Walking in Cambridgeshire

When one thinks of Cambridgeshire it is usually the fine historic city of Cambridge with its glorious colleges that first springs to mind. Cambridge is indeed the jewel in the county, a destination everyone should plan to visit sometime and a fascinating and rewarding city to discover on foot. But spare some time to discover the charming countryside which provides a wealth of interest and beauty with its peaceful villages, historic towns, leafy lanes, ancient hilltop tracks and the open vistas of the fertile fenlands, home to an abundance of wildlife.

There is a rich heritage to be found within the market towns and pretty villages, and peaceful idyllic scenery to be enjoyed along the riverbanks of the Cam and Great Ouse. In the north east the fenland around the Bedford Levels, with its dead straight roads and grid of dykes and drainage ditches, its peat coloured soil and isolated windmills, can seem strangely empty, but has a minimalist beauty. This contrasts with the upland areas of the south, where the landscape is gentler and more hospitable, home to pretty, peaceful villages with thatched and timbered houses and interesting churches.

Hinxton

About 8 miles south of Cambridge, Hinxton is a pretty village with thatched houses, an historic church and attractive pub. The village is not far from the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.

A Walk from Hinxton [TL 496451]

This relatively short walk is ideal for all the family and is particularly enjoyable throughout the spring and summer seasons. Soon after setting off from Hinxton you pass Hinxton Hall, before lanes and well marked paths lead you through beautiful countryside. Later a restored seventeenth century watermill is encountered, as you walk beside a tranquil stretch of The River Cam. Grassy paths and quiet lanes then return you to the starting point. About 3 miles.
Best Pub for this walk
Red Lion, Hinxton Tel: 01799 530601 (Good Pub Guide)
With its twin gables and pink-washed walls, this carefully extended sixteenth century inn is most attractive. Enjoyable bar food ranges from soup and sandwiches to full hearty meals. There is a good selection of ales.

Click here for walking guidebooks to Cambridgeshire