Bedford Borough Council is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024 guided walking tours in partnership with the Bedford Association of Tour Guides. These captivating tours offer both residents and visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Bedford’s thousand-year history.
Led by qualified members of the Bedford Association of Tour Guides, each tour promises an engaging and entertaining journey through various facets of Bedford’s heritage. From the iconic figure of John Bunyan to the intriguing stories of Bedford during World War II, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, expressed their excitement about the tours, stating, “These guided walking tours offer a fantastic way to explore and appreciate the history and culture of our beloved Bedford. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about our town’s past, these tours promise to be enlightening and enjoyable for all.”
With eight different tours available, participants can choose from a diverse range of themes including the rise and fall of Bedford Castle, the silent faces of Bedford, and the jewel in Bedford’s crown – the River Great Ouse and its Embankment.
Tours are scheduled to run every Sunday, the first and last Wednesday of each month, and two Saturdays during the May bank holiday weekend. Each tour is priced at just £4 per person, with a discounted rate of £2 for children over eight years old. Additionally, bespoke tours are available for groups upon request.
The walks typically last between an hour and a half to two hours, covering a distance of one to two miles. Advance booking is essential, with tours running until Wednesday, 30 October.
Meeting points for most tours will be at the gold post box opposite St. Pauls Church, near Bedford’s Old Town Hall (MK40 1SL, What3words location: ///lanes.snake.gone). However, for the Bedford’s Movers & Shakers tour, participants will gather at the top of St. Loyes Street, opposite Bedford Prison (MK40 1HG, What3words location: ///successes.memo.glitz).
To book your guided walking tour and for more information, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/guidedwalks. Alternatively, bookings can be made by calling the Box Office on 01234 718044.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and fascinating tales of Bedford Borough. Join us on a journey through time and experience the magic of our historic town.
For those preferring to explore at their own pace, a complimentary 45-minute self-guided tour of untold stories of Bedford High Street is available, courtesy of The Invisible Folk Walking Tour of Bedford High Street. This tour was developed in partnership with Bedford Borough Council as part of the Historic England High Street Heritage Action Zone project. Details can be found on the website above and free printed maps are also available from The Higgins Bedford, MK40 3XD.
There are also a number of walking, cycling and riding routes available right across Bedford Borough, these can be found at www.bedford.gov.uk/walkingroutes.
