In keeping with the Clanger’s beverage-based theme this month, we’ve asked Caroline Stronkhorst of Beerfly to be October’s Great Bedfordian.
A blow-in from the Netherlands, Caroline is now a proud Bedfordian, running a business on one of the best streets in the town centre and supporting community events that highlight the wealth of independent businesses in the area.
Over to you, Caroline…
Name: Caroline Stronkhorst
Occupation: Owner of Beerfly, a craft beer shop and bar on St Cuthbert’s Street.
I also have a three-and-a-half-year-old who keeps me busy (yes, that counts).
Born here or blow in? Blown in, I am originally from the Netherlands and moved to London 13 years ago.
I discovered Bedford just over six years ago and never looked back.
Best breakfast in Bedford? Even though we are mainly an evening venue, I spend a lot of time working in the morning and can’t resist nipping next door to Roosters.
An award-winning breakfast for a reason.
Best boozer? Between manning Beerfly and having an energetic toddler, I don’t tend to go out much, but when I do, it usually involves a few at The Wellington Arms! Great beer, amazing snacks, fantastic people.
Best coffee or cuppa? I love long walks around the river with a coffee in hand.
My favourites are No7. Coffee House, Not Another Jungle, SAY, and Cosy on Castle Road.
Best takeaway? I’m not a big takeaway person, but for me the only answer here is the Denmark Street chippy!
But when The Mala Dragon start offering takeaways, I will never eat anything else.
Best gig you’ve seen in Bedford? I was a huge Arctic Monkeys fan as a teenager, and it felt very nostalgic singing my heart out to the tribute band at Esquires.
I often longingly check out their “What’s On” page and wish I could go more.
Ever read John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress? As an English Literature graduate, I am embarrassed to admit I haven’t.
I’ll pick up a copy and add it to the never-ending stack on my nightstand.
Ever eaten a Bedfordshire Clanger? No! I think they are hard to get hold of nowadays; maybe we should bring them back as a beer snack…
An off-the-beaten-track gem that everyone should know about? I really enjoy taking my little girl to Box End Park for some fresh air and to watch the wakeboarders.
For food and drink, I absolutely love The Sun in Felmersham – run by the loveliest people as well.
Best Bedfordian? I have loved working with Rosanna (The Store) to organise the St Cuthbert’s Street party.
She is an inspiration to me – such a hardworking businesswoman with, most importantly, a huge heart.
Three words that best sum up Bedford? Welcoming, inclusive, independent
