Escape the city this autumn

Now the summer is over and real life has kicked back in, why not escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the calm countryside of Bedfordshire? The county can be reached in under 2 hours from London by car and there are regular transport links from major stations across the city to places like Bedford, Luton and Woburn.

Whether you want to take it easy, explore the countryside or discover some of the areas surrounding the capital, Bedfordshire is a great option and is within easy reach, perfect for a day trip or short break.

Interested? Here are some suggestions for things to do while in the county.

Dunstable Downs

Managed by the National Trust, Dunstable Downs is part of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and acts as a gateway to the fabulous Chilterns. It is a great place for experiencing some calm and tranquillity and is particularly well known for being a great kite flying spot. You can even get one from the visitor centre if you want to have a go!

Dogs are welcome to join you and there are two Tramper mobility scooters available for anyone who wants to explore the estate.

Wrest Park

This heritage attraction has everything you could want from a day out, beautiful gardens, a stately home and some lovely artworks. There are tours taking place until October, so you can learn something new every time you visit this October.

Forest of Marston Vale

If you’re leaving the city for some fresh air and peace, this is a great option. The forest centre is fully accessible and is open almost all year around, so you always have the option to escape into the countryside. With hides dotted around the site and a Wetland Nature Reserve, it’ll give you a chance to get close with nature.

Shuttleworth Collection

For something a bit different, why not head to the Shuttleworth Collection? Not only will you find the Swiss Garden and a stately home but also the Collection, a museum of static exhibits of the best airworthy vintage aircraft in the UK. History buffs will love a visit here with its collection of genuine WWII aircraft and the oldest aircraft that can still fly!

Woburn Safari Park

Woburn is a real haven, with its beautiful Georgian buildings and famous safari park. Here you can enjoy seeing a range of exciting animals in an outdoor setting and a full programme of talks and demonstrations.

It isn’t just the animals that make this place special, the estate is also home to Go Ape and a Center Parcs, so there really is something for everyone here.

Whipsnade Zoo

Can’t get into ZSL’s central London site? Or want to avoid fighting your way across the city? Try their Whipsnade site instead! As the UK’s biggest zoo, this is a truly wonderful day out no matter what your age! There are exhibits, talks, feeds and demonstrations taking place throughout the day and a packed programme of activities.

Kathy Brown’s Garden

Just north of Bedford you’ll find one of the nation’s top gardens which is open on Tuesday afternoons until the end of September. Not only is there the gardens to explore, which have been lovingly created by Kathy herself but it is also a great location for afternoon tea – appropriate as the concept of afternoon tea originated in Bedfordshire!

Explore the waterways

Looking for something a little more adventurous? Why not get out on the rivers and canals with a canoe or river boat ride? Canoe Trail offer canoe, kayak and SUP rentals along the River Ouse in Bedford. Alternatively, there are tours and sailings along the canals and plenty of opportunities for fishing throughout the county.

Following the Hat Trail

Did you know that Luton was one of the main hubs of Britain’s hat industry? Well, why not discover more about this part of Britain’s history by heading to Luton and following one of the many hat trails, where you will see the former factory and shops sites and learn more about how this industry impacted Luton and the wider Bedfordshire area.

Planning to stay awhile? You can find places to stay here.