Hinchingbrooke Country Park: A Vast Natural Haven in Huntingdon
Explore 170 acres of woodlands, meadows, lakes, and family-friendly play areas at Hinchingbrooke Country Park, a Green Flag Award-winning natural retreat.
Hinchingbrooke Country Park spans 170 acres of diverse landscapes including open grasslands, woodlands, wildflower meadows, and lakes. This family-friendly park offers accessible walking and cycling paths, multiple play areas catering to different age groups and abilities, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy picnics, nature spotting, and a cafe with seasonal opening hours. The park is open 24 hours daily and is recognized with a Green Flag Award for its quality and management.
A brief summary to Hinchingbrooke Country Park
- Brampton Rd, Huntingdon, PE29 6DB, GB
- +441480388666
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 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
- Visit the Sensory Playground for an inclusive experience suitable for toddlers and wheelchair users.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the open grasslands or at one of the many picnic benches scattered throughout the park.
- Check the cafe opening times seasonally—generally 10am to 4pm in warmer months and 10am to 3pm in cooler months.
- Early morning walks offer peaceful wildlife spotting opportunities, including chances to see woodpeckers and kingfishers.
- Consider volunteering to engage with the park’s conservation efforts and community events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach B bus from Cambridge or St Ives, which runs daily and stops near Hinchingbrooke Hospital, a 5-minute walk from the park entrance. Journey times vary around 30 to 50 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3–£5 one way.
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Bus
Use the Whippet 66 bus from St Neots, Buckden, or Brampton, operating Mondays to Saturdays, or the Whippet X3 from Cambridge, Cambourne, Papworth, and Godmanchester daily. Both stop near the park with journey times from 20 to 45 minutes. Fares range from £2.50 to £5.
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Car
Driving to Hinchingbrooke Country Park via Brampton Road offers convenient access with on-site paid parking available. Parking fees are reasonable, typically around £2–£4 for a few hours. Travel times from Huntingdon town center are approximately 10 minutes, and from Cambridge about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
For local visitors, walking to the park from nearby Huntingdon neighborhoods is feasible, with routes over mixed terrain including paved and natural paths. Walking times range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on starting point. Paths are mostly accessible but may include some uneven surfaces.
Hinchingbrooke Country Park 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Hinchingbrooke Country Park
Expansive Natural Landscape and Wildlife
Hinchingbrooke Country Park covers approximately 170 acres of varied terrain, featuring open grasslands, mature woodlands, wildflower meadows, and serene lakes. This diverse environment supports a rich array of wildlife, including all three species of British woodpecker, nuthatch, marsh tit, and occasionally otters and kingfishers. The park's natural habitats provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, nature photography, and peaceful exploration.Inclusive Play Areas and Family Activities
The park is thoughtfully designed with families in mind, offering several play zones tailored to different age groups and abilities. The Sensory Playground is ideal for toddlers and wheelchair users, featuring nature-themed play panels, climbing equipment, and musical elements for sensory engagement. Older children can enjoy the Grasslands play area, which incorporates more challenging climbing structures. Additional zones like the Wetlands and Squirrels Dray provide role-play and climbing experiences. These facilities encourage active play amid natural surroundings.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Hinchingbrooke Country Park is accessible to visitors of all abilities, with a combination of hard-surfaced and unsurfaced paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Numerous picnic benches are scattered throughout the park for rest and relaxation. The onsite cafe operates seasonally, typically from 10 am to 4 pm in warmer months and 10 am to 3 pm in cooler months, offering a range of refreshments including vegetarian options. Facilities include disabled toilets and wheelchair-accessible parking.Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities
The park fosters strong community involvement through regular volunteer work parties focused on habitat management, path maintenance, and event support. Volunteers assist with family-oriented nature activities such as pond dipping and den building, enhancing educational experiences for visiting school groups. Seasonal events, including themed family days, benefit from volunteer participation, highlighting the park’s role as a vibrant community hub.Recreational Uses and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Hinchingbrooke Country Park can engage in a variety of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, dog walking, and picnicking. The park’s extensive network of trails winds through scenic lakeside and woodland areas, offering tranquil spots and lively play zones. The presence of a small cafe adds convenience for refreshments. The park is open 24 hours daily, allowing flexible visit times, though weekends and event days can be busier.Recognition and Location Details
Since 2018, Hinchingbrooke Country Park has held the prestigious Green Flag Award, acknowledging its high standards of maintenance and visitor experience. Situated on Brampton Road in Huntingdon (postcode PE29 6DB), the park is easily accessible by car and public transport, with nearby bus stops and reasonable parking charges. It serves as a popular destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and dog walkers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The George
1.7 km
A historic Huntingdon coaching inn with a traditional pub, hearty food, and a long connection to local history and Oliver Cromwell.
The Warren House
11.8 km
A rare 17th-century timber-framed warrener’s cottage offering historic charm and scenic views over Kimbolton Castle in tranquil rural surroundings.
English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
15.1 km
England's finest surviving medieval priory refectory, where Augustinian canons once gathered to dine and pray.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
23.7 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
Castle Park
25.4 km
Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Westminster College
25.6 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
25.7 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Magdalene Bridge
25.9 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Lynch Lodge
25.9 km
Step into history at Lynch Lodge, a beautifully preserved Georgian porch and unique holiday let nestled in the tranquil village of Alwalton near Peterborough.
Bridge of Sighs
25.9 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Jesus Lock
26.0 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Newton's Apple Tree
26.1 km
Explore Newton's Apple Tree in Cambridge, a historical landmark that connects you to the legacy of scientific discovery and innovation.
Christian Heritage
26.1 km
Explore the Round Church in Cambridge, a stunning Norman architectural gem and a key site of Christian heritage, rich in history and spirituality.
The Round Church
26.1 km
Explore The Round Church, a captivating medieval Anglican church in Cambridge, known for its unique architecture and rich historical significance.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
26.2 km
Explore the Rose Quarter in Cambridge, a charming tourist destination filled with history, delightful cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cromwell Museum
1.8 km
Explore the life and legacy of Oliver Cromwell in the historic Huntingdon Grammar School, with engaging exhibits and dynamic temporary displays.
Grosik
1.9 km
Discover authentic Eastern European groceries and friendly service at Grosik, Huntingdon’s specialty supermarket on High Street.
Cambs Lock Antiques & Collectables
1.9 km
Explore Huntingdon’s eclectic treasure trove of antiques, vintage collectibles, and a welcoming café at Cambs Lock Antiques & Collectables Centre.
Chequers Shopping Centre
1.9 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Huntingdon offering a diverse mix of high street brands, local shops, and inviting cafés in a welcoming community setting.
Huntingdon Castle Hills
2.0 km
Explore the medieval earthworks of Huntingdon Castle Hills, a tranquil historic site offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Norman England.
Riverside Park Old Bridge Viewpoint
2.3 km
Tranquil riverside park with historic medieval bridge views, vibrant seasonal flora, and family-friendly green spaces in Huntingdon.
Farm Hall
2.6 km
Explore Farm Hall, the historic site where WWII nuclear scientists were secretly detained, set in peaceful Godmanchester gardens.
The Riverside Park
2.6 km
A spacious riverside green space in St Neots offering scenic views, diverse recreation, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Coneygear Park
3.3 km
A welcoming, accessible green space in Hartford offering playgrounds, walking paths, and community spirit open 24/7.
King of the Belgians
3.6 km
Historic 16th-century village pub in Hartford offering home-cooked meals, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Godmanchester Nature Reserve
4.1 km
Discover the serene lakes, vibrant wildlife, and rich history of Godmanchester Nature Reserve, a peaceful Cambridgeshire sanctuary open year-round.
Hartford Mill Wacky Warehouse
4.8 km
A vibrant indoor soft play centre with outdoor fun, perfect for under-12s and family celebrations in Huntingdon.
Buckden Towers
4.8 km
Discover Buckden Towers: medieval grandeur, tranquil gardens, and rich history in a peaceful English retreat.
Magic Mountain
5.3 km
Explore Magic Mountain, a secretive Cold War bunker at Alconbury Weald, where cutting-edge espionage shaped history beneath Cambridgeshire’s skies.
The Mermaid
6.0 km
A charming gastropub in Ellington blending traditional warmth with inventive, high-quality cuisine and attentive service.
Essential places to dine
Brampton Mill Huntingdon
1.0 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and warm hospitality in Huntingdon.
The Black Bull at Brampton
1.1 km
A 16th-century traditional village pub in Brampton serving freshly cooked British meals with a welcoming atmosphere and lively events.
Hare on the Green
1.7 km
A warm, traditional gastropub on Brampton’s village green, serving modern British food, local ales, and a friendly local atmosphere.
Hill Ephesus Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Huntingdon’s historic Market Hill.
Olmo Lounge
1.9 km
A vibrant, inclusive dining spot on Huntingdon’s High Street offering diverse British and vegan-friendly cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Local Cafe
2.0 km
Cozy and clean cafe in Huntingdon serving hearty breakfasts, quality coffee, and classic comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Samuel Pepys
2.1 km
A traditional Huntingdon pub serving hearty British classics, local ales, and a warm welcome on the High Street.
Black Bull Godmanchester
2.5 km
Historic pub and vibrant event venue in Godmanchester, renowned for great food, live music, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Grand Piano Cafe
2.9 km
Cozy breakfasts and warm hospitality blend perfectly at The Grand Piano Cafe in Godmanchester’s charming heart.
The White Hart
3.0 km
A beloved gastropub in Godmanchester offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a warm, lively atmosphere with excellent value.
The Exhibition
3.1 km
Award-winning gastropub blending local ingredients, expert cooking, and genuine hospitality in charming Godmanchester.
Bella Italia - Huntingdon
3.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm service combine in a family-friendly setting at Bella Italia Huntingdon.
Chi Huntingdon
3.2 km
Experience vibrant South East Asian flavors in a modern, elegant setting at Chi Huntingdon, a culinary highlight in Cambridgeshire’s Sapley area.
The Barley Mow
3.7 km
Historic pub blending Nepalese and British flavors with craft beers in the heart of Hartford's old village.
Hartford Mill - Pub & Carvery
4.8 km
A friendly marina-side pub serving fresh carvery and classic dishes daily in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
It's Yours
1.2 km
Explore It's Yours Gift Shop in Brampton for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs to cherish your travel experience.
Essential Supermarket
1.6 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and fresh halal produce at Essential Supermarket, Huntingdon’s go-to for culinary essentials.
Hazelmere Home & Garden
1.7 km
Discover timeless charm and garden inspiration at Hazelmere Home & Garden, Huntingdon’s friendly boutique for interior and outdoor living.
James Cox
1.7 km
Historic Huntingdon department store blending timeless elegance with diverse fashion, gifts, and suit hire since 1893.
Euro Shop
1.7 km
Huntingdon's authentic European supermarket bringing continental flavors and community together.
Dunelm
1.8 km
Discover a wide range of homewares at Dunelm in Huntingdon, your go-to destination for stylish and practical home essentials.
The Purple Spell
1.8 km
Discover authentic magical traditions and handcrafted spellcraft tools in the enchanting heart of Huntingdon at The Purple Spell.
Patches
1.8 km
A charming family-run haberdashery in Huntingdon, offering quality sewing, knitting supplies, and expert machine repairs since 2017.
NECTAR Polish Delicatessen (Huntingdon)
1.8 km
Discover authentic Polish culinary delights at NECTAR Polish Delicatessen, Huntingdon’s premier destination for traditional sausages, cheeses, and breads.
St Benedicts Court
1.9 km
A practical local shopping centre in Huntingdon offering essential retail and services with room to grow specialty offerings.
Scenic Skate Shop
1.9 km
Huntingdon’s friendly and expert skate shop offering quality gear, apparel, and a vibrant skateboarding community hub.
Bumbles Little Gifts
1.9 km
Discover unique, charming gifts in a cozy boutique nestled in the historic heart of Huntingdon’s St Mary’s Street.
The Pokemon Plug
1.9 km
Huntingdon’s go-to spot for Pokémon cards and collectibles, offering rare finds, expert advice, and an unbeatable community vibe.
The Works
1.9 km
Discover affordable creativity and learning at The Works Huntingdon, your go-to for arts, crafts, books, and toys on High Street.
CeX
1.9 km
Affordable secondhand electronics and gaming essentials in the heart of Huntingdon's Chequers Court.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Falcon Tavern
1.8 km
Historic real ale pub in Huntingdon with roots in the English Civil War, offering traditional drinks, hearty food, and a charming garden.
Market Inn, Huntingdon
1.8 km
Historic half-timbered pub in Huntingdon offering traditional ales, lively entertainment, and a warm family-run atmosphere.
Three Tuns
2.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Huntingdon’s High Street, offering lively atmosphere, classic charm, and a true taste of English pub culture.
The Old Bridge Hotel
2.2 km
Historic Georgian charm meets vibrant riverside hospitality in Huntingdon’s beloved Old Bridge Hotel.
Lord Protector
3.0 km
A welcoming community pub in Huntingdon offering great drinks, lively entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Golden Knight
3.0 km
A friendly Huntingdon pub with a spacious beer garden, lively sports viewing, and classic games for a relaxed social experience.
Three Horseshoes
6.2 km
A traditional English pub with cozy rooms, hearty fare, and a warm community spirit in the heart of Huntingdon.
The Taproom
9.3 km
Charming riverside bar and kitchen in St Ives offering crafted drinks, hearty meals, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily from 9am.
Oliver Cromwell
9.4 km
Historic 18th-century riverside pub in St. Ives offering local ales, home-cooked food, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Cross Keys
11.8 km
A classic British village pub in Upwood serving hearty seasonal dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Poacher
12.4 km
A welcoming 17th-century village pub in Elsworth offering home-cooked food, award-winning gardens, and a cozy, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Mad Cat Inn
12.8 km
A cozy traditional village pub in Pidley offering hearty roasts, friendly service, and authentic British charm.
Sawtry Ex-Service & Working Mens Club
13.3 km
A welcoming community social club in Sawtry offering events, bar facilities, and a friendly atmosphere for locals and visitors.
The River Mill
13.6 km
A welcoming traditional pub and vibrant events venue in Eaton Socon, blending classic charm with modern hospitality.
The White Lion
14.0 km
A traditional, friendly pub in Bury offering classic ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Montagu Club
2.1 km
Discover the lively Montagu Club in Huntingdon - a social haven for music lovers and friends looking to unwind and enjoy local culture.
OutOut Nightclub
9.1 km
Vibrant nightlife hub in St. Ives offering dynamic club nights, private events, and a lively atmosphere from 10pm to 4am Fridays and Saturdays.
The Lounge
9.2 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
MASH
26.3 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
26.3 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.
High Five
26.4 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Fort St George
26.4 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Cambridge Lola Lo
26.4 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.
Bar -OH
26.6 km
Experience the best of Cambridge nightlife at Bar -OH, where exquisite cocktails meet electrifying live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
Revolution Cambridge
26.7 km
Discover the lively Revolution Cambridge, where delicious dining meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
EBC Shop
26.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
The Met Lounge
27.0 km
Peterborough’s vibrant live music venue and nightclub blending nostalgic charm with lively club nights and diverse musical acts.
Tall Trees
27.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Tall Trees, a cocktail bar and live music venue in Cambridge, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
The Free Press
27.0 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 LAB
27.1 km
Discover The LAB in Cambridge, a cocktail bar where creativity meets flavor, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly