John Bunyan Statue
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John Bunyan Statue

4.4
·37 reviews·, United Kingdom

Bronze statue of John Bunyan, author of 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' located on Bedford's scenic Embankment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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John Bunyan Statue

John Bunyan Statue

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bronze statue of John Bunyan, author of 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' located on Bedford's scenic Embankment.

4.4
(37 reviews)

"A historical landmark on a lovely riverside, perfect for a quick visit and a stroll."

Vertical photo
TIP

📍 Locate the Statue

Find it on the Bedford Embankment, a scenic riverside spot. :world_map:

🚶‍♂️ Start the Trail

Perfect starting or ending point for the John Bunyan Trail Run. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pilgrim's Progress Author

The Pilgrim's Progress Author

Admire the bronze likeness of John Bunyan, immortalized for his iconic Christian allegory.

Riverside Embankment Location

Riverside Embankment Location

Bedford Embankment

The statue is situated in a pleasant riverside area, perfect for a stroll or a moment of reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Finding the John Bunyan Statue

This bronze statue of John Bunyan, author of 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' is a key landmark in Bedford. While not a sprawling complex, its exact location can be a bit elusive for first-time visitors. Look for it near the Embankment, a popular riverside area.

Respectful Visiting

While some reviews mention people 'lying about and drinking' or 'alcoholics hanging about,' it's important to remember this is a public space and a historical monument. Be mindful of your surroundings and treat the statue and its vicinity with respect.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visiting Bedford ##travelling##Bedford##area##town##unitedkingdom
@brandondior1_backup
6.5K likes • 99.2K views

📍 Locate the Statue

Find it on the Bedford Embankment, a scenic riverside spot. :world_map:

🚶‍♂️ Start the Trail

Perfect starting or ending point for the John Bunyan Trail Run. :athletic_shoe:

Come visit Bedford #fyp #bedford #PlacesToVisit #4u #travel
@thegrittyman2.0
3.5K likes • 56K views

📸 Photo Opportunity

Great spot for a quick photo, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🍻 Be Aware of Surroundings

Some reviews mention public drinking; be mindful of the atmosphere. :eyes:

Tips

from all over the internet

📍 Locate the Statue

Find it on the Bedford Embankment, a scenic riverside spot. :world_map:

🚶‍♂️ Start the Trail

Perfect starting or ending point for the John Bunyan Trail Run. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Photo Opportunity

Great spot for a quick photo, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🍻 Be Aware of Surroundings

Some reviews mention public drinking; be mindful of the atmosphere. :eyes:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The John Bunyan Statue is a recognized historical monument in Bedford, appreciated for its connection to the famous author. Visitors enjoy its riverside Embankment location, making it a pleasant spot for a stroll. However, some reviews note that the area can sometimes attract public drinking, which may detract from the experience for some.

"Live nearby and was looking to help someone else find it. It's definitely worth a look though, not least due to the famous Pilgrims Progress penned by John Bunyan."

Happy Owl

"Excellent statue to start and finish the John Bunyan Trail Run. Lovely place to lie about and drink. Only complaint is the foot is a bit high to kiss."

James Adams

"Gave this statue of the big man a name drop at my wedding. The crowd went wild."

Josh

What People Like

Historical significance
Riverside location
Literary connection

What People Dislike

Public drinking in area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The John Bunyan Statue is located on the Bedford Embankment, a popular riverside area in Bedford, UK. It's easily accessible on foot from the town center. TikTok

There are several car parks in Bedford town center, a short walk from the Embankment. Check local signage for the nearest and most convenient options.

Bedford has a main train station and bus services. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the Embankment where the statue is located. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the John Bunyan Statue is a public monument and can be viewed freely at any time. There are no admission fees. Reddit

The Embankment area is a public space and is generally accessible 24/7. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful lighting for photographs of the statue and the Embankment. Instagram

No, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and the public nature of the space.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The John Bunyan Statue itself is a quick point of interest for families. Its location on the Bedford Embankment offers more for kids to enjoy, with open spaces for running around and the river to observe. It's a good spot for a brief educational stop before or after enjoying the park-like setting. TikTok

Consider making it part of a larger outing to the Embankment, where families can enjoy picnics, walks, or simply let children burn off energy in a safe, public environment. The historical context of John Bunyan can be a simple introduction to local heritage.

🚶‍♂️ History Buffs & Literary Enthusiasts

For those interested in literary history, the John Bunyan Statue is a must-see. It's a direct connection to the author of 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' a foundational text in English literature. Visiting the statue can be a starting point for delving deeper into Bunyan's life and his impact on religious and literary history. Reddit

Combine your visit with research into Bunyan's life in Bedfordshire. The statue serves as a focal point, encouraging further exploration of his legacy and the historical context of his writings. It’s a chance to pay homage to a significant figure in English letters.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of John Bunyan

The John Bunyan Statue commemorates one of England's most significant literary figures. Born in Bedfordshire in 1628, Bunyan was a preacher and author whose most famous work, 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' is considered a masterpiece of English literature and a seminal work of Christian allegory. The statue itself is a bronze representation, often noted for its detail and its prominent placement in the town. Reddit

Visitors often come to see the statue as a point of interest related to Bedford's rich history. It serves as a tangible link to Bunyan's life and his enduring impact on literature and religious thought. The statue is also a popular starting or ending point for those interested in exploring more about Bunyan's life in the area. TikTok

While the statue is the main attraction, its location on the Embankment adds to the experience. This riverside area provides a pleasant backdrop, allowing visitors to combine a historical visit with a scenic walk. It's a place where history meets everyday life in Bedford. Reddit

Visiting the Bedford Embankment

The John Bunyan Statue is situated on the picturesque Bedford Embankment, a well-loved public space along the River Great Ouse. This area is a hub for local activity, offering beautiful views, walking paths, and green spaces. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, exercise, or simply enjoy the riverside scenery. TikTok

When visiting the statue, take some time to explore the Embankment itself. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, perhaps spotting local wildlife or watching boats on the river. The area is known for its pleasant atmosphere, though some reviews do mention that it can attract a crowd, including those who may be drinking in public. Reddit

For those interested in a more active experience, the Embankment is often used for events and is a popular route for runners, as mentioned in one review referencing the 'John Bunyan Trail Run.' It’s a versatile location that offers a bit of everything, from historical interest to natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

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