Cambridgeshire Itinerary
The Cambridgeshire Road Trip is a scenic journey through some of England’s most charming towns. Starting in the historic city of Cambridge and ending in the vibrant city of Colchester, the route covers around 87 miles and can be completed in two days. Along the way, travelers will encounter Saffron Walden, a picturesque market town with a colorful history; Castle Hedingham, a stunning Norman castle; and Stratford St Mary, a charming village with a picturesque church. Spring and summer are the best times to take the trip, when the scenery is at its most vibrant. The roads along the route are mostly in excellent condition, with some parts being a bit narrower than usual. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and provides a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the English countryside, create lasting memories, and enjoy the journey. However, it should be noted that this road trip can be quite expensive.
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number of days
140 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Cambridge
Distance 140 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
36.4 kWh
Airports
STN
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LTN
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Cambridge, England is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture. From the impressive King’s College Chapel to the renowned University of Cambridge, the city is full of fascinating sights and attractions. For those looking to experience the grandeur of Cambridge, a Cambridgeshire Road Trip is the perfect way to explore the area.
Start your journey at the iconic King’s College Chapel, a magnificent 15th century Gothic building and one of the most famous religious structures in the world. Stroll through the cobbled streets and visit the renowned University of Cambridge, with its many colleges, libraries and museums. Be sure to take a picture of the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a stunning stone bridge built over the River Cam in 1831.
If you’re looking for some outdoor recreation, head to Grantchester Meadows for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Nature lovers should also explore the nearby Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, where you can spot a variety of wildlife such as otters, water voles and bitterns.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is London Stansted Airport (STN). From here, you can rent a car and drive to Cambridge in less than an hour.
Experience the beauty of Cambridge on a Cambridgeshire Road Trip. Start your journey with a visit to the majestic King’s College Chapel and explore the many attractions of the city. With its spectacular sights and lush countryside, Cambridge is the perfect destination for a memorable trip.
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Cambridge
- Saffron Walden
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
8.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Let's start in Cambridge, England and head to Grantchester and Saffron Walden. This 20mi journey will take you fewer than 1 hours and will be filled with historical sites and scenic roads.
First, you'll pass through the quaint village of Grantchester. Here, you'll find the famous Orchard Tea Garden, which serves tea and cakes in a beautiful garden setting. You'll also find the Grantchester Meadows, a popular spot for picnics and walks.
Next, you'll reach Saffron Walden, a picturesque market town. Here you'll find the 12th century Walden Castle and the Saffron Walden Museum, which is home to some fascinating historical artifacts. You'll also find the ancient market square, which has been the heart of the town since the Middle Ages.
As you drive through this route, be sure to take in the beauty of the countryside and the historical sites along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Saffron Walden - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Saffron Walden
- Thaxted
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.1 kWh
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Embark on a scenic road trip from Saffron Walden to Thaxted, a 10mi drive that takes less than an hour. On the way, make sure to stop at Audley End, a stunning estate with a grand house, gardens and a farm. It's a great spot to take pictures and stroll around the grounds. As you drive, keep an eye out for narrow sections of the road. When you reach Thaxted, you'll be rewarded with a picturesque village full of historic buildings, a quaint market square and a 15th-century church. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Thaxted - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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3
Thaxted
- Castle Hedingham
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.0 kWh
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Begin your journey in the quaint village of Thaxted, England. Take in the beautiful scenery as you drive 14 miles through Fichingfield to Castle Hedingham. Along the way, enjoy the narrow roads and picturesque landscape. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the occasional wildlife and stunning views. In Fichingfield, take a break and admire the old windmill, a remnant of a bygone era. When you reach Castle Hedingham, explore the ruins of a 12th century castle. Here you can find a great view of the surrounding area, as well as a museum and a cafe. The entire journey should take you less than an hour, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the sights. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Castle Hedingham - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
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4
Castle Hedingham
- Long Melford
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.1 kWh
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Start your road trip from Castle Hedingham, England, and make your way to the charming town of Sudbury, located 10 miles away. On the way, you will be able to admire the picturesque scenery of the English countryside, and you can also visit some historical sites such as the ruins of Hedingham Castle. Once in Sudbury, you can explore the local markets, visit the old churches, and take a stroll around the town. From Sudbury, you will drive to Long Melford, which is another 10 miles away. The drive will take less than an hour, and you will be able to enjoy the scenic countryside views. In Long Melford, you can visit the historical sites such as Kentwell Hall and Melford Hall, as well as the local shops and pubs. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Long Melford - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
Long Melford - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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5
Long Melford
- Stratford St Mary
Distance 25 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Long Melford to Stratford St Mary road trip! This exciting 16 mile journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and is sure to be a memorable experience. As you drive through the quaint villages of Stoke by Nayland and Stratford St Mary, you'll be surrounded by stunning countryside and winding roads. Keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road, but don't forget to enjoy the scenery. Along the way, make sure to take a break in Long Melford, where you can explore the historic sites, such as the Melford Hall, or take a stroll through the picturesque village. In Stoke by Nayland, take some time to visit the local pubs and restaurants, or take a leisurely walk around the village. Finally, in Stratford St Mary, make sure to visit the historic church, and explore the local shops and markets. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Stratford St Mary - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Stratford St Mary
- Colchester
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
7.4 kWh
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Are you ready for a great road trip? Start your journey in Stratford St Mary and drive through the beautiful Dedham, before arriving in Colchester. This 18-mile route will take you less than an hour to complete. Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning scenery and visit some of the most interesting historical sites. As you drive through, keep your eyes peeled for the narrow sections of the road. There are plenty of attractions to explore, so make sure you take the time to enjoy them. From Dedham to Colchester, you can find accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information about this stage of the tour, please check the "Itinerary" section. Enjoy your journey!
Colchester - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Colchester
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Colchester, located in England, is the perfect ending point for the Cambridgeshire Road Trip. From the historic town center to the nearby countryside, there is plenty to explore. Visitors can take a tour of Colchester Castle, the largest Norman Keep in Europe, or take a stroll around the ancient Roman walls of the town.
For nature lovers, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The beautiful Colne Estuary Country Park is a great spot for bird watching, while the nearby Mersea Island is a popular destination for sailing and water sports. Visitors can also explore the nearby Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with its rolling hills and tranquil riverside paths.
For those wanting to explore further afield, the closest international airport is Stansted Airport, located roughly 45 miles away. With its convenient location, Colchester is a great base for exploring the rest of Essex and beyond. So, why not end your Cambridgeshire Road Trip with a visit to this charming town? (STN - IATA code)
Colchester - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Cambridgeshire at a glance
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Start:
Cambridge
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End:
Colchester
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Distance:
140 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
London Stansted Airport (STN),
London Luton Airport (LTN)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Cambridgeshire Road Trip, a picturesque 87-mile excursion that begins in the esteemed university city of Cambridge and winds down to the historic town of Colchester. This adventure is best enjoyed over two days, allowing Roadtrippers to immerse themselves in the quaint English towns and serene countryside that characterize this part of England.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Cambridge: Not just a hub for academia, Cambridge is steeped in history and brimming with architectural marvels. The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. Visitors can enjoy punting on the River Cam, a unique opportunity to see the city from a different perspective, and visit the King's College Chapel, an exemplar of Gothic architecture.
- Saffron Walden: A charming market town, Saffron Walden is adorned with medieval buildings like the stunning Church of St. Mary the Virgin. The town's name originates from the precious saffron crocus, which was historically grown in the region.
- Castle Hedingham: This village is renowned for its Norman castle, Hedingham Castle, which is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Norman architecture in England. The castle boasts a 110-foot high keep and hosts various events throughout the year.
- Stratford St Mary: Known for its delightful St. Mary's Church, this village offers a glimpse into traditional English rural life. The nearby Dedham Vale, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, also inspired many of John Constable's paintings.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Cambridgeshire Road Trip at its finest during the spring and summer months. This period showcases the region's natural beauty in full bloom and offers the most agreeable climate for leisurely drives and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is mostly smooth sailing, some rural stretches feature narrower lanes, which demand attentive driving. It's advisable to be cautious, especially around blind bends and when encountering farm vehicles.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Distance: 87 miles
- Suggested Duration: 2 days
- Road Conditions: Predominantly excellent with occasional narrow rural lanes
- Cost: While the region can be pricey, especially in terms of accommodation and dining, planning ahead can help manage expenses.
A good choice for:
The Cambridgeshire Road Trip is a splendid way to discover the quintessential English countryside, brimming with historical landmarks and rural charm. Despite the likelihood of a somewhat costly itinerary, the cultural and visual rewards of this journey are immense, promising an unforgettable experience for travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and natural landscapes.
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