Biggleswade Area Guide

Biggleswade is a bustling market town set on the banks of the River Ivel about 12 miles from Bedford and 20 miles from Cambridge. The town centre has a variety of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants and additional brand shopping is available at the Retail Park on the outskirts of the town. The Charter Market, held since the 13^th century, runs on Saturdays with an array of stalls including locally produced foods as well as plants, clothing and gift stalls. The town is also well severed with several of the large supermarket chains. There are plenty of parks and open areas providing walks by the river, children’s playgrounds and sports areas to enjoy. There is a sports and leisure centre and a wide selection of sports clubs ranging from archery and bowling to rugby and squash to suit young and old alike.

Highlights and Attractions

The Wimpole Hall estate is a great day out for all the family. The Hall dates from the 17^th century and for nature lovers there are 300 acres of gardens and parkland to explore or visit Home Farm, an important rare breed centre, with horses, sheep, pigs, goats and more to see.

Jordans Mill’s charming location on the banks of the River Ivel was first mentioned as a milling site in the Domesday Book. The Jordan family purchased the flour mill in 1893 and has since developed the business into one of the UK’s favourite breakfast cereals. The old mill can still be seen working on demonstration days and with the pretty gardens and woodlands to explore it is a lovely day out for all the family.

The Lodge in nearby Sandy is the RSPB’s headquarters and is open to visitors. The Lodge Nature Reserve and Gardens is a special place with a combination of wildlife and heritage experiences. The woodland, heath and acid grassland cover an area of 220 hectares.

Commuting

Biggleswade is perfectly located with easy access to the A1(M) and the national motorway network and is convenient for access to Letchworth, Stevenage and Hatfield home to a variety of major employers in the area. For the London commuter, Biggleswade railway station is a short walk from the town centre and offers fast train services into London King’s Cross in about 35 minutes and Thameslink also offers services through to Horsham via London St Pancras, London Bridge and Gatwick Airport.

Food & Drinks

The Hare & Hounds in nearby Old Warden is a popular gastropub and has been nominated and won Best Dining Pub in Bedfordshire several times.

The George IV on the outskirts of Baldock is a popular family-friendly pub. Cosy inside when it’s cold outside and with a large garden and children’s play area to enjoy during the summer months.

Education

Biggleswade schools adopt the three tier school system of lower, middle and upper schools with St Andrew’s (aged 4-9), Edward Peake Middle School (aged 9-13), Biggleswade Academy (encompasses two tiers - aged 4-13) and Stratton Upper School (aged 13-18). There is also a community special school, Ivel Valley, for children aged 3-19.