Car Hire Bedford

Almost an equal distance between the M1 and A1 – connected to both via the A421 – Bedford is conveniently located for reaching plenty of nearby towns and cities. The prestigious university town of Cambridge is just a 50-minute drive east, while it takes around an hour-and-a-half to get to Oxford or London.

Around the rest of Bedfordshire there are a number of picturesque villages, such as Clophill 20 minutes away, with its thatched cottages and ancient church. Or take a trip to Woburn around half-an-hour to the south-west, home to an historic abbey, fantastic gardens and a safari park.

Along the A421 and other connecting A roads, the speed limit is 70mph (112km/h) where it’s a dual carriageway. The same limit applies on the M1 and other motorways, with all signs displayed in miles per hour. On single carriageway stretches the limit falls to 60mph (96km/h) – the national limit.

When driving your hire car in Bedford’s centre, speed limits vary between 20 and 30mph due to the built-up area and narrower roads. Check the signs, especially as there’s a small pedestrianised shopping zone next to the River Great Ouse and a few one-way streets around this area to be aware of too. The A6 cuts through the middle of the town if you’re just passing through.

One bonus of driving in Bedford is the free parking for up to two hours in all council-owned car parks on Saturdays and all day on Sunday. Just be sure to check the signs first to make sure.

After 6pm there’s free on-street parking too. You can find out where the private and public car parks in Bedford are and any charges here.

As the administrative, social and cultural centre of Bedfordshire, there’s a lot to see and do in and around the county town. Hire a car in Bedford to easily get between the top attractions.

Bedford Castle Mound and the Embankment

Bedford was built on the banks of the Great Ouse and centred around a medieval castle, believed to have been constructed in the 12^th century. Only the base of the castle is still there today but it remains a popular place, offering brilliant views over the river and embankment.

Formal Victorian gardens surround it, full of greenery mainly behind the mound as you climb the stairs to the top. A lime kiln rediscovered in 1973 can also be admired, while there’s an archaeological park built on part of the site too.

From the bottom of the mound, wander down The Embankment – a pedestrian path running parallel to the Great River Ouse. You’ll pass the iconic Butterfly Bridge – opened in 1998 by Prince Charles – as well as a war memorial designed by renowned sculptor Charles Sergeant Jagger. Book a boat trip if you fancy sailing downstream or find the ideal spot for a picnic on the river’s banks.

The town’s trio of parks

Follow the river and you’ll reach Russell Park, the closest green space to the centre and running, cycling or a relaxing stroll. Here you can either soak up the scenery or enjoy facilities including tennis courts, pitch and putt and a cafe.

A 10-minute drive from the centre of Bedford is Priory Country Park. A much larger park which surrounds both sides of the river, it’s comprised of quiet woodland, blissful meadows and calm, serene lakes. Take a wander stroll through the woods, explore the 200-berth marina or get out on the lakes for a spot of sailing.

Five minutes north of the town’s heart, Bedford Park offers a more classical looking green space. Designed and opened in the Victorian era, it features everything you’d expect, from a traditional bandstand to a cricket pavilion. The two playgrounds will entertain the kids, while the outdoor Robinson Swimming Pool is great place to take a dip on warm days.

Magnificent museums

Enjoy three museums in one at the Higgins Art Gallery and Museum. Previously home to the Cecil Higgins Art Gallery, Bedford Museum and Gallery, now all three are under one roof.

You’ll be able to see a good variety of different exhibits, including wonderful watercolours and prints from the likes of Turner, Blake, Picasso and more. The museum gives a sense of the daily Bedford life of past and present, telling inspiring stories from locals, through archaeological and ethnographic exhibits.

Discover the story of Bedford’s most famous writer at the John Bunyan Museum. His inspiring book The Pilgrim’s Progress was written in the 17^th century during his imprisonment, and this museum takes you through his turbulent life. Hear about the risks he took and view various artefacts from the period.  

With car hire in Bedford, you’ll have the freedom and convenience to get around the town and the rest of the local area.