The Arcade, Bedford: A Historic Victorian Shopping Gem
Step into Bedford’s historic Victorian Arcade, where timeless charm meets unique independent shopping in a vibrant community setting.
The Arcade in Bedford is a charming Victorian shopping centre that has been a local retail hub since 1905. Stretching from High Street to Harpur Street, it offers a unique blend of independent shops, vintage charm, and modern conveniences, making it a beloved destination for shoppers seeking character and variety in Bedford.
A brief summary to The Arcade
- Bedford, MK40 1NS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and extended store hours from 8am to 10pm on Tuesday to Friday.
- Explore the independent boutiques and specialty shops for unique gifts and local products.
- Check out seasonal events and promotions to enjoy festive decorations and special offers.
- Use nearby seating areas to rest and soak in the arcade’s historic atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Arcade
A Century-Old Retail Landmark in Bedford
The Arcade opened its doors in 1905, establishing itself as one of Bedford’s longest-standing shopping destinations. This historic Victorian arcade runs between the High Street and Harpur Street, maintaining much of its original architectural charm. Its vintage frontage and period details evoke a sense of nostalgia, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying a contemporary shopping experience.A Diverse Collection of Independent Shops and Services
Within The Arcade, visitors find a variety of independent retailers and service providers, ranging from boutique fashion outlets to specialist services like Bedfordshire Botanics. This diversity creates a vibrant retail environment, distinct from generic shopping centres. The mix of businesses reflects the local community’s character and entrepreneurial spirit, offering unique products and personalized service.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The Arcade’s intimate, covered walkway provides a relaxed and sheltered shopping environment. Its historic setting offers a tranquil yet lively ambience, perfect for casual browsing or purposeful shopping. The arcade’s layout encourages exploration, with charming shopfronts and inviting interiors that enhance the overall visitor experience.Modern Amenities within a Historic Setting
Despite its age, The Arcade is well-equipped to meet modern shoppers’ needs. It operates daily with extended hours on weekdays and weekends, ensuring accessibility and convenience. Amenities such as seating areas and nearby food and drink options complement the shopping experience, while information boards help visitors navigate the variety of stores.Community and Cultural Significance
More than just a shopping centre, The Arcade serves as a cultural landmark within Bedford. It supports local businesses and fosters a sense of community pride. Its preservation as a historic site underscores Bedford’s commitment to maintaining its architectural heritage while supporting economic vitality.Events and Seasonal Attractions
Throughout the year, The Arcade hosts various events and promotions that enliven the space and attract visitors. Seasonal decorations and special offers add to the festive atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a distinctive shopping experience in Bedford.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
12.6 km
England's finest surviving medieval priory refectory, where Augustinian canons once gathered to dine and pray.
The Warren House
19.3 km
A rare 17th-century timber-framed warrener’s cottage offering historic charm and scenic views over Kimbolton Castle in tranquil rural surroundings.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
20.4 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
The George
28.8 km
A historic Huntingdon coaching inn with a traditional pub, hearty food, and a long connection to local history and Oliver Cromwell.
Hamerton Zoo Park
31.6 km
Explore Hamerton Zoo Park, a family-friendly destination with diverse wildlife, beautiful gardens, and educational experiences in the heart of Huntingdon.
The Manor, Hemingford Grey
31.7 km
Discover the historic allure of The Manor in Hemingford Grey, the oldest continuously inhabited house in the UK, surrounded by stunning gardens and rich history.
Northampton Castle Postern Gate
31.9 km
Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
National Trust - Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows
31.9 km
Explore the historic charm of Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows, a scenic escape filled with nature, history, and delightful riverside walks.
Roundwood Gin
34.4 km
Explore the art of distillation at Roundwood Gin, where quality meets craftsmanship in the heart of Huntingdon's countryside.
RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes
35.3 km
Discover RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes: A nature reserve rich in wildlife and scenic trails near Cambridge, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.
RSPB Fowlmere
35.9 km
Explore RSPB Fowlmere, a serene nature reserve in Royston, perfect for bird watching and enjoying the tranquility of the British countryside.
Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial
36.7 km
Explore the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial, a moving tribute to American soldiers in the UK, steeped in history and serenity.
JOHNSONS OF OLD HURST | JOHNSONS ZOO
37.1 km
Experience a magical day at Johnsons Zoo in Old Hurst, where wildlife, local produce, and relaxation come together for a delightful outing.
Lamport Hall
38.1 km
Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.
Grantchester Recreation Ground
38.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Grantchester Recreation Ground, a serene park near Cambridge perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and family outings.
Unmissable attractions to see
John Howard Statue
0.2 km
Explore the John Howard Statue in Bedford, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of social reform and humane treatment in prisons.
Harpur Square
0.2 km
A vibrant pedestrian plaza in Bedford blending shopping, dining, and cultural life in a lively urban setting.
The Higgins Bedford
0.2 km
Discover Bedford’s rich heritage and world-class art collections in a historic brewery turned vibrant museum and gallery.
John Bunyan Museum
0.2 km
Discover the life, legacy, and literary genius of John Bunyan at Bedford’s immersive museum and historic meeting church.
The Store
0.3 km
Bedford’s pioneering zero waste supermarket offering refillable staples and eco-friendly household products in a welcoming community space.
Panacea Museum
0.3 km
Explore the captivating history and serene gardens of Bedford’s Panacea Society at the Panacea Museum, a unique religious heritage site.
Bedford Castle Mound
0.3 km
Historic Norman castle earthwork with panoramic river views, accessible paths, and rich medieval heritage beside Bedford’s scenic Embankment.
St John's Retail Park
0.8 km
A convenient and diverse shopping destination in Bedford with popular stores, ample parking, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Winter wonderland bedford
1.1 km
Experience festive magic with ice skating, a Big Wheel, Santa’s Grotto, and seasonal treats in Bedford Park’s enchanting Winter Wonderland.
Bedford Park
1.1 km
Discover Bedford’s largest Victorian park with scenic lake, historic pavilion, and vibrant community spirit in a tranquil urban green space.
Hill Rise Local Nature Reserve
1.2 km
A peaceful urban sanctuary in Bedford, where community spirit and nature conservation unite in a vibrant local reserve.
Russell Park
1.2 km
A vibrant riverside park in Bedford offering inclusive play, sports, scenic walks, and lively community events year-round.
Addison Howard Park
2.2 km
A vibrant family park in Kempston offering adventure play, sports facilities, and community events amid scenic green spaces.
Moot Hall Museum
2.4 km
Explore the 15th-century Moot Hall Museum in Elstow, a unique medieval market hall dedicated to John Bunyan and 17th-century English life.
Priory Country Park
2.5 km
A scenic 300-acre Bedford park with lakes, wildlife, water sports, and family-friendly trails, blending nature and history in a tranquil setting.
Essential places to dine
Il Basilico
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and a lively atmosphere at Il Basilico, Bedford’s family-run gem for pizza, seafood, and more.
La Terrazza Bedford
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the cozy heart of Bedford with fresh pasta, seafood delights, and warm hospitality.
Amici Bedford
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bedford at Amici, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Blue Monk Nepalese & Indian Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors in Bedford’s vibrant Blue Monk, where tradition meets modern culinary creativity.
The Higgins Pantry
0.2 km
A lively Italian café-restaurant in Bedford offering delicious Mediterranean dishes, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere at moderate prices.
Albero Lounge
0.3 km
Spacious riverside lounge in Bedford offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes, extensive vegan options, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Pen & Cob
0.3 km
Riverside British brasserie in Bedford serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes with art-deco charm and scenic river views.
Deshi Spice Restaurant & Lounge
0.4 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with warmth in Bedford’s vibrant Tavistock Street dining scene.
Zizzi - Bedford
0.4 km
Savor fresh Italian flavors and riverside views at Zizzi Bedford, your friendly neighborhood spot for pizza, pasta, and more.
Three Rooms
0.4 km
An award-winning Indian fine-dining restaurant in Bedford, known for its refined curries, tandoori dishes, and elegant, contemporary setting.
Miller & Carter Bedford
0.4 km
Premium aged steaks and seafood in a contemporary riverside setting with exceptional value lunch menus.
Olive Tree Restaurant Bedford
0.4 km
Authentic Turkish Mediterranean cuisine in central Bedford with exceptional service and vibrant atmosphere.
Cappuccino Bar
0.4 km
A cozy Italian café and restaurant in Bedford offering authentic flavors, friendly service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all occasions.
The Embankment
0.5 km
Charming riverside gastropub and boutique hotel in Bedford with scenic views, quality food, and welcoming atmosphere.
D'Parys, Bedford
0.6 km
Quirky and charming pub hotel in Bedford’s heart, offering unique rooms, lively dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Arcade
0.0 km
Step into Bedford’s historic Victorian Arcade, where timeless charm meets unique independent shopping in a vibrant community setting.
Charisma
0.0 km
Unique handcrafted gifts and artisanal treasures in Bedford's charming Arcade shopping center.
Boutique Planet
0.0 km
Discover sustainable, premium ladieswear and accessories in Bedford’s charming Victorian Arcade at Boutique Planet.
Primark
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable style and value at Primark Bedford, your go-to destination for affordable fashion in the vibrant Harpur Centre.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in Bedford’s friendly and accessible retail hub.
Absolutely ShabbyLass
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, hand-painted furniture, and artisanal homewares at Absolutely ShabbyLass, Bedford’s charming boutique of creativity and craftsmanship.
Alban Retail Park
1.0 km
A versatile and convenient shopping destination in Bedford offering homeware, garden supplies, and more with extended hours and easy access.
Unique - Designer Collection
1.3 km
Discover curated women's fashion blending timeless elegance and modern style at Unique - Designer Collection in Bedford.
Pells Farm Shop
5.6 km
Discover fresh local produce and homemade delights in Bedford’s charming countryside farm shop with over 40 years of tradition.
No.14 Ampthill
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the charming market town setting of No.14 Ampthill's boutique gift shop.
Find Vintage Ampthill
11.9 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique home treasures in a charming Ampthill courtyard setting.
The Wardrobe
11.9 km
Discover stylish, quality clothing with friendly service at The Wardrobe, Ampthill’s charming boutique on Church Street.
Love 2 Shop Boutique
11.9 km
Explore the charming Love 2 Shop Boutique in Ampthill for unique ladies' fashion that captures the essence of local style and elegance.
House to Haven
12.3 km
Discover curated homewares and unique décor treasures at House to Haven, Cranfield’s boutique for stylish living spaces.
Sherbet Pip
13.0 km
Step into Sherbet Pip, Lidlington’s charming sweet and gift shop, where nostalgic flavors and traditional treats await in a cozy village setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cellar Bar
0.0 km
Discover Bedford’s unique underground bar with expertly crafted cocktails, premium craft beers, and vibrant live music in an atmospheric cellar setting.
The Bear Bedford
0.1 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Bedford offering affordable drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with indoor and heated outdoor spaces.
Bar Citrus
0.1 km
A cozy and friendly bar in Bedford’s heart, perfect for local beers, coffee blends, and casual bites in a relaxed atmosphere.
Vogue
0.1 km
Vogue Bar in Bedford offers a vibrant, multi-floor nightlife experience with expert bartenders and diverse music genres in a lively, welcoming setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Bedford
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Bedford’s High Street, famed for 2-for-1 cocktails, bottomless brunch, and a vibrant social scene.
Astons Bedford
0.1 km
Astons Bedford offers a stylish, members-only over-30s club with retro disco vibes, live entertainment, and a chic garden bar in the heart of Bedford.
The Flute Wine & Lounge Bar
0.2 km
Cozy and stylish wine lounge in Bedford’s Ram Yard, perfect for relaxed evenings with quality drinks and friendly vibes.
The Rose
0.2 km
Classic British pub grub and lively atmosphere combine at The Rose, Bedford’s vibrant High Street gathering spot.
Auction Room Bar
0.2 km
A stylish and quirky Bedford bar with spacious interiors, quality cocktails, live music, and a hidden courtyard for a lively yet relaxed night out.
The Ship
0.3 km
A classic Bedford pub offering unique ales, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere with spacious outdoor seating and dog-friendly charm.
OURS
0.3 km
A quirky, vibrant cocktail bar in Bedford’s Castle Quarter, known for fresh, potent drinks and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Noble Rot
0.3 km
Discover Bedford’s cozy wine bar offering exquisite global wines, a secluded garden, and expert pairings for a memorable tasting experience.
The Castle
0.4 km
A welcoming historic pub in Bedford blending cozy charm, friendly service, and full hospitality services in the town’s heart.
Cocos Bedford
0.4 km
Chic riverside cocktail bar in Bedford, famed for expert drinks, lively vibe, and warm hospitality.
The Three Cups
0.4 km
A vibrant and cozy Bedford pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment and warm hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Six's Club
0.1 km
A lively community nightclub in Bedford offering soulful music, friendly vibes, and memorable nights from Thursday to Sunday.
Cubana Nightclub - Bedford
0.1 km
Bedford’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with live music, multiple bars, and VIP areas, offering an energetic dance and social experience on Mill Street.
The Studio Club
0.6 km
A friendly, casual nightclub and bar in Bedford offering affordable drinks, pool tables, and live music in an intimate setting.
The Kalooki Club
1.1 km
A friendly and lively social club in Bedford offering great service, casual vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Lagos Night Lounge
1.9 km
Experience Bedford’s vibrant African-inspired nightlife with live music, themed events, and authentic cuisine at Lagos Night Lounge.
Garudaa
22.8 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Pink Punters
22.9 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Penthouse Playrooms
27.6 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Montagu Club
29.0 km
Discover the lively Montagu Club in Huntingdon - a social haven for music lovers and friends looking to unwind and enjoy local culture.
Mia Musica
29.3 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
Club Bar X
30.5 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
30.5 km
Energetic nightclub on Wellingborough Road offering lively music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of Northampton.
Stereo Bar and Club
31.3 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
31.3 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
The Platform
31.3 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly