The Thatchers Way
Distance: 24 miles
Time: This is a day ride.
Route: Bedford - Cardington - Southill - Old Warden -
Ickwell - Northill - Moggerhanger - Blunham - Great Barford -
Willington - Bedford
Start/Finish Point: Priory Country Park, Bedford
Nearest Marston Vale Station: Bedford St Johns
This cycle ride starts from either the peaceful setting of the
Priory Country Park, or the landscaped grounds of the Shuttleworth
Mansion. From here the route heads into an area of rich, rolling
countryside. Alongside the wooded slopes of the Greensand Ridge,
the ancient craft of thatching is kept alive in enchanting picture
book villages, such as Swiss-style Old Warden and Ickwell with its
maypole. Along this route you can discover a magnificent collection
of flying machines, stroll amongst the tiny thatched buildings at
the unique Swiss Garden, and enjoy a pint or two in our very own
Ireland.
Route Description
Route Map
(PDF, 626kb)
Directions to the start point
Get off the train at Bedford St Johns station. Exit via the town
centre exit. Head diagonally across the car park, and head left
along Melbourne Street. Head on the cycle path to the left next to
Kingsway. Cross over the traffic lights, and head down the path
between County Hall and Cauldwell Street. At the riverside, head
right, and follow National Cycle Route 51 to Priory Country
Park.
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