Never miss a thing in Bedford ever again. From theatre to film, live music to art exhibitions, The Bedford Clanger 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, 12 – Monday, 17 November 2025
Live music: Stewartby Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society presents The Merry Widow by Franz Lehár
Stewartby Village Hall, Stewartby MK43 9LU @ 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee on Saturday, 15 November)
Tickets: £17 Adults / £10 Under 18s
The award-winning community theatre group, Stewartby Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, performs Franz Lehàr’s comic opera, sung in English with live orchestra. Directed by Gordon Hodges, and featuring local soprano Elizabeth Bottone as Musical Director.
Immerse yourself in lavish 19th-century Paris for this light-hearted story of infidelity, bankruptcy, misunderstandings, and will-they-won’t-they romance, with music you’ll be humming all the way home.
Licensed bar, refreshments & raffle and fully accessible venue. Book tickets on the website, by contacting boxoffice@saods.org.uk, or by calling 07557670703.
Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Live music: Beans On Toast + Nuala
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £17
A travelling troubadour for the ages, Beans is an entertainer, singer, songwriter, storyteller, and a master of his art. Expect crowd favourites from years gone by, alongside fresh new songs about the state of the world.
Wednesday 12 November 2025
Theatre: Father JC’s Holy Show
The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm
Tickets: from £16
Father JC – the Irish Drag Priest with mass appeal is taking a divine pilgrimage across the nation, bringing his big mass to the masses.
‘Father JC’s Holy Show’ is life-changing, iconic, epic, glamorous and just fabulous! But there’s one small catch…he hasn’t written it yet. With the help of an amateur DJ (Michelle Pittoni – Soho Theatre, Clean Break), he will amp up the sacrament with the big hymns, the bops, the beats and anthems! What could possibly go wrong?
Written and performed by multi-award-nominated artist Laura Wyatt O’Keeffe, this drag comedy extravaganza blends rituals and raves, faith and fun, in a divine hour of chaos and celebration on the dancefloor. With direction by Grace Duggan (National Theatre, Donmar Warehouse), expect big laughs, bigger performances, and the kind of soul-searching you won’t find in any pew.
Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Quiz: A1 SpeedQuizzing
The Cellar Bar @ 8pm Bar opens at 7pm
£3pp to enter the quiz
Quiz nights will never be the same again as SpeedQuizzing comes to Bedford town centre. Get your team of up to six players together and enjoy a fun, interactive night of entertainment hosted by Owen.
There’s a £60 bar tab to the winners and there is a rolling jackpot each week. Walk-ins are allowed on the night until the venue is full. Reserve your table online and get a 20 point head start.
Thursday, 13 November 2025
Talk: Literary Lives – Mabel Barltrop and Rachel Fox
Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, Bedford @ 1pm – 2pm
Free entry
Dr Nicola Darwood from the University of Bedfordshire will bring an academic perspective to the writings and reading habits of Panaceans Mabel/Octavia and Rachel.
Thursday, 13 November 2025
Theatre: Journey to the Centre of the Earth
The Place Theatrev@ 7.30pm
Tickets: from £16
Take a break Rick Wakeman, back to your trailer Brendan Fraser, watch and learn Jules Verne, Lamphouse Theatre Company are going on a journey all the way to the centre of the Earth! Two intrepid explorers, one impossible mission (featuring at least one joke about a big hole), and no special effects budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?
From the makers of War of the Worlds (On a Budget) and Frankenstein (On a Budget) this new comedy take on Jules Verne’s classic novel will be one epic night out, full of belly laughs, brand new music and really impressive* dinosaurs.
Featuring Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher, the familiar faces behind the On a Budget series, Journey to the Centre of the Earth will be another fan favourite. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes and lots and lots of cardboard.
*not actually that impressive
Thursday, 13 November 2025
Karaoke: Karaoke and cocktails
The Cellar Bar @ 8pm / doors open 6pm / Happy Hour 6pm – 9pm
Free entry
Sarah and Cameo host the only place for karaoke on a Thursday night on Bedford High Street. Choose from over 60,000 songs and sing like a pro with the Cellar Bar’s professional lighting, sound and stage.
Sing with your friends using multiple microphones and it’s two for £12 on cocktails all night.
Friday, 14 November 2025
Theatre Workshop: Shakespeare’s Battle of the Sexes
The Place Theatre @ 7pm
Tickets: £15
Step into the tension, passion, and power struggles that define Shakespeare’s greatest clashes between men and women. From the fiery flirtations of Much Ado About Nothing and The Taming of the Shrew, to the darker, more dangerous games of ambition in Macbeth, we’ll explore how Shakespeare turned love, rivalry, and desire into high drama.
Through theatre games and scene work, you’ll get a taste of both the comedy and the danger in these timeless duels. No experience required—just bring your curiosity and a bold spirit to take on the wit, the words, and the fire!
Workshop Leader, Rhodri, with over twenty years’ experience as both actor and drama teacher, combines stage know-how with a gift for inspiring others.
He’s performed everything from Shakespeare to contemporary plays and has guided students of all ages to find confidence, creativity, and joy in performance. Known for his energy and warmth, Rhodri makes every workshop and rehearsal a place where everyone can enjoy the magic of theatre.
Friday, 14 November 2025
Live music: The Style Councillors
Bedford Esquires @ 7pm
Tickets: £20
Enjoy the iconic back catalogue of The Style Council, thanks to the tribute act, The Style Councillors.
Friday, 14 November 2025
Live music: Wildfire
The Castle, Newnham Street @ 7.30pm
Free entry
Acoustic trio from Bedford, playing folk-rock and Americana covers.
Friday, 14 November 2025
Live music: Kerrank
The Cellar Bar @ 9pm
Free entry
KERRANK! is the ultimate Live KERRANG! tribute bringing the anthems, attitude, and sweat-soaked sound of the 90s – 00s to the stage.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
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.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Festive fun: Handmade Christmas Market
King’s House, 245 Ampthill Road MK42 9AZ @ 10am – 2pm
Free entry
This weekend is the perfect opportunity to kick off the festive season, with the King’s House 14th annual Handmade Christmas Market.
This year, there are 20 talented stall holders, each bringing their own beautiful hand-crafted gifts, decorations and festive treats. It’s the perfect chance to start your Christmas shopping, support local makers and enjoy a joyful community atmosphere.
Ground Floor Coffee shop will be open and there’ll be delicious refreshments, festive music and plenty of Christmas cheer — so, bring your friends and family along.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Teens: Writing For Wellbeing
Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, MK40 3NX @ 10.30am – midday
Free entry
Led by local poet Katie O’Pray, the session will include writing prompts and inspiration from the Panacea Archives, including books and documents written by and belonging to the Members.
Aimed at teenagers, and a 12+ audience. Limited to 12 people – please note everyone attending needs a ticket, and extra people who have not booked can’t be admitted on the day.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Workshops: A celebration of Jane Austen
Rothsay Education Centre, Rothsay Gardens @ 10am onwards
See website for prices
Rothsay Education CentreThis month, the Rothsay Education Centre is hosting an array of workshops celebrating history, literature, and creativity, with a special focus on Jane Austen.
These workshops are open to all non-members to come and discover a place to learn. You can find out more and book online at recbedford.co.uk.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Classical music: Organ recital
St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Square @ midday
Free with retiring collection
Step into the beautiful surroundings of St Paul’s church to enjoy a free lunchtime organ recital. This week’s performance is by St Paul’s organist, Adam Wright.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Walking: North Bedfordshire Ramblers weekly walks
Meet at: MK43 8SQ / what3words: sunroof.dancer.tramps @ 1pm
To take part in this week’s walk, park and meet by the Church in Stagsden.
The route includes walking along the side of fields and past How Wood and towards Mount Pleasent Farm. There may be livestock in the fields.
Check out their website for full details of each walk.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Exhibition & workshops: A Pete McKee Celebration – ‘The Boy With A Leg Named Brian’
Bedford Esquires @ from 11am – 4pm / Q&A @ 6pm – 7pm
Free entry
Artist Pete McKee invites you to attend a special event hosted at one of the UK’s best-loved independent music venues. For the first time, Pete is bringing his two greatest passions together with his latest exhibition on display at Esquires during the day and a performance with his band on stage in the evening.
Read: A Pete McKee Celebration: music and art at Esquires
Throughout the day, Esquires will showcase the exhibition, ‘The Boy With A Leg Named Brian’, which takes visitors on a journey through Pete’s childhood in the 70s and 80s.
It starts with his upbringing on a working-class council estate and explores how he came to define his own identity through music and fashion. Although this is the story of Pete’s life, his memories and tales of everyday life and pop culture, are relatable experiences shared by many across the UK.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy the exhibition for free and take part in a family-friendly cartoon workshop. This will be a unique opportunity as, beyond its unusual setting, Esquires have allowed Pete to use parts of the venue – including the dressing rooms – that you wouldn’t normally get to see as a visitor.
From 6pm, Pete will host a Q&A about his life and career.
The exhibition, cartoon workshops and Q&A take place throughout the day and entry is free for all ages. No booking required.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Live music: The Everley Pregnant Brothers + The Ouse Valley Singles Club
Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm
Tickets: £15
After a day of celebrating the art of Pete McKee, Esquires by night will host a ticketed live show from The Everly Pregnant Brothers; the comedic ukulele band who are well known for their parodies of popular songs.
For those unfamiliar, Pete was one of the founding members of the band and after a summer of playing festivals, including Tramlines and Rock N Roll Circus, they are excited to be bringing songs from their latest album ‘Never Mind The Ukes, Here’s The Brothers’ to the main stage at Esquires.
The live show is supported by Bedford legends, The Ouse Valley Singles Club.
You can win tickets to the gig (and a McKee goody bag) at our giveaway. Find out how to enter here.
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Classical music: Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra
Bedford Corn Exchange @ 7.30pm
Tickets: prices vary
Join Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra for a programme of well-loved classics including Mussorgsky Night on Bald Mountain, Mendelssohn Overture and incidental music to A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Dvořák Symphony No. 9 ‘From the New World’.
Sunday, 16 November 2025
Live music: Benefits + Dan Le Sac
Bedford Esquires @ 5pm (matinee show)
Tickets: £14
Forming in 2019 and consisting of Kingsley Hall on vocals and Robbie Major on synths, beats and noise, Benefits quickly evolved into a group that aims to merge noise, house, hip hop, industrial rock, electronica, and an angry social media feed to get its point across.
A resolutely DIY outfit, they have managed to gain fans as diverse as Sleaford Mods, Steve Albini, Black Francis, Garbage, Jehnny Beth and Elijah Wood, as well as getting significant features in the NME, Rolling Stone, the Guardian, and the Quietus.
In 2023, they released their debut album “NAILS” on Invada Records, which garnered significant critical acclaim and numerous ‘album of the year’ nods, most significantly from Louder Than War magazine and BBC6music.
Sunday, 16 November 2025
Live music: Cheap Thrill$ play the Sunday Afternoon Session
Bedford Esquires @ 5pm
Free entry
Featuring Bob Peters on keys and Markos on drums, expect rock, rhythm and blues covers including classics from Tom Petty, Janis Joplin, Led Zep, Santana, Fleetwood Mac, Rollin Stones and more.
Sunday, 16 September 2025
Live music: U18’s Open Mic
The Cellar Bar @ 5pm – 7pm / Doors open @ 4pm
Free entry
If you’re under 18 and sing, play guitar, drums, or any other musical instrument, or are already in a band, the Cellar Bar is the place to be. It’s a chance for you to perform on a stage in front of an audience with a full PA, drum kit, amps, and lighting.
Hosted by none other than Mat Roberts, a legend of the Bedford music scene, he will be on hand to offer support and advice, as well as doing a few jam sessions of his own.
Under 18’s are welcome in the bar from 5pm until 9pm on Sundays for Junior Open Mic.
Sunday, 16 November 2025
Live music: Open Mic
The Cellar Bar @ 7.30pm / doors open at 4pm
Free entry
Immerse yourself in a full jam and band experience at The Cellar Bar on Open Mic nights, hosted by Mat Roberts.
The Cellar Bar was made for nights like this, an opportunity for new and experienced performers to get up on stage and perform. So whether you think you are the next Tom Grennan or just want a good night of entertainment, the Cellar Bar is the place to be. They have a full PA, full backline, drums and even have their own in-house bass and guitar.
Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Classical music: Lunchtime recital
St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Square @ 1pm
Free with retiring collection
Step into the beautiful surroundings of St Paul’s church to enjoy a free lunchtime performance. This week’s recital is by cellist Eddie Mead, Philharmonia Instrumental Fellow.
Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Film: Bedford Film Society presents All We Imagine As Light
University of Bedfordshire, Polhill Avenue @ 7.30pm
Tickets: Annual membership £70 / day member £5
Award-winning film set in modern-day Mumbai. Nurse Prabha’s daily life takes an unexpected turn when a surprise present arrives from her estranged husband.
Her younger roommate, Anu, faces frustration in her quest to secure a private spot in the city to be intimate with her partner.
Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Theatre: We are the Lions, Mr Manager
The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm
Tickets from £16
‘We Are The Lions, Mr. Manager!’ is the remarkable story of Jayaben Desai, the inspirational leader of the 1976-78 Grunwick Film Processing Factory Strike.
She was recently amongst the women who have had the biggest impact on women’s lives over the past 70 years as part of the Radio 4 Women’s Hour Power List.
She brought the issue of workplace exploitation and racism to the fore, challenged the perception of Asian women being inherently passive and docile, whilst having the measure of the most brutish and charmless of her managers, telling them:
“What you are running here is not a factory, it is a zoo. But in a zoo, there are many types of animals. Some are monkeys who dance on your fingertips, others are lions who can bite your head off. We are the lions, Mr. Manager!”
She not only stood up for workers’ rights and against oppression with selfless dedication, but with her steadfast resolve, she turned the dispute into a national movement for human rights and dignity inspiring future generations.
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.
At the Higgins Bedford
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
