Bedford has a long history stretching back thousands of years before white settlement. Today tourists can admire the artworks the Mi'kmaq First Nation people left behind at the Bedford Petroglyphs National Historic Site. British settlers began arriving in Bedford and nearby towns in the mid-18th century. They faced resistance from indigenous tribes and built Fort Sackville to protect their new home. The area came to be known as Sackville, after the fort, until the mid-19th century when it became Bedford. The name pays tribute to John Russell, the 4th Duke of Bedford, the new colonies' first Secretary of State.
Bedford was an independent town until 1996, when it was recognized as part of Halifax. Despite the change, Bedford retains its own personality that delights travelers. You'll find Bedford at the northwest end of the Bedford Basin. It's ideally located for road trippers near Nova Scotia Highway 102 and the Bedford Bypass.
When should you visit Bedford, NS?
Pleasantly warm weather and many local festivals make May to October the ideal time for visiting Bedford. These perfect conditions attract many tourists though, so make sure you plan your trip well in advance. While Bedford doesn't experience the same tourist numbers of Halifax, local hotels still book quickly. You're also likely to spend a little more on your accommodation during the peak season. However, with average top temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s, depending on the time you visit, travelers insist it's worth the price.
If you'd rather avoid the crowds and inflated accommodation costs, try Bedford in November to February. Daily highs range from the mid-40s in November to high 20s in February, but it can feel much colder when the winds set in. However, dressing in layers should keep the cold at bay. You can enjoy the icy conditions at Nova Scotia's ski slopes. March and April are slightly warmer, but relentless springtime rain typically keeps tourists away.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Bedford, NS:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Bedford, NS. Analyze these charts to evaluate the least expensive time to book in Bedford during the year.
Luxury Hotels in Bedford, NS
The Bedford area is the perfect place for pampering yourself. You'll always enjoy the red-carpet treatment at the following luxury hotels.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax Bedford features renovated rooms with flat-screen TVs showing premium channels, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and block-out shades and a pillow menu for the best night's sleep. Don't expect to spend too much time in your room though, with a heated indoor pool, 80-foot waterslide, whirlpool tub, and modern gym all on site. Guests enjoy free parking and access to our electric car charging stations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the generous Express Start breakfast each morning. With cinnamon rolls, pancakes, and freshly brewed Arabica coffee, it's the perfect way to start any vacation day.
Chateau Bedford Trademark Collection by Wyndham, just off Highway 102, is a striking pet-friendly hotel. Its rooms are tastefully decorated to help you relax, with wall-mounted flat-screen TVs showing cable channels, inviting beds, and coffee-makers for your caffeine cravings. There's more coffee each morning at the free buffet breakfast, which also includes scrambled eggs, sausages, and other indulgences. It'll give you the fuel you need for sightseeing or enjoying the hotel's facilities. With an indoor swimming pool and modern fitness center with elliptical machines, treadmills, and a TV for motivation, staying in is always tempting!
What are the affordable hotels in Bedford, NS?
The Bedford area caters for travelers that love treating themselves rather than frugal visitors. While their rates aren't as low as many basic hotels in other cities, the following establishments offer some of the local region's most affordable tariffs.
Stardust Motel is a Bedford Highway institution welcoming guests since 1969. While its rooms are simple, meticulous staff at this family-owned and operated hotel ensure they're always pristinely clean. The rooms with kitchenettes are ideal for extended stay, while the apartment accommodation gives families plenty of space to spread out. Guests enjoy free wireless internet access, car parking, and local phone calls. For your convenience, there's a coin laundry and Thai restaurant on site. Recent room renovations have breathed new life into the always reliable Stardust Motel.
Super 8 Windsor, in nearby Windsor, offers the conveniences of a well-known motel provider in a tranquil rural setting. All rooms have LCD televisions, combination shower-baths, and fridges for keeping snacks and beverages cold. With free wired and wireless internet access, keeping loved ones updated about your adventures in Bedford is easy. Kids always love the indoor pool and waterslide. The hotel serves a free continental breakfast each morning, and there's an onsite café for your daytime cravings. The business center and 2700 square feet of conference space make the Super 8 Windsor a smart choice for business travelers.