Things To Do
in Huntingdon
Huntingdon is a historic market town on the River Great Ouse in Cambridgeshire, England, with a compact riverside center and centuries of local heritage. It offers pleasant walking routes, traditional pubs, and a friendly community atmosphere, making it a relaxed base for exploring the Fenlands and nearby Cambridge. The town combines medieval charm with easy access to green spaces such as Hinchingbrooke Park and the Ouse valley, ideal for day trips and outdoor activities.
Its convenient rail and road links also make it easy to combine Huntingdon with broader East Anglia adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Huntingdon, where you can admire the stunning architecture of St. Mary's Church and the town's charming old buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional English breakfast and enjoy the morning sunshine. Don't forget to visit the Huntingdon Museum and Art Gallery to immerse yourself in the local history and art.
After lunch, explore the beautiful Riverside Park, where you can take a scenic walk along the River Great Ouse. Consider renting a bike to discover the surrounding countryside or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water. As the afternoon progresses, visit the Cromwell Museum to learn about the life of Oliver Cromwell and his connections to Huntingdon.
As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at one of the local pubs, sampling classic British fare and perhaps a pint of locally brewed ale. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere as the sun sets over the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a local theater, if available, to catch a live performance or play.
Start your morning with a guided kayaking tour on the River Great Ouse, where you can soak in the serene views and observe wildlife along the banks. The tranquility of the water and the surrounding nature offers a perfect way to connect with the outdoors. After your kayak adventure, enjoy a hearty brunch at a riverside café.
In the afternoon, take a riverside walk towards the picturesque village of Godmanchester, known for its beautiful locks and historic buildings. Visit the local shops and boutiques to pick up unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to relax at a riverside bench and watch the boats glide by.
As night approaches, head back to Huntingdon for dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in local cuisine. After enjoying your meal, explore the town center, where you can find open-air markets or other evening activities. Cap off the night with a drink at a local pub, mingling with locals and sharing stories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $3-5 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town center with riverside charm
- Good access to countryside and nature trails
- Relaxed, friendly local culture
- Strong walkability within the town core
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Some attractions require short trips to nearby towns
- Seasonal markets can be affected by weather
- Public transport less frequent than in larger urban areas
Places to Visit in Huntingdon
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic ruins with river views and lawned banks; great for atmospheric dawn and golden-hour shots.
Medieval church and surrounding Market Place with characterful streets for architectural photography.
Wide river reflections, boats, and riverside walkways—ideal for landscape photography.
Green meadows, woodlands, and a lake, offering seasonal wildlife photography and peaceful scenery.
Food in Huntingdon
Huntingdon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic pub staple featuring battered cod or haddock with chips; widely available in town pubs and along the riverfront.
Must-Try!
Hearty pie made with local ale and tender beef, a staple in many Huntingdon pubs.
Scones with clotted cream and jam served with tea, a popular light option in cafés around Market Square.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Square offering local produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Seasonal stalls along the River Great Ouse offering fish options, pies, pastries, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue in orderly lines, greet staff with 'please' and 'thank you', and avoid loud behavior in residential areas. Pubs tend to be sociable but expect a quiet, respectful atmosphere in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Huntingdon
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not automatically added in most pubs; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for table service is common if warranted. At restaurants, 10-15% is typical for good service.
Card and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller establishments. Some pubs may add a discretionary service charge; ask if unsure.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, active riverside paths, and outdoor markets; expect occasional showers but plenty of sunshine for outdoor dining and walks.
Golden foliage along the Ouse valley and parklands; great for moody landscapes and sunset photography.
Cooler temperatures with festive lights in town; short days but atmospheric reflections on frosty mornings.
Blooms in parks and gardens, mild weather; ideal for strolls along the river and nature trails.
Huntingdon at Night
Hiking in Huntingdon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails through woodlands and lakes, suitable for casual hikers and families.
Scenic paths along the River Great Ouse offering peaceful countryside walking close to town.
Pastoral trails around the historic mill and farmland with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Huntingdon by plane.
Major international gateway located roughly 60-70 miles southeast; well-connected by road and rail via Cambridge and London.
Smaller regional airport near Cambridge; convenient for domestic routes and general aviation.
Large international airport about 60 miles south; good for European and long-haul connections via hubs.
Major international hub roughly 90-100 miles southwest; extensive global network.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families with good schools, parks, and community events contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere.
A steady presence in the town with active community groups and leisure facilities.
Residents who commute to Cambridge or Peterborough for work or study, attracted by the town's accessibility.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and school teams provide regular matches and social games; a common pastime in the area.
Traditional summer sport with local league games and club facilities.
The River Great Ouse offers opportunities for rowing and other water activities in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huntingdon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafés; look for veggie mains, salads, and veggie pies. When in doubt, ask about ingredients and potential gluten or nut-containing items.