Walking in Cambridgeshire offers a distinct experience characterized by the county’s flat landscapes, expansive fenlands, historic towns, and picturesque villages. The region may not have the dramatic elevations of other parts of the UK, but its charm lies in its vast open skies, unique wetlands, and rich historical heritage. Here are some of the top walks and trails to explore in Cambridgeshire:
Popular Walks in Cambridgeshire
1. The Fen Rivers Way
- Length: Approximately 50 miles from Cambridge to King’s Lynn.
- Highlights: This trail follows the course of the rivers Cam and Great Ouse, passing through the Cambridgeshire Fens. The path offers beautiful riverside walks, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see unique fenland ecosystems.
2. Wicken Fen Nature Reserve
- Length: Various short walks and a longer circuit of around 7.5 miles.
- Highlights: Owned by the National Trust, Wicken Fen is one of Britain’s oldest nature reserves and provides a glimpse into what the fens looked like hundreds of years ago. It’s perfect for spotting wildlife, including birds, ponies, and Highland cattle.
3. Cambridge City Walk
- Length: Typically about 2-3 miles.
- Highlights: A stroll around the historic city of Cambridge allows you to admire its famous colleges, the Backs (picturesque college gardens along the river), and architectural marvels such as King’s College Chapel. Don’t miss punting on the River Cam or relaxing in one of the city’s many pubs.
4. Grantchester Meadows
- Length: Around 2-3 miles from Cambridge city center to the village of Grantchester.
- Highlights: This idyllic riverside walk is famous for its literary connections to Rupert Brooke and Virginia Woolf. Grantchester itself is a charming village with lovely tea rooms and traditional pubs.
5. The Ouse Valley Way
- Length: Extends approximately 150 miles, with significant stretches in Cambridgeshire.
- Highlights: Following the River Great Ouse, this path takes you through some picturesque towns and villages, including St Ives and Godmanchester, offering delightful views and tranquil walking.
6. Houghton Mill and Meadows
- Length: Various loop trails around 1-3 miles.
- Highlights: Near the village of Houghton lies an old working watermill managed by the National Trust. Surrounding the mill are beautiful meadows and woodland paths, making for a peaceful countryside walk.
Tips for Walking in Cambridgeshire
- Flat Terrain: Much of Cambridgeshire is quite flat, which makes it ideal for easy, leisurely walks and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Weather Gear: The weather can be variable, so it’s wise to wear layers and bring waterproof clothing. The fens can be particularly exposed to the elements.
- Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching, as the wetlands and nature reserves are home to a variety of bird species.
- Cultural Stops: Incorporate visits to local attractions or historical sites along your walks to enhance your experience of Cambridgeshire’s rich heritage.
- Local Amenities: Many paths run close to or through towns and villages where you can enjoy local cuisine or a nice cup of tea. Planning your route to include these stops can add an enjoyable dimension to your walk.
Whether exploring the academic ambience of Cambridge, the historic waterways of the fens, or the peaceful rural landscapes, walking in Cambridgeshire offers a unique and relaxing way to experience both the natural beauty and cultural richness of this unique part of England.
- Walks from Ashton
- Walks from Cambridge
- Walks from Cottenham
- Walks from Doddington
- Walks from Ely
- Walks from Fen Ditton
- Walks from Hardwick
- Walks from Holywell
- Walks from Kingston
- Walks from Knapwell
- Walks from Newark
- Walks from Paston
- Walks from Stapleford
- Walks from Steeple Morden
- Walks from Sutton
- Walks from Toft
- Walks from Upton
- Walks from Walton
- Walks from Wentworth
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| Clopton Way | 17 km / 11 miles |
| Fen Rivers Way | 77 km / 48 miles |
| Fleam Dyke and Roman Road Walk | 40 km / 25 miles |
| Greensand Ridge Walk | 64 km / 40 miles |
| Greenwich Meridian Trail | 439 km / 273 miles |
| Hereward Way | 177 km / 110 miles |
| Hertfordshire Chain Walk | 63 km / 39 miles |
| Icknield Way Path | 180 km / 112 miles |
| Icknield Way Trail | 235 km / 146 miles |
| Nene Way | 183 km / 114 miles |
| Ouse Valley Way | 229 km / 142 miles |
| Pathfinder Long Distance Walk | 74 km / 46 miles |
| Rothschild Way | 61 km / 38 miles |
| Stour Valley Path (East Anglia) | 96 km / 60 miles |
| Three Shires Way | 79 km / 49 miles |
| Torpel Way | 18 km / 11 miles |
| Wimpole Way | 21 km / 13 miles |