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About The Dukes

About The Dukes

The Dukes is a Grade II listed, thatched-roof Georgian venue nestled opposite the village green in the picturesque village of Heath and Reach, Bedfordshire. Steeped in history and character, The Dukes served as a beloved pub from 1745 and has now been lovingly reimagined as an exclusive-use event and wedding venue.

Offering a truly British setting with old-world charm, The Dukes is available for private hire for celebrations of all kinds—weddings, milestone birthdays, retreats, and gatherings with friends and family. Inside, the venue blends timeless architectural beauty with versatile indoor spaces that can host up to 50 guests, with the potential for larger events outdoors.

On-site accommodation is available, with additional guest rooms just a short walk away in the village, thanks to two nearby country inns. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner or a weekend-long celebration, The Dukes offers a unique backdrop and a peaceful village location with excellent amenities close by.

We provide in-house catering with thoughtfully curated menus, flexible drinks options, and a dedicated events team to help bring your vision to life. Every event at The Dukes is tailored with care, offering you exclusive use of the venue and the freedom to create something truly special.

With a rich heritage, a setting full of character, and a reputation for heartfelt hospitality, The Dukes invites you to make your own memories in one of Bedfordshire’s most charming and historic village venues.

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Our Story So Far

Humble Beginnings

Our grade II listed Georgian thatched building was built in 1735 and converted to a public house in 1745 called 'The Duke Of Cumberland's Head'. The Duke of Cumberland had defeated the pretender to the throne Charles Edward Stuart (grandson of King James II), known as Bonnie Prince Charlie at the battle of Culloden in 1746.

The Geordie Takeover

In 2016, after several years of being a restaurant, the business was taken over by Newcastle born sisters Sarah & Jo Nelson who changed the then named 'Dukes Head' to 'The Dukes'. Their vision was to create a beautiful pub with food so delicious their guests would travel from far and wide to taste it.

Dukes On T.V

The Dukes can be see on channel 4's Four In A Bed and channel 5's Hotel Inspector with Alex Polizzi. Filming took place in 2019 and 2023.

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Contact Us

7-9 Leighton Road,

Heath & Reach,

Leighton Buzzard.

LU7 0AA

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01525 237892

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