Coldham's Common
A 49-hectare local nature reserve of old grassland on the eastern side of the city.
Coldham's Common is a local nature reserve of 49.3 hectares on the eastern side of Cambridge, which Cambridge City Council both owns and looks after. Access is from Coldham's Lane.
Habitats
Much of the site is unimproved grassland, dotted with the mounds of yellow meadow ants, alongside patches of scrub and woodland. Among the plants recorded are spiny restharrow, upright brome and bee orchid, so visits in summer reward a closer look at the grass rather than just a stroll across it.
A long-standing common
The common has deep roots. A field map of 1300 already marks Coldham's Green, and by 1700 it counted as a common green. In the nineteenth century a rifle range was built here, but it did not last: the new railway line to Newmarket displaced it.
Practical notes
There is no admission charge and there are no formal opening hours. A volunteer group, the Friends of Coldham's Common, is listed as a source of further information. Paths vary in surface, so wear sturdy shoes after rain.