One of the best ways to see the beautiful countryside of our borough is by hopping on your bike and exploring the local cycle paths that are part of National Cycle Route 51.
The family-friendly route – much of which is traffic-free – passes directly through Bedford and forms part of the wider cycling network linking Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford, Cambridge and beyond.
Within Bedford Borough, Route 51 follows sections of the River Great Ouse, connecting Priory Country Park with the Danish Camp at Willington in the east and Great Denham Park in the west.
It’s perfect for families, recreational riders and inexperienced cyclists as it is largely smooth, flat terrain.
There’s only one ‘hill’ as you cross the bypass, but the bonus is that there’s a downhill almost immediately.
Danish Camp
One of Route 51’s highlights is the Danish Camp on the banks of the River Great Ouse near Willington.
With historical links to Viking settlement, the site now serves as a hub for walkers, cyclists and visitors, serving great food and offering boat hire.
Its location is at the heart of a range of circular routes and traffic-free trails along the river. There is plenty of parking
Great Denham Park
Rather than heading east to Willington, if you aim west, Route 51 takes you from the town centre, along the towpath of the River Great Ouse to Great Denham Park.
Along the way, enjoy views of the Gurdwara at Queen’s Park, and spot wildlife on the river.
The Archer’s Rest cafe at Great Denham is the perfect place for a pitstop (and to pick up a copy of the Bedford Clanger).
You can find out more about cycling in Bedford Borough at the council website here.
And all UK cycle routes and other information are available at the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust website here.
Happy pedalling!
