Three cities in England with added microgap escapes: South, East and West
21.07.2023 - 08:33
/ roughguides.com
How well do you know England? Like many of us, perhaps not as well as you’d like. To inspire you to explore beyond your normal boundaries this year, we’ve created a list of three cities in England with additional experiences within easy reach, so you can enjoy the best of both town and country in a weekend away. Here’s part one of these suggestions for a satisfying «microgap» – a chance to disconnect and discover something new without travelling too far; three destinations centred on the ever-varied landscapes of the south, east and west of the country.
Cambridge has an idyllic setting on the River Cam and enjoying a punt along the river remains an essential challenge for any visitor. These flat-bottomed craft were once workboats, used by reed-cutters and duck-hunters but can now be rented by anyone brave enough to take on the challenge. We won’t believe you did it unless we see the selfies, though.
This university city is also a delight to walk or bike around, taking in sights such as the much-photographed Bridge of Sighs or joining in a Cambridge Food Tour. With the large student population, you’ll find there is a great choice of places to eat, as well as traditional pubs and quirky cocktail bars. Late night, there’s plenty of appealing clubs, while the Cambridge Corn Exchange has hosted stars such from David Bowie and Queen to the Manic Street Preachers, and also puts on comedy, opera and musicals.
If telling your friends you “studied at Cambridge” appeals, the University of Cambridge lists hundreds of lectures and events open to the public – many of them free. Look out for short courses in subjects such as cookery and wine-tasting, held in Cambridge itself. Also check out our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge and find activities that go beyond the typical Cambridge experience.
The Bridge of Sighs at Saint John's College, Cambridge © Shutterstock
Grantchester needs no introduction for fans of the TV detective series of the same name. It’s a charming village on the banks of the River Cam, popular with university staff and hence reputed to have the world’s highest concentration of Nobel Prize-winners.
Grantchester Meadows is a lovely picnic spot for visitors who punt along the River Cam from Cambridge, a route equally enjoyable by bike or on foot. For the ultimate local experience, enjoy tea at the Orchard Tea Garden where you’ll find a nearby statue of former resident WWI war poet Rupert Brooke.
The No.18 Stagecoach bus runs to Grantchester every hour from Cambridge and takes 15 mins. By car, it’s just 10 minutes from town. The footpath alongside the River Cam is only six miles return, but allow extra time to enjoy the views.
Norwich escaped the great road-building boom of the 1950 and ‘60s,