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Bedford Corn Exchange
📍
St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL, United Kingdom
Conference CentreTheatre & Event Venue✓ Verified Data
Historic Victorian theatre and events venue in Bedford town centre offering flexible performance and conference spaces.
About This Venue
The Bedford Corn Exchange is a beautifully restored Victorian theatre and events venue located in the heart of Bedford's town centre. Originally built in 1874, this Grade II listed building combines historic charm with modern facilities, featuring a main auditorium with 540 seats and the flexible Harpur Suite for smaller events. The venue offers state-of-the-art technical equipment, full accessibility, and professional event support. Its central location makes it easily accessible by public transport and offers nearby parking options. The venue hosts a diverse programme of live music, comedy, theatre, conferences, and private events throughout the year.
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Indicative Budget
£12,150–£22,950
Typical day-delegate event for ~270 guests
Capacity (max)
540
Typical attendees
270
Per-head range
£45–£85
Currency
GBP
Indicative budget only — based on a typical day-delegate event (270 guests at £45–£85 per head). Final pricing depends on date, F&B, AV, accommodation and rate negotiation. Submit a brief for a tailored quote.
Capacity
540
Maximum Capacity
540
Theatre Style
800
Reception Style
Meeting Rooms
| Room Name | Area (m²) | Theatre | Boardroom | U-Shape | Classroom | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Main Auditorium | 400 | 540 | - | - | - | |
Harpur Suite | 120 | 120 | 30 | 35 | 60 |
2 meeting rooms available • Total capacity: up to 800 people
Features & Amenities
✓Professional Sound System
✓Stage Lighting
✓AV Equipment
✓Disabled Access
✓Bar Facilities
✓Box Office
✓Green Room
✓Loading Bay
✓Air Conditioning
✓Free WiFi
📐 Space Specifications
800
Total Space (m²)
8m
Ceiling Height
✓
Licensed Venue
🍽️ Food & Catering
🍷Bar On-site
Dietary Options
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeHalal
🎤 AV Equipment
✓Professional lighting rig
✓Sound system
✓Stage microphones
✓Projection equipment
✓Follow spots
✓Wi-Fi
🎯 Suitable For
📋Theatre Productions
📋Live Music
📋Comedy Shows
📋Corporate Events
📋Conferences
📋Award Ceremonies
📋Product Launches
♿ Accessibility
✓Fully wheelchair accessible✓Hearing loop system✓Accessible toilets✓Level access options
Transport & Parking
🚆 Public Transport
Bedford railway station 0.8km - direct trains to London St Pancras (50 mins). Local bus services stop nearby on High Street. Luton Airport 25km via direct bus or train connections.
🅿️ Parking
Nearby parking available
Public car parks within 200m including Allhallows and St Paul's Square. Street parking available. River Street multi-storey car park 5 minutes walk.
Availability
📅 Booking Lead Time
14 days minimum notice
👥 Capacity by Setup
540
theatre
30
boardroom
60
classroom
35
u shape
280
cabaret
800
reception
280
dining
280
banquet
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum capacity?
Up to 540 guests in theatre configuration, flexible seating arrangements available
What AV equipment is available?
Professional theatre lighting and sound systems, projection facilities, technical support available
Is catering available?
Full catering services available, licensed bar on-site
Is there parking available?
Limited on-site parking, public car parks nearby in Bedford town centre
Location & Contact
📍 Address
St Paul's Square
MK40 1SL, United Kingdom
🏷️ Categories
Conference CentreEvent VenueConcert HallMeeting Rooms
Venue Location
St Paul's Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Get Directions
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum capacity?
A: Up to 540 guests in theatre configuration, flexible seating arrangements available
Q: What AV equipment is available?
A: Professional theatre lighting and sound systems, projection facilities, technical support available
Q: Is catering available?
A: Full catering services available, licensed bar on-site
Q: Is there parking available?
A: Limited on-site parking, public car parks nearby in Bedford town centre
🎯 Things to Do Nearby
🏰Historic Site
🏰
Bedford Castle Historic Motte
0.3 km (0.2 mi)
📍Park
📍
Russell Park Boating Lake
1.2 km (0.7 mi)
🏛️Museum
🏛️
Higgins Bedford Art Gallery
0.4 km (0.3 mi)
🏛️
Panacea Victorian Garden Museum
0.6 km (0.4 mi)
🎢Theme Park
🎢
Woburn Safari Adventure Park
18 km (11.2 mi)
🦁Zoo
🦁
Whipsnade Wildlife Conservation Park
25 km (15.5 mi)
💡 Local Area: These attractions and shopping areas are located within driving distance of the venue, perfect for delegates attending multi-day events.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Bedford Corn Exchange
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