Bedford Corn Exchange
A versatile venue hosting live comedy, theatre, music, and diverse community events in Bedford.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most shows and performances are scheduled for evenings.
Bedford Corn Exchange
Best Time
Most shows and performances are scheduled for evenings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile venue hosting live comedy, theatre, music, and diverse community events in Bedford.
"A good venue with friendly staff, though some find it a bit dated and bar queues can be long."
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Acts
Comedy and music events often sell out. Check the Bedford Corn Exchange events page and book your tickets early!
🍻 Bar Queues Can Be Long
Expect queues at the bar during busy shows. Consider getting your drinks during intermissions or before the show starts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Comedy Shows
Main Auditorium
Catch top comedians and rising stars in an intimate theatre setting. Expect laughter-filled evenings!
Concerts and Live Music
Main Auditorium
Experience a variety of musical genres, from classical orchestras to rock bands and electronic music.
Theatre Productions
Main Auditorium
Enjoy captivating theatrical performances, including plays and pantomimes.
Special Events & Exhibitions
Various spaces
Discover unique events like bodybuilding competitions, Muslim expos, and craft markets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Check Event Schedule
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Acts
Comedy and music events often sell out. Check the Bedford Corn Exchange events page and book your tickets early!
🍻 Bar Queues Can Be Long
Expect queues at the bar during busy shows. Consider getting your drinks during intermissions or before the show starts.
🌡️ Venue Temperature
Some visitors report the venue can get warm during performances. Dress in layers if you tend to feel the heat.
📍 New Visitor Centre
The Box Office is now located at the 'What's On Bedford Borough' Visitor Information Centre on Silver Square.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Acts
Comedy and music events often sell out. Check the Bedford Corn Exchange events page and book your tickets early!
🍻 Bar Queues Can Be Long
Expect queues at the bar during busy shows. Consider getting your drinks during intermissions or before the show starts.
🌡️ Venue Temperature
Some visitors report the venue can get warm during performances. Dress in layers if you tend to feel the heat.
📍 New Visitor Centre
The Box Office is now located at the 'What's On Bedford Borough' Visitor Information Centre on Silver Square.
🚗 Parking Information
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, expect to find local car parks near the venue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Bedford Corn Exchange to be a good venue for a variety of events, praising the friendly staff and the quality of performances. However, some note that the venue can feel a bit dated and that bar queues can be long during busy periods. Ticket prices for some events have also been a point of discussion.
"We saw Josh Widdicombe, we have been a few times but it is always good. Sometimes the queue for the bar can be a bit of a wait but this is to be expected really. Always good friendly staff. I would say, in a few places it can feel a little run down, but this doesnt particularly detract from thenoverall experience."
Martin Wiles
"We were at the Supernova Spectacular. Fabulous orchestra, great programme especially with the holographic accompanying the music."
Christine Turner
"We had never visited this venue for a music event and yesterday's night we had tickets for Felix Mendelssohn's Elijah oratorio.
I enjoyed the show as the voices and orchestration was excellent, but I have removed a star due to the excessive heat that we experienced. To the point that one of the members of the chorus fainted.
I do encourage the managers to assess this issue as we were literally roasting at the balcony seats.
Other than that the shortest three hours in my life 😉."
Rafa Lobo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bedford Corn Exchange is centrally located in Bedford. Public transport options include local bus services that stop nearby. For those driving, there are several public car parks within walking distance.
Information on dedicated parking for the Corn Exchange is limited, but several public car parks are available in the vicinity of the venue. It's advisable to check local council websites for the most up-to-date parking information and charges.
Yes, the Bedford Corn Exchange is a walkable distance from Bedford train station, typically around a 10-15 minute walk. This makes it accessible for those arriving by train.
Several bus routes serve the town centre, with stops located within a short walk of the Corn Exchange. Check local bus timetables for routes and times that best suit your travel plans.
The venue generally aims to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs for performances or events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Bedford Corn Exchange website, or in person at the 'What's On Bedford Borough' Visitor Information Centre on Silver Square.
For some events, tickets may be available on the door, but it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows, as many events sell out.
Refund policies can vary depending on the event and promoter. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the box office for clarification.
Some events may offer group discounts. Inquire directly with the Bedford Corn Exchange box office or check the event details on their website for any available group rates.
Door opening times vary per event. Typically, doors open about 30-60 minutes before the scheduled start time. Check your ticket or the event listing for precise timings.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Bedford Corn Exchange hosts a diverse program including live comedy, theatre, concerts, pantomimes, exhibitions, and even sporting events like MMA and wrestling. 
Yes, the venue hosts many family-friendly events, particularly pantomimes during the Christmas season and other special family days.
The venue has multiple auditoriums with various seating configurations, including stalls, circle, and sometimes tiered seating. VIP options may also be available for certain events.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted. There is a bar available for purchasing refreshments, though prices can be a point of feedback for some visitors.
The atmosphere varies greatly by event. Comedy nights are lively and interactive, while music concerts can be energetic or more subdued depending on the genre. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Corn Exchange primarily focuses on hosting events and does not typically have extensive in-house dining facilities. However, there is a bar for drinks and snacks.
Being in the town centre, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs located within a short walking distance of the Corn Exchange, offering a wide range of cuisines.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the venue. It's best to consume any food before entering or after the event.
The bar usually offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks, beers, wines, and spirits.
While specific options can vary, most bars offer a range of soft drinks and some may have vegan-friendly snacks. It's advisable to check with the bar staff upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. For most live music and theatre performances, flash photography and professional recording equipment are usually prohibited to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members.
Yes, the exterior and public areas of the Bedford Corn Exchange are generally fine for casual photography. It's a historic building with interesting architecture.
While not a dedicated photo spot, the grand architecture of the main auditorium and the exterior of the building can make for interesting shots. Check for any special exhibitions that might offer unique photo ops.
The exterior can be photographed at any time, but golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) often provides the most flattering light for architectural photography.
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around public venues due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local bylaws before operating a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
is a beloved tradition, offering magical storytelling and festive fun for all ages. Beyond pantomimes, keep an eye out for other family-friendly shows, workshops, or community events like the Muslim Expo which often feature activities suitable for children. The venue's central location also means you can easily combine a show with a visit to nearby parks or cafes.When attending with children, consider booking seating in advance to ensure good views. While the venue has a bar, it's advisable to bring snacks and drinks for younger children if permitted, or plan to dine before or after the show at one of the many family-friendly restaurants nearby. The atmosphere at family-oriented events is usually very welcoming and energetic, making for a memorable experience.
🎤 Comedy & Music Enthusiasts
The venue's auditoriums provide an intimate setting, allowing for a close connection with performers. Similarly, the live music To make the most of your experience, booking Bedford Corn Exchange tickets well in advance is crucial, as popular comedy and music events are known to sell out.
Check the event schedule for specific genres and artists that align with your tastes. While the bar can get busy, it’s part of the pre-show buzz. Be prepared for potentially warm temperatures during energetic performances, and consider arriving a little early to soak in the atmosphere.🛍️ Market & Expo Goers
+1 These events offer a fantastic opportunity to discover local artisans, unique products, and engage with the community. When attending these types of events, arrive early to get the best selection, as popular items can sell out quickly. The atmosphere at these expos is typically lively and community-focused. While food and drink might be available from specific vendors at the expo, it's always good to check the event details beforehand. These markets and expos provide a different, yet equally engaging, way to experience the Bedford Corn Exchange.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Live Entertainment
wrestling spectacles, and community gatherings such as the Muslim Expo and craft markets.Visitors often praise the friendly staff
and music festivals, solidifies its reputation as a versatile and essential cultural venue in Bedford.When planning your visit, it's wise to check the Bedford Corn Exchange events schedule regularly. Popular shows, especially those featuring well-known comedians or bands, can sell out quickly. The Bedford Corn Exchange tickets are best purchased in advance through their official website or the new Visitor Information Centre. Be aware that while the atmosphere is generally excellent, some patrons have mentioned the venue can get quite warm during performances, so dressing in layers is a practical tip.
Navigating the Venue and Ticketing
This move aims to centralize information and make it easier for visitors to find out about local events. When purchasing Bedford Corn Exchange tickets, it's always recommended to do so in advance, particularly for high-demand shows like comedy gigs or popular music acts, as they can sell out rapidly. While the venue offers a fantastic experience, some reviews mention that queues for the bar can be lengthy during peak times, a common occurrence in many entertainment venues.
For those planning their visit, understanding the venue's layout and the location of the new box office is key. While specific parking near Bedford Corn Exchange details can be scarce, the central location means several public car parks are usually within a short walk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit