Start at the Cromwell Museum
The Cromwell Museum is small, free to wander round and right on the Market Square, in the old grammar school where Cromwell and Pepys were pupils. Its collection covers Cromwell's life, the Civil Wars and the Commonwealth, and it often runs talks and family activities. Check the museum's own website for current opening days.
Hinchingbrooke Country Park
Run by Huntingdonshire District Council, Hinchingbrooke Country Park covers around 150 acres of grassland, woodland and lakes on Brampton Road. It is the local favourite for dog walks, playgrounds and an easy loop round the water. Parts of the park are being redeveloped, so check the council page for current facilities before you go.
Riverside walks and the Chinese Bridge
The Ouse Valley Way follows the river for 26 miles through Huntingdonshire, from St Neots to Earith, and Huntingdon sits right on it. A short stroll over the old bridge brings you into Godmanchester, where the white Chinese Bridge beside the Causeway leads to the recreation ground. This public footbridge is separate from Island Hall’s private garden bridge. The original was built in 1827; today's bridge is a faithful replacement.
Portholme, the great floodplain meadow between Huntingdon, Godmanchester and Brampton, is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Paths can flood in winter, so take care after heavy rain.
Wildlife at Paxton Pits
A short drive south at Little Paxton, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve has lakes, meadow and woodland that are well known for birdwatching. It makes a good half day with children or a pair of binoculars.
Racing, films and live events
Huntingdon Racecourse, run by the Jockey Club, hosts jump racing near Brampton Hut. In town, Commemoration Hall on the High Street holds concerts, fairs and community events, and Cineworld at Tower Field Park covers new releases.
Day trips to the villages
Hemingford Grey is a lovely riverside village, and its Norman manor house - Lucy Boston's Green Knowe - can be visited by appointment. Buckden, Brampton and the Offords all have pubs and village walks worth the short trip.
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