Bedfordshire Attractions

Houghton House is an English Heritage property located eight miles south of Bedford. This 17th C manor is believed to be the inspiration for "House Beautiful" in Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress".

Bushmead Priory is an English Heritage property located near Colmworth. This rare survivor is a medieval refectory of an Augustinian priory, with its original timber-framed roof almost intact. Highlights at Bushmead include 14th-century wall paintings.

Elstow (2mi/3km south of Bedford), John Bunyan's home, retains many associations with the author, from the font in which he was baptized to the church bells he used to ring. Bunyan was born in Harrowden, a mile west of Elstow.

Moot Hall is a timber-framed market house in Elstow that houses a museum offering a glimpse of 17th century life including John Bunyan.

Sandy is a small town near the foot of a sandstone ridge with a market every Friday. Excavations show that Sandy dates back to Roman times.

Wrest Park House and Gardens are English Heritage properties located in Silsoe. The house was inspired by an 18th century French chateau and the gardens contain ornaments, statues and a fountain.

Stevenage (pop. 73,700) is a center for the electronics industry located 28mi/45km north of London. St Nicholas Church in Stevenage dates back to the 12th century and the school, from the 16th century still stands on its original location at the north end of the High Street.

Knebworth House in Stevenage has been the home of the Lytton family since 1490. Famous guests have included Winston Churchill and Charles Dickens. The grounds feature a Jekyll Herb Garden, 250 acre deer park and an adventure playground.