Walking Cambridge

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Criss-crossed with pathways that rise and dip with the Teletubby-esque mounds, the otherworldly landscape was created from the spoils of a medieval quarry. Come at Easter to see the rare pasqueflowers, or in June and July when the reserve is scented with fragrant orchid and butterflies flutter through the profusion of wildflowers. Enjoy Cambridge on our guided walking and punting tour through the eyes of a local historian We start with a short walk that takes in some of the famous colleges and historic sights of the city as you meander down quaint alleyways and tread the cobbled streets.You will hear quirky facts and stories of the colleges and their colourful alumni, all set within the context of English and world history, many fascinating tales of city life through the ages not generally mentioned in the guide books.

Walk along Petty Cury. The first turning on the right takes you into Lion Yard. If you continue straight ahead you will enter the Grand Arcade, a larger and more lavish shopping mall opened thirty years later. Go through the centre, exiting its flagship John Lewis store by following signs onto Downing Street.Nevertheless, there is a bigger picture playing out in Cambridge as a whole and the surrounding countryside. Speculative residential and commercial property schemes, fuelled by sky high house prices and rent levels, are having a major impact on the urban fabric. Cambridgeshire’s population is predicted to rise by over 20% in the next 15 years and tens of thousands of new homes are planned on the city fringes, in existing villages and two large new towns throughout the county. Wandlebury has 8 miles of footpaths to explore wildflower meadows, woodlands, orchards and Iron-Age ditches. The paths are mostly flat and without barriers but only a short section near the car park is surfaced. Grab a pint at The Shed in Lode – you will need it to sustain you over this ten-mile walk. Follow High Street onto Station Road, becoming Fen Road and Lug Fen Droveway, to Bottisham Lode Pumping Station. From here, follow the River Cam southwest to Clayhithe, pausing at Bottisham Sluice to watch any river vessels passing through – and rest up weary feet.

There are approximately 10 miles of circular trails in all and it’s suitable for anyone to visit, including families and dogs. Since becoming a protected reserve, the RSPB has continued to make the lakes an even richer home for wildlife. Summer is also a special time at the reserve, when the meadows are filled with orchids and wetland flowers – such as water dropworts and the delicate lesser water plantain – attracting an array of colourful butterflies. Look out for great crested newts too, along with grazing ponies and deer. This social group meets all year round at 10am every Thursday morning, with the slower walk starting at 10.30am. Walks are well-attended, with 40 people joining most weeks. Some people like it so much they do both walks! Teas/coffees are available afterwards. We offer some of the best guided walking tours in Cambridge. Walking and Punting Tours and Bespoke Tours of Cambridge. Visit famous historic and University sights with an experienced, friendly local historian welcoming visitors from around the world. All our tours are unique as we specialise in small groups and encourage interaction and questions.

Is Cambridge UK Worth Visiting?

Some of the best hiking trails in Cambridge begin in this medieval heart and take you through the parks and meadows alongside the river. Wander south to the pretty village of Grantchester where you can find a bite to eat amongst the thatched cottages and enjoy tranquil views. Or head north through commons to villages like Fen Ditton and Horningsea. Farmers’ Market at Market Hill and panorama of Cambridge seen from Great Saint Mary’s Church Tower. Built in 1967, the ‘Grad Pad’ makes no concessions to its setting on the historic Mill Pool. What is your reaction to its ‘brutalist’ architecture, in terms of both size and materials? One disgruntled long time Cambridge resident has described it as ‘a perfect example of a building in the wrong place’! Watch my video about planning a trip to Cambridge. This is a simple video that walks you through my custom maps and routes for planning a great trip to Cambridge, UK.