Attractions and Places To See around Upton and Coppingford - Top 20

The area is rich in history. You can visit the site of the Upton Medieval Village and C17 Garden Earthworks, a Scheduled Monument showcasing an abandoned medieval settlement. Don't miss St Margaret's Church in Upton, a Grade II* listed building. In Coppingford, the Coppingford Manor House dates back to around 1200, and the site of the Hermitage in Coppingford Wood offers archaeological interest. Further afield, the Godmanchester Medieval Bridge is a notable 14th-century structure.

For excellent wildlife opportunities, visit the Wildlife Sanctuary Lake, known for birds and attractive waterside walks. The Wildlife Lake Bird Hide at Hinchingbrooke Country Park is perfect for observing various bird species like cormorants, herons, and terns. Upton also has the Upton Nature Garden, a wildlife-friendly space, and Upton Wood for woodland walks.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Wildlife Sanctuary Lake and the Wildlife Lake Bird Hide are great for nature-loving families. Nearby, Hinchingbrooke Country Park offers open grasslands, woodlands, lakes, and play areas. Hamerton Zoo Park, a short drive away, provides a diverse collection of animals for a fun day out.

A truly unique landmark is Holme Posts. These posts, once level with the ground, now stand about 4m above it, marking the lowest land point in Great Britain and illustrating the land subsidence after Whittlesey Mere was drained. For scenic views, Belton's Hill offers a viewpoint, though it's a challenging climb.

The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Broken Chain Tensioner loop from Sawtry' or 'Prestley Wood loop from Huntingdonshire'. For cycling, Upton Wood is suitable, and there are gravel biking routes such as the 'Grafham Water loop from Grafham'. Find more details and routes on the hiking guide and gravel biking guide for Upton and Coppingford.

Yes, there are several easy walking trails. Examples include the 'Broken Chain Tensioner loop from Sawtry' (6.6 km), 'Wennington Thatched Cottages loop from Abbots Ripton' (5.2 km), and 'Prestley Wood loop from Huntingdonshire' (4.1 km). These are generally considered easy and are great for a leisurely stroll. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty, especially around the Wildlife Sanctuary Lake, where many find it a peaceful place to reset and enjoy the sounds of nature. The historical significance of sites like Holme Posts also captivates those interested in local heritage and unique landmarks.

Absolutely. Hinchingbrooke Country Park in Huntingdon is a popular choice, offering open grasslands, woodlands, lakes, and play areas, perfect for wildlife spotting and walks. Further afield, Ferry Meadows Country Park in Peterborough is another expansive option for outdoor activities.

Beyond the local historical sites, you can explore significant regional heritage. Houghton Mill, a National Trust property, is a historic working watermill on the River Great Ouse. The Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon is dedicated to Oliver Cromwell. For grander architecture, Longthorpe Tower showcases important 14th-century wall paintings, and Apethorpe Palace, a former royal residence, boasts one of the country's most complete Jacobean interiors.

While many trails are easy, Belton's Hill offers a challenging climb for cyclists, with gradients reaching over 14%. For hikers seeking more moderate routes, the 'Old School Hall – Through the Farm Fields loop from Sawtry' is an option. The area's varied terrain provides opportunities for different fitness levels.

At the Wildlife Lake Bird Hide, you can spot a variety of species including cormorants, herons, terns, teal, wigeon, coot, moorhen, great crested grebe, and even great crested newts. It's recommended to bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.