Bedford River Festival
Join us for a fantastic day out at the Bedford River Festival, one of the UK’s biggest free outdoor events. Enjoy a vibrant mix of live music, colourful river parades, funfair rides, market stalls, water sports, street entertainment, and delicious food from across the region. The Embankment comes alive with energy, offering something for every age and interest.
View Dates & BookWhere the water comes alive
The ever-popular Bedford River Festival takes place in July every other year, and will be back bigger and better for 2026. As always, the River Festival is free to attend and offers something for everyone – including live entertainment and activities, a funfair, raft and dragon boat races, plus the heritage village, sports village, continental market and the water sports arena.
Make summer memories today with our easy, stress free coach trip. After a relaxing journey, explore a festival packed with entertainment: river races, live music, children’s activities, delicious food vendors, and charming craft stalls lining the embankment. Enjoy free time to wander, watch the boats, or simply take in the cheerful festival atmosphere. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves a great day out without the hassle of driving.
With over 250,000 visitors, the Bedford River Festival is described as the second largest outdoor event of it’s kind in the UK after Notting Hill Carnival.
Take the Coach and you can enjoy a glass or two of Pimms or Prosecco at the Festival. No worries about driving and let us worry about the parking.
Free Car Parking is available at our Depot when you book Arlesey Pick Up (Advance Booking is required)
OUR TOP TIPS
Explore beyond the riverbanks
-
The festival includes classic cars on the High Street, music stages across Russell Park, heritage reenactments, sports zones, and food villages. With 100+ acres to cover, pacing yourself is key.
Be prepared for long walking distances
-
The festival footprint is huge — equivalent to 70+ football pitches — so comfortable footwear and regular breaks make a big difference.
Stay hydrated and bring essentials
-
Shaded areas can be limited, and queues for drinks build quickly. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a portable phone charger helps you enjoy the full day without stress.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Arlesey | Mill Lane, Arlesey |
| Arlesey Park and Ride | Arlesey Free Parking |
| Biggleswade Bus Station | Hitchin Street SG18 8AP |
| Letchworth | Morrisons |
| Sandy | Market Square |
| Shefford Lemon Plaice | High Street Shefford SG17 5AX |
| Stevenage Bus Stop L | Stevenage Bus Stop L ( Southbound) |
| Stevenage Old Town | Weatherspoon 33 High Street, SG1 3AU Opposite Weatherspoon (The Standing Order) |
Quick Search
Availability Search
