Cambridge easily fills a couple of days with its colleges, museums, and punting along the River Cam. But what happens after you’ve seen the main attractions? Do you pack your bags and leave? Not so fast.
One of the best things about Cambridge is its location. Within an hour or two, you can reach historic towns, nature reserves, charming villages, and impressive cathedrals. I discovered this during my second visit when I decided to wander beyond the city—and honestly, some of the nearby destinations surprised me even more than Cambridge itself.
So if you’re wondering where to go next, here are the best day trips from Cambridge that are absolutely worth your time.
Ely – The Cathedral City of the Fens
Only about 15 miles from Cambridge, Ely makes one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips.
The city may be small, but one landmark dominates the skyline: Ely Cathedral. Locals call it The Ship of the Fens because it rises dramatically above the flat countryside.
Things to Do in Ely
- Visit the stunning Ely Cathedral
- Walk along the River Great Ouse
- Explore Ely’s historic market square
- Visit Ely Museum
Official website: https://www.elycathedral.org
Ever stepped inside a building that instantly makes you whisper? Ely Cathedral tends to have that effect.
Grantchester – A Peaceful Village Escape
Grantchester sits just 3 miles from Cambridge, yet it feels like a completely different world.
The village offers quiet country lanes, scenic meadows, and one of the most famous tea gardens in England.
Highlights of Grantchester
- Walk through Grantchester Meadows
- Visit the historic Orchard Tea Garden
- Enjoy riverside walking trails
Official information: https://grantchester.org.uk
Many visitors walk or cycle here from Cambridge. Honestly, the peaceful atmosphere makes it hard to leave.
St Ives – A Charming Riverside Market Town
About 20 miles from Cambridge, the town of St Ives (Cambridgeshire) charms visitors with its riverside setting and historic architecture.
Unlike the Cornwall town with the same name, this St Ives feels quieter and far less crowded.
Things to See in St Ives
- The historic St Ives Bridge with a chapel
- Riverside parks
- Traditional English pubs
The bridge itself dates back to the 15th century and remains one of the most unusual bridges in England.
Things to Do in St Ives Cambridgeshire”.
Wicken Fen Nature Reserve
Nature lovers should consider a day trip to Wicken Fen, one of the oldest nature reserves in the UK.
Managed by the National Trust, the reserve protects an ancient wetland landscape filled with wildlife.
What You Can Do at Wicken Fen
- Walk along scenic boardwalk trails
- Spot rare birds and butterflies
- Cycle through Fenland countryside
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wicken-fen
FYI, bring a camera or binoculars. The wildlife here can surprise you 🙂
Anglesey Abbey
Looking for history and gardens in one place? Anglesey Abbey delivers both.
This beautiful National Trust estate sits only a short drive from Cambridge.
Why Visit Anglesey Abbey
- Stunning landscaped gardens
- Historic house interiors
- The working Lode Mill windmill
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey
Spring and autumn make the gardens especially spectacular.
Huntingdon – A Historic Market Town
The town of Huntingdon offers a fascinating glimpse into English history.
It also happens to be the birthplace of Oliver Cromwell, one of Britain’s most influential historical figures.
Attractions in Huntingdon
- Oliver Cromwell Museum
- Riverside walks
- Historic town centre
Official website: https://www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk
Ever wondered what life looked like during the English Civil War era? The museum tells that story surprisingly well.
Grafham Water
If you want outdoor adventure, Grafham Water ranks among the best destinations near Cambridge.
The huge reservoir attracts cyclists, hikers, sailors, and photographers.
Popular Activities
- Cycling the 10‑mile lakeside route
- Sailing and kayaking
- Fishing and birdwatching
Official website: https://grafham-water.co.uk
Cycling around the reservoir feels refreshing, especially on a sunny day.
Peterborough Cathedral
If you enjoy historic architecture, consider a trip to Peterborough Cathedral.
The cathedral features an impressive Gothic façade and centuries of royal history.
Highlights
- Dramatic cathedral architecture
- Historic tombs and monuments
- Beautiful stone carvings
Official website: https://www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk
The entrance alone looks so dramatic it almost feels theatrical.
Best Time for Day Trips from Cambridge
Choosing the right time makes your trip more enjoyable.
Ideal Seasons
Spring (April–June)
- Gardens bloom
- Pleasant temperatures
Summer (July–September)
- Perfect weather for outdoor trips
- Longer daylight hours
Autumn also offers beautiful countryside views with golden foliage.
Travel Tips for Cambridge Day Trips
Before heading out, keep a few practical tips in mind.
Helpful Tips
- Use trains for quick travel between towns
- Rent a bicycle for nearby villages
- Check attraction opening hours in advance
Cambridgeshire looks small on the map, but exploring the surrounding region reveals a surprising variety of landscapes and historic places.
Final Thoughts
Cambridge may be the star attraction, but the surrounding region offers plenty of incredible places worth visiting.
From the magnificent Ely Cathedral to the peaceful countryside of Grantchester Meadows, these destinations make perfect day trips.
So after you finish exploring Cambridge’s famous colleges and museums, don’t rush away. A short journey beyond the city reveals even more of what makes Cambridgeshire such a fascinating place to explore.
