Match Preview: Real Bedford Women v Real Bedford Reserves
It’s an all Real Bedford final, as Real Bedford Women take on our very own Real Bedford Reserves in the Bedfordshire County Cup Final.
MATCH DETAILS
Date: Thursday 23rd April 2026
Kick-Off: 7:45pm
Venue: Ledger Stadium, McMullen Park, Meadow Lane, Bedford, MK44 3LW.
TICKETS
Unfortunately, season tickets are not valid for this fixture as it is a cup match. Ticket prices are fixed, and details can be found below:
Adults: £5
Concessions (60 & over): £3
Youth (12 - 16): £3
Child (6 - 11): £1
5 & under: Free
The ‘opposition’
The Ladies Reserves, originally formed in 2008, were reshaped ahead of the 2023/24 season to create a clear pathway from youth football into the senior game. Since then, the side has made strong progress, earning promotion from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premier Division in their first season before consolidating at Tier 6. A blend of young talent stepping up from the Under 18s and experienced players has helped establish a competitive and supportive environment, with the team securing another top three finish this season despite being one of the youngest squads in the league.
The campaign has also showcased the group’s resilience and ambition. After a challenging spell with injuries, the Reserves responded with an impressive 14 game unbeaten run, underlining their quality and character. Cup competitions brought further highlights, including a run to the Plate semi finals and a dramatic win over Dunstable Town to reach the Women’s Senior County Cup Final, where they will face the Women’s First Team. Overall, the season has reinforced the strength of the club’s development pathway and its commitment to building for the future.
GETTING TO THE LEDGER STADIUM
Fans coming from the M1 should get off the motorway at Junction 13 onto the A421 before continuing on the A421 Bedford bypass. From here, take the third slip road for the A603 Sandy. The ground is located 200 yards to the left.
As you turn left on Meadow Lane, you will see the Real Bedford logo signposted. The postcode you'll need for your Satnav is MK44 3LW.
PARKING
There is parking just before the Ledger Stadium on the left. Availability is limited, though, so we would advise travelling in groups.
When you turn left onto Meadow Lane, there is also an overflow car park immediately on the right.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Once you go through the turnstiles, go past the clubhouse on your right and towards the pitch straight ahead. Just before the playing surface, you’ll find two containers with a range of food and drink options.
We serve a range of beers thanks to our partnership with Brew Point. This includes Genesis Stout, Supernova Helles Lager, Foghorn Hazy Session IPA and Lodestar Pacific Pale Ale.
You can also try out our range of beers at the Official Brew Point Hut, located adjacent to the tunnel and opposite the pitch. Inside the clubhouse, you can buy the Supernova Helles Lager, which is popular on matchdays.
It is also worth trying out the range of hot and cold food available, including the Pirate burger.
REAL COFFEE CART
The coffee cart, which is located opposite the pitch, has been a popular addition to the matchday experience at the Ledger Stadium. You will be able to try out the most popular hot drinks found in Real Coffee, located on the High Street in Bedford.
MERCHANDISE STORE
You can locate the merchandise store next to the coffee hut opposite the pitch. You can purchase the 2025/26 home and away shirts, Real Bedford branded jumpers, t-shirts, accessories and much more.
ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION
There are two bays of disabled parking outside the Ledger Stadium. Inside the ground, there is also a designated area for disabled supporters at the front of the main stand.
If you have any questions, contact us via email: hello@realbedford.com
LIVE STREAM DETAILS
All supporters can watch the game via our in-house streaming platform, PirateTV.
FOLLOW THE MATCH ON SOCIAL MEDIA
If you can’t make the game, you can follow the match via our official X and Instagram accounts. A match report will also be posted on the club website, detailing the key moments in the game.
Follow @RBFCWomen on X and @realbedfordwomen on Instagram.
