Huntingdonshire, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Discover Huntingdonshire: A blend of history, nature, and charming market towns in the heart of England’s countryside.

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Huntingdonshire

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.

From Eve

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.

Top City Travel Guides in Huntingdonshire

The cities of Huntingdonshire, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Cambridge

Destinations in Huntingdonshire

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Cambridge Fens

Explore Huntingdonshire: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Huntingdonshire

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Monks Wood National Nature Reserve

Cambridgeshire's ancient woodland sanctuary and UK's premier beetle hotspot with over 1,000 species.

4.6

0 Market Sq

Northampton Market Square: A vibrant historic market and community hub at the heart of Northampton since 1235.

Buckden Towers

Explore the Tudor heritage and tranquil gardens of Buckden Towers, a historic palace steeped in royal history and peaceful beauty.

4.6

Cambridge Alumni Tours

Explore Cambridge through the eyes of its students and graduates—insider tours of a world-class university.

4.8

Best landmarks in Huntingdonshire

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English Heritage - Bushmead Priory

England's finest surviving medieval priory refectory, where Augustinian canons once gathered to dine and pray.

4.0

The George

A historic Huntingdon coaching inn with a traditional pub, hearty food, and a long connection to local history and Oliver Cromwell.

4.1

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.

4.7

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.

5.0

Best restaurants in Huntingdonshire

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Bella Italia - Huntingdon

Authentic Italian flavors and warm service combine in a family-friendly setting at Bella Italia Huntingdon.

4.2

Brampton Mill Huntingdon

Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and warm hospitality in Huntingdon.

4.5

Hare on the Green

A warm, traditional gastropub on Brampton’s village green, serving modern British food, local ales, and a friendly local atmosphere.

4.6

The Barley Mow

Historic pub blending Nepalese and British flavors with craft beers in the heart of Hartford's old village.

4.2

Best bars in Huntingdonshire

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Brampton Mill Huntingdon

Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views by the River Great Ouse.

4.5

King of the Belgians

Historic 16th-century pub in Hartford offering hearty home-cooked meals, quality ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with unique charm.

4.6

The Falcon Tavern

Historic real ale pub in Huntingdon with roots in the English Civil War, offering traditional drinks, hearty food, and a charming garden.

4.3

The Cock

A welcoming gastropub in Hemingford Grey offering seasonal British dishes, a charming garden, and award-winning hospitality.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Huntingdonshire

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Embassy, Flares & Red Room Peterborough

A vibrant nightlife complex in Peterborough offering diverse music rooms, friendly staff, and affordable drinks for memorable late-night experiences.

4.6

OutOut Nightclub

Vibrant nightlife hub in St. Ives offering dynamic club nights, private events, and a lively atmosphere from 10pm to 4am Fridays and Saturdays.

4.3

Angels Peterborough

Experience lively nightlife and captivating stage performances at Angels Peterborough, the city’s vibrant nightclub and bar on Brook Street.

4.0

Lord Protector

A lively community pub in Hartford, Huntingdon, offering great food, live sports, and entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Best shops in Huntingdonshire

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Niche Comics Bookshop

Discover Huntingdon’s beloved comic and bookshop in a historic 1573 Tudor building with vibrant community spirit and diverse collections.

4.7

Scenic Skate Shop

Huntingdon’s friendly and expert skate shop offering quality gear, apparel, and a vibrant skateboarding community hub.

5.0

The Pokemon Plug

Huntingdon’s go-to spot for Pokémon cards and collectibles, offering rare finds, expert advice, and an unbeatable community vibe.

5.0

Euro Shop

Huntingdon's authentic European supermarket bringing continental flavors and community together.

4.8

Explore Huntingdonshire on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Huntingdonshire, mapped for you.

Huntingdonshire Essentials

Huntingdonshire is located in the East of England. The nearest major airport is London Stansted Airport, approximately 45 miles away. From Stansted, you can take a train to Huntingdon, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into London Heathrow or London Gatwick and take a train or coach to Huntingdon. Trains from London King's Cross to Huntingdon are frequent and the journey takes around 1 hour. Coaches are also available from various cities, including London, and provide a more budget-friendly option.
Public transportation in Huntingdonshire is well-developed. There are regular bus services connecting towns and villages within the region. The town of Huntingdon serves as a central hub with its railway station providing services to London, Peterborough, and beyond. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services like Uber operate in the area. Renting a car is also an option and can be particularly useful for exploring the more rural parts of Huntingdonshire at your own pace. Cycling is popular, and there are many scenic routes to enjoy.
The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Huntingdonshire, including in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Contactless payments are very common. ATMs are plentiful in towns and larger villages, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payment might not be available.
Huntingdonshire is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The local hospital in Huntingdon is Hinchingbrooke Hospital, which has an A&E department. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Smart-casual attire is generally acceptable for dining out. Avoid overly casual clothing like beachwear in town centers. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't play loud music or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'hello' or 'good morning/afternoon'. A handshake is customary in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and traditional British fare. Don't rush your meal in a pub or restaurant; dining is often a leisurely affair.
To experience Huntingdonshire like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns like Huntingdon and St Ives where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the historic sites such as the Cromwell Museum and Houghton Mill. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Ouse Valley Way, a picturesque riverside path offering stunning views of the countryside.

When is the best time to visit Huntingdonshire?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Huntingdonshire

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Huntingdonshire. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [həˈloʊ]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [ɡʊdˈbaɪ]
- YesYes
  [jɛs]
- NoNo
  [noʊ]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliz/jʊr 'wɛlkəm]
- Thank youThank you
  [θæŋk ju]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ɪkˈskjus mi/ˈsɔri]
- How are you?How are you?
  [haʊ ɑr ju]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [faɪn. ənd ju]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [du ju spik ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [aɪ doʊnt ˌʌndərˈstænd]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [aɪd laɪk tə si ðə ˈmɛnju, pliz]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [aɪ doʊnt it miːt]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [aɪ wʊd laɪk tə peɪ, pliz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Go away!
  [ɡoʊ əˈweɪ]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [kɔl ðə pəˈlis]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [kɔl ə ˈdɑktər]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [aɪm ɪl]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [aɪd laɪk tə baɪ...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [aɪm dʒʌst ˈlʊkɪŋ]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [haʊ mʌʧ ɪz ɪt]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [ðæts tu ɪkˈspɛnsɪv]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [kæn ju ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
- EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərdeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɒroʊ]
- 11
  [wʌn]
- 22
  [tu]
- 33
  [θri]
- 44
  [fɔr]
- 55
  [faɪv]
- 66
  [sɪks]
- 77
  [sɛvən]
- 88
  [eɪt]
- 99
  [naɪn]
- 1010
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wɛrz ə/ðə...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wʌts ði əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn ju ʃoʊ mi (ən ðə mæp)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛn’z ðə nɛkst (bʌs)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ....)]

History of Huntingdonshire

Huntingdonshire's history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements. Archaeological finds indicate that early inhabitants engaged in farming and tool-making, laying the foundation for future communities.
During the Roman occupation of Britain, Huntingdonshire became an important site for military and trade activities. The Romans established Ermine Street, a major road that passed through the region, facilitating movement and commerce.
Following the Roman withdrawal, Anglo-Saxons settled in Huntingdonshire, leaving a lasting impact on the area's culture and language. The county was part of the Kingdom of Mercia and saw the establishment of early Christian churches.
The Norman Conquest of 1066 brought significant changes to Huntingdonshire. In 1086, the Domesday Book recorded extensive details about the landholdings and population of the area, providing a valuable snapshot of medieval life.
By the medieval period, Huntingdonshire had developed into a region of thriving market towns. Huntingdon, the county town, became a bustling center for trade and commerce, with weekly markets and annual fairs attracting people from across the region.
Huntingdonshire played a notable role during the English Civil War (1642-1651). Oliver Cromwell, a key figure in the conflict, was born in Huntingdon. His leadership and the county's strategic location influenced the course of the war.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw significant agricultural and industrial advancements in Huntingdonshire. Innovations in farming techniques and the construction of railways transformed the local economy and landscape.
During World War II, Huntingdonshire was strategically important for the British war effort. The county hosted several airfields and military installations, while local communities supported the war effort through various means, including agricultural production.
In the post-war era, Huntingdonshire has balanced development with the preservation of its rich heritage. Efforts to maintain historical landmarks and promote tourism have ensured that the area's history remains accessible to visitors and residents alike.