Bedford parks and green spaces offer a range of sporting activities for all to use and enjoy. Some facilities are free to access while others require a reservation and payment of a booking fee.

Cricket, football and rugby

Cricket - the season runs from May to the end of August. We have three cricket squares in our public parks.

Football - season runs from the first Saturday in September to the last Sunday in April. There are 11 sites across the borough with football pitches that are available for hire. 

Rugby - playing season runs from September to April. We currently have one junior rugby pitch in Mowsbury Park. 

Booking a pitch

Pitches are allocated by the Council on a per season per team/club basis. Allocations are made in June for football and rugby, and in February for cricket.

Teams/clubs based within Bedford Borough will be prioritised for allocations. 

To request an allocation please email: pitchbookings@bedford.gov.uk with the details of your pitch requirements including the number, size, and type of pitches along with the day and time of play.

Clubs/teams must pay for all pitches a minimum of one month in advance by card. We do not accept cash, cheque, or BACS payments. Teams/clubs must sign up to our terms and conditions before they can use any pitch.>

Bowls

Bowls can be played by all ages and abilities making it the perfect sport for all the family to enjoy together. The sport also encourages, team work, new friendships and is a great way to keep active. The outdoor bowls season runs from the beginning of May to the end of September.

During the playing season the clubs often run special sessions for complete beginners or those who are interested in taking up the sport. Look out for information on these sessions on the notice boards outside each of the greens.

The clubs will provide all the equipment you need - all you need to do is go along and join in the fun. No special clothing is required, just flat soled shoes.

There are five bowling greens in Bedford and Kempston located at:

• Bedford Park
• Mowsbury Park 
• Priory Gardens (Greyfriars)
• Russell Park
• Southfields (Kempston)

Locations of Bedford Borough sports facilities (PDF)

Putting

The putting green at Russell Park opens at Easter for the spring/summer season subject to weather and ground conditions. To check opening times or enquire about booking during the playing season, visit its facebook page or call the Kiosk on 01234 271877.

Table tennis

There are currently three table tennis tables in Addison Howard Park, Russell Park and Jubilee Park. Please note that in Russell Park only there is a hire fee at weekends from Whitsun to the end of September and every day during the Easter and Summer Holidays. The tables in Addison Howard Park and Jubilee Park are both free to use (bring your own bat and ball).

Tennis

Free hard surface tennis courts available in Bedford Park, Russell Park, Allen Park, Mowsbury Park, Addison Howard Park (Kempston) and Southfields Recreation Ground (Kempston).

Visit Lawn Tennis Association to find tennis coaching sessions in the Borough and other information. 

Angling

Fishing at Priory Country Park and Harrold-Odell Country Park is restricted. In some waters fishing is not permitted at all. Where fishing is permitted you will need a current Environment Agency rod licence.

In other areas you must also purchase a fishing permit from Bedford Borough Council.

Fishing permits are valid for one season only. The fishing season runs from 16 June to 14 March each year.

To apply for a licence, visit the Priory Country Park or Harrold Odell Country Park webpages.

Report a sports pitch maintenance problem

If you spot a problem with our sports pitches, such as grass not being cut or posts missing, then please let us know using the form below, it should take no more than 3 to 4 minutes.

By submitting the form, you agree that you have read and accepted how we process your personal data.

Use the button to report as a guest:

Report a sports pitch maintenance problem

Alternatively, login to / register for a Council Services account to report a sports pitch maintenance problem.