Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
East Of England
Cambridgeshire
South Cambridgeshire

Elsworth

Attractions and Places To See around Elsworth - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Elsworth include a variety of historical sites, natural features, and dedicated cycle paths. The region offers opportunities to explore historical landmarks and enjoy outdoor activities. Elsworth is characterized by its flat terrain, making it suitable for cycling and walking. Visitors can discover both man-made structures and natural landscapes.

Best attractions and places to see around Elsworth

  • The most popular attractions is Houghton Mill, a historical site that is the last remaining working watermill on the River Great Ouse. This National Trust property has a history spanning nearly 1,000 years and offers insights into its operation.
  • Another must-see spot is Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path, a cycle way that follows a former rail line converted into a guided bus lane. This path runs parallel to the busway, offering a flat and car-free connection through pleasant countryside and picturesque villages.
  • Visitors also love Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path, a long, smooth, and straight cycle way. This path allows for speed sections, though some southern sections near Histon and Cambridge can be busy with pedestrians.
  • Elsworth is known for its historical sites, cycle paths, and natural lakes. The region provides a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities to explore.
  • The attractions around Elsworth are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 180 upvotes and 9 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: August 30, 2026

Houghton Mill

Highlight • Historical Site

This is the last remaining working watermill on the River Great Ouse. A mill has been here for nearly 1,000 years and is currently cared for by the National Trust. You have to be a member or pay to look around the building but it is well worth it as the hosts are very knowledgeable and helpful. The car park is £2.50 a day for non-members. 2025 - There is now a time limit for parking for members and I dont know what the situation/charges are for non members. I park in Godmanchester in the stree for free now and walk the circular walk via the mill.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Please bear in mind the busway is not lit - you'll need to ensure you have lights as there's very little 'surrounding illumination' to see if you're riding the busway at night

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Wimpole's Folly

Highlight • Historical Site

Follies were usually built just to show off the landowners wealth and are not ruins at all. This impressive one at Wimpole Hall was erected in the mid 1770s by the 2nd Earl of Hardwicke, Phillip Yorke. The showpiece gothic tower made for an extravagant place to entertain.

Tip by

Save

Far Fen Lake

Highlight • Lake

Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, Far Fen Lake is recognisable by the island near its eastern shore.

Tip by

Save

St Ives Bridge and Chapel

Highlight • Bridge

St Ives Bridge is a 15th-century bridge crossing the River Great Ouse. It is noted for being one of only four bridges in England to incorporate a chapel, the monks never being one to miss an opportunity to make money, the chapel doubled up as a toll-house. Safe passage is no longer charged for on this bridge.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Elsworth.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Elsworth

Road Cycling Routes around Elsworth

Hiking around Elsworth

Cycling around Elsworth

Running Trails around Elsworth

MTB Trails around Elsworth

Tips from the Community

Bill Riley
August 27, 2025, St Ives Bridge and Chapel

Have a chat to Oliver in the market Square or in Wellington Street.

0

0

Bridge with a chapel

0

0

bewautiful view and car free in-part.

0

0

dipdot123
August 31, 2024, Far Fen Lake

Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.

0

0

Great long stretch to just peddle with a few stops due to roads or pedestrian crossings. Downside it's not well protected/covered against the wind so it is easy for that to slow you down.

0

0

Craig
August 14, 2023, Wimpole's Folly

Easy walk from the National Trust owned Hall and Stable buildings. Great views looking back towards the Hall, and on a good day, back towards Royston

1

0

Nice flat route into Cambridge from Trumpington Park and Ride.

1

0

slueart
February 13, 2023, Far Fen Lake

The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)

Translated by Google

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I visit around Elsworth?

Elsworth is home to several historical attractions. You can explore Houghton Mill, the last remaining working watermill on the River Great Ouse, which has a history spanning nearly 1,000 years. Another notable site is Wimpole's Folly, an impressive gothic tower built in the mid-1770s, offering great views and an insight into historical landscape architecture.

Are there good cycling routes near Elsworth?

Yes, Elsworth is well-suited for cycling. The Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path offers a flat, car-free connection through pleasant countryside and picturesque villages, following a former rail line. Similarly, the Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path provides a long, smooth, and straight route, ideal for speed sections, though some southern parts can be busy with pedestrians.

What natural attractions are there for nature lovers?

Nature enthusiasts can visit Far Fen Lake, part of the RSPB Nature Reserve. This area is a magnet for diverse wildlife, including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans, and geese, with something to see and hear year-round. The River Great Ouse also offers scenic views, particularly around Houghton Mill.

Are there family-friendly activities in the Elsworth area?

Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. The cycle paths, such as the Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path, are safe and car-free. Houghton Mill is a fascinating historical site that engages visitors of all ages, and Wimpole's Folly offers an easy walk with interesting history.

Where can I go for a walk or hike near Elsworth?

Elsworth and its surroundings offer various walking opportunities. You can enjoy easy hikes around the area, with routes like the Overhall Grove loop or the Cambourne Nature Reserve loop. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Elsworth guide, which includes routes ranging from 5 to 7 kilometers.

What outdoor activities are available besides cycling and hiking?

Beyond cycling and hiking, you can find several running trails around Elsworth. Options include moderate routes like the Knapwell Woods – Thorofare Bridleway loop or the Running loop from Papworth Everard. For detailed routes, check the Running Trails around Elsworth guide.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Elsworth?

Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of sites like Houghton Mill, where hosts are knowledgeable and helpful. The cycle paths are praised for being flat, smooth, and car-free, offering a pleasant way to explore the countryside. Nature lovers enjoy the wildlife spotting opportunities at places like Far Fen Lake.

Is there parking available at the main attractions?

Yes, parking is available at some key attractions. At Houghton Mill, there is a car park, though charges may apply for non-members of the National Trust. For Far Fen Lake, parking costs £2 and includes a portaloo and a bin in the car park.

What is the best time to visit Far Fen Lake for wildlife viewing?

Far Fen Lake, part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, offers wildlife viewing opportunities year-round, with otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans, and geese present. However, be aware that in August, trees and weeds might block some views. In winter, the paths can become quite muddy.

Are the cycle paths around Elsworth suitable for all skill levels?

The cycle paths, particularly the Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path, are generally flat, smooth, and car-free, making them suitable for families and segments alike. They are an easy way to get out of Cambridge and are not considered challenging, though some sections can be busy with pedestrians.

Can I find long-distance cycling routes starting from Elsworth?

Yes, you can find longer cycling routes. For example, the Cycling around Elsworth guide lists routes such as the Riverside Park – Buckden Towers loop, which covers over 52 kilometers, and other moderate to easy options for touring cyclists.

Most popular routes around Elsworth

Road Cycling Routes around Elsworth

Most popular attractions around Elsworth

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

BoxworthTevershamFulbournSwaveseyFen DittonMiltonImpingtonBournLittle WilbrahamHorningseaStow-Cum-QuyGreat WilbrahamOrchard ParkStaplefordGreat ShelfordWaterbeachCottenhamHistonGirtonHaslingfieldGrantchesterCotonFowlmereHarstonHauxtonBartonToftMadingleyCombertonBabrahamHardwickHarltonOrwellLandbeachOakington and WestwickLongstantonLolworthFoxtonNewtonBarringtonLittle EversdenGreat EversdenDry DraytonCaldecoteSawstonSheprethLittle ShelfordHinxtonWhittlesfordChilderleyMeldrethRamptonIckletonDuxfordKnapwellKingstonGamlingayThriplowHatleyBar HillPampisfordTadlowMelbournEltisleyPapworth St AgnesGraveleyCroydonGuilden MordenFen DraytonConingtonWhaddonGreat and Little ChishillLittle GransdenArringtonPapworth EverardWimpoleWest WrattingLongstoweGreat AbingtonBassingbourn-Cum-KneesworthHildershamCaxtonShingay-Cum-WendyCambourneHeydonLittle AbingtonAbington PigottsBalshamOverLintonSteeple MordenLitlingtonWillinghamCroxtonBartlowWeston ColvilleCastle CampsCarltonWest WickhamHorseheathShudy Camps

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Papworth Everard

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy