Granta Moorings: Premier Punting Experience on Cambridge’s River Cam
Discover Cambridge’s iconic river with Granta Moorings—expertly guided punts and self-rental canoes from the best mooring on the College Backs.
Granta Moorings offers an exceptional punting and canoeing experience on the picturesque River Cam in Cambridge. Located at Newnham Mill Pond, it provides the best access point to the iconic College Backs and tranquil waters. Choose from guided chauffeured punts or self-rental options, perfect for relaxing or exploring independently. With knowledgeable university student guides, excellent service, and a dog-friendly atmosphere, it’s a top choice for immersing yourself in Cambridge’s historic riverside charm.
A brief summary to Granta Moorings
- 14 Newnham Rd, Cambridge, CB3 9EX, GB
- +441223301845
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book online in advance to receive discounts and ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Choose a guided punt tour for fascinating historical stories and a relaxing experience without the effort of punting.
- Try self-rental punts or canoes if you prefer setting your own pace and exploring the river independently.
- Bring a camera for unique photographic opportunities of Cambridge’s colleges and bridges from the water.
- Granta Moorings is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet along for the adventure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 3 or 7 from Cambridge city center to Newnham Road near Granta Moorings. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run every 15-30 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50-£3.50 one way.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cambridge city center to Granta Moorings takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £7 and £12. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a scenic walk, it takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach Granta Moorings from Cambridge city center. The route follows the River Cam and is mostly flat and wheelchair accessible.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular option with secure bike parking available near the moorings. The ride from the city center takes about 15 minutes on mostly flat terrain. Cambridge has extensive cycling paths for safe travel.
Granta Moorings location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Granta Moorings
A Riverside Tradition in the Heart of Cambridge
Granta Moorings has been a cornerstone of Cambridge’s punting culture for over 30 years, situated at the scenic Newnham Mill Pond. This location is widely regarded as the best launching point for punting along the famous College Backs, offering unrivaled views of the university’s historic riverside colleges, including King’s College Chapel and the Bridge of Sighs. The moorings provide easy access to both guided tours and self-rental punts and canoes, allowing visitors to tailor their experience from leisurely sightseeing to active exploration.Guided Tours and Self-Rental Options
Visitors can opt for chauffeured punts piloted by knowledgeable university students who share fascinating stories and historical insights about Cambridge’s landmarks and river heritage. These tours highlight iconic sights and offer a relaxing way to absorb the city’s atmosphere. For those seeking independence, self-rental punts and family canoes are available, complete with free tuition and safety equipment. This flexibility makes Granta Moorings ideal for families, groups, and solo travelers alike.Exceptional Location and Amenities
Nestled beside the tranquil waters of Newnham Mill Pond, Granta Moorings benefits from a peaceful setting away from the busier city center, yet remains easily accessible. The site is wheelchair accessible and offers excellent customer service, including pre-booking discounts and partnerships with local cafes and pubs. Dog owners appreciate the welcoming, pet-friendly environment, making it a versatile destination for all visitors.Immersive Cambridge Experience
Punting with Granta Moorings is not just a boat ride; it is an immersive cultural journey. Guides enrich the experience with anecdotes about Cambridge’s academic traditions, architectural marvels, and local legends. The gentle glide along the Cam provides unique photographic opportunities of the colleges and bridges from the water, a perspective unavailable on foot. This blend of natural beauty and rich heritage makes it a quintessential Cambridge activity.Community and Sustainability
Granta Moorings supports sustainable tourism by encouraging responsible use of the river and its surroundings. The operation is locally managed with a focus on preserving the natural habitat of the Cam and maintaining low environmental impact. Their BoatClub membership offers regular visitors benefits that promote continued engagement with Cambridge’s waterways in an eco-friendly manner.Planning Your Visit
Open daily with varying seasonal hours, Granta Moorings welcomes visitors year-round, with peak activity in spring and summer. The moorings are well-equipped with restrooms and seating areas nearby, ensuring comfort during your visit. Whether you seek a tranquil afternoon or an adventurous day on the water, Granta Moorings provides a memorable gateway to Cambridge’s iconic river experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Schools
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Senate House Hill
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Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
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Discover the charm and history of the Kitchen Bridge at St. John's College, a picturesque landmark in the heart of Cambridge, England.
Bridge of Sighs
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A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Reality Checkpoint
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A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Parker's Piece
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The Round Church
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Christian Heritage
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Christ's Pieces
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Duke House
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St. Paul's Church
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Explore the architectural beauty and community spirit of St. Paul's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Cambridge, perfect for reflection and connection.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
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Explore the enchanting Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a serene escape showcasing 8,000+ plant species amidst stunning landscapes in the heart of Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
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Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
All Saints Church
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Explore the architectural and spiritual beauty of All Saints Church, a historic gem in the heart of Cambridge, showcasing stunning Gothic design and tranquility.
Westminster College
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Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Newnham House
0.1 km
Historic Newnham House blends serene gardens and classic Queen Anne architecture with modern student living just minutes from Cambridge city centre.
Sheep's Green
0.1 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Cambridge blending historic grazing meadows, rich wildlife, and a unique outdoor river pool.
Queens' College
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Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
Museum of Classical Archaeology
0.3 km
Explore one of the world’s largest collections of ancient Greek and Roman plaster casts in a serene Cambridge museum.
Mathematical Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the iconic wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College, a marvel of 18th-century engineering and enduring Cambridge legend.
Coe Fen
0.3 km
Tranquil fenland green space beside the River Cam, blending natural beauty with historic Cambridge charm.
Lammas Land
0.3 km
Historic riverside commons where medieval grazing rights meet modern recreation.
Little St Mary's Church
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Discover centuries of history and serene beauty at Little St Mary's, Cambridge’s historic parish church beside Peterhouse.
Empire Grill
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Cambridge’s beloved late-night takeaway spot, famed for huge portions and unbeatable burger sets, open daily from 5 PM to midnight.
The Rush
0.4 km
Discover The Rush at Sheep's Green, a peaceful riverside nature reserve near Cambridge city centre, perfect for relaxation and wildlife watching.
Pembroke College
0.4 km
Discover Pembroke College, Cambridge’s historic gem blending medieval charm, Wren’s chapel, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.4 km
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
Newnham College, University of Cambridge
0.4 km
Historic women’s college with stunning Victorian architecture and tranquil gardens, a serene Cambridge retreat rich in heritage.
Cambridge Food Tour
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Explore Cambridge’s culinary secrets on a guided walking tour featuring hidden gems, local flavors, and rich food heritage.
St Catharine's College
0.4 km
Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Essential places to dine
Granta
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A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Sala Thong
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MillWorks
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Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Rice Boat Cambridge
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Experience authentic Kerala cuisine with fragrant spices and freshly made breads in a warm, contemporary setting at Rice Boat Cambridge.
Garden House
0.2 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Browns Cambridge
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.5 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
Smokeworks
0.6 km
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Bread & Meat
0.6 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Aromi
0.6 km
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Pint Shop
0.6 km
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Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Japanese sushi and Nordic grilled sticks in the historic heart of Cambridge, where tradition meets innovation.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.7 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Market House
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Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greaterskies
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Samuel Smiley
0.4 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Grantchester Street - Newnham
0.5 km
Cambridge's Newnham convenience cornerstone: fresh local bites, quick services, and co-op community spirit since 1912.
Nomads
0.6 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Podarok
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.6 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.
Ark
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Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Parade
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Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
0.7 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Oliver Bonas
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A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Souvenirs And Gifts
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Menkind Cambridge
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Giles & Co
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Sugarmark!
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The Cambridge Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mill
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The Anchor
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The Iris Bar
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Eagle
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Bath House
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BrewDog Cambridge
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Tall Trees
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Bar -OH
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Revolution Cambridge
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The Castle Bar
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The Cambridge Tap
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Novi Kitchen + Bar
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La Raza
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2648 Cambridge
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Panton Arms
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Lola Lo
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High Five
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MASH
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Vinyl Cambridge
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80s karaoke bar
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Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Calling
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
The Tram Depot
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Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
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Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
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Fort St George
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EBC Shop
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Sing Dizzy
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Salisbury Club
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Rock
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The Lounge
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly