Bedford is located just 16.3 km (10.1 mi.) from Halifax, and consists largely of commuters to both Halifax and Dartmouth. Bedford, mostly a well-to-do suburb, is reputed for having many large, expensive homes. Bedford is a waterfront community, at the very tip of the Bedford Basin.

Originally, Bedford was called Sackville, in honour of Lionel Cranfield, Viscount Sackville. The name, Bedford, was established in the mid-1850s, and is named in honour of John Russell, the 4th duke of Bedford. Bedford has since been amalgamated with Dartmouth and Halifax County to make up the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Bedford is home to a popular walkway, situated along a majority of the Bedford Basin waterfront, as well as an 82 ft (25 m) outdoor pool and smaller splash pool at Lions Park. In summer months, various lakes are considered swimmable. Bedford has two malls, and is home to The Chickenburger, a locally renowned symbol of Bedford. Bedford offers golfing, fishing, various museums and parks amung other activities.

Bedford accommodations include hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts and inns.