Bedford Clanger - Summer 2026

Summer 2026

ASPIRE: NURTURING YOUR POTENTIAL CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION EXHIBITION

Featuring more than 100 pieces of artwork from primary and secondary schools, and colleges, across the borough Open 20 June – 4 October 2026 Free entry at The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD www.harpurtrust.org.uk/art-competition

SUMMER AT A GLANCE | 4 Fun in the sun

Introduction Summer’s finally here, and have we got a line-up for you! From festivals to family-friendly fun, Bedford is the place to be in July and August. We’ve even created a ‘Summer-at-a-glance’ infographic on page 5 to help you make your holiday plans.

WHAT’S ON | 6 Diaries at the ready

RIVER FESTIVAL | 9 Free fun for all the family

BEDFRINGE | 11

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INCLUSIVE FESTIVAL | 14

Team Clanger

Inclusive Performing Arts Festival

THEATRE | 15 The best of this month’s theatre

SUMMER SESSIONS | 17 Music in Bedford Park

LIVE MUSIC | 18 Bring the noise

BOX END PARK | 20 Make a splash this summer

The Founders of Progress Publishing

ORIGINAL CULTURE FEST | 21 Music, vibes & family fun

Erica Roffe, Julia Course & Paul Hutchinson

HOMETOWN TOURIST | 22 Cycling

GREAT BEDFORDIAN | 23 Fiona Connolly

MEET THE TEAM Editor

Commercial Director

Design

clanger@bedfordindependent.co.uk

julia@bedfordindependent.co.uk

ben@twenty-sixstudios.co.uk

Erica Roffe

Theatre

Paula Walker

Julia Course

Front Cover

Ben Graham/ Izzy Dean

Ben Graham

Website

bedfordindependent.co.uk

Complaints & Corrections: clanger@bedfordindependent.co.uk | The Bedford Clanger is published by Progress Publishing The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

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Summer at a glance Whether you’re planning to stay close to home this summer or looking for some school holiday inspiration, Bedford is definitely the place to be. From festivals and live music to watersports, family fun and beautiful countryside walks, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the summer.

One of the highlights is the River Festival, returning on 18 and 19 July.

Widely regarded as one of the UK’s largest free outdoor festivals, it will once again transform the town centre and Embankment into a family-friendly celebration of music, culture, sport and community spirit, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors across the weekend. Find out more on page 9.

Music lovers are also spoiled for choice with Bedford Summer Sessions (p17) bringing big-name acts to the town, while BedFringe (pages 11, 12 & 13) continues its tradition of showcasing exciting theatre, comedy, music and performance at the Quarry Theatre and The Place. The Inclusive Performing Arts Festival (p14) highlights

the incredible talents of performers of all abilities, while the Original Culture Festival at Priory Country Park celebrates music, dance and culture with a family-focused day on Sunday (page 23).

St Cuthbert’s Street will be closed to traffic once again for their annual street party on Sunday, 30 August – a celebration of Bedford’s indie businesses.

Families looking for a relaxed day out will find plenty to enjoy at the John Bunyan Museum and The Higgins Bedford. Both have packed summer programmes, with exhibitions, storytelling sessions, creative workshops and hands-on activities that will entertain curious minds throughout the school holidays.

Whether you’re after culture, adventure, live entertainment or familyfriendly fun, Bedford offers a summer programme that proves you don’t need to travel far to find something memorable.

Choose from archaeology, animal encounters, clay, crafting, circus skills, felt, fire, painting, printing, rocket launches and so much more!

To find out more or to book your place, scan the QR code, visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk or call the Box office on 01234 718044.

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Things are already getting out of sand.

JULY Bedfringe

Bedford Summer Sessions

22 - 26 July

2 - 5 July

Comedy, theatre, dance, music and more at the Quarry Theatre and the

Four days of incredible headline acts in the beautiful surroundings of Bedford Park.

Image: Nicholas O’Donnell

River Festival

Inclusivity Festival

18 - 19 July

25 - 26 July

Join in the fun at the bi-annual River Festival. Something for all the family to discover.

Fun for EVERY BODY at this super-accessible festival.

Local history talk

Bedford Makers Market

26 July

4 July

Expand your mind with two local history talks at the Eagle Bookshop.

A celebration of local artists and artisans at the Basement @ Bunyan

AUGUST Holiday fun @ The Higgins

Original Culture Festival

Hands-on workshops and activities throughout the summer holidays

Fun in the sun at Priory Country Park – with a new family day on Sunday.

Throughout August

15 - 16 August

Bedford Creative Arts Summer Workshops

St Cuthbert’s Street Festival 30 August

Tuesday, 4 & Wednesday, 5 August

Celebrate Bedford’s indie businesses in their spiritual home. Traffic-free and fun guaranteed.

Get arty with creative sessions this summer.

Bedford Flea 9 August

Our very own brocante market without having to cross the Channel.

Bunyan Museum – Summer Exhibition Thursday, 6 August

A celebration of the life of prison reformerJohn Howard - one of Bedford’s most celebrated historical figures.

Our pick of What’s On this July & August

Image: Horne Lane Brewery © Wells & Co

Image: Beds Urban Sketchers

Image: Pixabay

Celebrating 150 years of Wells and Co.

Urban Sketchers Public Drawing Day

Dance music: Remixed Fridays - all age disco

From Friday, 1 July The Higgins Bedford / Free entry

Founded in 1876 by Charles Wells, the business began at Horne Lane Brewery, brewing beers and growing a thriving pub estate. In 2019, it moved to Brewpoint and rebranded as Wells & Co., marking an exciting new chapter. Find out more about their 150-year journey in this new exhibition at the Higgins Bedford. thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Saturday, 2 July Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, Bedford, MK40 3NX @ 11am - 3pm | Free Friendly volunteers from the Beds Urban Sketchers will be drawing around the museum site and helping visitors to have a go themselves. panaceamuseum.org/events

Bedford Makers Summer Market

Saturday, 4 July Bunyan Meeting, Mill St MK40 3EU @ 10am - 4pm | Free

Friday, 3 July The George and Dragon, Mill street @ 5.30pm - 9pm | Tickets £7.50 online / £10 on the door. (Accompanied children are free) Love dancing or just want to be part of a community event? Here is your opportunity to bop your way into the weekend. If you’d like to make a music/ dance request, email the organisers at remixedfridays@gmail.com, and they’ll do their best. bio.site/remixedfridays

Beginners’ Urban Sketching Workshop

Saturday, 4 July Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Road @ 11.15am - 2.15pm | £5 booking essential

Image: Bedford Makers’ Market

With everything from ceramics and jewellery to paintings and prints, you’ll find incredible one-of-a-kind products and gifts at this summer’s Bedford Makers Market. The brainchild of artists Cath Loukes and Bethany Wells the market is a celebration of local artisans, creatives and craftspeople. @bedfordmakersmarket / bedfordmakersmarket@gmail.com 6

Image: Beginners Urban Sketching workshop. A piece by Tony Underhill

What is Urban Sketching? Join illustrator Tony to learn the basics with step-by-step tips on how to start drawing shapes and architecture. Maximum of 15 people - booking essential. panaceamuseum.org/events/beginners-urban-sketching Let’s have fun, buoys and gulls!

Exhibition: Form and Function

Tuesday, 7 - Saturday, 11th July Basement @ Bunyan Basement @ 11am - 4pm Free entry

Cream Teas in the Panacea Gardens

Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 July Panacea Museum, 11 Newnham Rd, Bedford, MK40 3NX @ 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm | £8

Image: Basement @ Bunyan

An exhibition of work by ceramics students at the Bedford Arts and Crafts Centre off Ampthill Road.

Workshop: Zine Workshop

Saturday, 11 July The Place Theatre @ 2pm / Tickets: free but please book via the website Calling all creatives aged 14–25! Join Imperfect Bound for a free zine-making workshop where you can share your favourite hangouts, strange stories, and meaningful places in Bedford through drawing, writing, collage, and more. Perfect for teens and young adults who love storytelling, art, or just want to share what makes Bedford special. theplacebedford.org.uk

The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

Image: Panacea Museum

A pot of tea, scone, cream and jam, all served on vintage and antique china. Reserve your spot online, and pay on the day by card or cash. panaceamuseum.org/events/cream-teas-july-2026

Bedford Flea, Affordable Art & Local Produce Market Sunday, 12 July and Sunday, 9 August Harpur Square @ 10am - 3pm | Free

The perfect way to spend a chilled-out summer Sunday. Browse the stalls, chat to the traders, grab some food and enjoy the music. In August, head to Harpur Square for the Remedy Collective Takeover Special. See you there! @remedy.bedford

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Not Everything Sucks CIC Wellbeing Walk Monday, 13 July Meet outside Swan Hotel @ 6.15pm | Free

A gentle community walk to connect with nature, slow down and meet new people or enjoy a quiet stroll, no pressure either way.

Bedford Skeptics: What Can I Do That AI Can’t Thursday, 16 July The North End Social Club, Roff Avenue @ 7.30pm | Donations appreciated

Local history: Bedford History double bill

Sunday, 26 July Eagle Bookshop, St Peter’s Street, MK40 2NN @ 4pm | Free but please book tel: 01234 269295 A summer double bill featuring two very different topics: The Town Transformed - Bedford 1939 - 1999, and The Great Siege of Bedford Castle, 1224.

Join local author Bob Ricketts talking about the huge social changes that took place in Bedford in the decades following the Second World War, followed by historian James Petre for a dive into The Great Siege of Bedford Castle - when for eight weeks in the summer of 1224 Bedford and its castle held centre stage in the history of England.

Summer holiday fun

Every Thursday in August John Bunyan Museum & Library @ 11am - 3pm | £2/child

Image: Professor Neil Lawrence

Join Prof Neil Lawrence to find out about the limitations of artificial intelligence, why he finds the notion of artificial general intelligence absurd, and how there’s a part of us that can never be replaced by the machine. The inaugural DeepMind Professor of Machine Learning at the University of Cambridge, Neil has been working on machine learning models for over 20 years and recently returned to academia after three years as Director of Machine Learning at Amazon. sitp.online/sitp/bedford inverseprobability.com

Walking: Marking 40 years of the Greensand Ridge Walk

Saturday, 18 July St Leonard’s Church, Old Warden | £10 to support The Greensand Trust

Image: Unsplash

Crafty Thursdays are back at the Bunyan Museum with a mixture of activities suitable for all the family, including under the sea crafts, tube art, clay week and animal magic. No need to book – just drop in! bunyanmeeting.co.uk/events

Exhibition: Howard 300 - celebrating the life of the pioneering prison reformer

Thursday, 6 August - Saturday, 5 September Basement @ Bunyan, Mill Street @ Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 4pm | Free

Image: Greensand Trust Image: Basement @ Bunyan

2026 marks the 40th anniversary of The Greensand Ridge, and to celebrate, they have curated a programme of walks from May to September, including Old Warden Circular Walk. This eight-mile guided walk takes you through Old Warden and Ickwell onto the Greensand Ridge Walk before heading back towards Old Warden. greensandtrust.org/events 8

The museum’s summer exhibition celebrates the 300th anniversary of the birth of John Howard, exploring the life, work, and lasting legacy of the Bedfordian prison reformer. It will feature historic artefacts alongside creative writing produced by individuals from HMP Bedford. bunyanmeeting.co.uk/events This wonderful beach makes me so em-ocean-al.

All Images: Bedford Borough Council

River Festival Saturday, 18 & Sunday, 19 July Bedford River Festival is back, and across two packed days, the riverside, Russell Park, and the town centre will once again be home to the UK’s second largest free outdoor festival.

At the heart of the festival is the River Great Ouse, so don’t miss the boat parades on both Saturday and Sunday, and the illuminated boat parade on Saturday night. Saturday sees the welcome return of the Dragon Boat Race in aid of Sue Ryder, while Sunday’s Raft Race promises the usual chaotic homemade flotilla of crafts vying for victory - and raising money for local charities.

St. Mary’s Gardens is home to the family area, with accessible activities and workshops for all ages. Over on Sports Island, festival-goers can get stuck into everything from canoeing and climbing to rugby, gymnastics and paddleboarding.

As ever, music is at the heart of this year’s line-up. In Russell Park, the main stage acts are curated by Esquires, and on the Embankment, the new BBC Music Introducing Stage will shine a spotlight on emerging artists from Bedford and beyond, so catch some future stars in the making. The Community Stages in Mill Meadows will showcase local acts of all ages.

location to view the river activities, and also host to traditional bands performing in the ‘Bands on the Bridge’ area. Pull up a chair and relax to some rousing classical tunes performed by some of the best bands in Bedfordshire.

Harpur Square will host the bonkers ‘Wuthering Heights Day’ - a large gathering of people dressed in red, dancing to Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights and generally embracing the sort of glorious British eccentricity that makes absolutely no sense at all until you’re there. Grab your red dress and head on down there!

One of this year’s festival highlights will be the Green Earth Vegan Lounge on Castle Mound. It’s the go-to place for a chilled-out vibe, vegan food, nature-themed children’s activities, live willow weaving and wood-turning demonstrations, and music from Bedford’s own Remedy Collective, featuring performers from across the UK. If you want to find an oasis of calm among the festival excitement, the Lounge offers chill-out spaces with sessions including Reiki, Qigong and sound baths. Add in Castle Mound’s unbeatable views of the river action - including Saturday evening’s Illuminated Boat Parade - and it sounds like the perfect place to pause, soak it all in, and enjoy a picnic or a bite to eat.

Best of all, it is all free.

Visit bedford.gov.uk for all the latest River Festival info and to download the full programme.

Take a turn down the High Street to enjoy the Bedford Festival of Motoring and relax on Town Bridge - an ideal The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

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Celebrate Independents’ Day and win £50 Whether you’re visiting one of this summer’s specialist markets, coming into the town centre to pick up a birthday gift or to meet friends for lunch, we really want to see your swag.

By sharing a photo of your locally bought purchases - including food, drink, a haircut or a charity shop bargain - and tagging #BoughtInBedford on Instagram, not only will your support be shared for all to see, but you could

also win a £50 voucher to spend in your favourite indie business.

To be in with a chance of winning £50 to spend at a Bedford Borough independent business of your choice, follow these simple steps: 1. Make a purchase from one of Bedford Borough’s brilliant indies. This can be an item, food, a service (for instance, a haircut, beauty treatment), or a cup of coffee.

2. Take a photo of what you have purchased.

3. Share the photo publicly on an Instagram post using the hashtag #BoughtInBedford and tag @bedfordindependent and the business you bought it from.

It really is that easy!

If you don’t have an Instagram account or a public profile, you can email win@ bedfordindependent.co.uk the photo, including a description of what you bought, where you purchased it, with your name.

Full terms and conditions can be found at BedfordIndependent.co.uk.

THERE’S A WONDERFUL BOOK HERE - JUST FOR YOU!

BOOKS FOR THE READER COLLECTOR SCHOLAR EVERYONE

THE EAGLE BOOKSHOP THE LARGEST SECOND-HAND BOOKSHOP IN THE REGION

16 -20 ST PETERS STREET, BEDFORD MK40 2NN

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I’ll be back. Just hanging out with some grill friends

Bedfringe 2026 Wednesday, 22 - Sunday 26 July The Quarry Theatre & The Place Theatre bedfringe.com Roll up, roll up, the 19th Bedford Festival Fringe (Bedfringe to its friends) is back, with over 100 fabulous events at The Quarry Theatre and Place Theatre for your entertainment and enjoyment.

After its hugely successful launch last year, the Inclusive Arts Festival will now take place over two days at the Quarry Theatre, so there’s lots more to see, do and get involved in - and it’s accessible to all. Find out more on page 14.

As ever, there are plenty of events that are either free to attend or ask for a voluntary donation, so there’s really no excuse not to come along.

Monstering the Rocketman

Saturday, 25 July @ 6pm | Main Auditorium, The Quarry Theatre

Director’s Picks…

Each year, we ask Bedfringe director, James Pharaoh MBE, for his top picks from the festival.

“One of my highlights is Mitch Benn’s ‘Asking Elvis’ (Saturday, 25 July),” said James. “ I had no idea he was the Elvis impersonator on Steve Wright’s BBC Radio Show.

Over to you, JPMBE…

Poems from the Daily Mail Sunday, 26 July @ 3pm | The Studio, The Quarry Theatre

Fringe First Winner 2025 / Edinburgh Fringe Theatre Award 2025 It’s Elton John vs The Sun. The world’s biggest star battles the world’s toughest tabloid in epic 80s clash…

What Doesn’t Kill You

Wednesday, 22 July @ 9.30pm | The Studio, The Quarry Theatre

Andy Gilbert, ‘The UK’s number 1 Poetry Teacher’ delivers a hilarious lecture on the importance of historical poetry inspired by genuine headlines from the Daily Mail.

Max Fulham’s Monkey Business Saturday, 25 July @ 3pm | The Studio, The Quarry Theatre

Ever wondered how to survive life’s messy, awkward, and chaotic moments with your sanity (mostly) intact? Comedian Thao Cao has been there, surviving near-death experiences, racism on public transport, and endless teasing about her Vietnamese name.

The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

Join Max, his sidekick Gordon the Monkey, and a gaggle of puppet friends as they get down to the seriously silly business of making big laughs for the whole family.

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Bollyqueer

Michael Hill

Mitch Benn is Asking Elvis

Bollyqueer is the UK’s first and only all LGBTQIA+ POC Bollywood performance group. Catch their high-energy group performance and learn some of your own Bollywood moves.

Michael has a rapidly growing global presence on social media, amassing over 15 million views on his viral cover of Benson Boone’s ‘Beautiful Things’ and gaining over 69,000 Instagram followers before the age of 15. Not to be missed.

For ten years, Mitch was the most popular feature of the most popular show on the radio… but nobody knew it was him. This is the story of ‘Ask Elvis’ on Steve Wright’s BBC Radio 2 show.

Thursday, 23 July @ 2.15pm | The Garden Stage, The Quarry Theatre

Sunday, 26 July @ 7pm / 8.40pm | The Garden Stage, The Quarry Theatre

Saturday, 25 July @ 8pm | The Quarry Theatre

Bedfringe @ The Place Theatre This year’s Bedfringe festival is not only taking place at the Quarry, but events are also happening at the Place Theatre on Bradgate Road. Here’s the lowdown…

Theatre: Richard Pryor is God

Saturday, 25 July The Place Theatre @ 2pm & 4pm / Tickets: from £7

Set in a small North Bedfordshire town, this witty and farcical comedy tells the story of God returning to Earth to collect his son, Jesus! Based on the Richard Pryor skit, this comedic reimagining is packed full of laughs and unexpected turns. Written and directed by Bedford-based Sam Turton 12

Music: Claire Cameron featuring Dan Thomas and Alex Hallam Saturday, 25 July The Place Theatre @ 5.30pm / Tickets: from £5

Singer-songwriter Claire Cameron will be joined by talented lead guitarist Alex Hallam and her friend Dan Thomas on acoustic guitar and backing vocals. The trio have played in and around Cambridge and are delighted to be performing as part of this year’s Bedfringe.

Water you waiting for?!

Music: Tom Korni - The One Man Festival Saturday, 25 July The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm / Tickets: from £12.50

Watch local talent Tom Korni perform completely live, creating the sound of a five-piece band while playing everything simultaneously — guitar, bass, synths, drums, and vocals all at once. No backing tracks, no loop pedals — just one musician creating a huge live sound in real time. Featuring tracks by Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Bob Marley, David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, Tame Impala, Radiohead, Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, Stone Roses, Blur, The Killers and more.

Poetry and Prose: Sun, Sea and Song - an evening of Poetry and Prose Sunday, 26 July The Place Theatre @ 4pm / Tickets: Pay What You Can

Sun, Sea and Song – Celebrate summer with fifty minutes of poetry, prose and, perhaps, a song or two at The Place Theatre.

You can browse the full Bedfringe programme online at bedfringe.com, and there’s even a handy checklist, so you can mark off how many shows you’ve seen throughout the festival.

The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

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Inclusive Performing Arts Festival Bedfringe presents an arts festival for EVERY BODY Wednesday, 22 and Thursday, 23 July @ The Quarry Theatre After an incredible inaugural event at last year’s Bedfringe, the award-winning Inclusive Performing Arts Festival is returning this summer with its biggest and most ambitious programme yet.

Taking place over two days, the festival brings together disabled, deaf and neurodivergent artists, audiences and communities from across Bedfordshire and beyond for a joyful celebration of creativity, accessibility and inclusion.

This year’s programme will feature theatre, dance, music, comedy, workshops and family activities designed to ensure everyone and EVERY BODY can take part and feel welcome.

Accessibility is at the heart of the festival experience, with a carefully curated programme, Changing Places toilet facilities, BSL interpreters, sensory-friendly activities, inclusive workshops and accessible spaces throughout the event. The festival will showcase professional disabled artists alongside emerging local talent and community groups, highlighting disabled, deaf and neurodivergent artists, LGBTQ+ voices, neurodivergent creatives and underrepresented performers.

There will also be children’s activities, creative workshops, sensory spaces and opportunities to connect with artists and community organisations.

The Inclusive Performing Arts Festival is about creating a space where everybody feels welcome, represented and celebrated. We want people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the brilliance of the arts in an environment designed with inclusion at its core.

Festival organiser, Elise Gray

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The Inclusive Performing Arts Festival has recently won Highly Commended at The Bedford Independent’s Every Day Hero Award for Inclusion, recognising not only the quality of its performances but also its commitment to accessibility and community connection.

More information and tickets are available from bedfringe.com

All Images: Inclusive Performing Arts Tis the sea-sun to be jolly

Take a look at the drama this Summer Comedy: Charity Comedy Night in aid of The Road Victims Trust

Saturday, 4 July The Place Theatre @ 8pm / Tickets: from £17.50

Comedy: Matt Forde: Defying Calamity

Friday, 10 July The Quarry Theatre @ 7.30pm / Tickets: £25

Help the Road Victims Trust continue to provide free, long-term emotional and practical support to people bereaved or seriously injured in road collisions by supporting this fundraising comedy night. The local charity has been providing support for over 30 years. theplacebedford.org.uk

Community Theatre: Whiskers in the Wall

Tuesday, 7 & Thursday, 9 July The Place Theatre @ 6pm / Tickets: from £5

In his biggest live tour to date, leading political comedian Matt Forde (The Royal Variety Performance, Spitting Image, HIGNFY, British Scandal) finds positivity in life despite all the evidence to the contrary in politics and his own health.

Theatre: All of Them, Dead

Saturday, 11 July The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm / Tickets: from £16

Whiskers in the Wall follows the story of an adventurous cat who roams the house and discovers a variety of unexpected housemates, including mice, raccoons, dogs, and even ghostly coats living there. theplacebedford.org.uk

Theatre: Handlebards present – As You Like It

Thursday, 9 July The Quarry Theatre @ 7pm / Tickets: from £3.50

In a global pandemic caused by infected meat, two boys find they’re much less alone than they thought. All Of Them, Dead is a play about being young, gay and working-class in the middle of nowhere. It’s about the things that go unsaid, it’s about two boys holding hands, it’s about clinging together as the world changes around you. And it’s about meat falling from the sky (no, really). theplacebedford.org.uk Pedalling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK. Join the troupe at the Quarry Theatre for a fantastically funny bicyclepowered production of Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’. quarrytheatre.org.uk The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

Community Theatre: Alice’s Adventures Thursday, 16 July - Saturday, 18 July The Place Theatre @ various times / Tickets: from £10

Take a tumble down the rabbit hole this summer with Alice’s Adventures — an openair family show inspired by the beloved tales of Lewis Carroll. Don your top hat and goggles, and prepare for an enchanting adventure filled with curiosity, charm, and clockwork magic! theplacebedford.org.uk 15

Workshop: The Great Festival Theatre Course Monday, 27 July - Friday, 31 July The Place Theatre @ 10am til 4pm each day / Tickets: £100 for the 5 days

Dive into a vibrant world of colour, music, laughter, and imagination this summer! Designed for Year 3 to Year 11, The Great Festival Theatre Summer School is a dynamic, week-long adventure where young people become performers, designers, musicians, and storytellers in a festival like no other. theplacebedford.org.uk

Theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Saturday, 15 August The Place Theatre @ 7pm / Tickets: from £16

Love, laughter, and a little bit of lunacy — enter a world where fairies meddle, lovers quarrel, and magic runs wild in this breathtaking open-air performance of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. theplacebedford.org.uk

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Children’s Theatre: The Cursed Ring Friday, 21 August The Place Theatre @ 7pm / Tickets: from £16

‘It began with the forging of the great ring. From the Rhinegold it was made. Beautiful and powerful it was, until it fell into the hands of men, whose lust for power and riches proved to be their undoing. A tale of heroes, Dwarves, Dragons and the Gods. Love, justice, desire, and villainous treachery.’

Children’s Theatre: The Ultimate Bubble Show Saturday, 29 August The Place Theatre @ 11am & 1pm / Tickets: from £10

Prepare to be amazed as Ray Bubbles (what a name!) creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost, and even a tornado inside a bubble! The performance is suitable for children and adults with additional needs.

Hey beach! Long time no sea.

McFly at Bedford Summer Sessions 2025 / Image: Cuffe & Taylor

Bedford Summer Sessions Bedford Park Thursday, 2 - Sunday, 5 July

McLean and Reggae Roast featuring MC Horseman. Expect plenty of singalong moments and feel-good vibes.

For many Bedfordians, Saturday’s headline act may be the most eagerly anticipated. Local star Tom Grennan returns to Bedford Park for what is expected to be a triumphant hometown performance. Special guests Brooke Combe and Fiona-Lee complete the bill.

As ever, Bedford Summer Sessions is about more than music. It showcases the town at its best, drawing visitors, supporting local businesses and providing unforgettable summer memories.

If previous years are anything to go by, we just know that Bedford Park will once again be the place to be this July.

Image: Rebecca Goacher

This July, Bedford Summer Sessions returns to the beautiful surroundings of Bedford Park with another stellar line-up, promising four memorable nights in the heart of the town.

The opening night (Thursday) sees Scottish favourites Deacon Blue take to the stage, joined by special guests The Lightning Seeds. Their back catalogue of much-loved hits will be the perfect uplifting start to the weekend.

Friday brings a reggae-flavoured celebration as UB40 featuring Ali Campbell headline, supported by Bitty The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

Tom Grennan / Image: Nicholas O’Donnell

The series concludes on Sunday with the legendary Paul Weller, supported by Miles Kane and Arkayla. The Modfather’s enduring appeal and extensive back catalogue make him a fitting choice to close the festival weekend, so expect tracks from across his 54-year career.

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Bring the noise This Is The Kit

Wednesday, 8 July Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm / Tickets: £26

This Is The Kit is the alias of British musician Kate Stable as well as the band she fronts. Now seven albums in and with their latest work produced by Gruff Rhys, yet another daring but warm album was created. Constantly supported by DJs across the BBC, including 6 Music and Radio 1, as well as playing festivals around the world, this is set to be an amazing evening of music. bedfordesquires.co.uk

Big Truck

EMF + Scant Regard

Big Truck is the sound of Laurie Vincent stepping into a different light. Known for the raw intensity of SOFT PLAY, here he trades abrasion for atmosphere – creating songs that move between indie-pop melody and candid lyricism. bedfordesquires.co.uk

EMF are back in Bedford! Formed in 1989, the band exploded onto the global stage with their infectious blend of dance, rock, and pop, and within a year, they were everywhere, thanks to the smash hit “Unbelievable”. The band are still creating, still touring, and still full of the life-affirming energy that made them unforgettable.

EMF remain as vital and visionary as ever. bedfordesquires.co.uk

Friday, 17 July Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm / Tickets: £14

Thursday, 23 July Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm / Tickets: £25

Music in the Meadows

The Buzzcocks

Free live music concerts are back every Sunday throughout August at Music in the Meadows this summer. Come along and bring the family, a picnic and some seating, and enjoy an afternoon of live traditional bandstand music, from jazz to brass ensembles.

The legendary Buzzcocks make their return to Esquires once again. Formed in Bolton in 1976, few have had the longevity and sustained creative energy to produce the seemingly endless stream of truly original and fantastic pop songs that this iconic band have consistently delivered over the last four decades.

One of the greatest punk bands in history, this is not a show to be missed. bedfordesquires.co.uk

Every Sunday in August The Bandstand, Mill Meadows @ 3pm - 5pm / Free

This year’s line-up features Bedford Town Band (2 August), May Blossom Vintage Songbird (9 August), Fynnius Fog (16 August), South Beds Concert Band (23 August). bedford.gov.uk/ EmbankmentAndMillMeadows 18

Friday, 7 August Bedford Esquires @ 7.30pm / Tickets: £30

In need of some vitamin sea.

Beats + Strings: Soul Renaissance

Friday, 7 August The Place Theatre @ 7.30pm / Tickets: from £18

Enjoy an evening of R&B and Soul music performed by a trio of Kansas City’s best.

Beats + Strings: Soul Renaissance is a unique live music experience evoking a sultry nightclub aesthetic. Leave your troubles at the door and take in their dynamic playlist of soul favourites, performed with acoustic strings, electronic vibes and percussive beats. theplacebedford.org.uk

Music: Italian Spectacular 2026 - Giorgio Serci Trio Azzurro feat. Hetty Loxston

The Place Open Mic 2026

An evening of Italian music and food a the Quarry Theatre in aid of the Bedford MS Therapy Centre. Enjoy a musical journey through iconic Italian music, reimagined with a sophisticated jazz twist. The quartet brings new life to much-loved Italian songs from iconic movies such as Cinema Paradiso by Ennio Morricone, The Godfather by Nino Rota and many other classic melodies celebrating La Dolce Vita. quarrytheatre.org.uk

The ever-popular “The Place Open Mic” sessions are back. Join the relaxed music sessions in The Place foyer. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just love to play, The Place Open Mic offers a friendly, informal space to meet fellow music lovers and enjoy a good jam session. Bring your instrument, grab a coffee, and let the music flow. theplacebedford.org.uk

Sunday, 30 August The Place Theatre @ 2pm - 5pm / Free

Saturday, 8 August The Quarry Theatre @ 7pm / Tickets: from £20 (including food)

Unlimited journeys.

Unlimited savings.

Unlimited Bedford.

Travel more, spend less! Save big on travel with an exclusive £5 DayRider ticket.

Use code EABD5APPDAY to redeem on the Stagecoach App. Get your ticket on the App *Discounted tickets must be redeemed on the Stagecoach Bus App using the codes provided between 1st September and 30th November 2025.

This offer is valid on Adult DayRider tickets for the Bedford Town zone only.

The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

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Making a splash at Box End Park If you’re looking for a family-friendly summer holiday activity that combines fresh air, beautiful countryside and plenty of opportunities to get soaked, then Box End Park should be at the top of your list.

Just on the outskirts of Bedford, Box End Park has come a long way since its launch just over 20 years ago. Still owned and run by a local farming family, the site now stretches across 100 acres of Bedfordshire countryside and has become one of the region’s most popular destinations for outdoor water-based fun - just bring on the sunshine.

At its heart are two purpose-built lakes where visitors can enjoy a huge range of activities, whether they’re thrill-seekers, families, fitness enthusiasts, or simply looking for somewhere different to spend the day.

A guaranteed hit is the Giant Inflatable Aqua Park. Open from April to October, this floating obstacle course features climbing walls, slides, balance challenges and plenty of opportunities for spectacular watery wipe-outs. Suitable for ages six and over, you’ll definitely leave with a smile on your face.

Want to master a new skill? Then the Cable Tow offers wakeboarding and knee-boarding sessions for all abilities. Beginners can try taster sessions with tuition and equipment included, while spectators can enjoy the entertainment of watching experienced riders pull off impressive tricks across the lake.

If something a little calmer is more your style, stand-up paddleboarding is a relaxing way

to enjoy the water. Open water swimmers are also well catered for, with regular supervised sessions in the park’s spring-fed lakes, including popular sunrise and moonlight swims that make the most of the borough’s natural beauty.

The fun doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. Box End Park also boasts 18-hole Disc Golf and 20

All Images: Box End Park

Football Golf courses, perfect for family competitions or to stoke friendly rivalries. If you’ve worked up an appetite, the lakeside Corner 5 Restaurant and Bar is the perfect place to refuel. With stunning views and a sunny terrace, it’s a foodie destination in its own right.

The latest exciting chapter in the Box End Park story is the arrival of luxury lakeside lodges offering guests the chance to wake up beside the water and enjoy everything the park has to offer.

Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation or a bit of both, Box End Park continues to prove that some of Bedford’s best days out are right on our doorstep.

READER DISCOUNT CODE:

Using code ‘CLANGERBEP10’, Bedford Clanger readers can claim a 10% discount when booking any of the following activities online: Aqua Park (Individual & Group of 4 tickets) Stand Up Paddleboarding Taster Session (Individual & Group of 4 tickets) 2hr Cable Wakeboarding (Adult & Kid tickets) Kids & Parents Holiday Mornings The code is valid until 30 September 2026.

Box End Park, Box End Road, Bedford MK43 8RQ 01234 846222 boxendpark.com

All Images: Original Culture Festival

Original Culture Festival returns with a full day of familyfriendly fun Saturday, 15 and Sunday, 16 August @ Priory Country Park Now celebrating its fifth anniversary, the Original Culture Festival will be bringing the party to town this August, with an added special family day so that everyone can enjoy the vibes.

The festival, which is in memory of its founder, DJ Rhino Selektor, is a celebration of music, culture and community, all set against the backdrop of Priory Country Park. The two-day event promises live music, DJs, street food, family entertainment and plenty of feelgood summer fun.

Saturday’s Original Culture Festival (2pm - 10pm) promises one of its strongest and most diverse line-ups yet, celebrating sound system culture across two stages. The Rhino Stage features house, garage, R&B and party anthems from acts including Rampage Sound, Saxon Sound System, Donae’O and Sweet Female Attitude.

Meanwhile, the Reggae Matters Stage honours reggae heritage with performances from Luv Injection, King Tubbys, Fatman Sound and Lovebeat Family. Organisers say the stage celebrates the pioneers and communities behind reggae and sound system culture, while introducing new audiences to an important part of Black British musical heritage.

The fun continues on Sunday with the newly-named Original Family Festival (11am - 7pm), which transforms the park into a familyfriendly celebration suitable for all ages. Visitors can look forward The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

to Bob Marley, ABBA, and Taylor Swift tribute acts, live DJs, children’s entertainment, funfair rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, activity zones and a selection of street food stalls. The much-loved Be Our Guest Princesses, alongside a range of popular character mascots, will be making appearances throughout the festival. The perfect day out for all the family.

major events and this year’s event promises to deliver another memorable weekend.

For tickets and all info about the festival visit originalculturefestival.co.uk

The weekend has become a highlight of Bedford’s outdoor festival season, showcasing the town as a destination for 21

On your bike in Bedford Borough One of the best ways to see the beautiful countryside of our borough is by hopping on your bike and exploring the cycle paths that are part of National Cycle Route 51. The family-friendly route - much of which is traffic-free - passes directly through Bedford and forms part of the wider cycling network linking Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford, Cambridge and beyond.

Within Bedford Borough, Route 51 follows sections of the River Great Ouse, connecting Priory Country Park with the Danish Camp at Willington in the east and Great Denham Park in the west. It’s perfect for families, recreational riders and inexperienced cyclists as it is largely smooth, flat terrain - there’s only one ‘hill’ as you cross the bypass, but the bonus is that there’s a downhill almost immediately.

One of Route 51’s highlights is the Danish Camp on the banks of the River Great Ouse near Willington. With historical links to Viking settlement, the site now serves as a hub for All Images: Pixabay

walkers, cyclists and visitors, serving great food and offering boat hire. Its location is at the heart of a range of circular routes and traffic-free trails along the river.

Rather than heading east to Willington, if you aim west, Route 51 takes you from the

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town centre, along the tow path of the River Great Ouse to Great Denham Park. Along the way, enjoy views of the Gurdwara at Queen’s Park, and spot wildlife on the river.

The Archer’s Rest cafe at Great Denham is the perfect place for a pitstop (and to pick up a copy of the Bedford Clanger).

Happy pedalling! danishcamp.co.uk

Great Bedfordian This month’s Great Bedfordian is Fiona Connolly, co-organiser of the Original Culture Festival (OCF) that takes place at Priory Country Park on Saturday, 15 and Sunday, 16 August.

The event is the legacy of Fiona’s partner, Rowan Forrester, known as Rhino Selekta. The DJ and promoter was well known for his passion for music, and this August will mark five years since his passing.

The two-day event is a celebration of music, community and culture and this year, Sunday is dedicated to families, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. originalculturefestival.co.uk Over to you, Fiona…

Born here or blow in? I was born in Dublin, where my late parents met in the early 80s. We moved here when I was around two. We had family in Bedford, so moved here and have been here ever since.

Best breakfast in Bedford? We are big fans of the Beefeater at Priory Marina for breakfast. The freshly cooked, unlimited breakfast is so good. Very handy for the OCF team on the weekend of the festival, too.

Best boozer? I’m not a huge pub goer, but you will always find me in the Grafton on St Patrick’s Day. Best coffee or cuppa? Best cup of tea was always at my Dad’s house (God rest him). Can’t beat a good cup of Yorkshire or Barry’s tea! But my favourite coffee will always be at Cibo Italian Subs on Riverside Square.

Best takeaway? Cibo Italian Subs (the most filling and tasty subs in Bedford) and Marcellos Pizza (the lightest, most delicious pizza around), in my humble opinion The Bedford Clanger / Summer 2026

Image: Fiona Connolly

Ever read John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress? I haven’t, but my daughter covered it at school, and I heard a lot about it. Probably should get on that as I’m carrying this title lol.

Ever eaten a Bedfordshire Clanger?

Yes I love the Clanger. Love a sausage roll, love an apple pie ..... what’s not to love about the Clanger?

Image: Cibo Italian Subs

Best gig you’ve seen in Bedford?

The Pharcyde performed at Esquires in 2023 and was by far the best gig I’ve been to in Bedford. We are very lucky to still have such a fantastic grassroots venue in Esquires.

All my favourite gigs have been there.

Image: Neil McCarty

An off-the-beaten-track gem that everyone should know about?

Priory Country Park. We are lucky enough to hold the Original Culture Festival at Priory and have explored the park extensively. There were areas of the park I didn’t know were there until five years ago.

It’s so incredibly beautiful.

Best Bedfordian? Best Bedfordian for me would have to be Philomena Bates from Watton Recruitment. She has done some incredible work with some very important charities within Bedford and has found employment for so many Bedfordians, myself included.

Three words that best sum up Bedford?

Diverse Beautiful Vibrant 23