Medieval Ridge and Furrow at 36 Burkitt Walk, Cambridge
Explore the gently rolling medieval ridge and furrow earthworks at Cambridge, a living imprint of historic communal farming and England’s agrarian heritage.
The Medieval Ridge and Furrow at 36 Burkitt Walk in Cambridge is a well-preserved example of historic agricultural earthworks. These undulating ridges and furrows are remnants of the open-field system of farming used from the Early Medieval period through to the 17th century. Visible as long, curved raised strips of earth, they reflect the communal ploughing methods that shaped much of England’s rural landscape during the Middle Ages.
A brief summary to Medieval Ridge and Furrow
- 36 Burkitt Walk, Cambridge, CB3 1TY, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light to highlight the ridge and furrow patterns.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven due to the earthworks.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique textures and shadows created by the ridges.
- Combine your visit with nearby historical sites in Cambridge for a fuller understanding of the area's past.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 1 or 7 from Cambridge city center, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single ticket costs around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from 36 Burkitt Walk. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cambridge city center to 36 Burkitt Walk takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay between £8 and £12. Taxis provide door-to-door convenience but may be subject to peak-time surcharges.
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Walking
For active travelers, walking from central Cambridge is possible in about 45 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route passes through residential areas and requires moderate fitness. Suitable for those wanting to combine exercise with sightseeing.
Medieval Ridge and Furrow location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Medieval Ridge and Furrow
Origins and Agricultural Significance
The ridge and furrow pattern found at 36 Burkitt Walk represents an ancient method of ploughing dating back to the Early Medieval period, roughly from the 9th century onward. This system was integral to the open-field farming method, where land was divided into narrow strips farmed communally by villagers. Over time, repeated ploughing with non-reversible ploughs caused soil to accumulate in raised ridges, with furrows forming drainage channels between them. This design improved soil aeration and water runoff, allowing crops such as wheat to thrive even in wetter conditions.Distinctive Features and Layout
The ridges typically appear as elongated, slightly curved mounds, often described as having an inverted 'S' shape. This curvature resulted from the turning of oxen or horse teams at the end of each strip. The furrows between ridges served as natural drainage, critical in the often damp English climate. The size and spacing of the ridges corresponded to individual farming strips, which were units of land ownership and labor assessment during medieval times.Historical Context and Evolution
This ridge and furrow landscape reflects a communal agricultural system that dominated England before the widespread enclosure movement of the 16th to 18th centuries. Enclosure transformed open fields into privately owned, square-shaped plots, leading to the gradual disappearance of ridge and furrow patterns. The survival of these earthworks at Cambridge suggests the land was either left uncultivated, used for grazing, or otherwise preserved from modern ploughing.Preservation and Archaeological Importance
Ridge and furrow earthworks are among the most enduring archaeological features of medieval farming. Their preservation at 36 Burkitt Walk offers valuable insight into historic land use and medieval rural life. Such features are often protected as heritage landscapes, providing a tangible connection to England’s agrarian past. The site also contributes to understanding the transition from communal to enclosed farming practices.Visual and Environmental Experience
The undulating pattern of ridge and furrow creates a distinctive textured landscape, especially visible under low sunlight or after frost or snow. The gentle curves and repetitive waves of earth invite reflection on centuries of agricultural tradition. The site’s setting within Cambridge adds contrast between historic rural land use and the modern urban environment, enriching the visitor’s appreciation of landscape evolution.Broader Cultural Significance
Ridge and furrow fields symbolize the medieval community’s relationship with the land, illustrating social organization, labor division, and agricultural innovation. They are a physical record of centuries-old farming techniques that shaped much of England’s countryside. Preserved examples like those at Cambridge serve as educational resources and cultural heritage sites, connecting present-day observers with the rhythms of medieval rural life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
