Grantchester Recreation Ground: A Family-Friendly Village Oasis
A safe, fully fenced village park with a modern playground, exercise equipment, and picnic spots perfect for families and outdoor relaxation.
Grantchester Recreation Ground is a peaceful, fully fenced park in the charming village of Grantchester near Cambridge. Featuring a recently refurbished children’s playground with equipment for toddlers to teens, adult exercise bars, a small football pitch, and picnic tables with wheelchair access, it offers a safe and welcoming space for families and visitors seeking outdoor relaxation and play.
A brief summary to Grantchester Recreation Ground
- 10 Crome Ditch Cl, Cambridge, Grantchester, CB3 9NR, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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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
- Bring your own table tennis bats and balls to enjoy the outdoor table tennis table.
- Visit during weekdays or early in the day for a quieter experience, especially in warmer months.
- Use the nearby Grantchester village car park on sunny weekends, but expect a donation fee and limited spaces.
- Combine your visit with a walk to Grantchester Meadows or a stop at The Orchard Tea Garden for refreshments.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach T3 Tiger bus from Trumpington Park and Ride to Grantchester village, a 7-minute journey. The bus runs hourly, providing a convenient and stress-free option to avoid limited parking. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 one way.
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Car
Drive to Grantchester using postcode CB3 9NR for navigation. Parking is limited, especially on sunny weekends, with a seasonal village car park near the mill pond open on sunny days between Easter and September. A donation of around £5 is suggested. Narrow village roads may restrict access.
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Walking / Cycling
From central Cambridge, walk or cycle via Lammas Land, Newnham, and Grantchester Meadows. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes across scenic meadows and is suitable for most fitness levels, offering a pleasant countryside approach.
Grantchester Recreation Ground location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Grantchester Recreation Ground
A Village Green for All Ages
Grantchester Recreation Ground serves as a tranquil community hub nestled in the picturesque village of Grantchester, just southwest of Cambridge. This fully fenced park is designed with family safety in mind, featuring a secure gate from quiet Stulpfield Road that allows children to roam freely. The playground was comprehensively refurbished during 2023 and 2024, now boasting a variety of equipment suitable for all children—from toddlers and less adventurous youngsters to energetic teens. Adjacent mini trampolines add an element of competitive fun, while a small football pitch caters to sports enthusiasts.Facilities That Encourage Active Play and Relaxation
Beyond the playground, the Recreation Ground offers adult exercise bars and an overhead ladder, complete with usage instructions and QR codes linking to detailed video tutorials. This encourages visitors of all ages to engage in fitness activities amid fresh air and greenery. Three picnic tables, two of which accommodate wheelchairs and children’s pushchairs, provide inviting spots for meals or rest. The rubber safety surfacing in the playground ensures a cushioned environment for active play.Setting and Atmosphere
The park’s location at the end of Stulpfield Road ensures a peaceful ambiance, away from busy roads and urban noise. Surrounded by village charm, it complements Grantchester’s reputation as a serene countryside retreat. The green open spaces invite leisurely walks and casual gatherings, making it an ideal spot for families, solo visitors, or small groups seeking a quiet outdoor escape.Community and Accessibility
Grantchester Recreation Ground is embraced by the local community as a vital recreational space. Its thoughtful design caters to inclusivity, with wheelchair-accessible picnic tables and a fully fenced perimeter enhancing safety and comfort. The park’s proximity to Grantchester village means visitors can easily combine a visit here with exploring nearby attractions such as Grantchester Meadows and The Orchard Tea Garden.Nearby Attractions and Complementary Experiences
While the Recreation Ground offers focused play and exercise facilities, the surrounding Grantchester area is rich with natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors often complement their park visit with a stroll along the River Cam at Grantchester Meadows, a picnic by the water, or a traditional English tea at the historic Orchard Tea Garden. These experiences together create a well-rounded day of outdoor enjoyment and village charm.Seasonal Considerations and Visitor Tips
The Recreation Ground is open year-round, benefiting from the mild English climate. However, parking in Grantchester is limited, especially on sunny weekends, so visitors are encouraged to use public transport or nearby car parks when possible. The park’s quiet location and well-maintained facilities make it a reliable choice for family outings regardless of season.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Grantchester Green Man
0.3 km
A charming gastro pub in Grantchester offering classic British fare, a welcoming garden terrace, and warm village hospitality.
The Rupert Brooke
0.3 km
Experience the best of British cuisine at The Rupert Brooke in Grantchester, a charming restaurant celebrated for its seasonal dishes and elegant ambiance.
Lord Byron Inn
1.4 km
Cozy Trumpington pub-inn with hearty meals, quiet garden rooms, and easy Cambridge access—authentic English hospitality awaits.
Hills Road War Memorial
3.3 km
A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
Cambridge Leisure Park
3.4 km
A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
3.4 km
Explore the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge – a fascinating journey through the planet's geological and biological history.
The Old Schools
3.4 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Remember Cambridge
3.4 km
Explore the historic city of Cambridge with Remember Cambridge's guided walking tours, uncovering hidden gems and iconic sights in this charming university town.
Senate House Hill
3.5 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
Map of Cambridge
3.5 km
Explore the artistic heart of Cambridge with a visit to the iconic sculpture at St Mary's Passage, a perfect blend of history and creativity.
Arts Picturehouse
3.5 km
Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Great St Mary's
3.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Great St Mary's, the University Church in Cambridge, a must-visit landmark for tourists.
Grand Arcade
3.5 km
Explore Grand Arcade, a vibrant shopping center in Cambridge, featuring top brands, delightful restaurants, and a unique architectural design.
10 Downing Street
3.5 km
Explore the historical charm of 10 Downing Street in Cambridge, a symbol of British politics and architectural beauty, perfect for history enthusiasts.
WeWork
3.5 km
Experience the dynamic co-working space at WeWork in Cambridge, where innovation and collaboration come together in a vibrant community.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grantchester Village Hall
0.2 km
A charming community hub in Grantchester village, hosting vibrant local events and cultural gatherings in a historic rural setting.
Cambridge Distillery
0.3 km
Discover the art of gin blending and taste award-winning spirits crafted with botanical inspiration in the idyllic village of Grantchester.
Grantchester
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and historic charm of Grantchester, a picturesque village near Cambridge, perfect for a leisurely escape into the English countryside.
The Church of Saint Andrew and Saint Mary Grantchester
0.3 km
A medieval gem in Grantchester, blending centuries of history, architecture, and literary heritage in a tranquil village setting.
Grantchester Tours
0.3 km
Discover the charm and history of Grantchester village on a private guided tour through iconic TV locations and scenic riverside landscapes.
The Red Lion
0.4 km
Thatched village pub on Grantchester High Street — cosy fires, a sunny garden and a seasonal, shareable menu for walkers, families and dog owners.
Balls Grove
0.4 km
A peaceful woodland retreat blending natural beauty with historic charm in the heart of Grantchester village.
Grantchester Meadows
0.5 km
Tranquil 50-acre riverside meadows near Cambridge, rich in literary history and natural beauty, perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, and punting.
Byron's Pool LNR
1.0 km
A serene riverside nature reserve steeped in literary history and rich wildlife, perfect for tranquil walks and nature lovers near Cambridge.
Grantchester Road
1.8 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cambridge offering vibrant community spirit and modern facilities at Volac Park on Grantchester Road.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
2.2 km
A friendly, historic Newnham community club hosting live music, quiz nights, pool and local events in a relaxed, inexpensive setting.
St Mark's Church
2.3 km
Historic St Mark's Church in Newnham offers a welcoming spiritual sanctuary and vibrant community hub on Barton Road, Cambridge.
Paradise Local Nature Reserve
2.3 km
A serene wet woodland and marshland haven on the River Cam, rich in rare wildlife and historic flora, offering peaceful riverside walks in Cambridge.
The Red Bull Newnham
2.3 km
A friendly Newnham pub by the River Cam serving pizzas, changing ales and a sunny waterside terrace for warm days.
Empire Grill
2.4 km
Cambridge’s beloved late-night takeaway spot, famed for huge portions and unbeatable burger sets, open daily from 5 PM to midnight.
Essential places to dine
The Blue Ball Inn
0.5 km
Charming historic pub and cozy B&B in Grantchester offering local flavors, roaring fires, and scenic countryside ambiance.
Green Man Cambridge
1.5 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.
Rice Boat Cambridge
2.7 km
Experience authentic Kerala cuisine with fragrant spices and freshly made breads in a warm, contemporary setting at Rice Boat Cambridge.
Sala Thong
2.7 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and generous portions in a cozy Cambridge setting.
MillWorks
2.7 km
Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Granta
2.8 km
A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Garden House
3.0 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Browns Cambridge
3.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Al Pomodoro
3.2 km
Experience the authentic taste of Sicily with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge.
SLINGERS Smokeworks Station Road
3.3 km
Discover SLINGERS Smokeworks: A unique dart bar in Cambridge serving gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Cambridge Chop House
3.3 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
The Oak Bistro
3.3 km
Classic British bistro with exceptional Beef Wellington, warm hospitality, and a charming heated garden in the heart of Cambridge.
Smokeworks
3.4 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
The Old Bicycle Shop
3.4 km
Historic cycling heritage meets modern gastropub charm in Cambridge’s quirky and sustainable Old Bicycle Shop.
Bread & Meat
3.4 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Orchard Tea Garden
0.4 km
Discover the charm of The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester, where delightful teas and scenic beauty come together for a perfect afternoon escape.
Cuckoo Clothing
2.2 km
Discover unique, contemporary women's fashion in a charming boutique nestled within the rustic elegance of Burwash Manor Barns, Cambridge.
Co-op Food - Grantchester Street - Newnham
2.3 km
Cambridge's Newnham convenience cornerstone: fresh local bites, quick services, and co-op community spirit since 1912.
Greaterskies
3.1 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Samuel Smiley
3.2 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Nomads
3.4 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Indelibly Cambridge
3.4 km
A compact, well-curated King’s Parade shop for Cambridge-themed gifts, prints and locally made keepsakes—perfect for quick souvenirs with local character.
Podarok
3.4 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
The Stock Shop
3.4 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and accessories in a unique hospital setting at The Stock Shop, Cambridge's trusted retail haven since 1988.
Ark
3.4 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
University of Cambridge Museums Shop
3.4 km
Explore the University of Cambridge Museums Shop for unique gifts and souvenirs celebrating the rich heritage of one of the world's most prestigious universities.
Parade
3.4 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Oliver Bonas
3.5 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
3.5 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Cambs Frocktails
3.5 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Iris Bar
2.7 km
Modern cafe buzz in historic Newnham College: exceptional coffee, fresh bakes, and student energy amid Cambridge's academic gardens.
Panton Arms
3.0 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty homemade food, quality ales, live music, and a friendly dog-welcoming atmosphere in a vibrant city setting.
Tall Trees
3.0 km
Eclectic basement bar in Cambridge with live music six nights a week, plant-based menu, and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Mill
3.0 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
The Anchor
3.1 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
Eagle
3.3 km
Cambridge's legendary pub where DNA's secret was toasted, WWII airmen left their mark, and real ales flow amid historic haunts.
Bath House
3.4 km
Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
The LAB
3.4 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
BrewDog Cambridge
3.4 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
3.4 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Bar -OH
3.5 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
3.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
The Castle Bar
3.5 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
The Cambridge Tap
3.5 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
La Raza
3.6 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
80s karaoke bar
3.3 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Sing Dizzy
3.4 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.
Cambridge Lola Lo
3.5 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
3.5 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
MASH
3.6 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
3.7 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.
Rock
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Free Press
3.9 km
Cozy Cambridge backstreet pub serving seasonal fusion dishes, real ales, and timeless charm in a phone-free haven with a sunny beer garden.
The Tram Depot
4.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Tram Depot in Cambridge, where great food, local ales, and music nights create unforgettable experiences.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
4.0 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Salisbury Club
4.3 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
4.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Fort St George
4.5 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
EBC Shop
4.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
The Lounge
19.8 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
