The Balloon
Inspection Scores
Lower scores indicate better performance. 0 = best, 25/30 = worst.
The Balloon is a pub/bar/nightclub located at The Balloon, 52 Foster Hill Road, Bedford, MK40 2ET, in the Bedford local authority area. Following its most recent inspection on 18 November 2025, it received a food hygiene rating of 5 (Very Good). The inspection assessed three categories: hygienic food handling (scored 0 — very good), structural compliance (scored 0 — very good), and confidence in management (scored 0 — very good). In the FHRS scoring system, lower numbers indicate better performance, with 0 being the best possible score in each category. Bedford oversees 1,663 registered food businesses, of which 84% hold a rating of Good (4) or Very Good (5). The average food hygiene rating in Bedford is 4.7 out of 5. As a pub, bar or nightclub serving food, this business is assessed on both its food preparation areas and bar service areas, including cellar hygiene and the safe storage of perishable items. Food businesses in the UK are inspected by local authority environmental health officers. The frequency of inspections depends on the risk category — higher-risk businesses are inspected more frequently, typically every 6 to 12 months, while lower-risk establishments may be inspected every 2 to 3 years.
Location
Nearby Businesses
- Wellington Arms PH 4
- Victoria Guest House 5
- Friday Night Meal AwaitingInspection
- De Parys Guest House 5
- De’Parys 5
- REN FOOD & WINE 5
- No.7 Coffee House 5
- fishermans chip shop 3
- Grand Indian Restaurant 5
- The Flowerpot 4
Related Pages
FAQ
What is the food hygiene rating of The Balloon?
The Balloon has a food hygiene rating of 5 out of 5, as assessed by Bedford.
What does a food hygiene rating of 5 mean for a pub/bar/nightclub?
A rating of 5 means hygiene standards are very good. The inspectors found that food was handled, prepared and stored safely, the premises were clean and well-maintained, and management had effective systems to maintain standards.
When was The Balloon last inspected?
The Balloon was last inspected on 2025-11-18. Food businesses in the UK are typically re-inspected every 6 months to 3 years, depending on their risk category and previous rating.
Where is The Balloon located?
The Balloon is located at The Balloon, 52 Foster Hill Road, Bedford , MK40 2ET, in the Bedford local authority area. You can view other food businesses in the MK40 postcode area.