Never miss a thing in Bedford ever again. From theatre to film, live music to art exhibitions, the Bedford Clanger’s what’s on guide lands every Wednesday and is the only guide you need to find out what’s on and what’s happening across the Borough for the next 11 days.
The Bedford Clanger’s What’s On Guide is kindly sponsored by The Cellar Bar Bedford.
Wednesday, 19 November 2025
Live music: The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart + Guests
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £25
Roughly five years after breaking up, New York’s indie shoegazey dream-poppers the Pains of Being Pure at Heart have announced a reunion tour to celebrate the anniversary of their self-titled debut LP.
Wednesday, 19 November 2025
Poetry/spoken word: Dr John Cooper Clarke
Bedford Corn Exchange @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £29.50/£26
Known as the ‘Godfather of Punk Poetry” and the original people’s poet, John Cooper Clarke’s cultural influence spans literature, music and fashion.
From creating some of the most iconic poetry of the modern era, including the world’s most popular wedding poem “I Wanna Be Yours” (recently celebrating over a billion streams in its incarnation as a hit record by the Arctic Monkeys) to sharing his life story through his best-selling memoir of the same name, John is referenced as a major influence not just by the Arctic Monkeys but also by artists across the globe.
His legendary number “Evidently Chickentown” plays out the penultimate episode of The Sopranos. Watching John Cooper Clarke perform is an opportunity to see a living legend at the top of his game.
Wednesday, 19 November 2025
Drag: Karaoke and Bingo
The Cellar Bar @ 8pm / Bar opens at 7pm
Free entry
Guaranteed to be a very funny evening with drag queen Fanny Burns, who will bring her own spin on karaoke and bingo. A night of hilarity and good fun. The bingo cash jackpot has been well over £100, but you’ve got to be in it to win it. £2 per card of six tickets, meaning six chances of winning.
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Reminiscence Session: Bedfordshire Railways remembered
The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane @ 11am – 12.30pm
Free, drop in
To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway, this session will be exploring the history of our local railways and remembering train journeys taken over the years.
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Bedford Skeptics: A Little History of Maths with Snezana Lawrence
North End Club, Roff Avenue @ 7:30pm
Dontions appreciated
After a last-minute cancellation in September, Szezana will be at Bedford Skeptics this month to talk about the history of maths. Don’t miss this second chance to see her.
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Theatre: Dial 1 for UK
The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm
Tickets: from £16
Every night in New Delhi, Uday Kumar (UK) answers panicked calls to the Goldmine Crypto GB Helpline fantasising about being British himself, filling his YouTube channel with visions of a sophisticated new life of affluence, fish and chips and tea with the royals.
Then a chance conversation one tea break reveals how he might make it all a reality. And At dawn a mere week later, he leaves the call centre for ever and boards his first ever flight, to take his place amongst the English.
What happens next is the subject of Mohit Mathur’s hilarious and poignant one- man- play of high hopes humbled in Hounslow and an Influencer stripped of influence amidst the brutal reality of the UK care sector, asking how and why, each year, hundreds of young men like UK vanish without trace.
A rare chance to rethink much you’ve assumed about those who hope to live amongst us in a first piece from an exciting new playwright and west end performer, in collaboration with one the UKs most experienced theatre makers.
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Live music: The Damn Truth + Parker Barrow
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £20
Critically acclaimed psychedelic Montreal four-piece rock’n’roll band the Damn Truth return to the UK this month, stopping off at Esquires on Thursday, 20 November.
In 2021, the band released their critically acclaimed breakout album Now or Nowhere, produced by legendary Grammy Award winning Bob Rock (Motley Crue, The Offspring, Bon Jovi). On March 14, 2025, the band released their new self-titled album, “The Damn Truth” (also produced by Bob Rock) which features their brand-new single “All Night Long.”
The Damn Truth are a perpetual and virtually unstoppable rock and roll machine.
Friday, 21 November 2025
Live music: The Andrew Richardson Band
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Free entry
Bedford singer songwriter Andrew Richardson’s writing covers a distinctive range from personal memories to social and political observations that acutely capture modern life.
His three studio albums: ‘This Is Me’, ‘Keep the Fight Going’ and the 2025 album release ‘State of the Nation’ blend poignant lyrics with hook-laden rock melodies and have been received with enthusiasm amongst music lovers and critics alike.
To bring his music to a wider audience, Andrew has formed a new band of talented musicians to premiere a selection of his songs. This first ever live band performance will deliver the energy, vibrancy and soul of his music. The full wall of sound will be on show at Bedford’s premiere music venue, Esquires.
Friday, 21 November 2025
Live music: The Chicago Blues Brothers
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £30
Fresh from electrifying performances at London’s West End Adelphi and Savoy theatres, the Chicago Blues Brothers are back – bigger, bolder, and better than ever.
This is the ultimate Blues Brothers show, packed with Motown, soul, rock & roll, and all the legendary classics you love. This isn’t just a concert – it’s a high-octane, feel-good, soul-stirring experience you don’t want to miss.
Friday, 21 November 2025
Live Music: Generation 5pan
The Cellar Bar @ 8.30pm
Free entry
Generation 5pan are back at The Cellar Bar, playing a mix of Rock/pop & blues covers from the 50’s to modern day.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Environment: Bedford Repair Cafe
Project 229, Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8DA @ 10am – 3pm (last entry 2.30pm)
Free / donations appreciated
Bedford Repair Cafe is continuing its mission to divert stuff from landfill, one household item at a time. Get yours fixed for free by local volunteers. Just turn up – they can fix household electrical items, bikes, clothes, toys, costume jewlery, woodwork, and more.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Festive family fun: Bedford Christmas lights switch on
Harpur Square, Bedford @ midday – 6pm (light switch-on @ 4pm)
Free
From midday until 6pm, Harpur Square will be buzzing with festive spirit ahead of the much-anticipated Christmas light switch-on at 4pm.
Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere with live music, carols, craft stalls, delicious food, and family-friendly activities including a free face-painter and colouring-in in the Harpur Suite from 2pm.
Read: Christmas lights, live music and festive markets to fill Bedford town centre and beyond this winter
The Mayor of Bedford Borough, Tom Wootton, will switch on the Christmas lights, signalling the start of the holiday festivities at 4pm.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Walking: North Bedfordshire Ramblers weekly walks
Meet at: MK44 2RL @ 1pm
A 4.5 mile circular walk exploring Ravensden ahead of the North Beds Ramblers’ AGM at 3pm
Check out their website for full details of each walk.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Classical music: Ode to St Cecelia (Elis Pehkonen) and Da Vinci Requiem (Cecilia McDowell)
Bedford Corn Exchange @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £20/£17/£5
Bedford Choral Society’s autumn concert is conducted by Ian Smith, with soloists Elizabeth Bottone and Philip Tebb.
This celebration of St Cecilia’s Day, patron saint of music, features Cecilia-themed music written by two British living composers. Elis Pehkonen’s Ode to Saint Cecilia was originally written for Bedford Choral Society to sing at their 125th anniversary concert. The music is light and full of vitality, and the words are in English.
The companion piece, Da Vinci Requiem, written by Cecilia McDowell, is an unusual requiem, incorporating extracts from Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks. It is described as “sparkling and shimmering”. Bedford Sinfonia will also perform Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture. tickets@bedfordchoralsociety.org.uk
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Live music: Low Girl + Allo + Minnie Birch
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £12
Initially begun as a solo project from enigmatic frontwoman Sarah Cosgrove, Low Girl has since expanded to include her sibling Tom Cosgrove (drums), bassist/guitarist Bradley Taylor and keyboardist Toby Morgan, whom she met while studying at Lincoln University.
On debut album ‘Is It Too Late To Freak Out?’, the group’s intermingling voices and guitar melodies create vivid, endlessly curious soundscapes, showcasing a collection filled with exploratory songs that unfold with momentum and the sound of a group of musicians who are deeply attuned to each other.
With several releases under their belts already, the indie quartet have received widespread acclaim throughout the tastemaker community (DIY, The Line Of Best Fit, Clash) over the past few years, alongside countless plays on the BBC 6 Music (playlist), BBC Radio 1 and Radio X airwaves.
On the live front, the band have ticked off slots at SXSW and Reading and Leeds Festival, as well as various supports with acts including Dream Wife, The Murder Capital and Swim Deep as momentum builds.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Live music: Sophia Soul
The Cellar Bar / Doors open @ 6pm until late / Happy Hour until 9pm / Late close
Free entry
The wonderful Sophia Soul is appearing again at The Cellar Bar this month. Modern-day diva, Sophia, has had an outstanding career in live vocals spanning over 14 years.
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Festive fun:The Enchanted Yuletide Market
The Harpur Suite, Corn Exchange @ 10am – 4pm
Festive fun at the Enchanted Yuletide Market at the Harpur Suite. With Santa’s Grotto, Christmas gift workshops, live entertainment, children’s crafting tables, mulled wine, mince pies and more.
Saturday, 23 November 2025
Festive fun: Christmas Shopping Event in aid of Red for Ruth
Bedford Cricket Club, The Bury, Church Lane MK41 0AN @ 11am – 3pm
Free entry
For the second year, Bedford Cricket Club is organising a Christmas event to raise funds for the Ruth Strauss Foundation who support families facing the death of a parent due to cancer.
Bedford cricket club have been supporting the foundation for the last five years, raising funds through the season and this weekend they have the support of some amazing local crafters and makers, joining in the event.
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Creativity: Crafternoon
The Higgins Bedford @ 2pm – 4pm
Free, drop in (no need to book)
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.
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Dance music: DJ Sunrise – 90’s/00’s disco
The Cellar Bar @ 4pm – 11pm
Free entry
DJ Sunrise will be playing all the floor fillers from the 90’s and 00’s, taking you right back on a journey of nostalgia.
The Cellar Bar Daytime Disco, gives you a great excuse to get out on a Sunday afternoon and if you want to carry on partying well into the evening, you can. And it’s all free; no tickets required.
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Live music: The Feelgood Band play the Sunday Afternoon Session
Bedford Esquires @ 5pm
Free entry
High energy performance of classic Dr. Feelgood, from the 1970s ‘Gypie’ Mayo period and with the seal of approval from Wilko Johnson, Sparko and Figure.
Tuesday, 25 – Saturday, 29 November 2025
Exhibition: Making Marks – An exhibition of works on paper by local art group @CastleLifeArt
Basement@Bunyan, Bunyan Museum, Mill Street MK40 3EU @ 11am-4pm
Free entry
Take a look at Castle Life Art’s second exhibition, giving the public a chance to view and purchase some of the group’s fabulous works on paper as well as ceramics, produced by artists from the group.
Tuesday, 25 November 2025
Creativity: Drink & Draw with the Circus of Illustration
At The Park Pub, Kimbolton Road @ 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Drop in any time | Pay what you can
Reflect on the past year by making a mini zine at the Circus of Illustration’s final Drink and Draw of the year. All materials provided at this laid-back, social event for all creative grown-ups.
Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 November 2025
Community Theatre: Still Life (Brief Encounter)
The Place Theatre @ 7.3pm
Tickets: from £12
After a chance meeting on a railway platform, strangers Alec and Laura begin a brief but intense emotional affair, disrupting their otherwise conventional lives. On the 80th anniversary of the classic film, join us for an immersive evening like no other.
From the moment you step into the foyer, you will be transported back to a 1930/40s railway station. Feel free to dress the part, or just come along and enjoy the vintage atmosphere, themed refreshments and entertainment, which will all form part of your evening, before making your way into the theatre to enjoy this deeply touching, bittersweet romance.
Tuesday, 25 November 2025
Well-being: Bedford Mindful Embankment Walk
The Swan Hotel @ 6pm
Free – just turn up
Join this mindful walk based on the teachings of Vipassana meditation and other mindfulness techniques. You will start with an introduction and well-being check-in as you walk to the Butterfly Bridge.
At the Butterfly Bridge, you will be guided through the meditation practice before walking towards and finishing at the Riverside Bar at the Swan Hotel. This will be in complete silence and you will pause to have some time of stillness by the two bridges where you can hear the peaceful sounds of the water.
The silence will be broken with a gratitude prompt. This is a safe space and community for everyone. Monthly walks all year round.
Tuesday, 25 November 2025
Film: Bedford Film Society presents September 5
University of Bedfordshire, Polhill Avenue
Tickets: Annual membership £70 / day member £5
A 2024 thriller about the ABC Sports crew covering the 1972 Munich Olympics. The film follows their pivot from live sports broadcasting to covering the Black September terrorist group’s hostage crisis of the Israeli athletes, showing their difficult decisions and ethical dilemmas as they broadcast a global tragedy in real time.
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
Live music: Martin Stephenson & The Daintees ‘Boat To Bolivia’ 40th Anniversary + Nicola Madill
Bedford Esquires @ 7pm
Martin Stephenson & The Daintees hail from the North East of England. Their debut single ‘Roll On Summertime’ was released in 1982 on Kitchenware Records (home of Prefab Sprout, The Kane Gang, Hurrah!).
‘Boat To Bolivia’ was the debut album by Martin Stephenson & The Daintees. After appearances on Channel 4’s ‘The Tube’ and BBC2’s ‘Whistle Test’ the album went on to become one of the essential releases of 1986
Martin Stephenson & The Daintees will be performing the ‘Boat To Bolivia’ album in full and in sequence along with other favourites from their extensive career.
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
Quiz: A1 SpeedQuizzing
The Cellar Bar @ 8.00pm. Bar opens at 7.00pm.
Tickets: £3 per person
Quiz nights in Bedford will never be the same again. The Cellar Bar is bringing SpeedQuizzing to Bedford town centre.
A fun, incredibly interactive night of entertainment. Get your team of up to six players together and give it a go. £60 bar tab for the winners, and a rolling jackpot each week (currently £150). Hosted by experienced Speed Quizzing host Owen.
They’re open from 7pm, with the quiz starting at 8pm. Walk-ins are allowed until the night is full. It’s expected to be a busy night, so to make sure you don’t miss out, reserve your table online and get a 20-point head start.
Thursday, 27 November 2025
Live music: Karaoke and cocktails
The Cellar Bar, Happy Hour 6pm – 9pm
Tickets: Free
The only place for Karaoke on a Thursday on Bedford High Street.
- Over 60,000 songs
- Sing like a pro with our professional lighting, sound and stage.
- Sing with your friends using multiple microphones.
- 2 for £12 on our handmade cocktails ALL NIGHT.
Get your song requests in from 8pm, the fun starts at 9pm with Sarah and Cameo taking it in turns to host the Cellar Bar’s karaoke throughout 2025.
Thursday, 27, Friday, 28 and Saturday, 29 November 2025
Festive fun: Petals and Amazons wreath-making workshops
The Arc, Howard Street @ 6.30pm
Tickets: £67.50
Gather your gang for a fun evening of wreath-making, shopping and general Christmas merry-making in the gloriously festive wonderland that is The Arc Bedford.
Make your own natural and environmentally-friendly wreath while relaxing over Christmas food and drinks from You For Coffee. Enjoy 15% off shopping at The Arc all evening, so you can also make a dent in that Christmas shopping list.
Thursday, 27 November 2025
Shopping: Bedford Heights Christmas Market
Bedford Heights, Brickhill Drive MK41 7PH @ 11.30am -2.30pm
Free and open to the public
Always a popular event, Bedford Heights once again welcomes an array of fantastic local makers, crafters and pop up shops so you can find the perfect gifts for friends and family this Christmas. Think local gin, jewellery, home fragrance, beautifully crafted woodturning, and skincare.
Thursday, 27 November 2025
Dance: Swan Lake
Bedford Corn Exchange @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £30/£28
Swan Lake – The greatest of all romantic ballets
Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breathtaking dance. Swan Lake is a tale of two young women, Odette and Odilie, who resemble each other so strikingly that one can easily be mistaken for the other.
It is the compelling legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse. Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful young woman he is instantly captivated – will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under?
Friday, 28 November 2025
Live music: Wolfgang Flür (Ex Kraftwerk) + Pete Duggel
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £23
Wolfgang Flür was a member of Kraftwerk during the group’s golden era, performing as the band’s electronic percussionist from 1973 to 1987.
Born in Frankfurt, Germany, Flür joined Kraftwerk in 1973, replacing a drum machine. He was a member of the group from their international breakthrough with the album Autobahn (1974). He remained as they experimented with proto techno on albums such as Trans-Europe Express (1977) and Computer World (1981).
Frustrated with the half-a-decade it took to produce Electric Cafe (1986), he left the band after the LP’s release — it wouldn’t be until a 2009 reissue that Flür received an artist credit on the album. In 1997, he launched his solo career under the name Yamo and released Time Pie, an album that featured work with the experimental duo Mouse on Mars.
His live performance will include the true analogue influences from the early electronic movement, whilst showcasing his modern introductions of pop, techno, and soundtrack sounds. Dedicated fans and pure electronic appreciators will be truly entertained!
Friday, 28 November 2025
Live music: Hole in The Head – Charity Event Ft Poison Justice & The Pride
Bedford Esquires @ 7:30pm
Tickets: charity donation
A charity event to raise money for a wonderful young dad who was recently diagnosed with a Brain Tumour. Raising money to get ground-breaking treatment in Germany.
With music from: Poison Justice & The Pride
Friday, 28 November 2025
Live music: Samantha Hughes
The Cellar Bar at 8.30pm (Doors open 6pm, Happy hour 6pm-9pm)
Free entry
The Cellar Bar is delighted to welcome Samantha Hughes back.
Samantha has become a regular at The Cellar Bar, having previously performed at Twinwood Festival and the Festival of Vintage. She was previously a British champion on the mandolin and banjo, which we think is pretty impressive.
Performing your favourite party classics from the 1960s to the 1980s. From ‘Walking on Sunshine’, to ‘I will Survive’…from ‘Waterloo’ to ‘Build Me Up Buttercup’!
Grab those dancing shoes, get the cocktails in and expect a party, with a bit of humour thrown in for good measure.
Friday, 28 November 2025
Live music: Mat Roberts & J37
The Cellar Bar at 11pm (Doors open 6pm, Happy hour 6pm-9pm)
Free entry
Mat Roberts has been a huge supporter of The Cellar Bar from the start, hosting their open mic night and junior open mic, so they are delighted to welcome him back for a night of musical entertainment.
Expect a diverse range of music, from pop to rock and anything in between. Performed with his partner in music – the duo J37.
Saturday, 29 and Sunday, 30 November 2025
Live music: Harpur Square Christmas Gig
Harpur Square
Free event
Bedford Music Service is back with their showcase stage – celebrating a term of hard work and amazing music-making and featuring over 200 students, will be performing across the weekend in choirs, jazz bands, rock bands, steel pans, orchestras, and more.
Expect dhol drummers, rappers, beatboxers, DJs, and some incredible solo acts. Come along, support our young musicians, explore the stalls, and grab some lunch while soaking up the sounds of Bedford’s vibrant music community.
This is supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Saturday, 29 and Sunday, 30 November 2025
Christmas: St Andrew’s Crib Festival
St Andrew’s Church, Kimbolton Road, MK40 2PF @ 10am – 4pm (Sat) 1pm – 4pm (Sun)
Free entry
A new and unique festive event is taking place at St Andrews Church this month. The church will be filled with reimagined nativity sets made by local individuals, families, schools, groups and charities.
The cribs are modelled from everything from wood to Lego, biscuits to junk modelling and visitors will be invited to vote for their favourite crib with a winner awarded in each category. World Vision, Home for Good, and Emmaus Village Carlton. For more information, contact info@standrewsbedford.org.
Saturday, 29 November 2025
Festive fun: Victorian Christmas Fayre
St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Square MK40 1SQ @ 11am – 4pm
Free entry
Start your festive season in traditional style with this Victorian Christmas Fayre, hosted by Confetti Events in the beautiful surroundings of St Paul’s church. Over 40 stalls including jewellery, clothing, skincare, ceramics and much more.
A festive cafe will be serving hot and cold drinks, sausage rolls and brownies. Plus facepainting and maybe even a visit from Santa…
Saturday, 29 November 2025
Walking: North Bedfordshire Ramblers’ weekly walk
Harrold Country Park, MK43 7DS @ 1.30pm
A six-mile walk through Harrold Country Park, then Chellington, Pavenham and Odell.
Please bring a drink, snack or lunch as the group always stops for a break. Check out the North Bedfordshire Ramblers’ excellent website for further information.
Saturday, 29 November 2025
Live music: CEREMONY Alumni : She’s In Parties + Cucamaras + djank + Herbie May (The Lounge Society)
Bedford Esquires @ 6.30pm
As a special pre-Christmas treat, Esquires thought it would be a great idea to welcome some of the alumni from previous Ceremony events back to the venue to deliver another great event. Four acts in the main room (no trekking up and down the stairs, folks!) and the line-up goes like this…
She’s In Parties played Room 2 at Ceremony 3, Cucamaras played Room 2 at Ceremony 4.5, djank (previously Cosmorat) played Room 2 at Ceremony 4 and Herbie May (from The Lounge Society) played the main room at Ceremony 3
Saturday, 29 November 2025
Live music: Megapint? (Playing all night)
The Cellar Bar: 8:30pm (Doors open 6pm, Happy hour 6pm-9pm)
Free entry
The guys are back for another regular gig at The Cellar Bar, playing all night until the small hours. Expect musical excellence mixed with a wonderfully curated list of rock/pop classics.
It doesn’t get any better!
Sunday, 30 November 2025
Festive family fun: Kempston Christmas lights switch on
Saxon Centre, Kempston @ midday – 4pm
Free
The Christmas festivities will kick off in Kempston at the Saxon Centre at midday on 30 November, with the ligh switch on taking place at 4pm. Enjoy carols sung by local school choirs and soak up the festive atmosphere with local artisan stalls, delicious treats, and festive rides.
Don’t forget to take a festive family photo under the Christmas Tree at the Saxon Centre.
Sunday, 30 November 2025
Live music: The King Bees play the Sunday afternoon session
Bedford Esquires @ 5pm
Free entry
The King Bees are a Bedford-based blues/funk/RnB/soul band making a welcome return to Esquires for the Sunday Afternoon Session.
Sunday, 30 November 2025
Theatre: Railway 200
The Place Theatre @ 2.30pm
Tickets: £6/£4
A comical, educational, and entertaining look back at our railways from the past 200 years.
This brand-new show retells the story of how the modern railway came to being. Along the way, we meet famous historical figures, relive milestone events, and learn about the ups and downs of our railway’s history over the past two centuries.
Complete with original new music, this show takes you back to the golden age of rail. Come and find out how it all started, what the Brontes had to do with trains, and what was the British Rail Flying Saucer all about?
At the Higgins Bedford
Exhibition: Noel Carrington: Nothing Need Be Ugly
The Higgins Bedford
Free entry
Curated by writer and publisher Joe Pearson, this exhibition tells the story of publishing’s unsung hero Noel Carrington (1895–1989). Schooled in Bedford with his sister Dora, Noel Carrington became one of the most influential figures in 20 th century design. Through the Puffin Picture Books and Country Life he commissioned, edited and published some of Britian’s most loved children’s picture books.
Read: Celebrating Bedford’s unsung publishing hero: Noel Carrington and Puffin Picture Books
He saw the genius in artists such as Kathleen Hale, publishing books about Orlando the Marmalade Cat and championed emerging artists such as Hilary Stebbing. With Eric Ravilious, Edward Bawden and Mervyn Peake he commissioned books such as ‘High Street’, ‘Life in an English Village’ and ‘Captain Slaughterboard’.
Through beloved children’s books, forgotten gems and original artwork this exhibition will take Noel Carrington out of the footnotes and into the spotlight.
Exhibition: Edward Bawden – Printmaker
The Higgins Bedford until 26 April
Free entry
Take a trip to the Higgins Bedford to explore the Edward Bawden Printmaker exhibition, which celebrates Bawden’s remarkable legacy as ‘The Master of the Linocut’ and offers visitors a chance to delve into his innovative techniques and artistic achievements.
At the Panacea Museum
Permanent exhibition: Discover the amazing story of a unique religious community
Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, Bedford MK40 3NX
11am – 5pm (last entry 4.30) Thursday – Sunday
Free entry
This fascinating hidden gem of a museum tells the story of the Panacea Society – a Christian group formed in the early twentieth century who created their own ‘Garden of Eden’ in the centre of Bedford.
The Panacea Museum is located across several Victorian buildings that formed the community’s headquarters. It tells the story of the Panacea Society and other similar religious groups.
Exhibition: The Panacea Society and the Second World War
The Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, Bedford MK40 3NX @ Thursday to Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Free entry
A new social history exhibition has opened at the Panacea Museum this month, exploring the unseen story of this remarkable society and World War II.
Read: New exhibition: The Panacea Society and the Second World War
The beautiful gardens surrounding the Museum are currently filled with blossoming trees, birds, butterflies and bees, and a stroll through the grounds is a highly recommended in addition to a visit to the museum.
Every Tuesday
Community: Tuesday Chess Café
The Pavilion in the Park @ 2pm – 4pm
Free
If you’re a keen chess player or have always wanted to learn, then the weekly chess cafe at the Pavilion in the Park is for you.
Players meet every week and there’s no membership, no fee – just turn up. All you need to do is buy a coffee to support the venue. Any standard, from complete novice to Grand Master, welcome.
Theatre listings by Paula Walker
