Great Barford

The popular village of Great Barford is situated in the North Bedfordshire countryside 5 miles to the east of the County Town of Bedford.

As the name implies, it is situated on a crossing of the River Great Ouse. A seventeen arch bridge spans the river. The lower stonework dates from the 15th century and the bridge is scheduled as an ancient monument. A short distance from the bridge is All Saints Church, which has a beautiful 15th century tower. Several houses in the village, including the former vicarage, are listed as being of historic or architectural interest. Parts of the village are designated as Conservation Areas.

Great Barford has a thriving Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Association, with Rainbows, Brownies and Guides available at several nearby villages. The village Sunshine playgroup takes children from 21/2 years, and for younger children, Great Barford Parent and Toddlers Group is held weekly in the village hall along with a fortnightly Toy Library and drop-in Health Visitor Baby Clinic. Other facilities include a Club Français French Club held weekly in the Playgroup premises. For older children (age 10 plus) there is a weekly Youth Club held in the Village Hall.

The parish has been predominately agricultural, although an increasing proportion of the residents now commute elsewhere for their employment. Great Barford is twinned with Wöllstein in Germany. Annual exchange visits take place with each community acting as hosts on alternate years.