The Park, Bedford — Restaurant in England

Bedford Park Concerts at Bedford Park (funnily enough). My friends and I attended on 29th June 23 to see the legends that are 'Scooter'. Irrespective of your opinion about the music, this review is about the venue and organisers.

On arrival, some initial signage problems meant we had to walk the perimeter to find the entrance but this was a minor issue. On finding the entrance, it was very relaxed and nice and patient staff waited whilst wi-fi loaded up our e-tickets for scanning. Security was also friendly and rigorous. Some might see this as an inconvenience but it's important to me that I and my friends can enter a venue free from idiots that might want to do others harm.

The grounds were nicely set out with plenty of options for food and also lots of portaloo provision as well. A clever bar queuing system avoided bottlenecks and all in all, prices were acceptable given its a small festival (Pints 6.70, a sweet and sour noodle dish was £12).

There was a great view of the stage from all sides and the atmosphere was friendly. Security / staff were present but not overly conspicuously policing people. It was just reassuring.

The sound system was spot on in my opinion, not ear bleedingly loud - comfortable. We were fortunate that the weather stayed fine and it was great to see the sun go down as the concert commenced.

Though there is no on-site parking, there is a lot of provision in easy walking distance nearby in council car parks and some on-street. There was no problem with congestion getting there or out at all. A nice touch was that staff were helping people cross the park perimeter road afterwards with marshalling traffic and keeping everyone safe. It was a really nice touch long after the event had finished.

It was a fairly long way for us to travel from the Midlands but it was worth it, and I was impressed by the professional organisation so much that I would seek out their concert...

I’ve visited The Park Pub on Kimbolton Road a few times now and it always hits the right note for a relaxed lunch or casual dinner. The pub was beautifully refurbished in August last year, with a fresh, bright look and a lovely extended garden which is perfect for summer evenings.

On my latest visit I started with the pork belly bites, which were crispy yet melt-in-your-mouth, followed by their fish and chips special. Honestly, some of the best you’ll find in Bedford, with flaky fish and perfectly crisp batter. My partner went for the beetroot carpaccio from the light lunch menu, which was refreshingly light, vibrant and excellent value.

The service is friendly and efficient, and the staff genuinely seem to enjoy being there. Dogs are welcome both indoors and in the garden, which is a big plus. The drink menu is diverse too, with everything from craft beer and cask ales to fine wines and cocktails.

A couple of things to note: portions on some bar snacks can feel a bit small. One time the halloumi fries and kofta were tasty but not very filling. And while most visits have been smooth, occasional busy evenings can lead to slower service.

All told, if you're after classic pub food made with quality ingredients, a relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming team, The Park is a solid choice. We’ll definitely be back for another round of their fish and chips and a pint...

Bedford Park is a great place for all the family. Not far from the town centre sits this beautiful park with everything you could need.

There are two play parks, one of which has a sandy area for the little ones. The one on Foster Hill Road has a mini trampoline. Both have all of the usual play equipment like swings and things to climb on. Next to the larger play park is a lovely pond with a fountain and a few ducks, swans and fish bobbing about.

Take a walk to the middle of the park and you will find the lovely bandstand sitting between the tennis/basketball courts and the cafe. Throughout the park there are lots of bins and benches. Next to the pond is a toilet cubicle that costs 20p to use. Making this a great picnic spot for all the family!

The open spaces and surrounding trees make it a great safe space for dogs to be let off the lead. It also has proper pathways which means bike riding is a breeze!

The back of park runs along Foster Hill Road Cemetery. There are a few footpaths leading out of the park, one of which goes right into the Cemetery. There are also bus stops that run along the front of the park. Most of the buses are going to and from Goldington and Putnoe. There is parking all along Park Avenue and a small carpark on Foster Hill Road. All of which can get busy on...