Home > East England >

Bedfordshire Holiday Cottages

Bedfordshire is bounded by the counties of Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire. Rolling pasturelands, sandstone ridges and low hills form much of Bedfordshire's landscape, which is dominated by the River Great Ouse as well as the Chiltern Hills, further south. Scroll down for more details about Bedfordshire holiday cottages and self catering properties.

The historical county town, Bedford is noted for its churches, which date back to Saxon and Norman times. It is also renowned for being the home of John Bunyon from 1655 until his death in 1688. Reminders of his time there include the statue at St Peter's Green and the John Bunyon Library in Harpur street.

Much of Bedfordshire is unspoilt and rural. Typical English villages such as Ickwell Green, with thatched roofs and stone spires, can be found scattered around the region's North, while towns such as Eaton Socon and Clifton offer fascinating reminders of the region's past and epitomise the charm of this ceremonial county, with an array of thatched cottages and 13th century public houses, such as the White Horse.

Other places of interest include Woburn Abbey with its 3000 acre deer park and the award-winning Woburn Park. The latter, which was founded in the early 20th century by the 11th Duke of Bedford, is home to a rich array of exotic wildlife such as lions, tigers and monkeys. It is one of the most popular tourist destination in the county. If you're looking for a peaceful, idyllic break book Bedfordshire self catering accommodation.

Rent Bedfordshire Holiday Cottages with Cottages 4 You

Fern Hall Cottage
This 17th century half-timbered cottage is located near Hay-on-Wye and is surrounded by National Trust countryside. Within touching distance of the Brecon Beacons, it offers some great views of the Wye Valley. This holiday cottage is classically furnished and the rooms feature oak beams and leaded windows. It can accommodate up to 4 people with 2 bedrooms. For further information about cottages to rent in Bedfordshire and self catering accommodation visit the link above.

Bedfordshire self catering attractions and amenities

We've provided further information about the attractions, entertainment and outdoor activities which are available in the county of Bedfordshire. This section includes top restaurants, historical sites of interest and some of the best country pubs and inns.

Outdoor Activities
The Birds of Prey Centre in Biggleswade is one of the largest of its kind in the UK and is home to over 300 different types of bird species. Two-day courses are offered which allow visitors to handle and fly hawks and owls. The centre is open 10-5pm, seven days a week, admission is between £5 and £9. Whipsnade Zoo in Dunstable is also a major visitor attraction and is home to over 700 types of animals ranging from giraffes to pythons. Opening times vary according to season with entry prices starting at about £13 - under 3's are admitted free.

Food and drink
Good restaurants include the Black Horse in Woburn, which serves modern British/European food and the Plough, in Bolnhurst. The latter dates back to Tudor times and features original features such as a low-beamed ceiling. This acclaimed pub serves cask ales on a rotational basis, has an extensive selection of over 100 different wines and provides excellent pub food that combines British cuisine with Italian and French influences. Other pubs of note include The Anchor (Bedford) and the 16th century Bedford Arms in Oakley, which offers a main course and glass of house red for just £10.

History and Culture
Woburn Abbey features a safari park, deer park, antique centre and a 22 acre garden. Opening times are 11-5pm during high season with ticket prices ranging between £6 and £13. The John Bunyon Museum in Bedford, celebrates the life and work of the influential religious leader and is open from 11am to 4pm - admission is free.

The Shuttleworth Collection, which is situated near Bigglsewade is also an important historical attraction and exhibits a large collection of aeroplanes from the last 100 years. The site also includes the Birds of Prey Centre, mentioned above, a 19th century swiss garden and a children's play area which features an adventure playground. It is open 9.30am to 5pm during summer months with entry priced at £5 for children, £8.50 for adults and £7.50 for seniors.