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Bedfordshire

Photo of Bedfordshire

About Bedfordshire

If you’re planning a trip to Whipsnade Zoo, Woburn Safari Park, the Chilterns or Woburn Abbey, you’re planning a trip to Bedfordshire! This county is a wonderful pick for sightseeing, because it is littered with interesting National Trust properties and green spaces, historic buildings, pretty villages, picturesque walking trails and sweeping views. The best places to stay in Bedfordshire are dotted throughout the county; we have unearthed some very nice pubs-with-rooms, country house hotels and B&Bs, as well as more classical properties.

If you're travelling with little ones in tow, Whipsnade is a fantastic place for seeing animals who need a scale of enclosure that towns and cities can’t quite provide. This is where the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) keeps its rhinos, hippos, zebras, and many of its giraffes now, along with lions, tigers, ostriches and all sorts of nomadic camels and giant yaks. For more exotic wildlife you can check out Woburn Safari Park, or for something a little more down-to-earth Woodside Farm and Wildfowl Centre. Bedfordshire also offers the old fashioned charm of the Leighton Buzzard Light Railway, and the grandeur of Bedford Castle.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Bedfordshire will also be a useful list for walkers. Bedfordshire's picturesque landscape encompasses the Dunstable Downs, Marston Vale and Greensand Ridge, and is criss-crossed with walking and cycling trails.

The Best Places to Stay in Bedfordshire

For a Country House Escape

  • The Luton Hoo Hotel is where Downton Abbey meets the modern world. It offers traditional opulence in the form of huge ceilings, ornate plaster-work, grand fireplaces, and an impressive collection of antiques, while also offering contemporary luxuries like a spa and gym, and an 18 hole golf course. There are 144 rooms and suites, with a myriad of charming choices, including rooms for romantics and ones that are ideal for families.

Best Pubs-with-Rooms

  • The George Inn is a small and pretty 16th century pub in the ancient village of Maulden. It has kept many original features, but has recently gained a tranche of contemporary comforts in a refurb. Now, as well as seven rooms and suites, the pub also has a great restaurant. This is a hearty and welcoming pick for walkers.
  • d'Parys is a pub, that's been converted from a grand mansion, just outside the centre of Bedford. The pub and restaurant downstairs have a contemporary industrial-rustic theme, with a friendly atmosphere. The 14 rooms and suites are nicely done, some with in-room roll-top baths, featuring polished wood floors, sleigh beds and Persian rugs.

For Families

  • The White Hart Ampthill is an historic coaching inn in the pretty market town of Ampthill. Its eight rooms and suites are all uniquely decorated, making the most of their original features, like herringbone brick and exposed wood beams. The pub’s restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes, and there’s a friendly bar and garden. Two of the suites are well sized for families, and they have an excellent collection of board games to share with guests.

Best B&Bs

  • Harlington Manor is a charming old manor house turned B&B, historic both inside and out, from the gabled windows to the wood panelling and damask wallpapers. There are only three rooms, and all have been individually decorated. There’s no restaurant, but there is a huge, traditional English kitchen, and a relaxed, but elegant lounge. A peaceful choice.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • London Luton Airport is just north of the city of London, within Bedfordshire, so it’s an obvious choice. Luton does service primarily low-cost airlines, but if that doesn’t include your airline of choice, you can also opt for one of London’s other airports. London Stansted or London City Airport may be second closest, but Heathrow is also relatively convenient. Bedfordshire is on the East Coast Main Line, the Midland Main Line, and the West Coast Main Line, and the M1 runs right through it too.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Bedfordshire’s attractions are year round, there’s not really a bad time of year to see Bedford Castle or Woburn Abbey. There’s an argument to say that Whipsnade Zoo, Woburn Safari Park, and the Chiltern Hills are more enjoyable on a warm sunny day, but one of the good things about Bedfordshire’s climate is that there’s not a huge amount of rain during any month, so you might not need the wet weather gear you packed just in case. October is officially the wettest month.

Still not sure where to stay?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bedfordshire

Best Hotels in Bedfordshire

  • Harlington Manor Dunstable, Bedfordshire 3 rooms from £90

    Sights nearby  -  Both about five miles away Woburn Abbey and Cainhoe Castle are worth visiting.
    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of beautiful walking routes.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Boutique
    Garden

    Harlington Manor is a charming throw back to a bygone era. Steeped in charm and elegance, the individually decorated rooms are delightful and comfortable. An incredibly hospitable host will point you in the direction of all the local sights and hotspots. See More

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  • The George Inn Maulden, Bedfordshire 7 rooms from £100

    Great walks  -  A great base for strolling along the Greensand Ridge Walk.
    Local markets  -  Browse the local country market at Maulden.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    RestaurantGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Nestled in the ancient village of Maulden, The George Inn is set in a charming 16th century pub with rooms. After a stylish modern renovation, the inn now features a superb restaurant and funky accommodation. There's excellent walking in the surrounding area. Great value too! See More

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  • d'Parys Bedford, Bedfordshire 14 rooms from £105

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the magnificent nearby Cainhoe Castle.
    Fishing  -  Go fishing on the nearby River Ouse.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantGardenParking

    Impressive from the outside and charming in the inside, d'Parys is a superb hotel just outside Bedford city centre. Elegant rooms, an atmospheric pub and delicious food in the restaurant all combine to create an ideal place for a relaxing weekend away. See More

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  • The White Hart Ampthill AMPTHILL, Bedfordshire 8 rooms from £125

    Families  -  With 2 spacious family suites, a good stash of board games, & kids' menus in the restaurant, this is an easy choice for families
    Short break  -  A train runs from London St Pancras to Flitwick station and takes just over an hour — ideal for a quick weekend getaway
    Sights nearby  -  Historic Woburn Abbey, complete with a safari park, makes for a fun day out. Bletchely Park is also nearby
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll around the Capability Brown-designed Ampthill Park located just 5 minutes away
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A historic coaching inn set in the pretty market town of Ampthill. Eight rooms are designed with a boutique take on traditional style. Expect exposed beams, sloped floors, velvet sofas, and Roberts radios. Downstairs is a laidback restaurant serving Mediterranean dishes. Ideal for a weekend getaway. See More

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  • Luton Hoo Hotel Luton, Bedfordshire 144 rooms from £320

    Spa breaks  -  Take a 'Spa Break' package and enjoy a few days of complete relaxation in the tranquil surrounds and extensive spa.
    Weddings  -  A stunning backdrop to a wedding and experienced staff to make sure the day goes exactly as you imagine.
    Active Holiday  -  Golf breaks on offer and a course within the estate.
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the surrounding parkland.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A five-star hotel and spa set in an imposing stately home in glorious parkland. An 18-hole golf course within the estate. Traditional and elegant interiors feature chandeliers, antique furniture and opulence galore. An elegant restaurant and brasserie. Ideal for weekend getaways. See More

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