CULTURE EDITION
hether you’re after history, nature or a quaint countryside escape, the areas surrounding Cambridge offer a wealth of destinations to explore. East Anglia has a rich and complex history; it takes its name from the Angles, a Germanic tribe that settled in the fifth and sixth centuries to form the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of East Anglia. This period saw the spread of Christianity, notably through St Edmund, a king of East Anglia who was martyred by Viking invaders in 869 AD. His shrine in Bury St Edmunds became an important medieval pilgrimage site. During the Middle Ages, East Anglia thrived as a centre of wool and cloth trade, particularly in towns such as Lavenham and Norwich, which was once England’s second-largest city. The region played a key role in the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 and later became a Puritan stronghold, producing key historical figures such as Oliver Cromwell. Fabulous Fenland With its magnificent cathedral – known fondly by locals as the ship of the Fens – Ely has breathtaking architecture, riverside walks and the fascinating museum at Oliver Cromwell’s House. Just a short walk from the thriving high street is the River Great Ouse, perfect for a scenic stroll among willow trees fuelled by fare from The Cutter Inn or Peacocks Tearoom with its charming vintage crockery. Nearby, enjoy the superb nostalgia fix offered by Waterside Antiques, its creaky, timbered interior packed to the rafters with treasures from yesteryear. One of the loveliest places to stay locally, just outside the city, is The Old Hall Ely – a beautiful, modernised Jacobean manor house that boasts plenty of Cambridgeshire countryside charm, fine dining and views of the cathedral. Ben’s Yard is another must-visit – an independent retail outlet on the Stuntney Estate, just off the A142; it’s the perfect place to shop, rest and recharge. Escape into Essex A short drive south of Cambridge, Saffron Walden boasts picturesque streets, the stunning Audley End House and Gardens,
STUNNING SIGHTS The ship of the Fens at Ely (top left) and River Great Ouse (left) are just two examples of the beautiful scenery nearby
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