Welcome to Bedford
The heart of the Eastern Cape
In the heart of the Eastern Cape you’ll discover our village and at its centre The Duke of Bedford.
This once unsightly ruin has finally been restored to include accommodation for up to 48 guests, a restaurant, a bar and a beautiful ballroom.
Worn old wooden floors are testament to the history of the building and, wherever possible, much of the original has been retained.
In the heart of the Eastern Cape you’ll discover our village and at its centre The Duke of Bedford.
This once unsightly ruin has finally been restored to include accommodation for up to 48 guests, a restaurant, a bar and a beautiful ballroom.
Worn old wooden floors are testament to the history of the building and, wherever possible, much of the original has been retained.
About us
Our story began in 2011, with the start of a revolutionary facelift for our town’s main street and the adjacent aptly named Hope Street.
Tony Cotterell (The Kempston Group) began a sentimental restoration of the derelict hulk of Bedford’s only remaining hotel. Thanks to his efforts and vision for Bedford, what once was an eye-sore on our main road has now become a beacon of optimism and prosperity. The hotel and its partners provide employment and a multi-cultural meeting place, attracting business and tourism.