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28 August 2026
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Tourism

On 19 August 2026, tourism minister, Stephanie Peacock attend a roundtable with local authorities, MPs and stakeholders to discuss the opportunities arising from Universal's planned theme park and resort in Bedford. Image: DCMS

Bedford hosts cross-party summit to discuss Universal UK resort growth

Ministers, MPs, and leaders from eight councils gathered at The Swan Hotel in Bedford to coordinate plans, jobs, and infrastructure upgrades for the landmark Universal UK theme park proposal...
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Luton Airport - night time close up

Bedford families offered free bus travel to Luton Airport this August

Bedfordians jetting off this August can bypass parking charges and taxi fares as London Luton Airport funds free bus travel across key local routes, including the Stagecoach MK1 service...
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Decibel measurement. Gauge with green needle pointing 105 dB, concept of noise level Image Olivier Le Moal Shutterstock

Acoustic experts warn of complex transport noise challenges from planned Universal resort

The planned £5 billion Universal Studios resort in Bedford will bring environmental noise challenges to the area. Experts warn future transport and housing plans require careful acoustic design...
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Bedford Town Centre from above

Councillors fear tourism tax could drive Universal visitors away

A ‘tourism tax’ targeting overnight visitors to the Universal theme park and resort near Bedford would be “the absolute last thing” the borough council needs to impose, a meeting heard...
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Mayor Tom Wootton's Universal mug with the list of locations for Universal Theme Parks around the world. Image: Bedford Independent

Bedford Borough Council plans tourism strategy to capitalise on Universal’s £50bn economic impact

A tourism strategy is being developed to make the most of the Universal UK theme park’s “once-in-a-generation investment” to transform the borough. It’s part of a local visitor...
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The eyes of the world are now on Bedford as Universal United Kingdom Resort moves forward

Tourism minister Stephanie Peacock says the Universal resort will place Bedford “firmly on the global entertainment map” as ministers visit the site and local leaders highlight jobs, skills and investment...
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Stack of pound coins on financial graphs and figures balance sheet Image Brian A Jackson Shutterstock

Bedford financial advisor analyses local impact of Autumn Budget as MPs clash over tax and welfare

Local financial experts and Bedfordshire MPs have given sharply different reactions to the Chancellor’s Budget. We look at what frozen tax thresholds, wage rises, benefit changes and a possible...
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A gallery in the State Library, Victoria, Australia. Image Stacey Koenitz Pexels

Art-Venture: Culture and adventure mix in Australia

A fresh artsy travel trend is taking over the world. 'Art-venture' tourism blends gallery visits with outdoor activities—leave it to Australians to create something exciting! But...
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The John Bunyan Boat passing under the Suspension Bridge on the River Great Ouse, Bedford. Image: John Bunyan Community Boat

Bedford attraction wins Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024

The John Bunyan Community Boat has been recognized in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024. The award honours businesses that consistently earn great...
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Explore Bedford’s new visitor guide encourages River Festival fans to return to the town

The team from Explore Bedford were on hand at this year's River Festival to launch their new visitor guide for tourists and to ask visitors and residents what they love about the town...
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