Cambridge's
Parks, Meadows & Rivers

Cambridge is renowned for its beautiful parks, meadows, and rivers, offering both locals and visitors a variety of green spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors. These natural landscapes are an integral part of the city’s charm and provide a peaceful contrast to its historic buildings and bustling academic life. The River Cam itself plays a central role in the city’s landscape. It flows through the heart of Cambridge, alongside the famous university colleges, and is a hub for the quintessential activity of punting. Gliding along the river by punt, especially through The Backs, provides one of the most picturesque ways to experience the colleges, gardens, and bridges that line the banks.

All Parks, Green Spaces, and Punting Spots

One of the most popular green spaces is Jesus Green, located close to the city centre along the River Cam. This expansive park is perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. It features the Jesus Green Lido, one of the longest outdoor swimming pools in Europe, along with tennis courts and a skate park.

Adjacent to Jesus Green is Midsummer Common, an ancient grazing meadow that continues to host cattle during parts of the year. Midsummer Common also serves as a popular spot for events, such as the annual Midsummer Fair, one of the oldest fairs in England, dating back to the 13th century. The common is crisscrossed by riverside paths, offering excellent views of the River Cam and nearby university boathouses.

Further along the river is Grantchester Meadows, located a little outside the city. This stretch of land offers a more rural escape, with vast fields, riverside paths, and the quaint village of Grantchester, known for its traditional English pubs and tea rooms. It’s a favourite spot for walkers, cyclists, and those wanting to enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside just a short distance from Cambridge.

Cambridge Parks: Coe Fen Meadows

Coe Fen Meadows

Coe Fen is a picturesque area of common land located just south of Cambridge city center, adjacent to the River Cam.

Cambridge Parks & Green Spaces: Grantchester Meadows. Image courtesy of geograph.

Grantchester Meadows

Grantchester Meadows is a beautiful, expansive area of open grassland and riverside paths located just outside the city of Cambridge.

Cambridge Must-Sees: Jesus Green

Jesus Green

Jesus Green is a large, scenic park located near the centre of Cambridge, adjacent to the River Cam and close to Jesus College.

Cambridge Parks and Meadows: Lammas Land. Image courtesy of geograph.

Lammas Land

Lammas Land is a large, popular green space located in Newnham, Cambridge, just a short walk from the city center.

Cambridge Parks and Meadows: Midsummer Common

Midsummer Common

Adjacent to Jesus Green, the Midsummer Common meadow in Cambridge is often used for fairs and festivals and offers riverside walks.

Cambridge Parks: Parker's Piece

Parker’s Piece

Parker’s Piece is one of the city’s most renowned open spaces and a popular spot for picnics, recreational activities, and various events.

Cambridge Parks and Meadows: Sheeps Green. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Sheeps Green

Sheeps Green is a scenic natural area located along the River Cam in Cambridge, near Lammas Land and The Mill Pond.

Cambridge What to See: The Backs

The Backs

The Backs in Cambridge is one of the city’s most scenic and iconic areas, offering stunning views of some of the most prestigious colleges.

Cambridge Parks and Meadows: The Mill Pond. Image courtesy of sps1955 via Flickr Commons.

The Mill Pond

The Mill Pond in Cambridge is a tranquil and picturesque spot located along the River Cam, just a short walk from the city centre.

Cambridge Green Spaces & Waterways: The River Cam

The River Cam

The River Cam is one of the most iconic features of Cambridge, winding its way through the city’s heart and offering fantastic scenic views.