Midsummer Common
Common land on the river Cam, site of a fair chartered in 1211 and a fireworks night.
Midsummer Common is a stretch of common land running along the Cam's southern side, north-east of the city centre. Houseboats are often moored along its edge, while across the water stand the boathouses of most of the University colleges.
A fair since 1211
The Midsummer Fair here was chartered by King John in 1211. It began as a trade fair whose income supported Barnwell Priory, and in the 1500s the town authorities took over the rights. During the 1700s it was nicknamed the Pot Fair after the china sold there. Over time it has turned into a funfair. The common itself is registered under the Commons Registration Act 1965, though Cambridge City Council refers to it as a park.
Events and grazing
Other regular large gatherings include the May Day fair, the Strawberry Fair and the 5 November fireworks, which draw crowds of around 25,000. Cattle returned in 2007 when Red Poll bullocks were introduced after a gap of several years, though grazing alongside events has been debated. Butt's Green, once used for archery butts, is a quieter part with more varied plant life.
Practical notes
Victoria Avenue divides the common from Jesus Green, which was cut off from it in 1890. The riverside here is home to the Fort St George pub and the restaurant Midsummer House. The field is open all year, but large events can limit access.
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
