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Canoes on river

Sponsored by Better.

The Sports Island will feature sporting and physical activity demonstrations, come and try it sessions, a stage full of action with acrobatics and dance performances and more.

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Better logo - Better the feel good place

The Sports Island ethos is all about actively encouraging people to have fun and get involved or stay involved in a wide range of physical activity. If you feel like taking up a new sporting activity or revisiting one from your past, then pop along to discover what Bedford has on offer! Local clubs, organisations and gyms will all be in attendance for visitors to find out more.

The Water Sports Arena, run by Canoe Trail, is right next to the Sports Island, where you can see daring canoe ramp demonstrations and take part in fun water-based activities such as zorbing, Stand Up Paddleboarding (races and taster sessions), cardboard box racing, duckie raft race and much more.

Catering available

Food options on site Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Halal
Caribbean Yes Yes Yes Yes
Indian  TBC TBC TBC TBC

How to get involved 

If you would like to get involved in the Sports Island please fill out the below application form.

By submitting the form, you agree that you have read and accepted how we process your personal data 

Apply for a pitch at Sports Island

More information to follow.

River Festival 2026 sponsors