Historic Huntingdon
The town is perhaps best well-known as the birthplace of Oliver Cromwell, whose life began here in 1599. Already by then, Huntingdon was a thriving centre of commerce, and this wealth and heritage are reflected in the town's beautiful buildings.
Start your journey through time in Huntingdon's ancient Market Square. From here you will be able to see the Town Hall, a majestic building built in 1745. For more information on the town's famous son, pop in to the Cromwell Museum, which is free of charge and offers a fascinating insight into the man who changed the course of England's history.
There is further evidence of Cromwell's legacy at the old Falcon Inn, another lovely old building on the square. Though it is no longer used as a public house, this building was Cromwell's main headquarters during the English Civil War.
If you want to experience what Huntingdon might have been like in the Middle Ages, there is still a weekly market held not far from the square. The modern Huntingdon Market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday between 08:00 and 16:00, although the wares on offer have probably changed a bit since Cromwell's time, in case you want to pick up a new sword.
River Ouse
No trip to Huntingdon is complete without an appreciation of the serene beauty of the River Ouse. There is a lovely park called Riverside Park that runs along the Ouse and is the perfect spot for a summer afternoon picnic. The park follows on to a path that turns into a sumptuous tree-lined nature trail.
You must, of course, also take a walk across Huntingdon Bridge and into the neighbouring town of Godmanchester. The 14th-century bridge was made out of local stone and does much to augment the romance of the town.
Inns aplenty
There is no need to hunt for a place of refuge in Huntingdon, as the town still retains many of its historic inns. The George Hotel was once owned by Cromwell's grandfather and has been serving up warm plates of delicious food ever since.
Another must-visit is the Market Inn, reachable by an alley from Market Square. The Inn still has its original Tudor upper storey and offers the opportunity for a pint to remember in an unbelievable setting.
