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Bedford Borough Council: dog rules

Council-wide dog rules, beaches and named places

Rules added

Dogs on a lead and no-dog areas at listed parks, play areas, cemeteries, churchyards and the town centre (look for coloured signs), and leads when an officer asks.
Added in 2025: dogs on a lead at Duck Mill Walk and the Embankment swan nesting area under the town bridge, Biddenham's Duck End Lane, Bletsoe New Parish Field, Cotton End playing field and Turvey Recreation Ground.
Added in 2025: no dogs in 25 more play areas and games courts, including 12 in Shortstown.

Extended for three years from 27 July 2025.

Source: Bedford Borough Council. Checked October 2026.

Assistance dogs: most council dog orders and beach bans exempt assistance dogs, such as guide and hearing dogs. Check the source if you are unsure.