Top 5 places to live in Cambridgeshire

From towns and cities paved with cobbled streets to modern conurbations with all the amenities you want for modern living, Cambridgeshire is a perfect combination of old and new with lots of activities available.

And in case you’re thinking of moving to this wonderful county, we’ve identified 5 of the best places to live in Cambridgeshire.

 

Punting on the River Cam and Trinity Bridge

 

Living in Ely

It might be a surprise that Cambridge isn’t at the top of a list of best places to live in Cambridgeshire, but that’s a testament to the beauty and charm of Ely.

With a riverside that offers glorious walks, a plethora of bars, restaurants and coffee shops to frequent, a nature reserve to explore, and a host of boutiques to browse through, Ely offers something for everyone.

Our Hopkins Homes development in St James’ Park is an exceptional new community offering a superb range of properties from one-bedroom to five-bedroom homes across a variety of styles and designs.

Here’s an insight into some of the key features of living in Ely:

  • Good transport links
  • Scenic beauty
  • Local shopping and dining options
  • Cultural attractions
  • Great schools
Ely Cathedral

 

Living in Cambridge

Cambridge needs little introduction, thanks to a world-famous university that saw such movers and shakers as Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin and Sir David Attenborough saunter through its cloistered corridors.

But it’s a city that’s much more than its university. The Cambridge Science Park attracts some of the finest minds from the world to help build a better, more sustainable and healthier world.

Let’s explore what the benefits of living in Cambridge are:

  • Excellent educational facilities
  • Rich history
  • Great transport links
  • Quality restaurants and cafes
  • Riverside activities
Jesus Green, Cambridge

 

Living in Melbourn

A large village to the south-west of Cambridgeshire, Melbourn is defined by its traditional charm that once saw more thatched cottages than any other village in England.

As times have moved on, so too have the homes built here, but there’s still plenty of idyllic character in this delightful village.

In fact, as one of the best places to live in Cambridgeshire, we’ve built our Kingley Grove development here. And we know a thing or two about beautiful places to live.

Here’s why we think living in Melbourn is a must:

  • Village charm
  • Close to Cambridge
  • Local amenities
  • Fantastic transport links
  • Rich in history

 

Living in Alconbury

Alconbury is a village located in Cambridgeshire, England. It’s historically significant for hosting RAF Alconbury, a Royal Air Force base with notable roles in World War II and the Cold War.

In recent years, Alconbury has seen development, particularly with the Alconbury Weald project, transforming the former airfield into a residential and commercial area. This development includes new homes, schools, and business spaces, making it a growing community.

One of the new developments in this growing community includes our own Alconbury Weald new build homes.

Here’s why Alconbury is in our top 5 places to live:

  • A rural setting
  • Great schools
  • Close proximity to cities
  • Good transport links
  • Plenty of local amenities
Great Ouse at Old Town bridge Huntingdon Cambridgeshire

 

Living in Soham

Soham is a small town in Cambridgeshire, known for its rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. It’s famous for its historic church, St. Andrew’s, and the Soham rail disaster of 1944.

The town has a close-knit community feel and offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities.

Soham’s rural setting provides a peaceful atmosphere, yet it’s conveniently located near larger cities like Ely and Cambridge, offering residents a balance of country and city life.

If you’re sold on this historic town, take a look at our fantastic new build development in Soham ‘Miller’s Gate’.

Here’s why you should choose to live in Soham:

  • Natural surroundings
  • A range of shops, restaurants and pubs
  • Great schools
  • Good transport links
  • Plenty of historical landmarks
Scenic View Of Soham

 

FAQs

Where is the best place to live in Cambridgeshire?

The “best” place to live can depend on personal preferences, such as proximity to work, schools, or lifestyle choices. Cambridge itself is often highly regarded for its rich history, cultural offerings, and prestigious university. For those preferring quieter areas, towns like Ely offer a blend of history, charm, and community feel.

Where is the safest place to live in Cambridgeshire?

Safety is a priority for many when choosing where to live. Generally, rural areas and smaller towns tend to have lower crime rates. Places like Melbourn and some villages around Cambridge are often considered safe with a strong sense of community.

Where is the most affluent part of Cambridgeshire?

Affluence in Cambridgeshire is often associated with areas in and around Cambridge, due to the influence of the university and the tech and biotech industries. South Cambridgeshire villages, like Grantchester and Madingley, are known for their affluence as well.

Why is Cambridgeshire expensive to live in?

The cost of living in Cambridgeshire, especially in Cambridge, is high due to several factors. The presence of the University of Cambridge attracts a global academic community, driving demand for housing.

Is living in Cambridgeshire worth it?

Whether living in Cambridgeshire is worth it or not largely depends on individual circumstances and preferences. The region offers a mix of urban and rural living, prestigious educational institutions, historical significance, and cultural richness.

Take a look at Hopkins Homes’ guide for the best things to do in Cambridgeshire.