Cambridgeshire – Fens, Rivers, and Wide Open Skies
Big horizons, slow waterways, and level routes across England’s eastern lowlands
Cambridgeshire is a low-lying county of rivers, fenland, and open farmland in the East of England. Walking routes follow the River Cam, the Great Ouse, and the River Nene, linking Cambridge, Ely, St Ives, and Peterborough across wide, flat ground shaped by drainage channels, fields, and long views rather than hills.
Much of the terrain is level and firm underfoot. Riverside paths, embankments, and quiet lanes allow steady progress for long distances, with few climbs or technical sections. Routes often run beside water or across open farmland, connecting towns, villages, and nature reserves.
Around Cambridge, meadows and commons border the river. Further north, the landscape opens into broad fenland with straight waterways, reedbeds, and agricultural plains. Cathedral cities and market towns sit slightly raised above the surrounding fields, creating clear stopping points along the way.
Settlements are spaced regularly along the rivers, making it easy to move between places on foot while remaining in open countryside.
Trails and Routes Through Cambridgeshire
Ouse Valley Way
A long-distance riverside route following the Great Ouse through meadows, farmland, and quiet towns.
Fen Rivers Way
A multi-day route linking Cambridge with King’s Lynn along the Cam and Great Ouse through open fenland.
Nene Way
A long-distance path following the River Nene through Peterborough and surrounding wetlands.
Wicken Fen and reserve walks
Gentle circular routes through reedbeds and grassland within one of England’s best-known nature reserves.
Walking Character
- Flat fenland and expansive skies
- Riverside paths and embankment walking
- Meadows, farmland, and drainage channels
- Historic towns and cathedral cities along the rivers
- Long distances with minimal ascent
- Quiet, open countryside