Six Mile Bottom is a hollow in the landscape of Cambridgeshire, reclaimed from former heathland. The area offers two distinct ways to explore it: tangible local history and walking routes through the landscape.

Windmill, Hamlet and Roadside Markers

The construction of Six Mile Bottom Windmill suggests that it was built before 1600. This is an approximate historical dating, not an exact construction year. Inside, two millstones remain in situ, meaning in their original positions. Alongside the windmill’s only tentatively dated early construction, they provide a tangible detail of its former use as a mill. The windmill is therefore a distinct point of interest for travellers interested in architectural history and surviving historic features.

The hamlet of Six Mile Bottom only came into being with the construction of the railway in 1848, when several cottages were built. St George's Church was built later, in 1933. The dates are therefore clearly distinct: the windmill is only dated to before 1600; the hamlet came into being in 1848, and the church was added in 1933. This comparison highlights the difference between a presumed construction period and the specific dates of the area’s later development.

The development of the roads has its own historic marker. The milestone on London Road, southeast of Lower Hare Park Farm in Six Mile Bottom, is a carved stone post from the 19th century. It stands in a hedge on the west side of the A1304 and was erected by the Newmarket Heath turnpike trust. Compared with the start of the railway in 1848, the stone points to a second part of the area’s transport history: a historic road connection with its own marker.

Walking Routes and Reasons to Visit

For walks, other routes in the area head east towards Weston Colville. Another potentially interesting route may connect a path along the railway with the Street Way complex. The distinction for planning your trip is that the eastbound routes point in a definite direction, while the link between the railway path and the Street Way complex is possible but not certain. If you choose this route idea, check the specific connection in advance.

Another possible reason to visit is the Wilbrahams and Six Mile Bottom Vegetable, Flower and Produce Show. It has been held annually as a village event for over 40 years. For practical planning, the date matters: check the event dates for your chosen year if you would like to plan your trip around it.

Six Mile Bottom Shoot offers simulated game shooting. If this activity is an important part of your stay, confirm the booking details before you travel. The lodge of Six Mile Bottom Shoot is on Six Mile Bottom Road towards West Wratting; check the signs and access arrangements before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Stow Cum Quy, St Neots, Gamlingay, Little Stukeley, March, Little Wilbraham, Stilton, Swaffham Bulbeck.

For the wider travel guide: Cambridgeshire.