River Cam

The River Cam flows through Cambridge in eastern England, joining the River Great Ouse south of Ely. It begins near Widdington in Essex and runs for about 69 kilometres to its confluence. The river is navigable for punts, small boats and rowing craft, with a total distance of roughly 40 miles from Cambridge to the sea. The Cam has been managed by the Conservators of the River Cam since 1702 to keep it navigable. Two locks, Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock, control water levels in and around Cambridge. The stretch between these locks is popular for rowing and home to a community of residential boats called the Camboaters. The river’s name comes from the city, though its original name was the Granta. Visitors often walk along the Backs, where the river passes beneath college walls. This section offers views of elegant bridges, green lawns and willows. Above Jesus Lock, the river flows through Grantchester meadows to the village of Grantchester and Byron’s Pool. The river can also be followed upstream to Audley End House, where it adds to the stately home’s setting.