LOCAL AREA

Woburn Safari Park, about 12 miles from the hotel, houses 80 species of animals. You can drive through vast swathes of parkland recreating habitats such as the Northern Plains or the African Savannah, and see bisons, lions and black bears. Park the car and take a walk among smaller mammals like meerkats and lemurs. Look out too for enclosures housing sea lions and penguins.

The collection at Rock City Art, in Bedford city centre, focuses entirely on famous musicians, captured either in a live concert setting or in portraits. Wander around the white-washed rooms, spotting some of the most iconic figures in modern music, from Ozzy Osbourne to Kiss and The Rolling Stones. If you want to perfect the art of music photography, you can take a course.

Twinwoods Adventure, a 20-minute drive from the hotel, offers activities such as indoor surfing and driving simulation. However, the jewel in its crown is Bodyflight, a massive indoor skydiving facility. Experience the thrill of flying through the air in a safe, controlled environment, without having to jump out of a plane. After this adventure, you can relax in the health club sauna.

Between late April and late October, a river cruise is a great way to enjoy Bedford. The John Bunyan Boat runs sunset trips on the River Great Ouse. On some cruises, you can enjoy live music by local acts. If spending time outdoors is your passion, head to Priory Country Park, four miles from the hotel. Go for a woodland walk, practise watersports on the lake or just enjoy the wildlife.