The Thatcher's Way at BedfordThe Thatcher's Way at Bedford

This cycle ride starts from either the peaceful setting of the Priory Country Park, or the landscaped grounds of the Shuttleworth Mansion. From here the route heads into an area of rich, rolling countryside. Alongside the wooded slopes of the Greensand Ridge, the ancient craft of thatching is kept alive in enchanting picture book villages, such as Swiss-style Old Warden and Ickwell with its maypole. Along this route you can discover a magnificent collection of flying machines, stroll amongst the tiny thatched buildings at the unique Swiss Garden, and enjoy a pint or two in our very own Ireland.

Start Point: Bedford - Priory Country Park. Alternative: Old Warden - Shuttleworth College/Swiss Garden. Located 3 miles west of Biggleswade. Start Nat GR: TL073494.

How to get there by car/Parking: Priory Country Park. Located 1½m miles east of the town centre. Entrance off Barkers Lane, from the A428. Free parking.

Cycle Route: Bedford-Cardington-Ireland-Southill-Old Warden-Ickwell-Northill- Moggerhanger-Blunham-Great Barford-Willington-Bedford (Historical interest)

Miles: 24

 

Contact

East of England TB/MBDC
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Venue

Bedford

52.135614,-0.465814See location on Multimap

Map reference: TL 051497


The County Town of Bedfordshire, located on the junction of the A6, A421 and A428, about 15 miles north-east of Milton Keynes and 18 miles north of Luton. Bedford is around 40 miles north of London and is reached via the A421, from junction 13 of the M1 motorway.

Bus: Bedfordshire Bus Info line: 01234 228337, Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm
Travel Line: 0870 6082608, 7 days a week, 7am -10pm
Train: National Rail Enquiries: 08457 484950 24 hour service

Parking : with charge

Accessible by Public Transport : St John Bedford Rail station