The Kingfisher

With a picturesque setting on the banks of the Great River Ouse, and just a short drive from Bedford town centre, The Kingfisher is an idyllic venue for dreamy weddings, special occasions and business meetings and events. With capacity for up to 120, this makes for unforgettable conferences, exhibitions, product launches, team building and training days, awards ceremonies, banquets, receptions, parties and celebrations.

The 4 event spaces are all lovely, though the biggest, the 800-year-old half-timbered Tithe Barn is very special; inside enormous trusses soar to the roof bringing atmosphere and rustic charm. There's a bar, and the flexibility to dress this space to suit your event. It holds 120 for drinks, 90 theatre style and 60 at cabaret tables. Available for hire mid-week from October to March, The Riverside Tavern holds 60 and has a private terrace overlooking the river. In a more modern wing (60 years) of the Grade II listed main house, the Northill and Southill offer light and airy air-conditioned event space for up to 40.

Av equipment can be arranged to suit your requirements, bespoke menus come from a very dedicated in-house chef team, or you can self-cater; delegate rates are competitively priced to include catering and overnight stays in the 49 bedrooms. Available for hourly hire is Badger, a fully electric open top boat with room for 6 guests.

There is onsite parking, London is 90 minutes by car or 40 by train, Luton Airport is a 40-minute drive away.