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The Best Of Bedford: Three Mirages In A Beer Desert

 One of my best friends lives in Bedford and thus I spent a fair amount of time in the market town turned commuter town. It’s not a bad little place, of course it has some issues, the riverside is very much a delight. 


What isn’t a delight is the beer scene. Bedford’s beer scene is dominated by mediocrity, in the forms of generic Green King and Charlie (formerly Charles) Wells pubs. Even the latter’s new brewery complex, Brewpoint, doesn’t make it onto my Bedford beer shortlist. I’ll file that place under nice place, shame about the beer. There are however three places actually worth visiting, let’s get to it. 

BeerFly 




A beer shop with six taps, occasionally one cask and multiple fridges that showcase the best craft beer available. BeerFly is the standout beer venue in Bedford. The range of beer served here is nothing short of impressive. From sours to lagers and imperial stouts, BeerFly has something for everyone.



The Wellington Arms


A sister pub to The Live in Cambridge, The Welly is your classic back street boozer. It’s your stereotypical CAMRA members dream, though don’t let that put you off, because of the range of cask beers and brewery themed decorations. The beer line up varies, but usually there’s some of Nethergate’s offerings available. 

Craft beers are also available


The Devonshire Arms



Hidden amongst a row of houses is The Devy, my favourite pub in Bedford. The Devy is run by Ronnie who is an absolute legend and is sure to give you a warm welcome. The cask quality in The Devy is sublime and Guinness is excellent too. The Devy also boasts my pick for best beer garden in Bedford. The garden is even covered in winter, making it useable all year round! 


 

Good beer in Bedford might be limited, but quality can beat quantity. Thanks for reading. 

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  1. retiredmartinOctober 29, 2023 at 12:40 AM

    I'm grateful to you for blogging about Bedford. There's not much about Beds on the web, bar BRAPA's many trips a few years ago and a couple of ladies who visited nearly all the pubs a decade ago.

    It's been a disappointing town and I think you've picked the highlights, though I've never heard of the Beerfly. The Brewhouse & Kitchen was a bit ropey.

    The town museum is excellent.

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