needs.
The centre is open Monday to Friday from 7am to 10pm, and on weekends from 9am to 5.30pm. Opening hours for specific facilities such as the soft play, gym, and sports hall may vary, and it’s recommended to check the Better website or contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information.
