Cambridge to Grantchester River Walk

3.4 miles (5.5 km)
Cambridge River Cam

Walk Report by Anne March
The walk from Cambridge to Grantchester is one I really enjoy because it feels remarkably rural considering you start right in the centre of the city. The weather was bright and pleasant, which made it a particularly enjoyable day to be out. It is an easy-going route with plenty of interest along the way, from the historic colleges and River Cam to the open meadows around Grantchester.
As it was still fairly quiet when I arrived in Cambridge, I took the opportunity to have a stroll around the grounds of King's College before setting off towards Grantchester. I've always thought this is one of the most impressive parts of the city, with the famous chapel dominating the skyline and the college buildings and gardens creating a very different atmosphere from the busy streets outside. It was a peaceful start to the walk before heading down towards the river.
The Backs provide a lovely introduction to the route, with views of the famous university buildings and plenty of activity on the River Cam. There were punts and other boats making their way along the river, but once the route continues towards Sheep's Green and Coe Fen the character changes quite quickly. Cows and sheep graze beside the river and, despite being so close to the city centre, the surroundings feel remarkably peaceful.
The route then passes through Paradise Nature Reserve, one of the quieter sections of the walk. The woodland and meandering river make this a pleasant place to slow down, with plenty of wildlife around and other walkers and runners using the paths. It is hard to believe that the centre of Cambridge is still so close.
The landscape opens out as the route reaches Grantchester Meadows. On a bright day the views across the meadows are particularly attractive, with the river winding through the landscape and canoes and punts adding some activity. There are plenty of good spots for photographs and the almost completely flat route makes it a very relaxing walk.

Grantchester Meadows
Eventually the path reaches Grantchester itself, with its attractive cottages, gardens and village atmosphere. The Orchard Tea Garden is an obvious place to stop, particularly on a fine day, with its outdoor seating among the trees. It makes a pleasant destination before either returning to Cambridge on foot or making use of the local bus service.
At the end of the walk I met with some local friends for some refreshment at The Grantchester Green Man. I found it a really relaxed and welcoming place, with plenty of seating both inside and out. We settled in the garden, which is a particularly nice spot when the weather is good, and it was the perfect place to sit down and chat after the walk. There is a good choice whether you just fancy a drink or want something more substantial to eat, and the friendly staff made us feel very welcome. I can certainly see why it has become a popular meeting place in Grantchester.
Grantchester Thatched Cottages
For me, the real attraction of this walk is the transition from city to countryside. You can begin among some of Cambridge's most famous buildings and, within a relatively short time, find yourself beside a peaceful river with cattle grazing in the meadows. The Fen Rivers Way provides a longer route along the Cam, while Milton Country Park gives you another opportunity to explore the countryside north of Cambridge. You could also visit Madingley Hall, or for cyclists there is the Varsity Way Oxford to Cambridge Cycle Route.

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Nearby Routes

Cambridge Backs Walk Fen Rivers Way Milton Country Park Madingley Hall Varsity Way Oxford to Cambridge Cycle Route

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