Attractions and Places To See around Knapwell - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Knapwell include historical landmarks and natural features within this charming Cambridgeshire village. The area offers insights into its past with ancient wells and church sites, alongside opportunities to explore local woodlands. Visitors can find a mix of historical significance and natural environments.
Best attractions and places to see around Knapwell
- The most popular attractions is Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path, a cycle_way that offers a flat, smooth, and car-free…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path
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Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path
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Wimpole Hall and Gardens
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Wimpole's Folly
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Far Fen Lake
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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Great long stretch to just peddle with a few stops due to roads or pedestrian crossings. Downside it's not well protected/covered against the wind so it is easy for that to slow you down.
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In the winter months guided tours of 45 mins only going every 30 mins (selected times only) and only the ground floor is a accessible.
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Easy walk from the National Trust owned Hall and Stable buildings. Great views looking back towards the Hall, and on a good day, back towards Royston
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Nice flat route into Cambridge from Trumpington Park and Ride.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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** "Folly (literally "foolishness"), plural follies, is an English term in garden design and architecture for an unusual ornamental building, [...] primarily related to landscape gardens in England. The bizarre conspicuousness of the building is intentional, the provocative uselessness of the system is programmatic. [...]" (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folly_(Garden Art)) Over the extensive pasture slopes we climb to the western ridges of the park at oddly grown, ancient willows. The visual axis of the Lindenallee leads the view over to the picturesque Folly in the northern part. Between the "Serpentine Lakes" the "Japanese Bridge" connects the areas of the park. Behind it we climb up to the artificial ruins of the Folly and enjoy the view for a while before the early dawn drives us down the slope back to the entrance.
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"Wimpole Estate" is therefore on the schedule for today, which is cloudy at first and remains cloudy from a weather point of view. The only travel day without sun in the sky leads us first through the premises of Wimpole Hall. (https://artuk.org/visit/venues/national-trust-wimpole-hall-6723) I don't want to dwell on the whole powerful aristocratic fuss here; after all, the British have a much more relaxed relationship with the aristocratic upper class, which has always lovingly enslaved the population. We are not alone in visiting the spacious rooms of the Hall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Knapwell?
Knapwell offers several historical points of interest. You can visit the ancient Old Red Well, known for its chalybeate waters and protected by a red brick well house. The village also features All Saints Church, which retains its original 14th-century tower, and a Norman Motte-and-Bailey Castle Mound, believed to be a small fortification from The Anarchy period. Additionally, Knapwell Farmhouse is a listed building with historical significance.
Are there any notable natural features or woodlands to visit near Knapwell?
Yes, Overhall Grove is a significant natural feature near Knapwell. It's recognized as the largest elm woodland in Cambridgeshire and provides an excellent habitat for insects and birds. Within the grove, you can also find ancient oak trees and the remains of a medieval manor. It's a great spot for appreciating local flora and fauna.
What cycling opportunities are available around Knapwell?
A popular cycling route is the Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path. This former rail line offers a flat, smooth, and car-free connection between Cambridge and St Ives, passing through pleasant countryside and picturesque villages. It's considered safe for families and a great way to cover distance.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Knapwell?
Absolutely. The Wimpole Hall and Gardens estate is a fantastic family-friendly destination, offering extensive grounds, woodlands, parkland, and a farm. Children will especially enjoy Wimpole Holme Farm. Another option is the Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path, which is a safe and easy route for family bike rides.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Knapwell?
There are various walking opportunities around Knapwell. You can explore easy hikes like the Overhall Grove loop or routes around Cambourne Nature Reserve. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Knapwell guide, which lists several routes with varying distances and difficulties.
What is Wimpole's Folly and can I visit it?
Wimpole's Folly is an impressive gothic tower erected in the mid-1770s within the Wimpole Estate. Follies were often built to showcase a landowner's wealth and provide picturesque views. You can visit this historical site, and it offers great views back towards Wimpole Hall.
Are there any places for mountain biking near Knapwell?
Yes, mountain biking trails are available in the wider area. You can find routes like the Banks of the River Ouse – Childerley Hall loop or the Fen Drayton Lakes – Overhall Grove loop. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the MTB Trails around Knapwell guide.
What is the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory?
The Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory (MRAO) is a significant scientific site near Knapwell. It is home to some of the world's largest and most advanced radio telescopes and forms part of the University of Cambridge's Astrophysics department. It's a fascinating example of scientific heritage in the region.
Can I spot wildlife in the Knapwell area?
Yes, Overhall Grove is an excellent location for wildlife spotting. It's known for its diverse insect and bird populations, and you might even spot badgers. In spring, the grove is particularly vibrant with an abundance of songbirds and oxlip flowers.
What is the significance of the Knapwell Village Sign?
The Knapwell Village Sign is a carved wooden sign that depicts local symbols. It features a well head, badgers, and oxlips, reflecting the village's natural and historical elements, including the Old Red Well and the wildlife found in Overhall Grove. The sign also bears the date 1895.
Are there running trails around Knapwell?
Yes, there are several running trails available. Options include loops around Cambourne Nature Reserve, Knapwell Woods, and Moulton Hills Roman Barrows. These trails offer varying distances and moderate difficulty. You can find more details in the Running Trails around Knapwell guide.
What is the history of All Saints Church in Knapwell?
Knapwell has had a church since at least 1180. The current All Saints Church was largely rebuilt in a plain Gothic style in 1864. However, its original 14th-century tower, constructed from field stones dressed with limestone, still stands, offering a glimpse into its long history.
Most popular attractions around Knapwell
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