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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.

4.5

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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

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

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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.

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