Things To Do
in Soham

A regular market in nearby Ely with stalls selling local produce, baked goods, cheeses and seasonal vegetables — good for picking up picnic supplies and local specialties.

Smaller village farm shops and occasional farmers’ markets in the area are where you’ll find fresh eggs, meat and preserves; check local parish notices for market days.

British politeness and orderly queuing are customary; say please and thank you, and wait your turn at counters and bus stops.

Stick to public footpaths, close gates behind you, and keep dogs on leads near livestock. Farmers’ land is private even when it looks accessible.

Small talk about the weather is common and safe; avoid overly personal questions with strangers and be discreet in public.

Pubs are social hubs — be friendly but keep noise at a reasonable level, and buy rounds rather than single drinks in small groups if you join locals.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In pubs you usually don’t tip unless table service is provided (round up or leave spare change). In restaurants, leave around 10–15% if service wasn’t included on the bill; taxi drivers and hotel porters appreciate small tips.

Contactless cards and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. Cash (GBP) is still useful for small rural vendors. Most places use chip-and-PIN for cards; inform small businesses in advance if you plan to pay by card as very small shops sometimes prefer cash.

Mild temperatures, spring blossom and newborn lambs across fields; great for bird migration and vibrant countryside photography. Muddy paths from winter can persist, so wear waterproof boots.

Long daylight hours and warmer weather make it ideal for cycling, paddling and outdoor dining; however, haymaking and agricultural activity increase traffic on rural lanes and midges can be noticeable near wetlands at dusk.

Crisp air and changing colours on hedgerows and waterways; excellent for birdwatchers as migratory species pass through and for dramatic skies — pack layers for cool mornings.

Cold, damp conditions with possible frost and morning fog; shorter daylight limits exploration time and some attractions may have reduced hours, but winter mist over the fens can be atmospheric for photographers.

A network of boardwalks and footpaths through one of Britain’s oldest nature reserves, offering short and longer circular routes with hides for wildlife viewing.

Paths and hides around the Ouse Washes provide excellent birdwatching routes, especially during migration and winter months.

A long-distance trail running between Cambridge and King’s Lynn; sections near Ely offer pleasant riverside walking and link to Soham by local roads and paths.

Restoration landscapes and footpaths created as part of the Great Fen project provide peaceful walking across fen restoration areas with wide horizons and abundant birdlife.

Multi-generational local families with roots in agriculture and village life form a significant part of the community.

People who commute to Cambridge, Ely or London make up a portion of the population, attracted by relatively affordable housing and rural lifestyle.

Retired residents who appreciate the quiet, community-focused living and proximity to local services and nature.

Farm workers, seasonal labour and the horse-racing workforce (trainers, stable staff) are important local employment groups.