by Paula May

Just over thirty miles from London, Bedfordshire is the gateway to both the Midlands and East Anglia. The county's towns are an interesting mix of the modern and the historic - Milton Keynes and Woburn couldn't be more different. But what else does the county have to offer? In no particular order, here are our suggestions for things to do in Bedfordshire:

Woburn Safari Park, Woburn

Woburn Abbey, Abbey

Perhaps Bedfordshire’s most famous landmark, Woburn Abbey is just stunning on the inside as it is from the outside. Entry to the Abbey is currently £9 for adults and £4.50 for the kids from 11am till 4pm every day from mid March through to the end of October. In the winter months it only opens at the weekends. For further details call 01525 290666 or go to www.woburbabbey.co.uk

Shuttleworth Collection, Biggleswade

Stondon Motor Museum, Lower Stondon

Huge collection of motor vehicles with nearly 500 cars on display some of which date back to the late 19th century. Admission is £6 for adults and £3 for children every day from 10am to 5pm. For further details phone 01462 850339 or visit their own website www.transportmuseum.co.uk

Whipsnade Animal Park, Dunstable

Set in over 600 acres of beautiful Bedfordshire countryside, Whipsnade is one of the most popular attractions in England. With over 2,500 animals it's amongst the best animal parks in the world. Admission is £14.50 for adults and £11 for children every day from 10am to 6pm. In October the park closes at 5pm and during the rest of the winter doors close at 4pm. For further details phone 01582 872171 or visit www.whipsnade.co.uk