William II granted the Barony of Bedford to Paine de Beauchamp who built the castle.

[5] Up until this time, Bedford was a small agricultural town, with wool being an important industry in the area for much of the Middle Ages.

However, with the opening up of the River Great Ouse, wool declined in importance and brewing became a major industry in the town.

[6] In 1660 John Bunyan was imprisoned for 12 years in Bedford Gaol, which was located in present-day Castle Ward.

[6] After the Second World War, the Cauldwell Street neighbourhood of terraced houses was demolished, making way for new offices and public buildings, including headquarters for Bedford College and Bedfordshire County Council.

The main shopping areas of note are the High Street which includes a Wilko store, banks, many pubs, nightclubs and restaurants.

Located in the eastern section of the Castle Road neighbourhood there are a host of smaller independent shops and community stores.

The Bedford Corn Exchange, The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum and Esquires (a live music venue) are also located in Castle Ward.