In and around the Barns Hotel, Bedford

Weekend and Short Breaks

The Barns Hotel makes the perfect base to enjoy the local attractions and countryside.

Set in a beautiful 3,000 acre deer park, with 10 species of deer roaming free, Woburn Abbey has been the Russell family for nearly 400 years. Today it is occupied by the 15th Duke and his family.The Abbey lies at the heart of Estate and houses one of the most impressive and important private collections of art, furniture and porcelain on public view. Woburn is a special place full of history, ancient tales and beautiful objects. At the Woburn Safari Park, you can combine the excitement of the Safari drive with the fun of taking the Foot Safari round the Wild World Leisure Area. Meet the animals, enjoy the many demonstrations, keeper talks and feeding times.

For some fresh air, take a visit to the Dunstable Downs. This chalk grassland is a wildlife haven, and being the highest point in the East of England, has outstanding views over the Vale of Aylesbury and the Chiltern Ridge.

Milton Keynes offers one of the major retail centres in the UK. With its huge range of high street stores, markets, superstores as well as smaller specialist shops, it really is a shopper's haven.