Bedford has many well developed sports facilities, which may explain why so many different types of sport are played in a town of this size. Bedford Rugby Club was founded in the late 1880's, more than 30 of it's players have gained international honors, and Bedford RUFC have played at the Goldington Road ground for more than 100 years.

Bedford hosts many rowing events on the river Great Ouse and has a very strong rowing team. Athletes in Bedford also have a very good reputation, with Paula Radcliffe probably being the most well known.