The Swan Hotel Bedford
The Swan Hotel Bedford was rebuilt by Henry Holland for The Duke of Bedford in the 18th Century and is an imposing building on the Embankment, the River Ouse flowing beside it – is a perfect place for walkers, runner and rowers. Bedford Bridge was probably originally wooden and built by the Saxons but it was the Victorians who first enjoyed the suspension footbridge further along the Embankment, probably the most photographed view of Bedford. The hotel is virtually opposite St Paul’s Church and the Market Place and so it is a
The Embankment Bedford
central location for the town and spots of historical significance.
Castle Mound is next to the hotel and The Cecil Higgins Museum and Art Gallery is within the grounds behind the castle. Only a few minutes walk you can reach The Bunyan Centre, a museum dedicated to Bunyan and close to the place where it is alleged that he wrote Pilgrim’s Progress – many landmarks of which are in Bedfordshire. Another interesting and unusual place within east walking distance is the Panacea Museum, described as ‘a garden of Eden in the Centre of Bedford.’
Recently refurbished, The Swan Hotel oozes history with its chandeliers and wooden panelled stairs and yet their lunch menu is reasonably priced and would be a haven after a busy morning shopping or visiting the sites. I have not been to the spa but have put it on my ‘to do’ list, having seen the photos on the hotel website.
I am excited that I will be holding an event at The Swan Hotel on August 3rd at 2pm. ‘Murder in the Library’ – a fantastic setting to talk about local history and how an unsolved murder near the village of Wishamstead in 1919, inspired me to write my murder mystery ‘Murder, Now and Then.’ This will be accompanied by tea and cake, all for £5, but it needs to be booked.
You can either let me know and I’ll put you on the list or, better still, pop into the hotel reception or give them a call.
Swan Hotel Reception: 01234 346 565 email: info@bedfordswanhotel.co.uk
or contact me: diana@dianamaryjackson.co.uk
Diana Jackson 