Godmanchester Water | Credit: Howard Chalkley
Located on the edges of Huntingdon, Godmanchester is a quiet suburban town that has a lot to offer people of all ages. Whether you work in and around London or Cambridge and want an escape from the bustle of city life or would prefer to raise a family surrounded by the beautiful English countryside, Godmanchester could be the perfect match for you.
Huntingdon mainline station with direct access to London is located within cycling distance of Godmanchester as are main road links such as the A1 and A14.
The town has a long and rich history dating back to the Roman era and it is believed to have been occupied continuously for well over 2,000 years. The River Great Ouse runs through its centre which is characterised by the impressive Chinese bridge landmark that was originally built in 1827.
When it comes to house hunting in Godmanchester you’ll find there is plenty of architectural variety on the market, despite the compact, village-feel of the area. There are a number of highly regarded schools located within the town and thanks to its many transport links, travelling into and out of Godmanchester is very straightforward.
More people than ever are looking towards Godmanchester for a practical and affordable housing option away from larger cities and towns, while maintaining an easy commute into Cambridge and Bedford. From stunning townhouses to secluded apartment blocks, there is something for everyone here.
The vast majority of properties sold in Godmanchester are of the semi-detached variety, many featuring at least 3-4 bedrooms, gardens, private parking spaces and spacious interiors. Detached homes are also frequently available on the market, ranging from period-era designs through to modern and new builds.
Houses on the outskirts are located close to the wide-open countryside that spreads out for miles beyond the town, offering residents attractive views and a calm, serene locale. Prices are reasonable and stable, so could be suitable for first-time buyers and families moving to their second of third home. Similarly, Godmanchester is the perfect place for retirees to consider, as the all-round pace is slower, and you can also find 1- or 2-bedroom bungalows to suit downsizing plans, as well as retirement complexes.
The town’s location and easy access offered to nearby cities and towns makes Godmanchester a viable option for younger professionals too. Flats, apartments and maisonettes are regularly listed for sale, some offering wonderful views of the countryside and the River Great Ouse.
There are some lovely scenic locations to explore in and around Godmanchester. At the end of Cow Lane, you’ll find Godmanchester Nature Reserve that covers 59 hectares and sits just to the south of the River Great Ouse. It features four lakes and plenty of grassland with lots of habitat for a variety of wildlife. Godmanchester Riverside is another beautiful spot that has play parks for children and a ferry that travels to and from Brampton Mill, and you can visit the largest wild meadow in England at Portholme.
Godmanchester Community Swimming Pool is fun for a family day out, whilst The Unit Fitness gym is a great local gym, with excellent equipment and personal trainers. One Leisure Centre Huntingdon is a short 7 minutes’ drive away which features a range of different sport and training facilities. This includes squash and netball courts, a sports hall, swimming pool, fitness studios, indoor cycling and a gym.
Hemingford Abbots golf driving range can be found just outside of Godmanchester, where you can practice your swing in any one of the 28 floodlit, undercover bays. Liquid Skillz at Lake Ashmore is also easily reachable in St Ives, offering a wonderful range of water sports fun.
Godmanchester offers an abundance of social events for families of all ages. Whether you are looking at joining in on annual events such as Godmanchester Gala Day, Picnic in the Park, Easter Egg Hunts & Scarecrow Competitions, there is something for everyone.
Godmanchester offers an abundance of social events for families of all ages. Whether you are looking at joining in on annual events such as Godmanchester Gala Day, Picnic in the Park, Easter Egg Hunts & Scarecrow Competitions, there is something for everyone.
The schools in Godmanchester are well-regarded and you’ll find three primary schools situated in the town, with Hinchingbrooke Secondary School located in Huntingdon.
There’s a dentist, doctors and a chemist all nearby too, so getting to and from important health check-ups isn’t a problem.
Pop along to The Exhibition pub and restaurant in town which has a wonderful outdoor garden that is perfect for the summer and an open fire indoors for late autumn and winter. Other pubs of note include The Royal Oak which offers a traditional country setting and The White Hart which features a 15th> century bar, an outdoor garden area and also serves up traditional pub grub. If you want to eat out you can try the local Chinese or Indian restaurant, the always popular fish and chip shop or Pinnies Tea Room for a spot of afternoon tea.