Godmanchester Figure of Eight (19.5 miles)
Details
Note there’re already 20+ sign ups for this event from the WhatsApp group. The sign up on Meetup is for non-members, who are not part of the WhatsApp group yet. Any current members will sign up through the WhatsApp group. This route is planned by a club member who is not in Meetup anymore but will be co-leading the walk.
Summary
Leg 1 (11.5 miles): Head out on farm tracks over a gentle hill, passing ancient elms and a historic boundary post before stopping for village coffee. We then follow the Ouse Valley Way through woods and scrubland to Portholme—the UK’s largest water meadow.
Leg 2 (8.5 miles): Traversing Godmanchester Nature Reserve and floodplain meadows, we reach Houghton Mill and follow the Thicket Path to St Ives. After crossing its rare 15th-century bridge chapel, we pass the "Green Knowe" house in the Hemingfords and return along a former railway line.
(Pubs available in Godmanchester, St Ives, and the Hemingfords; bus stop by the Black Bull.)
Logistics
Meet at Drummer Street bus station by 8:25 AM, take X3 to Huntingdon at 8:35, and get off at Church Place bus stop (~50 minutes ride). X3 returns to Cambridge twice hourly until 6pm then 19:05, 21:00. Free parking for car drivers in Mill Yard car park also called Post St car park PE29 2AQ.
Bring
Packed lunch, snacks, water (1.5 to 2 liters), walking kit, hiking boots, waterproof jacket and warm layers.
Reminder If you are unable to attend, please update your RSVP to allow someone else on the waiting list to join.
Terrain
A flat, low-lying walk following river paths, farm tracks, and open water meadows, with gentle terrain throughout. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a9cS3juzwS3-Ya1F8UsbhFtMAOyoaByS/view?usp=sharing
Please inform the walk leader if you are leaving before the walk is finished.
We respect nature and people and follow the countryside code: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code/the-countryside-code-advice-for-countryside-visitors
Join the club
Set up a recurring £1 monthly fee. This helps cover admin costs and fund trips for the club. After the walk, the walk organisers will share the details of the club bank account. On receipt of payment, newcomers will be added to the club Whatsapp group by the club organiser.
Disclaimer
This hike is organized by a volunteer-driven group. By participating in this event, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. The organizers, volunteers, and associated parties are not liable for any injuries, accidents, or damages that may occur during the hike. Your participation indicates your acceptance of these terms.