From beautifully landscaped gardens and parks, perfect for picnics and sunbathing, to suave roof terraces with refreshing cocktails, Cambridge, England is the ultimate destination for outdoor adventure.
Open to the public between May and September, spend the day at Jesus Green Lido and relax in the newly built sauna, followed by a refreshing dip in the open-air swimming pool. There is plenty of room for those looking to relax and sunbathe. Potter around the Botanic Garden for a dose of sunshine and nature, exploring the gardens in bloom. There are free drop-in garden tours every Sunday at 2pm. Relish the outdoors with a game of tennis at one of Cambridge’s free tennis courts. Visitors can unleash their competitive side at Christ’s Pieces with four tarmac tennis courts to choose from, as well as 6 courts on Jesus Green which includes 2 grass courts. Take a trip to Lammas Land, home to a pool and large play area for children of all ages or venture to Sheep’s Green to spot the local nature reserve. Dabble in water based activities from punting and rowing to paddle boarding. Cruise down the river and spot the Cambridge college backs, whilst tucking into delicious finger sandwiches and delectable scones with Rutherfords’ ‘picnic punt’ option. Visitors can also meander along the backs on foot, following the famous loop starting and ending at Silver Street. Alternatively, journey further afield by hiring kayaks, paddleboards or canoes with Scudamore’s, to unearth the village of Grantchester by taking the rural upper river route and catch sight of the beautiful meadows.
Al fresco Dining in Cambridge
Take in the local surroundings and the stunning views Cambridge has to offer whilst tasting tantalising bites and flavoursome cocktails. Visit the Varsity Hotel’s rooftop terrace for Blushing Russians, Summer G&Ts and fruity martinis. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rooftop’s laid back atmosphere, surrounded by the city’s striking skyline, while tucking into the delightful BBQ menu (available on weekends). Pop by the PintShop for thirst quenching craft beers in the Garden, offering a range from small independent breweries and hearty pub grub such as succulent beef burgers and pork belly. Head to Fort St George, the oldest pub on the River Cam, to relax in the charismatic beer garden waterside, with premium beers and triple cooked chips. Meanwhile visitors can also overlook the iconic river at The Garden House’s delightful al fresco space, feasting on game to locally sourced vegetables or at La Galleria, offering the perfect balcony seating. Enjoy riverside dining at Millworks, a modern brassiere presenting wonderful, charcoal oven grilled steaks, with outdoor seating next to the Mill pond or for a memorable dining experience, make your way to Novi. With a vibrant roof terrace decorated with spectacular palm trees and in-season flowers, this bar and kitchen has a Japanese BBQ and in-house smoker, specialising in contemporary British small plates and botanical cocktails. There are also plenty of other al-fresco dining options including Market House, The Senate and Cambridge’s Market Square, home to a variety of local traders.
Hidden Gems in Cambridge
Venture out of the bustling city centre and you’ll find some real hidden gems. PAUS provides guests with the most quintessential relaxation experience, with several hilltop bathing options to choose from. Soak in the open air hot tub, rejuvenate in the Finnish Barrel Sauna or brave the ‘Cool Pool’ for a dip in challenging and exhilarating temperatures. Explore the south east of Cambridge and hike across the Gog Magog Hills. Trek to Little Trees Hill, the highest point and catch sight of tremendous views of the North and city of Cambridge. Stop by the Anglesey Abbey to wander around the charming rose and dahlia garden, or bring the children to the woodland play area, a wildlife sanctuary with bug-hunting activities, bird watching, den building and a treehouse. Wimpole Estate, another National Trust property close to Cambridge, is also one to be explored. With acres of parkland landscaped with flora, fauna and a Gothic folly, visitors can stroll through the park traversing the range of trails.
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