We are the Cambridge Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Jean M.
The walk starts with a loop through part of Coton Countryside Park before heading towards Madingley, making a detour through the 800 Wood along the way. After a mid-morning stop at Madingley Hall we retrace our steps past the 800 Wood and then go via the American Cemetery before heading back to Coton.
Bring drink/snack for mid-morning break (there is a small café at Madingley Hall).
Any queries about the walk please contact walk leader (Jean):- email jemcamramblers@gmail.com, or mobile 07354 603487
The 800 Wood was planted on land owned by the University farm to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the University of Cambridge in 2009. With over 15,000 trees planted, it was the largest planting project ever undertaken by the University.
Madingley Hall: Building started in 1543. During C18th extensive work transformed it from a panelled Tudor house into a Baroque building, and the medieval village street was closed with the aim of removing the villagers’ houses from sight. In Jan 1861 Edward, Prince of Wales, arrived at Madingley; his mother, Queen Victoria had rented the Hall as a residence for her son whilst he studied at the University; but his stay was brief and his departure sudden, due to Prince Albert’s unexpected death in Dec 1961 (for which the Queen blamed Edward). The Hall was sold in 1948 to Cambridge University for the sum of £50,000; today it is home to the University's Institute of Continuing Education.
Meet at the junction of Whitwell Way and St Peter's Road - shortly after passing Coton church and primary school; post code for the school is CB23 7PW. Street parking available on Whitwell Way (note: currently there are road works near the primary school, but these do not prevent access to Whitwell Way.)
