Family-Friendly Activities Near Cambridge

Wicken Fen Nature Reserve

Just a short drive from Cambridge, Wicken Fen offers families a chance to step into the fens as they were centuries ago. Wide boardwalks and family‑friendly trails wind through reedbeds and wildflower meadows, where dragonflies dart and water voles peek from burrows. In summer, you can book a guided punt trip along the Old Bedford River, learning about the reserve’s restoration while spotting rare birds. Picnic tables by the visitor centre invite you to linger under the shade of ancient willow trees before tackling the Fen Edge Trail, which is stroller‑friendly and dotted with interactive information panels perfect for curious youngsters.

Imperial War Museum Duxford 

For little pilots—and big ones—Duxford is a must‑visit. Britain’s largest aviation museum sprawls across a former WWII airfield, with hangars packed full of Spitfires, Hurricanes and even a Concorde. Summer weekends often feature ‘Raising the Roof’ events, where families can enjoy hands‑on activities: try on replica uniforms, explore flight simulators, or build and test your own model aeroplanes. On warmer days, stretch out on the grass by the runway café and watch historic aircraft take off and land. The museum’s family trails and activity backpacks keep children engaged, and under‑5s go free.

Audley End House & Gardens 

Audley End’s grand Jacobean mansion feels made for summer days out. Inside, costumed interpreters guide children through servants’ quarters and kitchens, offering a taste of Tudor‑era life. Outside, the walled gardens spill out into wide lawns perfect for frisbee or family croquet—sets are available to borrow from the courtyard. Little ones will delight in the play area, where wooden fortresses and mazes encourage imaginative play, while adults can wander the Capability Brown landscape park, admiring sweeping vistas back to the house.

Anglesey Abbey, Gardens & Lode Mill 

Anglesey Abbey combines history, horticulture and a working watermill, all within easy reach of Cambridge. The 12‑acre Walled Garden is a summer spectacle, alive with roses and herbaceous borders; children can follow the “garden detective” trail to spot hidden sculptures and wildlife. A gentle riverside stroll leads to the 18th‑century Lode Mill, where you can watch flour being milled as you learn about the Abbey’s monastic origins. Family‑friendly cycling routes extend along the River Cam; bike hire is available on site for toddlers through to teenagers.

Ely Cathedral & Riverside 

A quick train ride from Cambridge takes you to “the Ship of the Fens,” Ely, where the soaring towers of the cathedral dominate the skyline. Families can climb the Octagon Tower for panoramic views or join one of the cathedral’s summer storytelling sessions in the cloisters. After exploring, head to the riverside green, where playgrounds, café kiosks and miniature train rides await. You can also hire punts or kayaks on the Great Ouse, gliding past weeping willows and geese—an idyllic way to end any day.

Each of these day trips brings summer sunshine and fresh discoveries for all ages. Whether you’re chasing butterflies at Wicken Fen, imagining life on an airfield at Duxford, or marveling at cathedral spires in Ely, you’ll find just as much to delight as in Cambridge itself—plus the spacious gardens, riverside paths, and open skies that make the English summer truly special. Pack sun hats, water bottles and a sense of wonder, and set off to explore the treasures that lie just beyond the city.