Moot Hall

Moot Hall is a brick-built museum with timber framing in Elstow that holds permanent and rotating displays about local history. The ground floor features three rounded doorways while both levels have casement windows that maintain the original character.

The building was constructed around 1500 by nuns from Elstow Abbey, who first used it as storage for market stalls. It later became a courthouse where disputes from the market fair were settled.

The name comes from the medieval court meetings held within its walls. You can see how the space was designed to bring the community together for important decisions.

Plan your visit for a weekend since the museum only opens on Saturdays with limited hours. It helps to check ahead as availability can vary depending on the season.

The museum holds two original prison doors from Bedford Gaol where writer John Bunyan was imprisoned. These rare objects link the local story to an important chapter in English literature.

Location: Elstow

Inception: 1500

Address: Moot Hall, Church End, Elstow, Bedford MK42 9XT

Opening Hours: April 2-October 29 Saturday 13:00-16:00

Website: https://bedford.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/arts-and-culture/history-and-heritage/moot-hall

GPS coordinates: 52.11600,-0.46900

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:53