Bedford campsites

Bedfordshire's county town sits along the River Ouse and dates well back into the mists of the Middle Ages. Whether you're buzzing for a ride on the water, or you just want green spaces and charming museums within a doable drive from London, you're set for success here.

Get under the skin of a historic society at the Panacea Museum and then see how one man's book changed the world at the John Bunyan Meeting House and Museum. Feast your eyes on the museum and art gallery at the Higgins Bedford and then top up hungry bellies for real with a trip to their tasty pantry cafe.

A touch further out, the 306th Bombardment Group Museum is well worth exploring too, where you can poke your nose into wartime homes, toot the horn on a military Jeep and hear all about the RAF's exploits. Fly boys and girls will also love Shuttleworth, based at the Biggleswade Aerodrome with its aerial displays and gorgeous Swiss garden.

After that it's time for a well earnt rest with a show at the Quarry Theatre, a meal in a proper Bedfordshire pub or even a top night out on the town.

Also well worth doing is a trip on the John Bunyan Community Boat. Cruise on gentle waters and watch the trees dip into and ripple the river's edge. Nearby Harrold-Odell Country Park, Priory Country Park and the Forest of Marston Vale are delightful greenspaces situated close to the town that will tempt sightseers too.

On the hunt for exciting watersports? You'll find thrilling driving experiences at Box End Park, or you might like to carve across the water towed by a speeding boat, swing through the air on the Lake Ninja course or try a spot of wakeboarding or waterskiing. In fact. it's easy to make a splash in Bedford, which has a rowing club and a tropical indoor paradise for the kiddies (the Oasis Beach Pool) where you'll find flumes to whizz down, rapids and even water cannons.

Have a swing at a round of golf at one of the nearby golf courses or a fantastic interactive experience at the Birds of Prey Centre at Herrings Green Farm. From taking a 'hawk' on the wild side to cuddling cute furry animals and grooming horses, it's a treat in store.

If you're ready to spread your wings and see more, you should make tracks to Stockwood Discovery Centre - it's got elegant carriages for you to oooh and aaah over, a play area for your little tinkers and luxurious walled gardens. Big name attractions like Woburn Abbey and its incredible safari park are just half an hour away. For more urban fun, you'll find the shopping and bars and night life of Milton Keynes, Luton and Stevenage are all in driving distance.