Top 10 things to do in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire is a smaller county with some big family days out: a safari park, a famous zoo and a country house, plus museums and gardens.
- 1
Whipsnade Zoo
📍 Near DunstableFamilies, wildlifeA large conservation zoo on the Chilterns edge, with a lot of space and a free-roaming feel.
- 2
Woburn Safari Park
📍 WoburnFamilies, wildlifeA drive-through safari park with large animals and walk-through areas.
- 3
Woburn Abbey
📍 WoburnHouse, gardensThe stately home of the Dukes of Bedford, set in deer parkland.
- 4
Wrest Park
📍 Near SilsoeGardens, historyA formal garden set within woodland, with a French-style house.
- 5
The Shuttleworth Collection
📍 Old WardenHistory, planesOne of the oldest collections of working vintage aircraft and cars, with flying days in summer.
- 6
The Swiss Garden
📍 Old WardenGardensA Regency garden with bridges, ponds and follies, next to the Shuttleworth Collection.
- 7
Dunstable Downs
📍 Near DunstableWalks, viewsChalk downs with wide views and kite flying, with a visitor centre.
- 8
RSPB The Lodge
📍 SandyWildlife, walksHeath, woodland and ponds on the former estate of the RSPB’s headquarters.
- 9
The Higgins Bedford
📍 BedfordMuseum, freeA museum and art gallery in Bedford with local history and collections.
- 10
Bedford River Festival and Embankment
📍 BedfordRiver, walksA riverside promenade and park in Bedford, good for a picnic and a boat ride.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.