Walking, cycling and riding

Bedford Borough has lots of opportunities for you to walk, cycle or ride for both leisure and business journeys.

You can improve your health, discover the most attractive parts of the area, learn about history and even travel more quickly.

Walking

Walking is a great way to make short journeys. It’s often quicker than driving and is healthier too.

We have lots of options for walkers of all abilities, including:

View our page on walking routes to download walking route maps.

If you would like to join a local walking group visit Travel Bedford walking.

Cycling can be quick and healthy option. The town centre is a 15-20 minute ride from almost all of Bedford and Kempston.

These organisations can help you get the most out of cycling in the town and countryside of Bedford Borough:

Bikeability is the Department of Transport’s cycle safety and training programme for schools and adults.
Travel Bedford cycling offers information on local cycling clubs, help to choose a bike and bike safety.
Sustrans is a charity that works to make it easier for people to walk and cycle.
Cycling Campaign for North Bedfordshire works to promote, encourage and support cycling in North Bedfordshire
The NHS has lots of information about how cycling can improve your health.
Forest of Marston Vale has 61 square miles of stunning countryside to cycle in.

A combination of cycle lanes, National Cycle Network routes and the National Byway makes Bedford Borough a great place to cycle.

Visit our cycle lanes and routes page for more information.

If you are a developer, please read our cycle parking guidelines (PDF) and the annexes (PDF) showing Use Class Orders and recommended parking spaces.

Bedford Borough has designated historical bridleways for horses and walkers. See our Public Right of Way page for more information.