History and culture of Bedford's high-street celebrated this summer

Bedford locals are being encouraged to learn about the high streets history and present in this campaign.

This summer become a local adventurer and discover what's beyond the surface of Bedford’s High Street with new free Exploration Cards and a beautifully illustrated map, including elements drawn by local children.

Bedford has been unofficially ‘twinned’ with Keynsham in Somerset by Historic England and creative artists Katy Hawkins and Ellie Shipman as part of a national cultural programme celebrating our historic high streets.

The Bedford High Street Explorations project is part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone and is being run in partnership with the HAZ Cultural Workgroup and Bedford Borough Council.

Artists Katy and Ellie connected with local communities to discover stories, features and uses of Bedford High Street, in order to make visible and share more widely some of the things that people like and appreciate about the place.

The Bedford High Street Exploration Cards have been designed to promote urban exploration, reflection and adventure.

The illustrated map highlights some of Bedford’s many historic moments, present day curiosities and questions about its future.

Together, they encourage visitors and residents to take a new journey of discovery around familiar spaces.

Ellen Harrison, Head of Creative Programmes and Campaigns at Historic England, said:

“High Street Explorations is a fabulous way for proud Bedford citizens to celebrate their local history and learn something new about the familiar sights on their local high street. We hope that seeing the high street with fresh eyes will lead to exciting conversations about aspirations for its future.”

Artist Katy Hawkins said:

“We are excited for the cards and map and feel like they can work in lots of ways. To prompt urban explorations, support mindful wanders, trigger acts of creativity. We'd be really interested to hear if and how they work for you.”