The Bogtrotter

A relaxing six and a half mile walk along the River Cam, from Waterbeach to the centre of Cambridge.

Starting from Waterbeach railway station, cross the level crossing away from the village and take the path through the car park on the right hand side of the road. The path follows the road for a short way until you reach Cow Hollow Wood.

Turn right and follow the path through the centre of the wood. Go through the gate at the other end and follow the path straight on until you reach the river. From here you turn right and follow the river bank towards Cambridge.

The first half of the river walk is through open countryside, with just a few boats moored up along the water’s edge. You could be miles from anywhere, with no roads alongside and only passing joggers and cyclists for company. The only buildings on the towpath side of the river are two Second World War pill-boxes nestled in the hedgerow.

Once you reach Baits Bite Lock the atmosphere changes. This is as far as the Cambridge rowing crews reach, and the water is usually amock with rowing boats all the way into the City. Continuing along the river you pass Fen Ditton on the opposite bank, and the surroundings become more built as you proceed. At Chesterton you have to leave the river for a short way, going along Water Street and Ferry Lane to pass some riverside properties. When you reach the Green Dragon pub, turn left and cross the footbridge to the opposite bank. Then you can follow the path until it opens out to become Riverside. Follow this road under the Queen Elizabeth Bridge to emerge on Midsommer Common.

From here you are only a short walk from the city centre. Cut diagonally across the common to reach Newmarket Road, and then follow the signs for the railway station. You pass over Parker’s Piece and past the Catholic Church as you return to the station.