Huntingdonshire's market towns are special places steeped in history. To unlock their secrets, take a walk with a Huntingdonshire Town Guide or follow the town trails. Enjoy lazy summer Sunday afternoons listening to free concerts, or the bustle of shopping in the town centres. Take a break from browsing and enjoy the varied cuisines on offer in the towns.

Huntingdon and Godmanchester

Huntingdon and Godmanchester are separated by attractive water meadows and linked by a beautiful 14th century road bridge over the River Great Ouse. Godmanchester was a major settlement in the Roman era. It became one of England's first boroughs in 1212. Today, you can enjoy a stroll through its historic streets. Make sure you pause at the picturesque millpond spanned by the Chinese Bridge and framed by willows.

Huntingdon grew up around a river crossing on the Great Ouse. The Riverside Park is a perfect spot to relax and watch boats passing by. In the 18th century, Huntingdon prospered as a staging post on the Great North Road. Today, in the summer you can enjoy Shakespearean plays in the courtyard of The George Hotel, a former coaching inn. History lovers can visit the fascinating Cromwell Museum, Oliver Cromwell's former school.

St Ives

St Ives originally developed from a 7th century ford on the River Great Ouse. Today, a 15th century stone bridge still spans the river. At its centre is the tiny chapel of St Leger. It is one of only four surviving bridge chapels in England. From the bridge there are lovely views of the quayside. It is an ideal place to linger and admire boats and swans bobbing on the water.

Ramsey

Ramsey grew up around its Abbey, founded at the edge of The Fens. This fertile land gives the town a rich agricultural heritage. Today, Ramsey retains a lovely rural air. Clustered around the smooth lawns of Abbey Green are the Almshouses and the Parish Church of
St Thomas à Becket and the remains of the Abbey Gatehouse. Church Green, another tranquil area complete with duck pond, is also a perfect place to see different architectural styles.

St Neots

The town of St Neots is named after St Neot, a Saxon monk. The visiting pilgrims brought trade to the community and the town was granted a charter in 1130. Today, the newly refurbished market square is still the town's centrepiece. Visit the St Neots Museum for more insight into the town's history. Complete your visit by taking a walk by the riverside. Riverside Park, Priory Park and The Common all create a pleasant rural ambience. Fine riverside views can also be enjoyed on board the Priory Belle, which offers river trips on summer weekends and Bank Holidays.