Walking Trails in Cambridgeshire

Cambridge to Grantchester along the River Cam

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Footpaths, mostly flat

Length: 9.4 miles (15 km)

Time: Approximately 5h

If you’re around Cambridge and are looking for a relaxing and atmospheric walk, this one is hard to beat.

Start by exploring Cambridge’s Gothic spires and follow the twists and turns of the river through the meadows. Cross the footbridge, and you’ll stumble across Paradise Local Nature Reserve, where you can spot some rare local wildlife. Keep following the river until you reach the famous Orchard Tea Garden – an idyllic location to enjoy a well-deserved cup of tea.

Lode to Bottisham Pumping Station, along Fens Rivers Way

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Footpaths, mostly flat

Length: 48 miles (77 km)

Time: Approximately 5h

This scenic walk will take you through Cambridgeshire’s spectacular countryside, from its meadows and flat fens to its quaint villages along the River Cam. You’ll see many attractions along the way, including Clayhithe, Baits Bite Lock and Stow Cum Quy Fen, before reaching Anglesey Abbey.

Kings Ripton to Abbotts Ripton

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Woodland, mostly flat. It can get muddy in certain areas

Length: 7 miles (11 km)

Time: Approximately 3h and 30 minutes

Abbotts Ripton and Kings Ripton are two of Cambridgeshire’s most picturesque villages, and this walk is the best way to get a taste of both.

Start from Kings Ripton and walk through the flat fields for about an hour. You’ll visit Broughton, an Anglo-Saxon village, and All Saints Church – a Grade II-listed building. Continue your walk through the fields before reaching the thatched cottages of Abbotts Ripton.

The full itinerary of the trail can be found here.

The Eeil Trail, Ely

Famous for being one of the quaintest villages in the county, Ely is a must-see. Found in East Cambridgeshire, the town is known as ‘The Fens’ since it was once surrounded by marshland and water. Home of Oliver Cromwell, Ely offers a magnificent 11th-century cathedral, local parks for an afternoon run and plenty of scenic riverside walks.

For a relaxing walk, follow the Eel Trail through this charming cathedral town and its main attractions, including Jubilee Gardens, St Mary’s Church, the Bishop’s Palace and the Stained Glass Museum.

Full map available here.

Burghley House & Stamford Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Footpaths, mostly flat

Length: 4 miles (6.4 km)

Time: Approximately 3h

This pleasant walk starts at the historic Burghley House, right up to Cambridgeshire's northern border. The mansion is an example of Elizabethan architecture and is today inhabited by the Cecil family. The grounds are free to visit, while you need to pay to see the inside.

Head towards Stamford in Lincolnshire – a thriving, historic market town studded with quirky boutiques, independent cafes and restaurants.

Take a look at the full itinerary beforehand here.

Grafham Water Circular

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Woodland, mostly flat. It can get muddy in some areas

Length: 1.8 miles (3 km)

Time: Approximately 1h

This large nature reserve was created in the 1960s to supply water to the local area and is today a firm favourite among visitors. Once you reach the reservoir, follow the gentle path the whole way around. There are many beaches, making it a great spot for water activities.

This path is perfect for dogs, so bring your furry friend along for some extra fun!