Cambridge to Grantchester
This is a popular riverside walk from Cambridge to the nearby village of Grantchester. It takes you along the River Cam with lovely views of Grantchester Meadows and the surrounding countryside. It's now a tradition for university students to punt to Grantchester for breakfast during the May Balls so you should see lots of little boats along the way.
The walk starts in the centre of Cambridge near the tourist information centre. You then follow paths to the famous Cambridge Backs where you can enjoy nice views of some of the University colleges. The walk continues south through Sheep's Green and Coe Fen Nature Reserve. Considering it closeness to the city it's a delightfully pastoral scene with cows and sheep grazing next to the meandering river.
You continue south through the pretty Paradise Nature Reserve where there are some peaceful woodland trails. The route then follows Grantchester Meadows Road away from the river before heading across Skater's Meadow to return to the Cam. You then follow the riverside path past Eight Acre Wood before turning towards the village of Grantchester. Here you can enjoy a cream tea at the delightful Orchard Tea Room. It's an idyllic setting with outdoor seating amongst the fruit trees. After refreshments you can either catch a bus back to Cambridge or follow the same route back on foot.
If you enjoy this walk you could try the Fen Rivers Way long distance trail. It will take you along the Cam in the other direction, towards the lovely Milton Country Park.
Cambridge to Grantchester Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Cambridge to Grantchester Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Cambridge to Grantchester OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Cambridge to Grantchester Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
The route passes close to the pretty village of Coton where you could visit the Coton Nature Reserve where you can look out for a variety of birds and muntjac deer. Just a mile to the north west of the village there's another highlight of the area at the historic Madingley Hall. Here you will find some beautiful ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped gardens surrounding a fine 16th century manor house.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
St John's College from the Backs. The historic college was founded in the early 16th century by Lady Margaret Beaufort, the mother of King Henry VII, the first Tudor monarch. The college's alumni include poet William Wordsworth and seven of the country's prime ministers.
The Bridge of Sighs over the River Cam in Cambridge. The famous bridge dates from 1831 and is located at St John's College. The architecturally impressive structure is Grade I listed and named after the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. It is said to have been Queen Victoria's favourite spot in the city.
Paradise Nature Reserve as you leave the city. This pretty little reserve is located on the west bank of the River Cam, southwest of Sheep’s Green and Lammas Land. The wet woodland reserve includes several interesting plant species such as willowherbs, meadowsweet and water mint. Look out for wildlife such as chiffchaffs and willow warblers as you make your way through the reserve.
Skater's Meadow
Punting along the Cam
Bridge over ditch
Grantchester Meadows
Grantchester