The River Cam (a historic waterway for punting)
The River Cam (which flows through the city of Cambridge) was originally called the River Granta, only renamed when the city of Cambridge changed its name from Grantabrycge (more difficult to say!)
It’s still called ‘Granta’ upstream of Silver Street Bridge. The scenic stretch behind Cambridge University is called ‘the Backs’.
Years ago, the river was a vital navigation route, and today is managed by a local conservation organisation. The area has a community of ‘camboaters’ who live on houseboats along the river.
Punting on the River Cam
We of course know it for being the place where students go punting (more difficult than it looks). This 100-year old tradition uses over 300 licensed boats with around 1 million people each year taking part.
From the boats, people can view historic likes like the Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge.
Originally used to carry cargo, punt became a leisure activity in the early 1900s. Punts have no keel, so they are stable in shallow water (but difficult to keep straight for beginners!) You have to use a 15 foot wooden or metal pole, but this is good for wildlife, as there are no engines (punting companies are used to simply navigating around passing swans).
The tours operate in all weathers, with most carrying blankets and umbrellas for passengers! Some companies allow well-behaved dogs (who obviously need to be kept safe with leashes/lifejackets and away from wildlife.
Always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and toxic plants/trees) and on leads near birds, barnyard friends and wild ponies.
