Cambridgeshire in eastern England is dominated by the university town of Cambridge, but has also a number of lovely villages. Here are our pick of the prettiest:
1. Grantchester
Just a short stroll or punt ride from Cambridge along the River Cam, Grantchester is steeped in literary and bohemian history. The village is known for its famous Orchard Tea Garden and former residents like poet Rupert Brooke. Thatched cottages and peaceful meadows make it a timeless English gem.
2. Linton
Linton is a picture-perfect village nestled in the south of Cambridgeshire, featuring timber-framed buildings, narrow lanes, and a babbling brook running through the centre. It also boasts an impressive 13th-century church and a strong sense of community. The nearby countryside is perfect for scenic walks.
3. Eltisley
With a traditional village green surrounded by thatched cottages and an ancient church, Eltisley epitomises rural charm. The setting is tranquil, and the green is still used for village cricket matches in summer. Its peaceful vibe and historic buildings make it a favourite among visitors.
4. Barrington
Barrington is home to one of the longest village greens in England, bordered by beautiful thatched and brick cottages. The village lies beside the River Cam and features an excellent 13th-century church and welcoming pub. It’s a quintessential English village ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
5. Hemingford Grey
Set beside the River Great Ouse, Hemingford Grey is renowned for its 12th-century manor house—once the home of children’s author Lucy Boston. The riverside setting, old stone cottages, and quiet lanes offer picture-postcard views. It’s especially enchanting in spring and summer.
6. Houghton
Houghton’s charm lies in its idyllic location by the river, complete with a working 18th-century water mill and access to a scenic nature reserve. The village green, cosy pubs, and nearby walking paths through the Ouse Valley Park attract both locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect place for a weekend stroll.
7. Fen Ditton
Nestled along the River Cam, Fen Ditton is known for its thatched roofs, old inns, and riverside charm. It’s a popular spot during the Cambridge rowing bumps, offering one of the best viewing areas. The tranquil setting combines the best of rural life with proximity to the city.
8. Alconbury Weston
A classic English village near Huntingdon, Alconbury Weston features charming thatched cottages and an ancient ford. The village green and peaceful stream running through it add to its appeal. It retains a quiet, rural character that’s ideal for those seeking escape from modern hustle.
9. Abbots Ripton
This traditional estate village has an elegant, timeless feel, with red-brick cottages and tree-lined lanes. It is known for its close ties to the Abbots Ripton Hall estate and a beautiful parish church. In summer, the nearby Secret Garden Party festival adds a quirky cultural twist.
10. Kimbolton
Technically a small town, Kimbolton has all the charm of a historic village. Its wide Georgian high street leads to the striking Kimbolton Castle, once the final home of Catherine of Aragon. The blend of architecture, heritage, and countryside makes it especially appealing.
11. St Ives
Though larger than a typical village, St Ives offers a stunning riverside setting with a unique medieval bridge and chapel. Cobbled streets, independent shops, and traditional pubs line the town centre. It retains a village-like charm and is surrounded by picturesque countryside.
12. Swaffham Prior
Unusually home to two churches side by side, Swaffham Prior is a distinctive and historic village. It boasts charming cottages, rolling countryside views, and a vibrant local history. Its slightly elevated location gives it expansive views over the surrounding Fens.
13. Sutton
Sutton is perched above the low-lying Fenland, offering panoramic views across open landscapes. With a lovely old church, friendly atmosphere, and nearby nature reserves, it’s an ideal place for birdwatchers and walkers. The village mixes traditional architecture with peaceful surroundings.
14. Woodhurst
A small and perfectly formed circular village, Woodhurst is built around a central green and village pond, and retains a deeply historic feel. Many of its homes are timber-framed and centuries old. Its tranquil setting and layout give a sense of stepping back in time.
15. Coton
Coton lies on the outskirts of Cambridge but feels a world away, with quiet lanes, pretty homes, and an old orchard-turned-nature reserve. Its local pub and tea rooms add to the welcoming atmosphere. The village is a haven for walkers, especially those exploring the nearby Coton Footpath.
16. Burwell
Burwell is a large, historic village on the edge of the Fens with a working windmill, nature reserve, and moated medieval castle remains. It’s rich in history and community spirit, with a mixture of old and newer buildings. The Fen views and open skies give it a distinctive character.
17. Swavesey
Swavesey features a charming blend of period properties, village greens, and waterways, with a strong conservation ethos. Its ancient church and medieval earthworks offer a sense of depth and history. The village also has excellent cycling and walking routes nearby.
18. Ramsey
Ramsey is steeped in abbey history, with remnants of monastic buildings and a peaceful rural charm. Its layout and character feel more like a village than a town. Surrounded by open countryside, it’s a good base for exploring the western Fens.
19. Bourn
Bourn is a picturesque village with a historic church, old watermill, and rolling hills that contrast with the flatter Fen landscapes nearby. It has a peaceful, old-world atmosphere with thatched cottages and a quiet rural setting. The Bourn Brook adds a lovely natural feature to the village.
20. Horningsea
A small riverside village just northeast of Cambridge, Horningsea is known for its Roman history, quiet charm, and traditional English pub. The walk along the River Cam toward Clayhithe and Waterbeach is especially scenic. It’s a quiet, tucked-away gem with a strong sense of heritage.