Granta Place is a quiet and scenic street located on the edge of the River Cam in Cambridge, just south of the city centre. Although lesser-known compared to the historic streets in the heart of Cambridge, Granta Place offers beautiful riverside views and is an excellent starting point for exploring the city by water.
The street is primarily residential but has significant attractions nearby, especially related to Cambridge’s famous punting activities and picturesque walks along the river.
Granta Place offers a peaceful, scenic contrast to the busier streets of Cambridge, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and historic riverside environment. The area is particularly appealing for those who love water-based activities like punting, or simply want to relax by the river. The views from Granta Place, especially in the summer, are idyllic, with trees and boats dotting the river, creating a postcard-perfect Cambridge scene.
Whether you’re enjoying a pint at The Anchor, exploring the meadows of Coe Fen, or setting off on a punt down the River Cam, Granta Place provides a laid-back yet iconic Cambridge experience. Its close proximity to other attractions, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a hidden gem for visitors seeking a quieter slice of Cambridge life.
What to See on Granta Place
Punting on the River Cam: One of the main draws of Granta Place is its location right by the River Cam, making it an excellent spot to begin a punting tour. Punting is a quintessential Cambridge experience, where you glide along the river in a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a pole. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including King’s College, Trinity College, and the Bridge of Sighs, can be viewed from the water. Several punting companies operate near Granta Place, offering both guided tours and self-hire punts. It’s an ideal activity for soaking in the beauty of Cambridge’s historic colleges and serene riverside scenery.
Mill Pond: Just around the corner from Granta Place is the Mill Pond, a peaceful spot where the River Cam widens and boats often gather. It’s a popular location for watching punts and kayakers float by or for having a picnic by the water. The Mill Pond is also an excellent place to start a riverside walk or to feed the ducks. The views here are especially picturesque, with trees hanging over the river and a relaxed atmosphere away from the busier parts of the city.
The Anchor Pub: The Anchor, located right along Granta Place and overlooking the River Cam, is a historic pub that offers a fantastic view of the river and the passing punts. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially in the summer when people gather by the water to enjoy drinks and food. With a rich history, The Anchor has long been a meeting place for students, including famous alumni like members of the band Pink Floyd, who performed here in their early days.
University Centre: Also located on Granta Place is the University Centre, a building that serves as a social and dining space for University of Cambridge students and staff. While it’s mainly used by members of the university, the building’s modern design and its location by the river make it an interesting landmark to pass by. During term time, you’ll often see students relaxing along the banks of the river.
Coe Fen and Sheep’s Green: If you continue walking along Granta Place, you’ll soon reach Coe Fen and Sheep’s Green, two expansive green spaces by the river. These areas are known for their pastoral beauty, where you’ll often see cattle grazing freely—a rare sight in an urban area. This tranquil, semi-rural environment is perfect for nature lovers and those looking to escape the more crowded parts of Cambridge. Walking paths along the river take you through these meadows, offering lovely views of the city’s skyline in the distance.
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden (Nearby): A short walk from Granta Place, you’ll find the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden featuring a vast collection of plants from around the world. It’s a peaceful retreat for anyone interested in horticulture, with themed gardens, beautiful flower displays, and a café. While not directly on Granta Place, its proximity makes it a great addition to a visit to this area.
