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Stow cum Quy Fen: A Tranquil Fenland Nature Reserve near Cambridge

Explore the serene waters and rich wildlife of Stow cum Quy Fen, a unique fenland nature reserve steeped in history near Cambridge.

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Stow cum Quy Fen is a 29.9-hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) located near Cambridge, England. This protected fenland features a network of water-filled pits formed from 19th-century coprolite mining, now hosting diverse wildlife and offering peaceful walking trails. Managed by the Quy Fen Trust with support from Natural England, it provides a unique glimpse into fenland ecology and local history.

A brief summary to Stow cum Quy Fen

  • Cambridge, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be muddy, especially after rain.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting dragonflies around the ponds.
  • Visit in spring or summer for the best wildlife viewing and wildflower displays.
  • Respect the fen’s sensitive habitats by staying on marked paths and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the bus service running between Cambridge and Newmarket, which passes nearby villages including Bottisham and Lode. From Lode, it is about a 20-30 minute walk to the fen. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5, and services run several times daily.

  • Car

    Drive from Cambridge via the A14 to the Quy interchange, then local roads to parking near Horningsea or Anglesey Abbey. Parking is limited and may require a short walk of 1-2 km on unpaved paths. No parking fees apply, but spaces are limited especially on weekends.

  • Walking

    Access the fen by foot from nearby villages such as Horningsea, Lode, or Stow cum Quy. Walks range from 1 to 3 km over mostly flat terrain with some muddy sections. Suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.

Stow cum Quy Fen location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Stow cum Quy Fen

Historic Roots and Landscape Formation

Stow cum Quy Fen lies just northeast of Cambridge, nestled between the villages of Horningsea and Stow-cum-Quy. The fen’s distinctive water-filled pits are remnants of 19th-century coprolite mining—an extraction of phosphate-rich fossil deposits once used as fertilizer. These elongated ponds, unique in the Cambridge area, trace the industrial past that shaped the landscape. The fen itself covers nearly 30 hectares, much of which remains common land, preserving a rare fenland habitat.

Ecological Significance and Biodiversity

Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Stow cum Quy Fen supports a remarkable variety of aquatic and fenland species. The ponds and surrounding wetland vegetation provide critical habitats for amphibians, dragonflies, and diverse plant communities, some of which are rare or locally uncommon. The fen’s management by the Quy Fen Trust ensures ongoing conservation efforts, maintaining the delicate ecological balance and protecting this vital wildlife refuge.

Access and Walking Experience

The fen is accessible via several footpaths from nearby villages including Horningsea, Lode, and Stow cum Quy. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks along the fen’s edge and around the ponds, with routes connecting to scenic paths near Anglesey Abbey and along the old railway line. These walks offer peaceful immersion in nature, with opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the fen’s quiet beauty.

Community and Conservation Efforts

Quy Fen Trust, supported by Natural England, oversees the fen’s upkeep, balancing public access with habitat protection. The fen’s status as common land reflects a long tradition of community stewardship. Educational initiatives and volunteer activities help raise awareness of fenland ecology and the importance of conserving such unique environments.

Surrounding Cultural Context

Nearby, the village of Stow cum Quy carries a rich history dating back to Saxon times, with archaeological finds including Bronze Age remains and a Roman villa. The fen complements this cultural landscape, linking natural heritage with the region’s historical narrative. Visitors can combine a visit to the fen with explorations of local villages, historic pubs, and National Trust properties like Anglesey Abbey.

Seasonal and Wildlife Highlights

Throughout the year, Stow cum Quy Fen offers changing natural spectacles—from spring wildflowers and breeding amphibians to autumnal dragonfly displays. The fen’s water bodies attract a variety of birdlife, making it a rewarding spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Its relatively undisturbed environment provides a sanctuary for wildlife amid the surrounding agricultural landscape.

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