Best Walks In Cambridge

Cambridge is a stunning historical city with amazing architecture and beautiful nature reserves. As a result, it’s a popular place to explore, either by punt or on foot.

At Rutherford’s Punting Cambridge, we understand the allure of seeing this stunning city in all its glory, which is why we offer a combination punting and walking tour.

You’ll get to see the sights both from a comfortable heated seat on the River Cam and a walking tour accompanied by one of our experienced local guides.

Keep reading to find some of the best walks in Cambridge and how to make the most of them to see everything this glorious city has to offer.

Our Favourite Walking Trails

There are plenty of walking and hiking trails for walkers of all abilities and ages in Cambridge. These are some of our top picks, which feature mainly short walks to help you see the best that this beautiful city has to offer.

The College Loop

The college loop takes you across the famous Backs and shows you some of the most stunning sights from this historic university city. If you want to learn more about the history of Cambridge and its university buildings, then consider downloading the audio tour from Rutherford’s to listen to as you walk.

Cambridge City Centre Stroll

If you’re looking for a relaxing walk across mostly flat terrain with plenty of opportunities to stop and rest, then taking a Cambridge city centre stroll could be the perfect choice for you. You’ll see the market square, King’s Parade, Great St Mary’s Church and much more. You’ll also be able to browse local shops and eateries, including Oscar’s, the on-site boutique café-bar at Wilde Cambridge and the Cambridge Satchel St Mary’s Passage store, home of the iconic bags that are renowned around the world as a symbol of learning and Cambridge history.

The Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for learning and natural beauty, then a circuit of the Botanical gardens is ideal. Located right next to the Cambridge railway station, giving easy access for visitors, the Botanical Gardens has entrances on Trumpington Road (Brookside Gate) and Hills Road (Station Road Gate). There are many amazing plants to see and events that happen all year round, so you can explore this amazing garden and learn about the history of Cambridge and its relationship with nature.

The Meadows Towards Grantchester

If you’re looking for a longer walk, then consider taking the Grantchester meadows and explore this stunning green space on the way to this quaint village. One of many beautiful villages surrounding Cambridge, Grantchester is well known as the setting for the Grantchester novels and TV series, as well as inspiring the famous Grantchester Meadows song by Pink Floyd. It is also home to many stunning thatched cottages, so visiting this quaint Cambridgeshire village can be a great way to feel like you’re going back to a simpler time.

The Trumpington Meadows

Just outside Cambridge city centre, the Trumpington Meadows is another one of the most stunning natural places, making this a great option for a Cambridgeshire walk. This stunning country park and nature reserve is managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Featuring newly created wildflower meadows, woodland, and paths near Byron’s Pool, this is a great way to see the natural beauty that surrounds Cambridge.

Anglesey Abbey

Just a few miles outside of Cambridge city centre is Anglesey Abbey, a National Trust property that includes a stately home, the remains of a priory, a working mill and 98 acres of landscaped gardens. As such, if you’re looking for a scenic family day out, Anglesey Abbey could be the ideal choice for you.

The Benefits Of A Punting And Walking Tour Of Cambridge

If you’re keen to see the best of Cambridge from the comfort of a punt on the River Cam, and then enjoy a relaxing, leisurely stroll with one of our expert guides, then book a punting and walking tour with Rutherford’s.

With our expert guides to help you, you’ll be able to see all the best sights in Cambridge, including the Mathematical Bridge, King’s College Chapel, the stunning St John’s College with its majestic Bridge of Sighs and New Court.

Starting from our Jesus Green moorings, these tours offer you the chance to immerse yourself in local history and culture, learning about the area as you travel by punt or on foot.

To book online and secure your space on our private and shared tours of Cambridge, including our walking and punting tour, use our booking portal. You can also contact us on 01223 322200 or by emailing [email protected].