5th June 2026
Returning on 18–19 July 2026, Bedford River Festival is one of the UK’s largest free outdoor events, attracting more than 300,000 visitors to the town across one unforgettable summer weekend.
Located directly on the River Great Ouse, Bedford Swan Hotel & Thermal Spa places guests right at the centre of the festival atmosphere, with riverside views, outdoor food and drink experiences, and easy access to everything happening across the Embankment and Russell Park.
Whether you’re visiting for the day, meeting friends for drinks by the river, or planning a full festival weekend stay, Bedford Swan offers one of the best locations to experience the event from start to finish.
Experience the Festival from the Riverside
Throughout the weekend, Bedford Swan Hotel will be bringing the festival atmosphere directly to the riverfront with outdoor dining, drinks, entertainment, and relaxed spaces to enjoy the celebrations.
Pen & Cob Riverside Terrace
The Pen & Cob Riverside Terrace becomes one of the most vibrant spots on the Embankment during Bedford River Festival, offering panoramic views across the river and festival activities.
Visitors can enjoy cocktails, riverside dining, and some of the best-value pints on the Embankment while soaking up the atmosphere and watching the action unfold along the water.
Pop-Up Damm Brewery Beer Garden
For festival-goers looking for a lively outdoor setting, the pop-up Damm Brewery Beer Garden will bring an energetic social atmosphere to the hotel throughout the weekend.
It’s the perfect place to stop for drinks between festival events or spend the afternoon enjoying the riverside setting with friends and family.
Grab & Go BBQ and Ice Cream
Outside the hotel, guests and visitors will also find grab-and-go BBQ favourites and ice cream available throughout the festival weekend.
Ideal for those wanting quick and easy refreshments while exploring the festival, the outdoor food offering adds to the relaxed summer atmosphere along the Embankment.
Giveaways, Activities & Festival Entertainment
Bedford Swan Hotel will also be hosting exciting giveaways, activities, and additional festival experiences across the weekend, giving visitors even more reasons to stop by and enjoy the riverside celebrations.
What to Expect at Bedford River Festival 2026
Beyond the hotel, Bedford River Festival transforms the town into a huge celebration of music, entertainment, sport, culture, and community spirit.
The Illuminated Boat Parade
One of the highlights of the weekend takes place on Saturday evening, when the River Great Ouse comes alive with the famous Illuminated Boat Parade.
Decorated boats covered in colourful lights travel along the river in a spectacular procession, drawing huge crowds to the Embankment to watch the display reflect across the water.
Dragon Boat & Raft Racing
Throughout the weekend, visitors can also watch dragon boat races and homemade raft competitions take over the river.
The races are one of the festival’s most entertaining traditions, combining friendly competition with plenty of humour and creativity.
Festival of Motoring
Bedford town centre will once again host the popular Festival of Motoring, showcasing classic, vintage, and specialist vehicles across the High Street.
Live Music & Entertainment
Multiple stages across the festival site will host live music, DJs, performances, and family entertainment throughout the weekend, creating a lively atmosphere from day into evening.
Heritage, Activities & Family Fun
From medieval re-enactments and sporting activities to kayaking and interactive displays, there’s something happening across every part of the festival grounds for visitors of all ages.
Make a Weekend of It
For those travelling to Bedford for the festival, Bedford Swan Hotel & Thermal Spa offers the perfect place to stay and unwind between events.
Guests can enjoy the riverside festival atmosphere during the day before retreating to the comfort of the hotel, with access to dining, stylish rooms, and the Thermal Spa.
The hotel will also continue serving its popular afternoon tea throughout the weekend, offering something a little more relaxing as part of a summer trip to Bedford.
With one of the best riverside locations in town, Bedford Swan Hotel provides the ideal base for enjoying everything Bedford River Festival 2026 has to offer.