Nearest train station: Bedford
The River Great Ouse at Biddenham Loop is a calm, quiet spot just outside Bedford that’s ideal for a laid-back swim on a warm day. Tucked away on a loop of the river near Great Denham, it’s surrounded by open meadows and peaceful footpaths that make the whole area feel far more rural than it is.
The river’s fairly deep in places, with slow-moving water and grassy banks that are easy to get in and out from. Locals come here to paddle, cool off, or just watch the swans drift by. It’s a relaxed kind of place that’s perfect for a swim, a walk, or an afternoon spent doing not very much at all.
How to Get to Biddenham Loop
We’ve provided detailed instructions on how to get to Biddenham Loop by various means of transport below, as well as general travel information for the area.
By car
For sat navs, use the postcode MK40 4GA to reach Great Denham Country Park car park, located just off Kingswood Way.
From there, follow clearly marked paths leading towards the river. The best swimming access is around the halfway point of the Biddenham Loop walk, where a wide grassy verge opens up beside a gentle curve of the river. Parking is free, but spaces are limited at peak times, especially on weekends.
By public transport
You can take a train to Bedford Station, which is well-connected via Thameslink and East Midlands Railway. From this point, you can either catch a local bus towards Great Denham or take a 10-minute taxi to the park entrance. There’s also a direct cycle and pedestrian route from the station if you’re travelling light.
By bike
National Cycle Route 51 runs through Bedford and connects easily to the Biddenham Loop via local lanes. The route offers a pleasant ride along quiet roads and riverside tracks and once inside Great Denham Country Park, you can lock your bike up at one of the several racks near the trailhead.
What else is nearby Biddenham Loop?
After your swim, explore the wider Biddenham Loop trail for riverside views and peaceful walking paths. The nearby Bromham Mill and its weir offers another picturesque spot to visit, especially if you’re into photography or fancy a picnic.
For more wild swimming, head west to River Great Ouse – Pavenham for a deeper stretch popular with stronger swimmers. Or try River Great Ouse – Kempston Loop, which offers another family-friendly paddle point just downstream.
Both are already featured on the site and make excellent additions to a day out swimming in the Bedfordshire countryside.