9 Great Things to Do in Bedford on a Rainy Day

When the clouds roll in over Bedford and the rain starts to pour, the day doesn’t need to be a washout. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Rainy days in the south of England invite a new kind of day out. One that’s warm, immersive, and unexpectedly brilliant. If you’re wondering what to get up to when outdoor plans take a turn, this short guide to the best things to do in Bedford on a rainy day has your back.

1. Dive into Discovery at The Higgins Bedford

The Higgins Bedford, located in a stunning Victorian building, offers more than just shelter from the rain; it provides an exploration of local history, art, and design. Featuring rotating exhibitions and permanent collections that span archaeology to Edwardian ceramics, this museum is a delight for anyone who appreciates the wonders of the past.

You’ll often see students sketching in quiet corners or discussing modernist prints over coffee in the café. It’s a place that fosters curiosity and rewards those who seek knowledge.

2. Take Shelter in the John Bunyan Museum

For those drawn to stories and quiet moments, the John Bunyan Museum is a great find. Dedicated to the famous author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, it combines rich historical context with hands on displays. It’s a writer’s paradise, but you don’t need to be a literature student to enjoy it. The storytelling on display is interesting and soothing in a chaotic world.

3. Brew and Board Games at Vanilla Tree Coffee

This indie café offers more than just great coffee and warm lighting. It’s also a cute board game library. It may not be huge, but this is part of the charm. Whether you’re a card player or into family classics, there’s so much fun to be had rolling the dice and planning chess moves while the rain trickles down the windows.

It’s also the ideal place to head if you’re group hangout has been forced inside.

4. Find a Quiet Corner at Bedford Central Library

A rainy day can be the perfect opportunity for a good book or some peaceful study time. Bedford Central Library provides an ideal setting for this, offering study pods, group tables, and quiet reading lounges. It caters to both focussed learners and casual browsers. International students will find it a welcoming place for revising or simply soaking up the local rhythm of life in the town.

5. Stretch it Out at Just Breathe Yoga

Feeling the cabin fever starting to hit? Just Breathe Yoga Studio runs gentle sessions for all levels and is a relaxing place to stretch away the stresses of student life. Classes such as ‘Rainy Day Restore’ or ‘Student Flow’ offer guided movement with mood boosting playlist and tailored breathwork.

6. Watch a Film at Vue Bedford

There’s nothing quite like settling into a good film on a rainy day, and at Vue Bedford you can experience all of the biggest blockbusters every time the wet stuff descends. The reclining seats are a huge bonus, especially after a long week of work. Check the website for student discounts and announcements of the latest screenings.

7. Get Creative at the Quarry Theatre

From improv comedy nights to experimental student performances, the Quarry Theatre at St. Luke’s serves as a creative hub when skies are grey. It’s an intimate venue that’s rarely the same on each visit. Some of the best shows are free or pay what you can, making it a great budget night out for anyone wanting to experience some local culture.

8. Visit a Vintage Arcade at Rogue Racing

For something a little out of the ordinary, a visit to Rogue Racing’s retro arcade area is a brilliant choice. Here, you can try your hand at some of the best classic games, challenge your mates to air hockey, or race like it’s the ’90s. It’s a great laugh, especially when you feel like you’re out of options during darker days.

9. Cosy Days in Your Student Accom

While a little drizzle isn’t enough to put the brakes on your day out, some days just make going outside an impossible mission. When those days strike, a cosy day in your student accommodation is the perfect medicine. Think indoor social spaces, communal kitchen chats, and rainy day cooking lessons that end with someone cleaning their mess.

If you’re living in a student home in Bedford, rainy days present the chance to create some core memories. Whether it be film marathons, shared meals, or spontaneous karaoke sessions, they can all fend off the rainy day blues.

If you’re still searching for your ideal place to stay in Bedford, explore our range of fabulous student properties and make the south of England your new home.

Need More Ideas?

The town has so much more to be uncovered, come rain or shine. Museums, restaurants, creative spaces, and more are there to be explored. Check out some great local guides at Love Bedford and stay up to date with everything going on in this thriving student town.

Grab an Umbrella and Let’s Go

Rainy days in Bedford don’t mean putting your plans on hold; they just call for a little creative thinking.  Whether you’re deep into your dissertation, new to town, or just trying to dodge another soggy walk to the shops, there are so many things to do in Bedford somewhere indoors.