Bedford

General Information about Bedford

In the early Middle Ages, Bedford was a market town which served the surrounding agricultural areas. Beford is located in south east England, and is the county town of Bedfordshire. During the Middle Ages the town remained a small agricultural area with wool and lace being it's main industries. In 1660, John Bunyan was imprisoned in the Bedford Gaol for 12 years. This is where he wrote his world famous novel The Pilgrim's Progress. Today Bedford has a population of more than 79,000 people.

There are many attractions and interesting places to visit in Bedford such as St Paul's Church, Woburn Abbey, 306th Bombardment Group Museum, Bushmead Priory, Bromham Mill, John Bunyan's Home, Howard House, St Peter's Church, Cecil Higgins Art Gallery and Museum, The Bedford Museum and Woburn Safari Park.

St Paul's Church is situated in the centre of Bedford and serves as both the Parish Church and the Civic and County Church of Bedfordshire. The first church was built in this site in 1066 and run by a group of clergy. In the 13th century construction on the present church began, but all that remains today is the south porch. Further additions were made in the 15th, 16th, 19th and 20th centuries. Many famous people have preached in St Paul's Church, such as John Bunyan and John Wesley.

The Woburn Abbey has stood on it's present site since 1145 when it was used as a religious centre for Cistercian monks. In 1597, King Edward VI gave the property to Sir John Russell, who moved in and called it home in 1619. The Woburn Abbey has remained the family home of the Russells since then and successive Dukes and Earls of Bedford have kept the house, gardens and estate well preserved. Throughout the centuries the Abbey has accquired many art works and now has one of the largest private collections in England. Featured in the collection are masterpieces by Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Reynolds.

Car Rentals in Bedford

Below are a selection of Car Rentals located in Bedford, England. Alternatively, you can browse through all Bedford Car Rentals.

Hotels in Bedford

Below are a selection of Hotels located in Bedford, England. Alternatively, you can browse through all Bedford Hotels.

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