Godmanchester stretches along the Great River Ouse and was originally the point at which many important roads in the county crossed; the Via Devana from Colchester to Chester and Ermine Street which linked London to York. Originally a Roman Settlement, the pentagonal layout of the town remains today and its grand buildings reflect its historic importance.
The town is linked to
Huntingdon by a medieval stone bridge which crosses the Great River Ouse. At the centre of the town is an 18th century Island Hall that was built for the Receiver General for Huntingdonshire, and has a Chinese Bridge and Ornamental Island. Groups can visit the bridge and island by prior appointment from May to September.
There are also two designated conservation areas within the town, incorporating many of its timber framed buildings and Tudor Farm, the most important of timber framed building. This makes for a pleasant afternoons walk and wonder at what life was like when they were built.
The town has a quaint village feel to it and looks beautiful in the summer as you walk along the river bank. Close by is
Portholme Meadow, one of the largest natural water meadows in the country,
Godmanchester Gravel Pits which is now a nature reserve and
Wood Green Animal Centre, which houses an array of animals for visitors to see.
