Cambridgeshire Travel Guide

Explore the best of Cambridgeshire with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip with our list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire is a county in the East of England, known for its picturesque countryside and historical university city, Cambridge. The county boasts an array of cultural and natural attractions, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of England.

List of Places to Visit in Cambridgeshire

Explore Cambridgeshire’s top attractions, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The University of Cambridge: Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Take a walking tour of the campus or visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and antiquities.
  • Ely Cathedral: A magnificent 12th-century cathedral that dominates the medieval city of Ely.
  • Imperial War Museum Duxford: This aviation museum features a stunning collection of vintage aircraft and wartime memorabilia.

Natural Attractions of Cambridgeshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve: The first nature reserve in the UK, featuring a diverse range of habitats including reed beds, waterways, and marshland.
  • Cambridge Botanic Garden: A research facility and garden featuring over 8,000 species of plants.
  • River Cam: A scenic waterway perfect for a relaxing punt ride or riverside walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cambridgeshire

Cambridge and the surrounding countryside offer several fantastic hiking and biking routes. Some popular routes include:

  • The Lodes Way: A 9.3-mile route that runs through picturesque countryside and medieval villages.
  • Cambridge to Grantchester: A 3-mile route that runs along the River Cam, passing through the scenic village of Grantchester.
  • Wicken Fen Circular Walk: A 5-mile circular walk through Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, highlighting the diverse landscape of the area.

Best Things to Do in Cambridgeshire: Activities and Tours

  • Punting on the River Cam: One of the most popular things to do in Cambridge, punting provides a unique perspective of the city from the water.
  • Cambridge Food Tour: A walking tour that explores the city’s culinary scene and offers a chance to taste local specialties.
  • Duxford Flying Legends Air Show: A thrilling aviation festival featuring vintage aircraft and stunt displays.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cambridgeshire

Here’s a sample one-week itinerary to help you plan your trip:

  • Day 1: Explore Cambridge on foot, taking in the highlights of the historic city.
  • Day 2: Visit Ely Cathedral and cycle through the picturesque city.
  • Day 3: Take a punt ride on the River Cam and visit the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
  • Day 4: Visit Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve and take a guided walk.
  • Day 5: Take a Cambridge food tour.
  • Day 6: Venture to Imperial War Museum Duxford.
  • Day 7: Explore the countryside on a hiking or biking trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Cambridgeshire

Discover Cambridgeshire’s local cuisine and indulge in these must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sticky Cambridge Sausages: A traditional dish made with local pork, honey, and mustard.
  • Cambridge Burnt Cream: A dessert similar to Creme Brulee, popular in Cambridge since the 17th century.
  • Fenland Celery Soup: A warming soup made with locally grown celery.

Local Beverages

  • Cambridge Gin: Made by a local distillery, Cambridge Gin is a popular drink among the locals.
  • Real Ale: Visit one of Cambridgeshire’s many pubs and try a pint of regional real ale.

Where to Stay in Cambridgeshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cambridgeshire has a range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include:

  • University Arms Hotel: A luxurious hotel located opposite Parker’s Piece, with elegant rooms and fine dining.
  • The Earl of Derby: A cozy guesthouse located in the charming village of Shelford.
  • YHA Cambridge: A budget-friendly hostel located near the train station.

What to Buy in Cambridgeshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home a piece of Cambridgeshire with these souvenirs:

  • Cambridge University Merchandise: Visit one of the university’s official shops for souvenirs and branded merchandise.
  • Fenland Crafts: Shop for handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry, made by local artists.
  • Chutneys and Jams: Visit a local farmer’s market and purchase locally made chutneys and jams.

Local Culture and Customs of Cambridgeshire

Cambridge has a rich cultural heritage and is home to world-class museums, theatres, and galleries. The city is renowned for its academic excellence and is the birthplace of many famous scientists, poets, and politicians.

Best Time to Visit Cambridgeshire

The best time to visit Cambridgeshire is between April and September when the weather is mild, and attractions are open. The summer months are especially popular, but you can avoid the crowds by visiting during the shoulder seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cambridgeshire

Do:

  • Do visit Cambridge University - take a guided or self-guided tour
  • Do try Cambridge’s famous afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream
  • Do go punting on the River Cam

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage local wildlife habitats
  • Don’t cycle on pedestrian-only paths
  • Don’t cross the road without checking for cyclists

Safety and Health

Safety in Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Avoid leaving valuable items in your car, and stick to well-lit areas at night.

Health in Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire has top-notch healthcare facilities, including the Addenbrooke’s Hospital, which is one of the country’s leading hospitals.

Getting to Cambridgeshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cambridgeshire

  • London Stansted Airport: The nearest airport to Cambridge, located about 31 miles away.
  • London Luton Airport: Located around 47 miles from Cambridge, providing flights to European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Cambridgeshire

  • Cambridge Bus Station: Located in the city center, providing regional and national bus services.
  • Peterborough Bus Station: Located around 35 miles from Cambridge, links to major UK cities.

Other Options

  • Train: Cambridge is on the main line between London Kings Cross and Kings Lynn, linking to the rest of the UK.
  • Car: Cambridge is easily accessible by car, with excellent road links to London and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Cambridgeshire

The best way to get around Cambridgeshire is by bike or foot. The county has an extensive network of cycling and walking paths, making it easy to explore the countryside and cities.

Where to Go Next from Cambridgeshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cambridgeshire is well-connected to the rest of the country, with several nearby destinations worth visiting. Some popular options include:

  • London: Easily accessible by train from Cambridge, London is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
  • Norfolk: A scenic county located to the east of Cambridgeshire, famous for its coastline and historic towns.
  • The Cotswolds: A picturesque region located southwest of Cambridgeshire, known for its rolling hills and charming villages.

Conclusion

Cambridgeshire is a beautiful county with a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic cities, cycling through the countryside, or trying traditional local cuisine, Cambridgeshire has something for everyone. Plan your trip now, and take in the beauty of England’s East.



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