Grantchester Meadows and the River Cam

The walk from Cambridge to Grantchester follows the River Cam south through Coe Fen and across Lammas Land, then along the riverbank through wide, flat water meadows to the village two miles upstream. This 9.7 km circuit is one of England's most literary walks — Rupert Brooke, Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group all made this same journey — but the appeal is far more than historical. The meadows are genuinely beautiful, the river runs clear and steady alongside for most of the route, and the flood plain grassland attracts herons, kingfishers and large numbers of waterfowl year-round.

This dog friendly walk is a favourite with Cambridge dog owners for good reason. The River Cam is a proper swimming river here — clear water, accessible banks and enough depth for dogs to swim rather than just paddle. The water meadow grass is grazed short in summer, opening up the scent landscape, while the riverbank carries the smell of freshwater and watercress throughout. Off-lead potential is moderate, though leads are needed near grazing livestock in the meadow sections. The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester welcomes dogs with outdoor seating and makes a perfect turnaround point.