Nature reserves, waterways and settlement history reveal different sides of Cambourne. Practical differences are also important when planning your trip: the long walk has a specific time estimate, while fishing is subject to certain requirements.
Nature and landscape
Redgrave Water is managed for nature conservation; its islands provide refuge for local birdlife. Cambourne’s community orchard contains rare and local fruit varieties, including the Cambridge Gage plum and Chivers Delight apples. These bring together two distinct aspects of nature: refuges for birds and the diversity of rare and local fruit varieties.
Walking trails and fishing
Two walking trails start and end at Cambourne Nature Reserve and lead to Bourn Windmill. The long route is 4 miles and takes two and a half hours—a specific timeframe to help you plan. After rain, some paths may be muddy or slippery; bear this in mind when preparing.
Fishing is permitted at Lake Ewart if you have a valid Environment Agency rod licence and are either a member of Cambourne Fishing Club or have a day ticket. Check the club’s current requirements before your visit.
Cambourne Fishing Club runs coaching sessions for adults and children throughout the year; confirm the current arrangements with the club in advance. The club also has a fishing platform and open areas for anglers who cannot access the raised platforms. Check these facilities before you travel.
The activities involve different preparations: for a walk, you can take the long route’s distance and duration into account; for fishing, you first need to check the licence and club requirements. Path conditions may also be a factor after rain.
History and land use
Archaeological evidence suggests continuous settlement at the same site from around 800 BC to AD 800. Archaeological investigations in Cambourne provide insights into land use in the Iron Age, during the Roman occupation and into the Saxon period. This included growing crops and keeping animals. The historical picture thus combines an approximate timeframe with specific activities carried out on the land.
Facilities at the Eco Park
The Eco Park has an equipped play area. The Trim Trail on School Lane in Great Cambourne features wooden equipment with a suggested course and exercises; the area is also a designated place for informal football.
Cambourne Electronics and Robotics Club offers children aged 7 to 18 structured experiences with electronics, robotics and programming languages. The programme may change; if you are including this activity in your plans, check the current dates with the club. The club’s offering differs from the facilities at the Eco Park: its focus is on structured technology experiences for a clearly specified age group.
Getting there
Whippet bus services run through Cambourne between Papworth Everard and Cambridge. Routes and timetables may change; check your connection before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Whittlesey, Fulbourn, Chesterton, Cambridge, Holme, Brampton, Pidley, Longstanton.
For the broader travel overview: Cambridgeshire.
