Huntingdonshire: A Timeless English Gem
Discover Huntingdonshire: A blend of history, nature, and charming market towns in the heart of England’s countryside.
Huntingdonshire, a historic county in the United Kingdom, is a delightful blend of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. This serene region offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, inviting visitors to explore its rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and tranquil waterways. The Great Ouse River meanders through the area, providing perfect spots for leisurely walks, picnics, and boating activities. The market town of Huntingdon, the heart of the county, boasts a wealth of historical landmarks. A visit to Oliver Cromwell’s House offers insights into the life of one of England’s most notable historical figures. The town's heritage is reflected in its beautiful architecture, from the medieval All Saints Church to the Georgian-era Town Hall. St Ives, another charming town within Huntingdonshire, is renowned for its historic bridge and bustling markets. Nature enthusiasts will find the Hinchingbrooke Country Park and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve to be perfect retreats. These parks offer a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for walkers, birdwatchers, and families looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The county's diverse landscapes are a testament to its enduring beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Huntingdonshire.
- Visit the local markets in St Ives on Mondays and Fridays for fresh produce and unique finds.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes to explore the many nature trails in Hinchingbrooke Country Park and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve.
- Take a riverboat tour on the Great Ouse for a relaxing way to see the countryside.
- Check the opening hours and book tours in advance for Oliver Cromwell’s House to avoid disappointment.
- Stay in one of the charming bed and breakfasts to get a true feel of the local hospitality.
Huntingdonshire: A Timeless English Gem
Huntingdonshire, a historic county in the United Kingdom, is a delightful blend of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. This serene region offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, inviting visitors to explore its rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and tranquil waterways. The Great Ouse River meanders through the area, providing perfect spots for leisurely walks, picnics, and boating activities. The market town of Huntingdon, the heart of the county, boasts a wealth of historical landmarks. A visit to Oliver Cromwell’s House offers insights into the life of one of England’s most notable historical figures. The town's heritage is reflected in its beautiful architecture, from the medieval All Saints Church to the Georgian-era Town Hall. St Ives, another charming town within Huntingdonshire, is renowned for its historic bridge and bustling markets. Nature enthusiasts will find the Hinchingbrooke Country Park and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve to be perfect retreats. These parks offer a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for walkers, birdwatchers, and families looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The county's diverse landscapes are a testament to its enduring beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Explore the best of what Huntingdonshire has to offer
When is the best time to go to Huntingdonshire?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The George
A historic Huntingdon coaching inn with a traditional pub, hearty food, and a long connection to local history and Oliver Cromwell.
English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
England's finest surviving medieval priory refectory, where Augustinian canons once gathered to dine and pray.
The Warren House
A rare 17th-century timber-framed warrener’s cottage offering historic charm and scenic views over Kimbolton Castle in tranquil rural surroundings.
Lynch Lodge
Step into history at Lynch Lodge, a beautifully preserved Georgian porch and unique holiday let nestled in the tranquil village of Alwalton near Peterborough.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Wimpole Estate
Explore the grandeur of Wimpole Estate: historic manor, Capability Brown gardens, and a unique working farm in Cambridgeshire.
Hamerton Zoo Park
Discover rare wildlife and immersive family fun at Hamerton Zoo Park, a conservation-focused sanctuary in the heart of Huntingdonshire.
JOHNSONS OF OLD HURST | JOHNSONS ZOO
Discover a charming family farm and zoo with exotic animals, sustainable farming, and delicious local food near Huntingdon.
Chequers Shopping Centre
A vibrant shopping hub in Huntingdon offering a diverse mix of high street brands, local shops, and inviting cafés in a welcoming community setting.
National Trust - Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows
Historic 18th-century watermill and serene riverside meadows offering scenic walks, guided tours, and waterside relaxation in Cambridgeshire.
Hinchingbrooke Country Park
Explore 170 acres of woodlands, meadows, lakes, and family-friendly play areas at Hinchingbrooke Country Park, a Green Flag Award-winning natural retreat.
Sacrewell Farm
Explore rare breeds, historic watermill, award-winning play areas, and artisan crafts at Sacrewell Farm near Peterborough.
Normanton Church
A captivating lakeside church that seems to float on Rutland Water, blending history, architecture, and stunning natural beauty.
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve
Explore 77 hectares of lakes, meadows, and woodlands teeming with wildlife at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, a tranquil haven near St Neots.
Flag Fen Archaeology Park
Explore 3,500-year-old Bronze Age mysteries and immersive reconstructions at Flag Fen Archaeology Park near Peterborough.
The Riverside Park
A spacious riverside green space in St Neots offering scenic views, diverse recreation, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
King of the Belgians
Historic 16th-century village pub in Hartford offering home-cooked meals, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
Experience Cambridge’s iconic River Cam in luxury punts with expert guides, historic views, and unparalleled riverside charm.
Holme Fen National Nature Reserve
Explore Britain’s lowest land point and the largest silver birch woodland in lowland Europe, a tranquil haven for wildlife and nature lovers.
Cambridge Alumni Tours
Explore Cambridge through the eyes of its students and graduates—insider tours of a world-class university.
Essential places to dine
Brampton Mill Huntingdon
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and warm hospitality in Huntingdon.
Hartford Mill - Pub & Carvery
A friendly marina-side pub serving fresh carvery and classic dishes daily in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Wheatsheaf
Historic village gastropub in Perry offering classic British fare, a fine ale selection, and a welcoming beer garden.
Bella Italia - Huntingdon
Authentic Italian flavors and warm service combine in a family-friendly setting at Bella Italia Huntingdon.
The Cock
A charming gastropub in Hemingford Grey offering modern British cuisine with a cosy atmosphere and family-friendly dining.
The Three Jolly Butchers
A welcoming village pub in Wyton offering classic British fare, real ales, and a spacious beer garden with rustic charm.
Olmo Lounge
A vibrant, inclusive dining spot on Huntingdon’s High Street offering diverse British and vegan-friendly cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Black Bull at Brampton
A 16th-century traditional village pub in Brampton serving freshly cooked British meals with a welcoming atmosphere and lively events.
Chi Huntingdon
Experience vibrant South East Asian flavors in a modern, elegant setting at Chi Huntingdon, a culinary highlight in Cambridgeshire’s Sapley area.
The Crown Inn
Historic British gastropub in Broughton offering traditional classics and a warm, authentic country pub atmosphere.
The Barley Mow
Historic pub blending Nepalese and British flavors with craft beers in the heart of Hartford's old village.
The Windmill
A welcoming traditional English pub in Somersham offering excellent food, attentive service, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
The White Horse at Tilbrook
Historic English village pub with cozy charm, scenic beer garden, and beloved British cuisine in Tilbrook’s countryside.
Hill Ephesus Restaurant
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Huntingdon’s historic Market Hill.
The Exhibition
Award-winning gastropub blending local ingredients, expert cooking, and genuine hospitality in charming Godmanchester.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TK Maxx
Designer bargains and branded treasures await at TK Maxx Huntingdon—up to 60% off premium fashion, homeware, and gifts.
St Benedicts Court
A practical local shopping centre in Huntingdon offering essential retail and services with room to grow specialty offerings.
Essential Supermarket
Discover authentic Asian flavors and fresh halal produce at Essential Supermarket, Huntingdon’s go-to for culinary essentials.
CeX
Affordable secondhand electronics and gaming essentials in the heart of Huntingdon's Chequers Court.
NECTAR Polish Delicatessen (Huntingdon)
Discover authentic Polish culinary delights at NECTAR Polish Delicatessen, Huntingdon’s premier destination for traditional sausages, cheeses, and breads.
Patches
A charming family-run haberdashery in Huntingdon, offering quality sewing, knitting supplies, and expert machine repairs since 2017.
Niche Comics Bookshop
Discover Huntingdon’s beloved comic and bookshop in a historic 1573 Tudor building with vibrant community spirit and diverse collections.
Cards Direct
Huntingdon’s go-to shop for quality British-made greeting cards, gifts, and party supplies at direct-from-factory prices.
Bonmarché
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion at Bonmarché Huntingdon on High Street, offering comfort and variety for every occasion.
Peacocks
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children at Peacocks Huntingdon, your go-to clothing store in St Germain Walk.
Cream Rose
Elegant ladies’ boutique in Fenstanton offering designer dresses and personalized service for special occasions in a relaxed atmosphere.
James Cox
Historic Huntingdon department store blending timeless elegance with diverse fashion, gifts, and suit hire since 1893.
The Pokemon Plug
Huntingdon’s go-to spot for Pokémon cards and collectibles, offering rare finds, expert advice, and an unbeatable community vibe.
Scenic Skate Shop
Huntingdon’s friendly and expert skate shop offering quality gear, apparel, and a vibrant skateboarding community hub.
Next
Stylish fashion and homeware for the whole family in Huntingdon’s vibrant Chequers Court shopping hub.
