Bedfordshire is a truly beautiful county with a vast number of wonderful and romantic places available to visit completely free of charge. If you want to impress, consider taking a date to one of these fourteen breathtakingly beautiful places for an unforgettable day out in the Bedfordshire countryside.
1. Go for a Hike on the Breathtaking Dunstable Downs
The Dunstable Downs are one of the most beautiful parts Bedfordshire, and indeed of the whole country. If your date enjoys walking, a hike around here will be the perfect way to spend a pleasant day exploring the landscape.
2. Enjoy a Relaxing Picnic at Bedford Park
Bedford Park is one of only three parks to have been awarded the prestigious green flag for cleanliness and it’s easy to see why. This is a stunning park and a great place to spend the day. There are lots of secluded and romantic little spots to enjoy a picnic and get to know one another a little better over a glass of wine.
3. Experience the Magical Beauty of the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral
Witness the remarkable tree cathedral consisting of various trees, hedges and shrubs planted into the shape of a cathedral, and wonder at the skill and time that would have gone into creating this impressive site. Your date will be sure to be impressed.
4. Get Close to Nature at The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve
This RSPB owned nature reserve is a great place to go birdspotting, so take a nature loving date here and you’ll be sure to impress. If the birds alone aren’t enough for you, take time to learn about the stone age settlements which once housed whole communities on the very spot you are now standing and wow your date with your knowledge.
5. Wander Beneath the Willows at Wardown Park
Wardown Park in Luton is uniquely beautiful with rows of stunning willow trees lined along the banks of the River Lea. Take a picnic and relax while watching the ducks and swans swim past then walk across the pedestrian suspension bridge to take in the views from the other side. Take the time to visit the park’s more formal gardens too, of you have the time.
6. Take a Leisurely Stroll around Swiss Garden
Take a date on a leisurely stroll around the stunning gardens taking in the lakes, the woodlands and the stunning views of the Bedfordshire landscape stretching far into the distance. This beautiful garden is set around the grounds of the Swiss Cottage and a wonderful place to explore.
7. Get Lost in the Forest of Marston Vale
The Forest of Marston Vale is an incredible place to wander around with over 1 million trees planted by the Woodland Trust and a huge array of wildlife to spot. This is a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about the conservation efforts of the volunteers.
8. Take a Walk around Stockgrove Country Park
Stockgrove Country Park is a charming place for a visit, with stunning woodland and paths to walk along while talking with your date or find a secluded spot to enjoy a picnic and admire the stunning scenery.
9. Explore the Ruins at Houghton House
This English Heritage owned 17th century mansion in Bedford is a mere shadow of what it once was, but even so it is a remarkable building with breathtaking views of the nearby countryside. Read the informative and interesting plaques dotted around the house and soak up the history together, or just sit and enjoy the wonderful views.
10. Relax by the Tranquil Embankment Bridge
For a lovely chilled date, why not visit the Embankment Bridge in Bedford and enjoy the views across the river and the stunning scenery. This is a wonderful place to walk or just sit and enjoy the peace and tranquillity.
11. Get Close to History at Jordans Mill
Although a guided tour around the mill itself will include a small entry fee, the gardens are free to enter and are beautifully kept with a wide range of native British plants on show throughout the year. The grounds around the mill offer some wonderful views of the Bedfordshire landscape.
12. Explore the Sharpenhoe Clappers
Sharpenhoe Clappers is a lovely, unspoilt nature reserve set in ancient woodland taking in some of the best scenery in Bedfordshire. It’s a great place to take a romantic stroll or more vigorous hike, and perfect for wildlife spotting.
13. Spend a day at Rushmere Country Park
Rushmere Country Park is a huge space with something to do to keep everyone occupied. Take you date for a walk around the woodland or go for a cycle ride on one of the many beautiful trails around the park.
14. Admire the Unspoilt Beauty of Harrold-Odell Country Park
Take a date to this breathtaking location for a wonderful day exploring over 144 acres of unspoilt natural beauty. Make sure to spend plenty of time appreciating the two stunning lakes and the wild beauty of the nature reserve.
Image Source: 1. via nationaltrust.org.uk; 2. via redwoodworld.co.uk; 3. via nationaltrust.org.uk; 4. via rspb.org.uk; 5. via bedsbucksherts.org.uk; 6. via shuttleworth.org; 7. via centerparcs.co.uk; 8. via mapio.net; 9. via nglish-heritage.org; 10. via hikemtshasta.com; 11. via apdoorsandjoinery.co.uk; 12. via nationaltrust.org.uk; 13. via bridgetdavey.com; 14. via raisingemily.net.
Featured photo credit: Unknown via bedsbucksherts.org.uk
