Author: Hayward Moon
Next up on our blog series about the best places to live in East Anglia, we take a brief look at Cambridge and what the area has to offer for current residents, as well as those considering purchasing a home in the area.
Cambridge is known for its picturesque streets, gardens, architecture and surrounding countryside, the perfect location to sit back and unwind, or spend time exploring the great outdoors.
1. History
The beautiful city of Cambridge was founded in 875AD when the Danish conquered Eastern England.
Cambridge became an essential trading centre during the Roman and Viking ages, and there is archaeological evidence of settlements in the area as early as the Bronze Age.
Cambridge is well known worldwide for its history, particularly Cambridge University, founded in 1209 and granted a royal charter by King Henry III in 1231. Cambridge is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world and the world’s fourth-oldest surviving university.
There are many famous buildings in Cambridge that contain a heap load of history, from King’s College Chapel to the Fitzwilliam Museum. The Cambridge University Library is also one of the largest legal deposit libraries in the world.
2. Education
There are over 250 schools and colleges in Cambridge and in the surrounding areas. Histon and Impington Junior School is one the greatest Junior schools, rated by Ofsted as ‘well above average’, plus many other schools and colleges nearby with a similar reputation.
The universities and colleges in Cambridge are known for being the greatest in the world, and Cambridge has been the educational home of impressive names such as Charles Prince of Wales, Stephen Hawking, Sir David Attenborough and many more.
When studying in a city like Cambridge there are countless opportunities to further your education with numerous after school activities, from sports and music to performing arts and ice-skating.
Did you know? Emma Thompson was educated at Newnham College and the University of Cambridge, where she was part of the theatrical group. Emma is an award-winning actress and has featured in many blockbuster films including Love Actually and Saving Mr Banks.
3. Food & drink
We all know how vibrant the food and drink scene is in Cambridge!
From restaurants and bars, to cafes and everything in between – there is no shortage of brilliant places to go and eat!
With many independent restaurants, bars and cafes, Cambridge is oozing with great food and drink outlets. From high-end cocktail bars such as ‘2648 Cambridge’, to the fine-dining restaurant ‘Trinity’ where the menu includes oysters and champers. This venue will definitely give you a taste of the Cambridge high life!
4. Eco-friendly
Cambridge locals are known for being incredibly environmentally friendly, and in 2004 Cambridge was declared a Fairtrade City by the Fairtrade Foundation.
Many people in Cambridge like to cycle and Cambridge has often been called Britain’s Cycle City. Cambridgeshire is one of the greatest places in the country to cycle. It is relatively flat and has an extensive cycle route network for all ages and abilities to enjoy, which makes a great family day out! Cambridge itself boasts more than 80 miles of cycle lanes.
Cambridge also takes part in an annual ‘Eco-living festival’ which inspires communities to live a low waste lifestyle.
5. Thriving economy
Cambridge is the tech centre of the UK, with an abundance of both web development and biotech talent. With London just a 55-minute train trip away, it couldn’t be better situated, being so close it is hugely beneficial with the capital remaining a key economic hub.
Cambridge is the third best place in the UK to start a business. Why? It has the fastest-growing city economy in the country and that is only set to continue. Cambridge is also home to Google, Facebook, Apple, Amazon and Microsoft, five of the biggest tech companies in the world!
Are you ready to make an offer on a home in beautiful Cambridge? Get in touch with Hayward Moon for a local Conveyancing expert.
