Study in Bedford

Bedford is a market town in Bedfordshire, founded at a ford on the River Great Ouse, and has been the county town of Bedfordshire since at least the medieval period. It has been represented in Parliament since 1265, and today is known for its diverse population, including a long-established Italian community. StudyUKToday works with one real university here.

What Bedford Is Actually Like

Bedford grew up around a crossing point on the River Great Ouse, which still runs through the town centre and is a focal point for river walks and rowing. Bedford Castle, built after 1100 by Henry I, played a significant role in medieval conflicts including the civil war known as the Anarchy, though little of the original structure remains today. The town has a notably diverse population, including a large community of Italian descent that settled from the mid-20th century onwards.

Bedford is well connected by rail, with a direct line into London, making it a practical base for students who want access to the capital without living in it.

Studying in Bedford

Bedford is home to a campus of the University of Bedfordshire, the one real university StudyUKToday works with here, listed in the “Universities in Bedford” section below. The wider University of Bedfordshire took its current name in 2006, following the merger of the University of Luton with the Bedford campus of De Montfort University.

Bedford’s cost of living is generally lower than in London, while still offering a direct rail connection into the capital, so check current figures with your university’s accommodation office.

How StudyUKToday Helps

Whichever course you’re aiming for at the University of Bedfordshire, our services stay the same: course selection, university matching, document review, application support, and offer acceptance guidance, working toward your UK university application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do students choose Bedford?

A riverside market town with a diverse community, a direct rail line into London, and a generally lower cost of living than the capital.

Is Bedford affordable for international students?

Generally more affordable than London, with a direct rail connection into the city. Confirm current figures with your university’s accommodation office.

What is Bedford known for?

The River Great Ouse running through the town centre, the remains of its medieval castle, and its long-established, diverse community.

How many universities are there in Bedford?

StudyUKToday works with one real university campus in Bedford, part of the University of Bedfordshire, listed in the “Universities in Bedford” section on this page.