Walking in Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire has a wonderfully varied landscape for walking, from the historic streets and riverside paths of Cambridge to the open Fenland countryside around Ely. There are also peaceful meadows, attractive waterways and historic estates to explore, making the county an excellent destination for walkers looking for both short local strolls and longer days out.

For visitors to Ely, the Ely River Walk is a particularly good place to start. The historic cathedral city sits beside the River Great Ouse and is surrounded by the distinctive flat landscapes of the Fens.

The walk explores the riverside and surrounding countryside, giving you the chance to enjoy the waterways and open landscapes around the city while also taking in Ely’s historic character. The cathedral provides an impressive focal point and the river is a particularly pleasant place to explore on foot.

Ely Cathedral

In Cambridge the Cambridge Backs Walk is another excellent option, taking you around some of the most famous sights in the city. The route explores The Backs, the picturesque area where several of the University of Cambridge colleges meet the River Cam. It is a great way to combine riverside scenery with historic architecture and some of Cambridge’s best-known landmarks.

Cambridge Backs

The Grantchester Meadows Walk provides a very different experience. This circular route explores Grantchester and Trumpington Meadows, following paths through open countryside and alongside the River Cam. The meadows have a peaceful rural character despite being close to Cambridge, making this a popular area for walking and enjoying the countryside.

Granchester Meadows

Grafham Water is another excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The route around the reservoir provides attractive waterside scenery, with woodland, open countryside and views across the water. It is suitable for both walking and cycling, making it a particularly versatile place to enjoy a day outdoors.

Grafham Water

For some fascinating local history there’s the Anglesey Abbey walk which takes you around one of Cambridgeshire’s most attractive estates. The National Trust property is surrounded by extensive gardens, woodland and parkland, providing plenty of variety as you explore the grounds. The combination of historic buildings, landscaped gardens and peaceful countryside makes it an appealing walk throughout the year.

Grantchester Meadows

For more walks in the county see the full list of Cambridgeshire Walks here.