Introduction
Think Cambridge has all the fun? Think again. While Cambridge tours showcase tours around the iconic colleges and bustling market squares, some of the best gems lie just beyond the city. Just a couple of miles away, the storybook village of Grantchester awaits – a place so enchanting that even Pink Floyd wrote a song about its meadows and a famous poet pined for its tea and honey. In this post, we’re spilling the tea (literally, afternoon tea is involved) on why your next Cambridge day out should include a trip to Grantchester. Get ready for a Grantchester tour filled with scenic walks, lazy punts, cosy pubs, and more charm than you can shake a rowing oar at.
Getting There: Walk, Cycle or Punt to Grantchester
Half the adventure of Grantchester is getting there in style. Here are the most fun ways to travel from Cambridge to this idyllic village:
- On Foot through Grantchester Meadows: The classic way is to stroll along Grantchester Meadows (yes, the ones from that Pink Floyd song) on a footpath beside the River Cam. It’s an easy, flat walk of about two miles out of the city. You’ll pass grazing cows (Cambridge’s unofficial welcoming committee), wildflowers, and beautiful river views. In roughly 45 minutes, you’ll step right into Grantchester village, feeling like you’ve walked into a living postcard.
- By Bike for a Breezy Ride: If cycling is more your style, rent a bike and pedal to Grantchester for a breezy adventure. The route through the meadows is flat, scenic, and only takes around 15 minutes. Just ring your bell to kindly alert walkers as you zip by. It’s a fun, refreshing way to arrive – and a quick ride back to Cambridge is a great way to work off that pub lunch or afternoon tea!
- Punting Up the River: For the ultimate Cambridge twist, try punting to Grantchester. Rent a punt, pack a picnic, and pole your way up the River Cam. It’s a little workout against the current, but also delightfully peaceful and romantic. Glide past weeping willows and watch the city fade away behind you. (Pro tip: Don’t get your punt stuck in the reeds – unless you want a funny story to tell later!) Arriving at a village pub by boat just might be the most brag-worthy part of your day.
Whichever route you choose, the journey to Grantchester sets the stage for the charm to come. By the time you arrive, you’ll have earned a reward – perhaps in the form of tea and scones or a well-deserved pint. Speaking of which, let’s talk about the must-visit spots waiting for you there.
Must-Visit Places in Grantchester
Despite its small size, Grantchester is packed with spots that will make you fall in love with English country life. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- The Orchard Tea Garden: Enjoy afternoon tea in a quaint apple orchard that’s been a beloved retreat since 1897. Settle into a deckchair under the blossoms with a pot of tea and freshly baked scones. Famous Cambridge alumni like poet Rupert Brooke used to take tea here – he even immortalised Grantchester’s honey-sweet tea in verse. With its serene atmosphere and timeless tradition, The Orchard offers the quintessential English tea experience (yes, there’s definitely honey for your tea!).
- The Green Man Pub: A centuries-old pub that’s the heart of the village. Think low-beamed ceilings, cosy fireplaces, and a spacious garden opening onto the meadows. The Green Man is perfect for a pint of local ale or a hearty plate of fish and chips after your walk. It’s so picture-perfect that it even makes an appearance in the TV series “Grantchester.” Expect friendly locals, tasty comfort food, and an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
- The Rupert Brooke: Named after Grantchester’s famous war-poet, this gastropub brings a modern twist to village dining. It serves up delicious seasonal dishes and a top-notch Sunday roast in a stylish yet relaxed setting. If you’re looking for a step up from traditional pub grub, The Rupert Brooke is the spot – think gourmet burgers, inventive salads, and craft beers. Snag a seat on the terrace if you can, and enjoy the countryside views as you dine. It’s a lovely blend of contemporary cuisine and classic village charm.
- The Cambridge Gin Distillery: Tucked away on the village high street is the Cambridge Distillery (often called the Cambridge Gin Company), a paradise for gin lovers. This award-winning micro-distillery crafts innovative gins using botanicals from the local area. Pop into their shop and tasting room to sample a gin infused with herbs from Grantchester Meadows or pick up a bottle as a souvenir. You’ll learn a bit about their unique gin-making process and appreciate a refreshing G&T all the more. It’s a spirited stop (pun intended) that adds a bit of extra flavour to your Grantchester visit.
Activities & Experiences in Grantchester
Beyond eating and drinking your way through the village, Grantchester offers some delightful experiences to make your visit truly memorable:
- Picnic on the Meadows: Sometimes the best plan is no plan at all. Grab some treats (a loaf of crusty bread, cheese, and strawberries from Cambridge, perhaps) and set up a picnic on the grass by the river. Grantchester Meadows provides the perfect backdrop – cows grazing nearby, swans gliding on the Cam, and not a care in the world. Stretch out, relax, and watch the clouds drift by. No rush, no crowds, just picnic perfection in the English countryside.
- Photo Shoot on the Meadows: Looking for postcard-perfect photos? You’ve come to the right place. The meadows are ridiculously photogenic, with willow trees, wildflowers, and golden light in the late afternoon. It’s no surprise that people even book professional photo shoots here – from punting couples to families in their Sunday best. Hire Cambridge Photographers to get amazing shots. (Pro tip: sunset over the meadows is pure magic for photos.) Get ready to make your friends back home a tad jealous of your stunning Cambridge day out snaps!
Conclusion
So, next time you plan to visit Cambridge – whether you’re on one of the popular guided Cambridge tours or exploring on your own – make sure to add a side trip to Grantchester to your itinerary. It’s the perfect way to enrich your Cambridge experience with a dash of countryside charm. Whether you walk, cycle, or punt your way there, you’ll find that this little village offers big rewards, from tasty treats and scenic views to stories you’ll be telling long after.
In short, don’t just stick to the city – venture out and embrace a Cambridge day out in Grantchester. You’ll return with a happy heart, beautiful photos, and maybe a bottle of local gin clinking in your bag. Trust us, that extra hop over to Grantchester will be a highlight of your trip. Happy exploring!
