Grantchester Cambridge is a quaint village located 2 miles outside the city of Cambridge. Its origins date back to at least 1086, when it was first mentioned in the Domesday Book.
In this article, we will be exploring the history of Grantchester Cambridge and its surrounding attractions, activities and modes of transportation. We will explore the renowned Grantchester Meadows as well as The Orchard Tea Garden and Byron’s Pool – both popular tourist attractions.
We will also discover what activities are available in the area, ranging from leisurely punting along the River Cam to hiking various trails. Finally, we will look into the various types of accommodation Grantchester, Cambridge has to offer and the various transportation options available for getting around the village and its surroundings.
Short Summary
- Grantchester, Cambridge is a village with a rich history, offering a wide range of attractions and activities for all tastes.
- Accommodation options include hotels, B&Bs and camp sites, while transportation options include car, bus and train.
- Punting, walking and cycling are popular activities in Grantchester, with scenic views from Grantchester Meadows and Byron’s Pool.
History
Grantchester village, Cambridge has a rich and fascinating history, stretching back centuries.Located on the River Cam, two miles south of Cambridge, the village has been inhabited since prehistoric, Roman, and Saxon times. This rich heritage can be seen in the village today, with the Church of Saint Andrew and Saint Mary, The Cambridge Distillery, and Lockhouse all testifying to this. In addition, the popular riverside walk from Cambridge to Grantchester offers stunning views of Grantchester Meadows and the surrounding countryside.
The village was made famous by Rupert Brooke, a renowned poet of the First World War, and is said to have the world’s highest concentration of Nobel Prize winners. This can be seen in the many memorials, parks, and plaques that are spread across the village. The growth of the village was limited for centuries due to the marshy and boggy fenland that covers the fields between Cambridge and Grantchester.
The village of Grantchester Cambridge has been shaped by its past, and continues to be a popular destination for visitors today. With its quaint pubs, tea rooms, and riverside walks, the village has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out or an adventure, Grantchester Cambridge has something to offer.
Origins
Grantchester Cambridge has a long and storied history, dating back to prehistoric, Roman, and Saxon times. Evidence of this can be seen in the many archaeological sites that are scattered throughout the village, such as the Iron Age Ring-ditch, which is believed to date back to around 600BC to 400BC. This is in addition to the many Saxon artefacts that have been found in the area, such as coins, brooches, and pottery.
The village has since grown and developed over the centuries, with many different owners occupying the land. One of the most notable of these is The Old Vicarage, owned by Henry and Florence Neeve in 1910. This house still stands today and is a reminder of the village’s past.
In recent years, the village has become increasingly popular with tourists and students alike, with its riverside location, abundance of pubs and tea rooms, and the nearby Grantchester Meadows.
Development
Grantchester Cambridge has a long and varied history, with evidence of prehistoric times, Roman occupation, and Saxon remains. The village has since grown and developed over the centuries, with new houses and buildings being erected, and new amenities being introduced. In the 19th century, the village became increasingly popular with tourists, and the development of the railway station in 1845 meant that visitors could easily access the village.
The village has since grown and developed into the popular tourist destination it is today. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including punting, walking, and cycling. The tarmac pathway is accessible at the summit of the meadow, while the trail closest to the body of water commences upon traversing the wooden footbridge located at the weir. Accommodation is plentiful, with hotels, B&Bs, and camp sites available in and around the area. For those looking to explore further afield, there are car, bus, and train options available.
Grantchester is the perfect location for a day trip or longer stay, with its abundance of attractions, activities, and accommodation.
If you’re wondering what to do in Grantchester, as well as its proximity to Cambridge, the village itself has a number of attractions to keep you entertained.
Attractions
Grantchester Cambridge is home to a variety of natural and man-made attractions, each offering something unique. From the lovely Grantchester Meadows in the south of the city to the historic Orchard Tea Rooms & Garden, there are no shortage of sights to explore and activities to enjoy. Moreover, there are several members’ clubs nearby, as well as pubs, woods, and a church. The beautiful village of Grantchester is located just outside Cambridge City Centre, making it an ideal day trip destination.
From the tranquil Grantchester Meadows to the bustling Orchard Tea Garden, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Grantchester Cambridge. Whether one is looking for a peaceful stroll among the meadows and woods, or for something a bit livelier such as punting or cycling, Grantchester Cambridge is the perfect location for a relaxing day out.
Grantchester Meadows
Grantchester Meadows is a picturesque open space located in Grantchester, south of Cambridge. This pretty village has been celebrated in literature and music, with Roger Waters’ song “Grantchester Meadows” being a notable example. It is accessible by a grass path that starts at the old vicarage and traverses the meadow in a diagonal fashion. At the peak of the meadow, visitors will find a green metal kissing gate, which leads to a short wooden bridge over the River Cam.
The green flood plain of the meadows is quite expansive, and often features sheep grazing and wild flowers blooming. One will also find several pubs and a classic English village green, known as The Green Man. All of this makes Grantchester Meadows an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. There is no need for booking or entrance fees, so visitors can just show up and enjoy the beautiful village.
The meadows are open all year round, and the contact page of their website offers additional information and advice on visiting. Grantchester Meadows is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience a bit of life in a more rural area.
Grantchester Meadows is a popular destination for picnics and tea, and is part of the expansive green flood plain from the pubs in the area. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air, peace and quiet of the meadows, as well as the views of the nearby city. It is a great place to get in touch with nature and experience a bit of history.
The Orchard Tea Garden
The Orchard Tea Garden is a renowned tea garden situated in Grantchester, Cambridge. It has been visited by numerous distinguished individuals, including Prince Charles, Stephen Hawking, and Virginia Woolf. This tea garden holds a great deal of historical significance to Cambridge and was preserved from redevelopment due to the efforts of Robin Callan.
To visit the Orchard Tea Garden, one must proceed through the wooden gate, take a left at the conclusion of the pathway, and follow the sign-age for the Orchard Tea Garden. Inside, visitors will find a picnic area, a tea room, a car park, and a paradise nature reserve. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird-watching, and the tea room serves a variety of snacks and drinks. The tea room also offers a booking service for larger events or parties.
Once the task is completed, one can move through the orchard to reach the tea room and car park. They are both located in the same area again. Visiting The Orchard Tea Garden is a great way to get a taste of the local culture and history of Grantchester Cambridge.
Byron’s Pool
Named after the renowned poet Lord Byron, Byron’s Pool is a Local Nature Reserve situated in Grantchester, Cambridge. It is situated on the upper reaches of the River Cam, and the banks feature two black kissing gates. It has been partially replanted with native trees and wild flowers to enhance plant diversity and promote wildlife conservation.
Byron’s Pool is a great place to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Grantchester Cambridge. Visitors can traverse the route from the Orchard Tea Garden to Byron’s Pool and enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside along the way. While there, one can take a leisurely stroll along the banks and admire the views of the river and the nearby Red Lion Pub. It is also a great spot for a picnic or a peaceful boat ride.
Activities
Grantchester Cambridge offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something tranquil or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there is something to suit every taste. Punting along the River Cam is a popular activity, and there are several punt hire companies in the village that offer one-hour sessions.
The Grantchester Cycle Path is a largely traffic-free path that is renowned for its scenic beauty, running from Cambridge to the nearby village of Grantchester and passing through the picturesque Grantchester Meadows. Additionally, there are several circular trails, with the Cambridge City Circular being a particularly popular choice.
For those with a taste of the outdoors, walking and cycling are both great options, with a number of routes available to explore the village and its surrounding area. The Orchard Tea Garden to Grantchester Meadows walk is a popular choice, as is the Grantchester Meadows walk, while the Grantchester to Cambridge walk along the River Cam offers stunning views and plenty of wildlife.
From punting along the River Cam to cycling through the countryside, Grantchester Cambridge is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Punting
Punting is a popular activity in Grantchester Cambridge and is available to visitors in the area. Punting is a traditional pastime in Cambridge and is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Scudamore’s, a local punt hire company, possess a boatyard at Granta Place in the Cambridge City Centre, where visitors can hire punts for a period of one hour. They also offer a 3-hour hire which includes 15 minutes of punting at Sheep’s Green, 35 minutes of punting at Paradise Nature Reserve, and 1 hour of punting at Grantchester Meadows.
An adult aged 18 or above is necessary when the punt accommodates individuals below the age of 16. Punting is a great way to explore the river, as well as a perfect activity for picnics and other outdoor activities.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely activity or an adrenaline-filled adventure, punting is a great way to explore the village and its surroundings.
Walking
Grantchester Cambridge is a great destination for walkers, with a variety of routes to choose from. The Orchard Tea Garden to Grantchester Meadows walk is a popular choice, as is the Grantchester Meadows walk. This route takes you through the stunning Grantchester Meadows and past the historic Church of St Andrew and St Mary.
For those looking for a slightly more challenging walk, the Grantchester to Cambridge walk along the River Cam offers stunning views and plenty of wildlife. There are also several circular trails, with the Cambridge City Circular being a particularly popular choice. This route takes you around the city and its surroundings, taking in the sights of the colleges, churches and gardens.
Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Grantchester Cambridge.
Cycling
Grantchester Cambridge offers a variety of cycling routes for visitors to explore. The Grantchester Cycle Path is a largely traffic-free path that is renowned for its scenic beauty, running from Cambridge to the nearby village of Grantchester and passing through the picturesque Grantchester Meadows. This route is suitable for all ages and abilities and offers a great opportunity to experience the local wildlife.
Additionally, there are several circular trails, with the Cambridge City Circular being a particularly popular choice. This route takes you around the city and its surroundings, taking in the sights of the colleges, churches and gardens.
For those looking for a more adventurous journey, there are plenty of trails to explore in the surrounding countryside, including the Wimpole Estate and the Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. Whether you are looking for a leisurely ride or an adventurous journey, Grantchester Cambridge has something to offer for every cyclist.
Accommodation
Grantchester Cambridge offers a range of lodging facilities, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest houses.Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a more budget-friendly option, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. From the high end Varsity Hotel & Spa, to the more economical Signet Apartments-Vesta, there are a variety of hotels in and around Grantchester Village.
For those looking for a more homely experience, Grantchester Cambridge offers a variety of Bed & Breakfasts, such as Rosebarne Bed & Breakfast, Acorn Guest House B&B, and The End House Bed & Breakfast. These Bed & Breakfasts are perfect for those looking for a more intimate experience, with many offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are several camping facilities available in Grantchester Cambridge, including the Blue Ball pub, Highfield Farm Touring Park, Mill Farm, Wyton Lakes Holiday Park, Bounds Campsite, Shepreth Mill, Lodges Crystal Lakes, and Cambridge Cherry Hinton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite. These sites offer a peaceful, secluded retreat in the heart of the countryside, and provide the perfect opportunity to explore the local wildlife and scenery.
No matter your budget or preference, Grantchester Cambridge has something to offer everyone when it comes to accommodation.
Hotels
When looking for lodging near Grantchester Village, Cambridge, there are a variety of hotel options available. The Varsity Hotel & Spa, located in the heart of Grantchester Village, is a luxurious hotel with state-of-the-art amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and spa.
The Gonville Hotel, located just outside Grantchester Village, is a more budget-friendly option, offering comfortable accommodations in a convenient location. The Packhorse Inn and Signet Apartments-Vesta are also popular options for those looking for comfortable lodging close to Grantchester Village.
All of these hotels provide guests with easy access to the village’s shops, pubs, and attractions. Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hotel options near Grantchester Village to choose from.
B&Bs
For those looking for a more homely experience, Grantchester Cambridge offers a variety of Bed & Breakfasts. Rosebarne Bed & Breakfast, Acorn Guest House B&B, and The End House Bed & Breakfast are all popular options for those looking for a more intimate experience. These Bed & Breakfasts are all situated in the pretty village of Grantchester and offer guests beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and nearby river Cam.
All of the B&Bs come with a wide range of amenities, including comfortable rooms, delicious breakfasts, and access to the village’s pubs and shops. For those looking for a more unique experience, there is also the option to stay in an old vicarage near Grantchester Village.
No matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, Grantchester Cambridge has something to suit everyone.
Campsites
For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are several camping facilities available in Grantchester Cambridge. Highfield Farm Touring Park, Mill Farm, Wyton Lakes Holiday Park, Bounds Campsite, Shepreth Mill, Lodges Crystal Lakes, and Cambridge Cherry Hinton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite are all popular camping spots for those looking for an outdoor adventure.
These sites offer a range of facilities, including pools, boats, and picnic areas, and provide the perfect setting for exploring the nearby countryside, such as Grantchester Meadows and Paradise Nature Reserve.
No matter which camping facility you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Grantchester Cambridge.
Transport
Grantchester Cambridge offers a range of transportation options, including Whippet Coaches bus service, dial-a-ride services, and private car hire.Cycling is also a popular way to get around the city, with many trails leading to and from the village.
For those who prefer to explore the area by boat, there are plenty of options for canoeing, kayaking and punting. Additionally, there are a variety of taxi and minicab services available to get you to and from your destination.
No matter what your preferred mode of transport, Grantchester Cambridge has something for everyone.
Car
Grantchester Cambridge is easily accessible by car, with a variety of thoroughfares providing access to the village. These include Barton Road, Bridle Way, Broadway, Burnt Close, Cambridge Road, Coton Road, Grantchester Road, The Grove, and 50 Grantchester Road. Additionally, the village is home to a variety of smaller streets, avenues, and lanes.
There are several car parks in the area, allowing visitors to park up and explore the village and its surroundings. Whether you’re travelling by car, bus, or train, Grantchester Cambridge is a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
Bus
Grantchester Cambridge is well served by bus services, with Routes 18 and 915 available. The buses run regularly and tickets can be purchased in advance, providing great convenience for travellers.
Additionally, there are a range of local bus stops located throughout the village, making it easy to get around. For those who want to explore the village and its surroundings, the bus is a great option.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no train services available in Grantchester Cambridge. The closest train station is Cambridge Station, located approximately 2.5 miles away. From there, passengers can access a variety of train routes to other destinations.
Advance booking is recommended to ensure a smooth journey and to avoid waiting times. For those looking to travel further afield, Cambridge Station is the closest train station, located approximately 2.5 miles away.
Summary
Grantchester Cambridge is a charming village located just north of Cambridge city centre and has been the destination of choice for nature lovers and day-trippers alike. With its unique blend of history, attractions, activities, accommodation and transportation options, Grantchester Cambridge is the perfect destination for all. The village boasts an abundance of outdoor activities, such as punting, walking and cycling, that make travelling to the area easy and enjoyable. Visitors can also explore the wealth of historical sites and archaeological sites, as well as take time to enjoy the views from the picturesque Grantchester Meadows or have a cup of tea at The Orchard Tea Garden.
Whatever the activity, there is something here to suit everyone’s taste. When it comes to accommodation, Grantchester Cambridge has a wide range of choices, from luxurious hotels to budget B&Bs and camping facilities, providing everyone with the opportunity to find the best place to stay in the area. In addition, a variety of transport options make travel to and from Grantchester Cambridge easy and convenient. All in all, visitors to Grantchester Cambridge will soon discover why this beautiful village is so loved. With its spectacular scenery, abundance of activities and attractions, convenient transport links and accommodation choices, Grantchester Cambridge promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk along the river from Cambridge to Grantchester?
Yes, it is possible to take a picturesque walk along the River Cam from Cambridge to Grantchester, taking in the sights of Grantchester Meadows and the beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. The walk is suitable for all ability levels and will take about 2:45 hours.
Is Grantchester a suburb of Cambridge?
Grantchester is located just south of Cambridge, England, and is part of the South Cambridgeshire district.
With the growth of Cambridge over the years, it could almost be concluded that Grantchester is a suburb of Cambridge. However, it is still a separate and distinct village.
Is Grantchester a real village in England?
Yes, Grantchester is a real village in England located near Cambridge and approximately one hour from London. It is an historic location with much of the filming for the TV series taking place there.
The village has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Iron Age. It is also home to a 12th century church, which is the focus of the TV series.
What church is Grantchester?
Church of St Mary and St Andrew in Grantchester, England is a parish church located two miles south of Cambridge. It is part of the Cambridge South Deanery in the Diocese of Ely and welcomes people from all denominations.
The church has been featured in the popular television show Grantchester, with scenes filmed in its sanctuary and the churchyard.
Can you punt to Grantchester?
Yes, you can punt to Grantchester. Punting is a popular way to experience the picturesque cityscape, with both one-way and return services available.
So make sure you take the time to explore this charming English village!