Cambridge is a city of cyclists and very much a University city, so it seems appropriate that the route begins at St John’s College (founded in 1511), on Bridge Street. Many Cambridge colleges are open to visitors, but not during the exam revision season from mid-April to mid-June. The route follows the river Cam through the city: you may see punts on the river at the very beginning of the route, but thereafter the river usually belongs to rowing teams.
Although this is an urban route in daily use by local cyclists, it is particularly green, and leaves the city via Jesus Green, Midsummer Common, Stourbridge Common and Ditton Meadows. The route passes the Museum of Technology in the old Pumping Station, which is well worth a visit. The route leaves the river, passes the airfield and the pretty village of Stowcum-Quy, where the church dates back to 1340. Bottisham is another attractive village, and while you’re there it is worth carrying on to Anglesey Abbey, a Jacobean house owned by the National Trust (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). There is also a water mill which operates on the first and third Saturday of each month, subject to water levels.
Extending the route
Cambridge to Ely is 31-miles in total and is a fantastic longer journey. There are train stations at either end if you don't want to do the return journey. On arriving in Bottisham, you can extend the route onto Wicken Fen use the Lodes Way using National Route 11 (9 miles) - there is a short link to this route from Bottisham. You can then keep going on to Ely (9 miles) using the Wicken Fen to Ely route.
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Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.