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The school holidays are coming to an end but we still have lots of free activities planned for children in the autumn. And of course we have plenty of events to tell you about for people of all ages!
Did you know that many of our teams send their own email bulletins to share news, updates and events?
Here's a link for anyone interested in receiving updates from Bedford Corn Exchange, full of all their wonderful shows and events:
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Led by qualified members of the Bedford Association of Tour Guides, each tour promises an engaging and entertaining journey through various aspects of Bedford's heritage.
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Sunday 1
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Bedford in World War II
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Sunday 8
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The Jewel in Bedford’s Crown
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Sunday 15
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The Rise and Fall of Bedford Castle
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Sunday 22
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The Life and Times of John Bunyan
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Wednesday 25
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Bedford’s Movers and Shakers
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Sunday 29
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The Jewel in Bedford’s Crown
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Last chance to see - ends Sunday 8
The exhibition features more than 100 pieces of artwork created by pupils, aged four to 18, from 40 schools from across the Borough.
Children were asked the question – what does your ideal community look like?
Free entry.
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Entertain the whole family this summer with outdoor cinema at Russell Park, with Sundown Cinema.
Experience the magic of daytime family films or join up with your friends for an evening screening under the stars in this Bedford location.
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New tennis coaching sessions
Mowsbury and Bedford Park
The National Tennis Association is excited to offer fun-filled sessions on Wednesdays at Mowsbury Park and Fridays at Bedford Park.
For a limited time, join our weekly group coaching programme and get your first session for free, plus 50% off the first month!
Don’t miss the opportunity to start you tennis journey, Secure your spot today!
Use the discount code MY50 when registering online.
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Robinson Pool and Bedford Park
The next Junior Aquathlon will take place on Sunday 13 October at Robinson Pool in Bedford Park for children and young people in school years 3 to 11 (as at September 2024).
Do your children love swimming and running? Then the Junior Aquathlon is the perfect opportunity for them to test their skills in a fun and friendly competition.
Bookings are now open, the closing date for entries is Tuesday 1 October at 5.30 pm.
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Friday 30 August to Sunday 1 September
There are two sessions each day which offer unlimited rides for £11 per child per session.
It's also £1 per adult spectator.
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From Monday 2
Various locations
Live Longer Better offers a diverse range of exercise classes tailored for seniors. From gentle dance and chair yoga to walking football and table tennis, there’s truly something for everyone.
These sessions provide a fun and engaging environment for people aged 60-plus to improve their physical fitness, flexibility, and balance.
The programme is funded by Bedford Borough Council and Public Health, and currently attracts over 230 participants weekly. There's no need to book, just turn up!
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Tuesday 3
Various locations
Bookings will open for the next Active Adults programme from 12.30pm for courses that commence week beginning Monday 30 September.
Visit the website for further information and a full list of courses which include archery, badminton, bowls, dance, golf and yoga.
Stay healthy, keep fit and make new friends.
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Tuesday 3
Bedford Central Library will be running a new Rhyme Time session every Tuesday 2-2.30pm during term time alongside their current programme of sessions.
These sessions are suitable for toddlers who are up and walking, through to pre-schoolers.
Your children and you can enjoy stories, rhymes, musical instruments, bubbles and making new friends!
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Don't forget there’s still time for children to join the Summer Reading Challenge.
It's free to join at any of our libraries until Saturday 7 September during staffed hours.
If they read six books they'll get a certificate, 12 books they will get a Marvellous Makers door hanger, and for 18 books they'll receive their medal!
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Friday 6
Join Puggle and friends for free, fun and creative activities inspired by art in the exhibitions.
It’s a drop-in activity, so no need to book. Just pop in any time from 10.30am-midday or from 1-2.30pm and stay for as long as you like.
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Saturday 7 and Sunday 8
The Bedford Running Festival is more than just a running event, it’s where running meets festival fun and magical memories are made!
Throughout the weekend you're promised epic races and entertainment for the entire family.
When it comes to running, you have the choice; to conquer the Raring2go Mini-mile, Bedford 5k, Twilight 10k, Bedford Half Marathon or Bedford 20!
And all the while, there will be plenty of festival vibes back at the event village with the live music, food and & drink, outdoor cinema, health and wellbeing area, a kids’ zone and funfair!
You are not going to want to miss out on what is sure to be a fantastic weekend!
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Saturday 7 - Sunday 15
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The Bedfordshire Ramblers will host nine days of walking, with walks and activities throughout the county, supported by many other walking and local interest groups.
With over 1,500 miles of rights of way in Bedfordshire there are still plenty of opportunities to get out and explore our surprising and varied county.
The walks range from short, gentle ambles of four to five miles, morning and afternoon walks of 6 to 8 miles to all day walks of 10 to 13 miles. Our four groups aim to have something for everyone.
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Sunday 8
Your one-stop shop for all things flea, art and produce.
Bedford Flea pride themselves on being the purveyors of quality with the emphasis on locally made, locally-grown and locally-sourced products, from some of our most skilled small businesses and hobbyists.
This market runs on the second Sunday of each month from 10am to 3pm.
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Wednesday 11 and 18 - continuing into October
This course, for a women's only group, explores how artists such as Van Gogh and Kandinsky have used shape and space in their artwork, resulting in symmetry and meaning.
Learn about shape dimensions and sequencing in dot paintings and have a go at painting your own masterpiece on a small canvas.
It is a practical course running from 11am to 1pm each day, please book in advance.
There are four sessions in this course to attend, and you can take your canvas home after the last session.
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Or call 0300 300 8131
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Saturday 14
These Saturday craft markets have different local craft traders and free workshop/performance on the second Saturday of each month on the Silver Square and along the whole of Silver Street!
From soap flower gifts to up-cycled jars and glasses, wax melts to handmade bags, and hand-painted plant pots to knitwear, you'll find a variety of high-quality and original items that showcase our local crafters’ passion and expertise.
The market runs from 9.30am-3.30pm.
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Sunday 15
Join trained actor and teacher Toby as he engages children with immersive story reading.
He'll also help children create their own stories using puppets, drawings, songs and the artwork from the gallery.
Ideal for ages up to seven, children must bring along an adult.
Please be aware, space in the gallery is limited and is offered on a first come first served basis.
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Sunday 15
On behalf of the elected Mayor of Bedford Borough, Tom Wootton, we invite you to a ceremony taking place at the War Memorial on the Embankment in Bedford, at 3pm.
There will be a wreath laying ceremony lead by the Royal British Legion to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden which took place between 17-25 September 1944.
The ceremony itself will take approximately 30 minutes, lead by the Royal British Legion and with standard bearers and various veteran associations in attendance.
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Sunday 15 - Sunday 29 September
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With rides for all of the family, come on down Longholme Way to enjoy a wide selection of rides.
Perfect for thrill seekers!
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Tuesday 17
This session is the perfect opportunity for Bawden fans and those new to the subject to have an up-close look at the extensive Edward Bawden collection.
Works from the collection, including some that have never been on display before, as well as old favourites, will be introduced by The Keeper of Fine and Decorative Art.
This runs from 10-11.30am and must be booked in advance.
To book places on exhibition tours and workshops please call the Box Office on 01234 718044 (open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm) or follow the link below.
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Wednesday 18
Information stall
Bedford is currently delivering several regeneration, transport and skills-led projects within the scope of a £22.6million grant.
These include public realm improvements to St. Paul’s Square, Midland Road and Greyfriars.
It also includes transport infrastructure improvements throughout Bedford town centre.
Come and learn more about the projects and provide us with your thoughts. .
Come and speak to the team and find out more from 12.30-2.30pm.
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Wednesday 18
Are you a resident, business owner, community leader, or local councillor in Bedfordshire?
Do you want the opportunity to meet the Police and Crime Commissioner, hear from him, share your views and ask about his plans for the future?
Come along to the Harrold Centre at 7pm.
You’ll have the chance to hear from the PCC first-hand and share your ideas on making our county safer and fairer.
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Thursday 19
These mornings, from 11am-12.30pm are free and everyone is welcome to come along, share memories, and make new friends.
Refreshments are available for just £1 and there's no need to book.
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Friday 20
Join the Keeper of Fine and Decorative Art for a tour of the highlights of Edward Bawden & Me.
The tour runs from midday-12.30pm and booking in advance is essential.
To book places on exhibition tours and workshops please call the Box Office on 01234 718044 (open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm) or go to the website, link below.
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Saturday 21
Sound system open day
Live music, exhibits, talks and discussion with the legendary 'Quaker City' in attendance from Birmingham, alongside Bedford's own 'Ital Rockers' and Cultural Roots.
To complete the panel Ligwa 'Mr Fixit', Saxon Sounds, FT Mini Muscle, Jah Warrior (Bedford) debating the past and future of sound system and the innovations to come.
Families and children of all ages are welcome from 11.30am-4.30pm.
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Saturday 21
The Bedford Vegan Streetfest returns to Harpur Square again this September!
As usual, the event will bring together an incredible selection of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, local artists, environmental charities and loads more.
See you there from 10.30am-4pm.
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Saturday 21
All welcome to come along to Great Denham’s inaugural Village Fete to be held at the local country park.
Expect all of the family favourites, from egg and spoon races to baking competitions and much more.
Events on the day take place from 12-7pm. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Tuesday 24
Online
These online sessions allow you to speak with a member of our team in an informal and relaxed environment.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about all things fostering.
Booking in advance is essential
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Or call 01234 718718
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Wednesday 25
Have you ever found archaeological objects whilst digging in the garden, taking the dog for a walk or metal detecting?
If so and you would like to find out more about them, Matt Fittock, Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme run by the British Museum can help.
Runs from 1-3pm, with free entry, just drop in.
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Friday 27
EAT Feast will have an array of international flavours from established food trucks and caterers in the local area, coming together to celebrate good food and great company.
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Saturday 28
Priory Country Park
Tibbs Dementia Foundation invite you to take part in their annual sponsored walk as they stride together to build a better world for families affected by dementia.
Registration is from 10.30am and the walk begins at 11.30am.
There will also be entertainment, a tombola, information stands and refreshments available – and you’re welcome to bring a picnic and stay afterwards.
For more details email contact@tibbsdementia.co.uk
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Sunday 29
An extra performance for this year's programme!
Bring your picnic blanket, grab some snacks, and settle in for a delightful afternoon amongst the beautiful surroundings of the Embankment.
There will be a limited number of deckchairs for visitors and people are welcome to bring along their own chairs too.
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Sunday 29
Browse the beautiful collection of crafts, gifts, cakes and scented candles on the last Sunday of every month, until the end of October.
The craft market runs from 10am-3.30pm.
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Sunday 29
Monthly creative activities for families to have a go at together and enjoy.
Suitable for under-12s, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please be aware that space is limited and there may be a wait to start.
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Saturday 31
Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience.
It includes the timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, the Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and many more.
The Magic of Motown turns 20 years old!
To celebrate we are offering £10 off tickets with code ‘MOTOWN 10’ at checkout.
This offer has been extended for one week and will expire on Saturday 7 September.
See you there!
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A sneaky preview for October...
Wednesday 2 to Saturday 5 October
46th Bedford CAMRA Beer & Cider Festival
A range of over 100 real ales, ciders, perries and continental beers.
Wednesday 4-11pm.
Thursday and Friday midday-11pm.
Saturday midday-11pm.
Entry is £2 for CAMRA members and £5 for non-members.
The Festival sponsor is Gallagher Developments.
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Do you find maths a bit scary or do you know someone who would like some support?
Although it can sometimes feel challenging we all use numbers every day – at work, at home and when we’re out.
These different workshops help people to:
- build confidence managing money
- confidently use maths at home and at work
- shop for less and learn to cook to suit your lifestyle
- support your children with homework
- unlock new career and learning opportunities
- achieve an accredited maths qualification.
As part of the Government’s Adult Numeracy programme known as Multiply, Bedford Borough Council has received funding to offer courses that will help you to improve your skills and confidence with maths.
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Enjoy up to four hours of free parking each day at Allhallows Car Park.
The first two hours parking is free in Queen Street Car Park.
And you can park free for up to two hours every Saturday in all Council-owned town centre single and multi-storey car parks.
Free parking all day every Sunday in Council-owned town centre car parks and each day after 6pm in all town centre car parks, except for River Street.
Free on-street parking after 6pm, Monday to Saturday, except for Castle Lane which is from 11pm.
Don't forget that bus fares are just £2, and the app operated secure cycle shelter is available on the corner of the Harpur Centre opposite St. Paul's Church - email highways.helpdesk@bedford.gov.uk with your full name, address, and contact number to register an account and find details of the app to gain entry.
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