Art, history, and riverside charm by train
Bedford might not be the first place that comes to mind for a day trip from London, but after my visit, I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem worth exploring. With its rich history, scenic riverside walks, and fantastic food spots, it’s an ideal escape from the city—especially since it’s so easily accessible via Thameslink.
My journey started at St. Pancras International, where I hopped on a direct train to Bedford, a smooth and comfortable ride that took just under an hour. I settled into my seat, coffee in hand, and enjoyed the rare chance to sit back, relax, and watch the countryside roll by before arriving at my destination.
Taking in art at The Higgins
The Higgins Bedford: A perfect start to the day
The first stop on my itinerary was The Higgins Bedford, a cultural hub that combines art, history, and heritage in one beautifully restored building.In addition to special exhibitions, The Higgins has a fantastic permanent collection that offers insight into Bedford’s history, including works by renowned local artist Edward Bawden. I took my time wandering through the galleries, learning more about the town’s past, and appreciating the eclectic mix of artifacts, paintings, and decorative arts. It’s a museum that feels both intimate and expansive, striking the perfect balance between local history and broader artistic narratives. The museum is not just a place to admire art but also a venue that hosts events, making it a key cultural space in Bedford’s community.
Strolling along the River Great Ouse
After leaving the Higgins, I was ready to soak up some fresh air, so I made my way to the River Great Ouse. The riverside walk in Bedford is one of its greatest assets—beautifully maintained paths, weeping willows lining the water, and a general sense of calm that makes it the perfect place to unwind. Despite being a sunny day, it wasn’t overly crowded. Families strolled along, runners passed by, and couples sat on benches, enjoying the view. At one point, I even spotted someone rowing, which was a lot of fun to watch. The gentle lapping of the water and the rustling of the trees added to the serene atmosphere, making it a truly peaceful escape.
For those wanting to make a full afternoon of it, the walk continues into Priory Country Park, a sprawling green space with lakes, trails, and picnic spots. While I only wandered into a small portion of the park, I can see why it’s such a popular spot for locals. Next time, I’d love to explore further and maybe even stop by The Longholme, a café nestled right on the water that’s supposed to serve excellent coffee and brunch. This scenic park area also boasts a rich birdlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
A refreshing break at The Embankment
After a good amount of walking, I was in need of a break. The Embankment was the perfect choice—a stylish riverside pub with outdoor seating overlooking the water. The bartender was incredibly friendly, making me feel welcome right away. It’s one of those places where you could easily lose track of time, just watching the world go by.
The pub also has rooms available, it would be a cozy place to stay overnight in Bedford. With its picturesque location, charming interior, and great drinks menu, it’s an easy spot to recommend. It's the kind of place where you could spend hours simply enjoying the peaceful riverside setting, and it also plays host to live music events that add to the vibrant atmosphere on weekends.
An Italian-inspired lunch at Mamma Concetta
One of the things that intrigued me about Bedford before my visit is its strong Italian influence. Many Italians settled in the town in the mid-20th century, and today, their presence is still felt, especially when it comes to food. Mamma Concetta was my lunch stop, and from the moment I walked in, I knew I’d made the right choice. The staff spoke Italian to each other, giving the place an authentic, family-run feel.
I ordered a Caprese sandwich, but this was no ordinary version—it came with roasted red peppers and a generous spread of pesto, elevating the flavors beautifully. Though most people were dining in, the staff were more than happy to prepare my sandwich for takeaway, even though it wasn’t officially on the menu. That kind of hospitality and flexibility makes all the difference when traveling.
The sandwich itself? Delicious. The bread was perfectly crisp on the outside, soft inside, and the flavors were fresh and well-balanced. It's no wonder that Mamma Concetta has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike—its authenticity and quality are second to none.
Exploring Bedford’s town centre
After lunch, I wandered through Bedford’s town centre. It had a nice mix of classic high street shops, local grocers, and plenty of charity shops to browse through. I always love exploring these kinds of areas—there’s something special about seeing the everyday life of a town unfold. I also took a moment to check out The Arcade, a charming alleyway lined with independent shops. While I didn’t buy anything, I enjoyed window shopping and soaking in the atmosphere.
The town centre also offers some delightful surprises in terms of local markets. On weekends, you can find a vibrant market at St. Paul's Square, where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade goods. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir or simply enjoy the hustle and bustle of a thriving community market.
A cozy stop at Old Curiosity Cafe
To finish off my day, I stopped at Old Curiosity Cafe for a coffee. As soon as I stepped inside, I was struck by how gorgeous the space was—bookshelves lined the walls, art adorned every corner, and the overall aesthetic was cozy and vintage-inspired. I ordered a simple oat latte and found a comfortable spot to sit and read for a while. Around me, other visitors were either immersed in books or catching up with friends over coffee and cake.
Looking back, I regret not getting a slice of their bakewell tart, which looked incredible. But that just gives me another reason to return!
Places to visit next time
Even though I covered a lot in my day, there were a couple of spots I didn’t get to visit but have added to my list for next time. La Terrazza is a well-loved Italian restaurant that seems perfect for a special meal out. The Longholme Cafe would be a great stop for a relaxing coffee or brunch with views of the lake.
Bedford has so much to offer, and one visit simply isn’t enough to experience it all. I’m already looking forward to my next trip to discover even more hidden gems.
Why Bedford makes a great day trip by train
One of the best things about this trip was how easy it was to get there. Thameslink offers direct services from St. Pancras to Bedford in just one hour, making it one of the most stress-free journeys I’ve taken. No dealing with traffic, no worrying about parking—just a comfortable train ride that allowed me to read, relax, and enjoy the anticipation of the day ahead.
Bedford’s compact size also makes it ideal for exploring on foot, with everything within walking distance from the station.
For a town of its size, Bedford also has a surprisingly rich cultural calendar. During my visit, I learned that the town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Bedford River Festival on the River Great Ouse. Events like this bring even more vibrancy to the town, with live performances, outdoor markets, and activities for all ages. It’s clear that the community here truly embraces creativity, and it’s a great way to experience Bedford’s unique atmosphere.
The local community is one of Bedford’s most charming aspects—everyone I encountered was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Whether it was a shopkeeper, a cafe barista, or a local passerby, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this town. I can’t wait to return for another leisurely day trip, and next time, I’ll be sure to check out even more hidden gems.
For anyone looking for a day trip that combines history, culture, good food, and scenic walks, Bedford is an excellent choice. It has all the charm of a small town but with plenty of things to see and do, making it a rewarding escape from the hustle and bustle of London. I’ll definitely be back!
About the author
Carla is a content creator and journalist originating from Chicago. When she's not exploring cafes and restaurants in and around London, she likes to crochet, frequent charity shops, and learn new languages. She loves travel and is always on the lookout for new spots to visit.
