Despite being a city on the smaller side, Cambridge city centre can still get a little hot when temperatures rise during those summer months. Thankfully Cambridge gives visitors and locals alike the opportunity to enjoy the very best of city and countryside.
Cambridge has several great green spaces to explore right on its doorstep, so when things do get a little sticky in the city, you can escape the heat rather easily.
Read on to discover the best outdoor places to visit this summer that are conveniently just a stone’s throw away from the city centre.
Milton Country Park
Just north of Cambridge city centre, you’ll find Milton Country Park. This idyllic green space offers a network of pathways to explore on foot or by bike, as well as playgrounds, lakes, a visitor centre and a café to keep each and every member of your party refreshed.
Their Fridays in the Park event is also back this summer. Running every Friday until the end of August, Milton’s Fridays in the Park give you the chance to enjoy all the perks of the season with great food and drink, and of course the best company in a fantastic location.
Grantchester Meadows
The famous Grantchester Meadows is a paradise about 10 minutes drive from the city centre. For visitors not just looking for a pretty place to sit and watch the world go by, Grantchester Meadows is home to one of the best walks in Cambridge as Wanderlust details:
“From the Gothic spires of the centuries-old university colleges and chapels, follow the River Cam for three miles through meadows to the famous Orchard Tea Garden. This is a walk to do in spring or early summer, when the route is alive with students punting on the river or enjoying a picnic on the meadows beside abandoned bicycles.”
Wandlebury Country Park
This historic woodland setting covers 25 hectares, making it the perfect place to enjoy a long stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Climb trees, take an activity workshop, or simply find a spot to enjoy a picnic in a truly beautiful place.
Wandlebury Country Park is known as the area’s original and best country park, and for good reason. It offers 8 miles of fantastic walking routes with views as far as Ely, but that’s not all.
It’s also home to an Iron Age Hillfort, meaning you can delve deeper into the history of Cambridge and the myths and legends that accompany it.
Cherry Hinton Hall
Cambridgeshire is home to a large number of country houses and gardens, but Grade II listed Cherry Hinton Hall as the jewel in the crown. The country house’s annual and best-loved Folk Festival may not be taking place this year but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this beautiful 12-hectare estate.
Enjoy wide-open spaces, expansive woodland, and a diverse range of wildlife not too far away from the city at Cherry Hinton Hall. Its house and grounds are stunning, whilst its water play area and interactive tree trail are certain to be big hits with the kids.
Enjoy the city and countryside by booking a Citystay staycation for the summer ahead.