As a resident of Westchester for eight years, one of the areas I have always loved and wanted to explore is Bedford. So recently, my husband and I took a ride to Bedford Village for a quick afternoon lunch and exploration.
Bedford comprises three small hamlets: Katonah, Bedford Village, and Bedford Hills. If you live in Westchester County, you don’t have to drive more than a half-hour to feel like you’ve been transported to the country. Historic homes and rolling hills and pastures provide a beautiful backdrop. Horseback riding is clearly a passion in the area, and you will see many stables and barns for boarding horses and/or offering riding lessons.
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Pick up snacks or lunch provisions at Bedford Gourmet (left) and head to the park for a picnic. |
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Our primary destination was the Bedford Post Inn. I knew about the inn (owned by Richard Gere and partners) as a historic property, beautifully sited, with a wonderful restaurant and cafe, and yoga classes to boot. I was not disappointed. The property is elegant and welcoming. We had coffee and a light snack at The Barn, a country-style cafe on site, and then walked around the property. Furnishings throughout have a casual elegance. In the guestrooms, sophisticated style takes center stage: Frette linens on the beds, working fireplaces in many of the rooms, and well-appointed marble bathrooms.
We then drove into town, where I stopped at kitchen/housewares shop Consider the Cook. The store has an excellent selection of tabletop items and cookware. A few stores away, I picked up a monogramed gift at Mrs. Monogram, which has an assortment of classic and modern-preppy products. I then peeked into Ride, an equestrian store with the most exquisite riding boots. My final stop was Bedford Gourmet, where I found a selection of cheeses, sandwiches, prepared foods, and excellent coffee—perfect for a picnic lunch.
If you’re looking to take a day trip or go on a long weekend, Bedford is for you. There are several parks in the area (great for that aforementioned picnic). Caramoor is a historic site in nearby Katonah and home to gardens and musical events throughout the year. And, of course, there are plenty of places to dine. While you’re out, you may even spot a celebrity.
Ride
648 Old Post Rd, Bedford (914) 234-7433; www.ridebedford.com
Consider the Cook
26 Bedford Village, Green Bedford (914) 234-8880; www.considerthecook.com
Mrs. Monogram
617 Old Post Rd, Bedford (914) 234-4888; www.mrsmonogram.com
Caramoor Center for Music & the Arts
149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah (914) 232-5035; www.caramoor.org
For more information, visit www.bedfordny.gov.
