Priory Waterside & Marina - Bedforda Boater-Friendly Stop on the River Great Ouse

Location on the River Great Ouse

Priory Waterside & Marina sits just south of Bedford town centre, adjacent to the Priory Country Park lakes and directly connected to the navigable River Great Ouse. The river here is wide, calm, and well suited to leisure cruising.

Priory Waterside & Marina is a popular waterside destination located in Bedford, directly on the River Great Ouse. Combining a relaxed café-style venue with a well-used marina, it is a key stopping point for canal and river boat users cruising through this central section of the Great Ouse.

Set beside parkland and open water, Priory Waterside offers a welcome balance of urban convenience and peaceful riverside surroundings.

Why this location works well for boaters:

• Direct access from the River Great Ouse
• Easy cruising distance to Bedford town moorings
• Calm river conditions suitable for most craft
• Ideal stop between St Neots and the Bedford locks

Priory Marina – Moorings and Boating Facilities

The marina at Priory Waterside provides sheltered moorings away from the main river channel, making it a comfortable and secure option for both short stays and longer visits.

Facilities useful to boat users include:

• Marina berths in a protected basin
• Fresh water points
• Electric hook-up (where available)
• Easy access for embarking and disembarking
• Close proximity to onshore amenities

The marina’s sheltered setting makes it especially attractive during busy cruising periods or higher river levels.

Waterside Café and Amenities for Boaters

Priory Waterside is well known for its relaxed café and bar facilities, which are easily reached from the marina and nearby moorings. This makes it a convenient refreshment stop for crews without the need to walk far from the boat.

On-site amenities include:

• Waterside café and seating areas
• Outdoor tables overlooking the water
• Casual food and drinks throughout the day
• Family-friendly environment

The open setting allows boaters to relax while still keeping an eye on their craft.

A Popular Stop for River Great Ouse Cruisers

Priory Waterside & Marina is frequently used by Great Ouse boaters as a planned stop when passing through Bedford. Its combination of marina shelter and hospitality makes it particularly appealing.

Reasons boaters choose to stop here:

• Safe moorings away from the main river flow
• Immediate access to food and drinks
• Easy access to Bedford and surrounding parkland
• Relaxed atmosphere popular with river users

Exploring the Area Around Priory Waterside

The marina is located next to Priory Country Park, offering extensive walking routes, lakes, and green spaces. This makes it ideal for crews wanting to stretch their legs after cruising.

From Priory Waterside, visitors can enjoy:

• Scenic walks around the lakes and parkland
• Easy access to Bedford town centre
• Quiet riverside paths along the Great Ouse
• A peaceful setting despite being close to town

Why Priory Waterside & Marina Is Ideal for Boat Users

• Prime position on the River Great Ouse in Bedford
• Sheltered marina moorings
• On-site café and waterside seating
• Close to town facilities and parkland
• Well suited to leisure cruising and overnight stops

Conclusion

Priory Waterside & Marina in Bedford is a valued stopping point on the River Great Ouse, offering boaters sheltered moorings, easy access to refreshments, and attractive surroundings. Whether used as a lunch stop, overnight stay, or base for exploring Bedford, it remains a reliable and welcoming destination for canal and river boat users cruising this popular waterway.