Brigham

Bedford

The town of Bedford owes its development to the Rivière aux Brochets. Spanning the town from north to south, this waterway has shaped the town since the early 19th century, with mills, tanneries and other small industries harnessing hydraulic power from the falls and rapids as they established themselves along the river.

The town centre still reflects this vibrant past through its ancestral homes, heritage buildings and three churches that dot the landscape. The imposing Cyr Building, established around 1880 by Joseph Cyr, is one of Bedford’s most emblematic structures. It housed Victoria Hall, once a major venue for social and cultural events.

Visitors can explore Bedford by strolling across its downtown sector, its two footbridges passing over the river, and by following the Keith-Sornberger Nature Trail. Here, you’ll also find the starting point for the Heritage Trail, a 42 km cycling route that will have you discover the surrounding region and several historic attractions along the way.

Every summer, Bedford’s Agricultural Fair, one of the oldest in Québec (1828), attracts visitors of all ages with its rides, farm animals, shows and its legendary tractor pulling competitions.