Wandlebury Country Park: Historic Hillfort and Scenic Nature Reserve in the Gog Magog Hills
Explore ancient history and natural beauty at Wandlebury Country Park, a scenic Iron Age hillfort and nature reserve near Cambridge.
Wandlebury Country Park, located in the Gog Magog Hills near Cambridge, is a historic Iron Age hillfort site turned tranquil country park. Spanning woodlands, meadows, and orchards, it offers scenic walking trails, wildlife viewing, and picnic areas. Visitors can explore archaeological remains, historic stables, and enjoy pop-up cafes during warmer months. The park blends rich history with natural beauty, making it ideal for family outings, nature lovers, and cultural heritage enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Wandlebury Country Park
- Wandlebury Ring, Gog Magog Hills, Cambridge, Stapleford, CB22 3AE, GB
- +441223243830
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit the pop-up cafes open Thursday to Sunday and during school holidays for refreshments and light bites.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore over 8 kilometers of woodland and meadow trails.
- Bring a picnic or hire a BBQ area for a relaxing meal surrounded by nature.
- Check the park’s event calendar for guided walks and educational activities.
- Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife; use the designated dog run area for off-leash exercise.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service 10 or 11 from Cambridge city center towards Stapleford; the journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes. The nearest stop is about 1.2 km from the park entrance, requiring a 15-minute walk along country lanes. Buses run hourly on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. Tickets cost around £2-4 GBP.
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Car
Driving from Cambridge city center to Wandlebury Country Park takes about 15-20 minutes via A1307. Onsite parking is available for a fee, with limited spaces during peak times. Parking charges are approximately £3-5 GBP for a day. Note that the park is closed at dusk, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Cycling
Cycling from Cambridge to Wandlebury is a scenic option taking roughly 30-40 minutes via quiet country roads and cycle paths. Bicycle racks are available near the park entrance. The terrain includes gentle hills, suitable for most cyclists with moderate fitness.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a 3-4 hour walk from Cambridge city center to Wandlebury offers an immersive countryside experience. The route passes through the Gog Magog Hills with varied terrain including some uneven paths. Suitable for experienced walkers with good footwear.
Wandlebury Country Park 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 Wandlebury Country Park
Ancient Origins and Archaeological Significance
Wandlebury Country Park is centered around Wandlebury Ring, an Iron Age hillfort constructed around 400 BC by the Iceni tribe. This multivallate fortification features substantial chalk rubble ramparts and dual ditches enclosing roughly 6 hectares. Archaeological evidence reveals that the site was occupied into the Roman period, with remains of buildings and an Iron Age cemetery nearby. The hillfort was later used as a meeting place in Anglo-Saxon times and has been subject to various investigations, including controversial 20th-century surveys suggesting it may have served astronomical purposes.Historical Layers and Estate Legacy
In the 17th century, the site transformed with the construction of a country estate, including a mansion and stables built for King James II and later owned by Lord Godolphin. The stables notably housed the Godolphin Arabian, one of the founding stallions of modern thoroughbred racehorses. Though the mansion was demolished in the 1950s, the stable block remains and is used today as offices and accommodation. The estate’s history adds a rich layer of cultural heritage to the natural landscape.Natural Beauty and Recreational Opportunities
The park spans diverse habitats including ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, orchards, and grazing pastures. Visitors can enjoy over 8 kilometers of walking paths winding through scenic countryside with opportunities for wildlife spotting, den building, and picnicking. Pop-up cafes operate seasonally from Thursday to Sunday and during school holidays, enhancing the visitor experience. The park also offers picnic benches, BBQ hire, a games field, and a wildlife hide, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.Myth, Legend, and Cultural Mystique
The Gog Magog Hills have long been associated with folklore involving giants, gods, and ancient deities. The name “Gog Magog” itself is linked to legendary giants and pagan symbolism. Archaeologist T.C. Lethbridge’s mid-20th-century research proposed the existence of chalk hill figures representing ancient gods on the hillside, though these remain speculative. The area’s rich mythic tradition adds an intriguing cultural dimension to the park’s historical and natural appeal.Conservation and Community Engagement
Owned and managed by the charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future, Wandlebury Country Park is a protected Scheduled Monument with ongoing conservation efforts to preserve its archaeological features and natural habitats. The charity organizes guided walks, educational events, and volunteer workdays to engage the community and visitors in stewardship of this unique landscape. The park’s commitment to sustainability ensures its preservation for future generations.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Wandlebury Country Park is open daily from dawn to dusk with accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and wheelchair-friendly paths. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads to protect wildlife, with a designated dog run available. Onsite parking is available for a fee, and public transport stops are located within walking distance. The park offers a welcoming environment for families, solo visitors, and nature lovers seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cambridge Leisure Park
4.9 km
A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Romsey Terrace
5.2 km
Explore the historic charm of Cambridge from Romsey Terrace, a convenient bus stop that connects you to the city's vibrant attractions and culture.
Lord Byron Inn
5.5 km
Cozy Trumpington pub-inn with hearty meals, quiet garden rooms, and easy Cambridge access—authentic English hospitality awaits.
Hills Road War Memorial
5.6 km
A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
Reality Checkpoint
6.3 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Duke House
6.7 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
The Grantchester Green Man
6.7 km
A charming gastro pub in Grantchester offering classic British fare, a welcoming garden terrace, and warm village hospitality.
Grantchester Village Hall
6.9 km
Explore the heart of Grantchester at the Village Hall, a hub of community life surrounded by stunning countryside and rich local culture.
Corpus Christi College
6.9 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Corpus Christi College, a vital part of Cambridge's academic heritage.
St Mark's Church
6.9 km
Explore the serene St Mark's Church in Newnham, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and tranquility in the heart of the countryside.
The Rupert Brooke
6.9 km
Experience the best of British cuisine at The Rupert Brooke in Grantchester, a charming restaurant celebrated for its seasonal dishes and elegant ambiance.
Grantchester
6.9 km
Medieval charm meets literary legacy on the banks of the River Cam, just beyond Cambridge.
Newnham Open Air Boat Club
6.9 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge's rowing culture at Newnham Open Air Boat Club, where scenic views and community spirit unite.
St Bene’t’s Church
6.9 km
Discover St Bene't's Church, Cambridge's oldest structure, rich in history and architectural beauty, inviting tourists to explore its serene ambiance and cultural significance.
The Corpus Clock
6.9 km
Discover the Corpus Clock in Cambridge: a mesmerizing fusion of art and science that captures the essence of time and innovation in a stunning display.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cherry Hinton Chalk Pits
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil chalk cliffs and rare wildlife of Cambridge’s historic Cherry Hinton Chalk Pits, a hidden natural and geological treasure.
Cherry Hinton Hall Park
3.5 km
Victorian heritage meets contemporary recreation in Cambridge's beloved 12-hectare green sanctuary.
Nine Wells
3.7 km
Discover the serene chalk springs and historic waterway origins at Nine Wells, a peaceful nature reserve on Cambridge’s southern edge.
Fulbourn Fen
4.2 km
Ancient meadows and woodland rich with orchids, wildlife, and sweeping views near Cambridge.
Romsey Community Garden
4.8 km
A tranquil community-run garden in Cambridge offering lush greenery, seasonal blooms, and sustainable urban growing in the heart of Romsey.
TheLight-Cambridge
5.0 km
Experience the latest films in comfort and style at The Light Cinema Cambridge, your modern entertainment destination in the city.
Tenpin Cambridge
5.0 km
Cambridge’s go-to spot for bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and lively social gatherings in a vibrant leisure park setting.
Cambridge Central Mosque
5.0 km
Discover the UK's first eco-friendly mosque, blending stunning Islamic architecture with sustainable innovation and serene gardens in Cambridge.
Cambridge Junction
5.0 km
Cambridge Junction: A vibrant, inclusive arts venue where live music, theatre, and creativity converge in the heart of Cambridge.
Cambridge Science Centre
5.0 km
Explore hands-on STEM exhibits, live science shows, and workshops at Cambridge Science Centre—where young minds ignite a passion for discovery.
Romsey Mill
5.1 km
Cambridge's heartfelt charity hub empowering youth and families through education, mentoring, and community spaces since 1980.
Romsey Town Post Office
5.2 km
Compact, practical post office on Mill Road serving Cambridge’s Romsey neighbourhood with full counter services and a local high‑street atmosphere.
Romsey Recreation Ground
5.3 km
A lively urban park in Cambridge offering sports, playgrounds, and green space for all ages to enjoy community recreation and relaxation.
WeWork
5.3 km
Flexible coworking with vibrant community spirit and premium amenities in Cambridge’s dynamic new business quarter.
Romsey 'R' sculpture
5.4 km
Celebrate Cambridge’s railway heritage through the evocative Romsey 'R' sculpture, a community-inspired landmark at Cavendish and Mill Road.
Essential places to dine
Al Pomodoro
4.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Sicily with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge.
Limoncello
5.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm meet in Cambridge's beloved deli, bistro, and courtyard garden on Mill Road.
Tradizioni
5.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
Tawa Kitchen
5.3 km
Savor fresh, authentic Indian cuisine with vibrant vegan options in a cozy Cambridge setting at Tawa Kitchen.
Green Man Cambridge
5.5 km
Timbered Trumpington gem serving modern British plates, cask ales, and village warmth just beyond Cambridge's spires—perfect for roasts, pints, or family feasts.
SLINGERS Smokeworks Station Road
5.6 km
Discover SLINGERS Smokeworks: A unique dart bar in Cambridge serving gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Fancett's
5.7 km
Cozy French-inspired bistro in Cambridge serving seasonal, expertly crafted dishes with warm, attentive service in an intimate setting.
Kingston Arms
5.7 km
Discover traditional British hospitality at The Kingston Arms in Cambridge—your perfect pub retreat with craft beers and delightful outdoor spaces.
Salisbury Arms, Cambridge
5.7 km
A historic Cambridge pub famed for wood-fired pizzas, quality ales, and a friendly, lively atmosphere in a charming neighborhood setting.
Bedouin
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of North Africa in the heart of Cambridge’s Mill Road at Bedouin.
Hungrill
5.8 km
Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and friendly service in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Maurizio Dining & Co.
5.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh pizzas and pasta in a warm, rustic setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Vanderlyle
6.0 km
Creative vegetarian tasting menus crafted from local, seasonal produce in a warm, intimate setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
The Oak Bistro
6.1 km
Classic British bistro with exceptional Beef Wellington, warm hospitality, and a charming heated garden in the heart of Cambridge.
The Old Bicycle Shop
6.2 km
Historic cycling heritage meets modern gastropub charm in Cambridge’s quirky and sustainable Old Bicycle Shop.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Stock Shop
3.7 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and accessories in a unique hospital setting at The Stock Shop, Cambridge's trusted retail haven since 1988.
The Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre
5.3 km
Vibrant Cambridge antique centre in a former chemist shop, brimming with 20th-century toys, jewelry, and eclectic finds from fun-loving dealers.
Romsey Mill Charity Shop
5.4 km
Mill Road’s friendly charity shop — thrift, small discoveries and funds for local youth and family services in Cambridge.
Cambs Frocktails
5.4 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
The Hive
5.7 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Not Listed
5.8 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
Beehive Centre
6.0 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
6.2 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
Sense
6.5 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
Primark
6.5 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
Jemporium Vintage
6.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
The Orchard Tea Garden
6.6 km
Discover the charm of The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester, where delightful teas and scenic beauty come together for a perfect afternoon escape.
The Works
6.6 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
CJ’s Vintage Store
6.7 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Co-op Food - Grantchester Street - Newnham
6.8 km
Cambridge's Newnham convenience cornerstone: fresh local bites, quick services, and co-op community spirit since 1912.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Lion, Cherry Hinton
3.2 km
Historic village pub in Cherry Hinton with a lively atmosphere, dog-friendly garden, classic fare, and live sports entertainment.
Rock
4.3 km
Cherry Hinton's go-to Greene King pub for hearty meals, well-kept ales, and neighborhood camaraderie on lively Cherry Hinton Road.
The Royal Standard Pub
5.0 km
Cambridge's Mill Road gastropub pouring exceptional gins, craft beers, and hearty plates in a quirky, cosy haven for every occasion.
196 cocktail bar
5.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven with expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and attentive service on vibrant Mill Road.
Station Tavern
5.3 km
Cambridge's first Young's pub, steps from the station: British seasonal eats, fine ales, and terrace vibes for travelers and locals.
Devonshire Arms
5.6 km
Cambridge's cozy real ale gem with ciders galore, Caribbean kicks, and a labyrinthine layout that invites you to settle in for the evening.
The Tickell Arms
5.6 km
Historic gastropub in Whittlesford offering seasonal British cuisine, charming gardens, local ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Petersfield
5.8 km
A friendly and lively pub in Cambridge offering classic drinks, a welcoming garden, and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Three Tuns
5.8 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Great Abington blending authentic Thai cuisine with charming accommodation and a warm village atmosphere.
The Live and Let Live
5.8 km
A cosy, no-frills Cambridge neighbourhood pub with real-ale focus and an intimate, community-centred atmosphere.
The Cambridge Blue
5.9 km
Historic Cambridge pub famed for its award-winning real ales, vast beer selection, and vibrant community spirit in a charming Victorian setting.
The Geldart
5.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm, creative hot rock dining, and a lively retro music atmosphere for a unique experience.
Panton Arms
6.0 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty homemade food, quality ales, live music, and a friendly dog-welcoming atmosphere in a vibrant city setting.
The Blue Moon
6.2 km
Cambridge's craft beer heartbeat: rotating taps, live gigs, and cozy pizzas in a welcoming pub alive with local energy.
The LAB
6.2 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sing Dizzy
5.0 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Salisbury Club
5.1 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
80s karaoke bar
5.9 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
6.4 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
EBC Shop
6.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Lola Lo
6.9 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
High Five
7.0 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Glitterbomb
7.0 km
Glitterbomb: A vibrant bar in Cambridge offering creative cocktails and an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Vinyl Cambridge
7.0 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
MASH
7.1 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Town and Gown
7.1 km
Experience the heart of Cambridge at Town and Gown, a vibrant pub renowned for its delicious food, local brews, and lively atmosphere.
La Raza
7.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at La Raza, Cambridge’s premier cocktail bar and tapas restaurant, featuring live music and a lively atmosphere.
Hidden Rooms
7.2 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Hidden Rooms in Cambridge, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Modern Jazz
7.2 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's jazz scene at Modern Jazz, where live performances create a captivating ambiance for music lovers.
Fort St George
7.3 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
