The Cromwell Museum is in the heart of Huntingdon town centre, just off the historic town square and opposite the Town Hall and All Saints’ Church. It displays original weapons and armour from the time of the Civil Wars, including several of Cromwell’s swords. The original pieces give the subject a tangible connection. By contrast, the guided Historic Town Trail presents the town’s history through named stops.
Cultural history and built heritage
The Historic Town Trail runs from the Town Hall past the “Thinking Soldier” war memorial, the 16th-century Falcon Inn and All Saints’ Church. The trail also includes old prisons. It therefore takes in both a memorial and buildings and places with different historical character.
By the river in Huntingdon are the remains of a Norman castle, including a motte and bailey. A well-preserved 14th-century bridge is still in use today. The structures also differ in their present status: remains of the castle survive, while the bridge remains in use.
Green spaces, wildlife watching and activities
Hinchingbrooke Country Park covers 150 acres of open grassland, ancient woodland and lakes. A network of surfaced paths is suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and year-round walking. Access is possible all around the Main Lake, with several benches offering opportunities to watch waterfowl and reed buntings. All three British woodpecker species, as well as nuthatches and willow tits, can also be spotted in the park. With luck, you may also see an otter or a kingfisher.
Mountain bikers can enjoy a purpose-built course in Hinchingbrooke Country Park, with jumps and earth mounds of varying sizes. The paths, birdwatching and mountain bike course appeal to different interests. The park can therefore be experienced through both its landscape and wildlife and a specific cycling opportunity.
Spring Common is a 13-acre public space that is accessible at any time. A natural spring, a tranquil pond and open grassland define the area. Riverside Park Huntingdon covers 34 acres and stretches for two kilometres along the riverbank. By comparison, Spring Common is the smaller area, with a spring and pond, while Riverside Park is characterised by its extent along the river.
A possible event to consider
The Peterborough Chase is the highlight of the racing events at Huntingdon Racecourse and takes place fourteen days before Christmas. If this race is the reason for your trip, check the specific race dates before making plans.
The Discover Huntingdon Visitor Centre is located in Commemoration Hall.
Discover more destinations: Hinxton, Chatteris, Whittlesey, Boxworth, Girton, Linton, Gamlingay, Ely
For the main travel overview: Cambridgeshire.
