Punting on the river Cam

By Steve Cartwright


The famous Cambridge colleges of Cambridge University are world renowned. Surely the best way to see them is to take a relaxing punt ride with an experienced local guide? A 45 minute round trip takes in the stretch of river from Jesus Green to Silver Street and back again, around 1.5 miles total distance. Along the way are some of Cambridge's most famous sights, including but not limited to King's College Chapel, The Wren Library at Trinity college, the Mathematical Bridge at Queens in addition to numerous university landmarks.

The land along the river banks in the city centre is all owned by the Cambridge colleges and is private property. A consequence of this that visitors are usually unaware of is that it is not possible to walk along the river bank in the city centre. The view of the Cambridge colleges from the river is much better than it is from the narrow streets of Cambridge centre, making a punt tour, the best, if not the only way to get a glimpse into the colleges.

Each Cambridge college charges an admission fee to visitors, the combined cost of which is normally more than the price of a ticket for a punt tour. On top of this, the colleges are often closed to visitors at certain times of the year, such as when the students have exams.

Whilst there are one or two very large and well known punt companies in Cambridge these are not the only option. I prefer to chose the experience and knowledge that a small, independently owned and locally staffed business can provide. The more personal approach really adds to the experience for me.

Almost a decade ago, two punt chauffeurs with many years of experience of punting in Cambridge established their own business - Cambridge River Tour.

When the business was first started they specialised by offering small group tours on the 5 seater punts but they have now expanded their offering to cater for groups of all sizes.

The guides who provide the tours are knowledgeable, experienced, friendly and local all of which means you will have a great time.

You might only make one trip to Cambridge during your life time and punting along the Cam is an absolute must do during your trip. The memories will last you a life time.

Groups of any size can be catered for, from individuals and couples to large tour groups, hen parties and any one else who wants an enjoyable trip along the river.

Although they originally started out specialising in tours on the traditional six person punts, they now use their extensive experience of Cambridge punting to offer trips on the larger twelve seater punts.




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