Impcam two

Verified Slow Way

Verified by 100.00% of reviewers

This is a great way to get between Impington and Cambridge.

I walked it as part of a loop to review both this route and Impcam One. I understand why other people have given it less stars... and if the review was out of 7 I would have given it 6... but this is a good urban Slow Way route that's got long sections that are traffic free and there are plenty of Cambridge delights to enjoy too.

If you live in Impington and need to go into Cambridge, I'd recommend walking this way for sure.

This route is slightly longer compared to Impcam 1, however it follows a more pleasant route, including a stretch of footpath/cyclepath along the guided busway, and quiet residential streets and green spaces through Cambridge. It is paved for the whole length and accessible, with no steps (bridge across the River Cam includes a ramp section).

3 stars due to the largely urban route and greater length than Impcam one. The route is entirely pavement, some of it a shared pedestrian cyclist route running alongside the guided busway that links Cambridge with St Ives.

There is a gentle climb from the north bank of the Cam but it is then almost entirely flat. The extra distance compared to Impcam One may not be worth it; the main difference is that you get to experience a bit more of Cambridge’s 60s/70s suburbia and see a little bit of countryside from the guided busway.

The route leaves the old mediaeval core of Cambridge via Thomson’s Lane however it is worth turning just before St Clement's Church and walking down the charmingly picturesque Portugal Place instead.

The route crosses the Cam at Jesus Lock that raises boats up to the last navigable part of the river. Look out for the outdoor lido hidden behind the old lock keeper's cottage.

Once you reach Stretten Avenue you are following the route of an old Roman Road known as Akeman Street. Strange to think legionaries once tramped along these same suburban streets.

You then cross into the King’s Hedges estate, developed by the city council in the 1960s and 70s.

Crossing King’s Hedges Road you cut through next to the strikingly modern Future Business Centre to meet the guided busway.

Before following the busway it is worth taking a moment to look up Starr End to see a small co-housing development called Marmalade Lane. The design was developed by local architects - Mole - in collaboration with the prospective residents, and includes a shared common house where neighbours can cook, socialise, and accommodate visitors. No fossil gas is used, instead electrical heat pumps located next to the front doors keep the houses warm.

The rest of the way follows the route of the guided busway that connects Cambridge with St Ives along the line of an old railway. Concrete kerbs hold buses in position allowing them to travel at higher speed.

Impington/Histon are well served by a number of pubs. Histon has a lovely village green complete with duckpond and a nearby Co-op and post office.

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