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Punting on the River Cam

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Taking a punt up the River Cam is one of the quintessential experiences of Cambridge.  The hotspot for this is the area known as the 'Backs' - which are the backs of the colleges.  They can only be viewed from the River and make for spectular viewing.

 

We license the punt operators and you can either hire a small punt and take yourself up the Backs or hire a chauffeur to take you.  We would recommend you use a licensed punt company from one of official punt stations.  

 

The locations can be viewed on our google map:

https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=z5uVck2k-2VI.ko65FLHrI7qE

 

You are not just limited to punting on the Backs - if you take a punt upstream you can enjoy the beautiful section of the River Cam as it winds it way south towards its source.

 

The BBC also has an excellent guide on punting that you can view here (opens in new window).

 

The licensed companies in Cambridge are:

Cambridge Chauffeur Punts

Cambridge Punting Company

Cambridge Punters 

Let's Go Punting

Rutherford's Punting Company 

Scholars Punting Cambridge

Scudamore's Punting

GHL Chauffeur Punts

Traditional Punting Company

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21/05/2024 LOCK CLOSURE INFORMATION

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Due to safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of the lock islands at Baits Bite and Jesus Green, the decision has been taken to temporarily close the locks until further notice. More detailed structural investigations will be undertaken and a plan for remedial works developed urgently. The Conservators are engaging with the Environment Agency and Local Authorities to seek a coordinated approach.

 

Further information: The Conservators of the River Cam are responsible for the navigation (the river) from Mill Pool in Cambridge to Bottisham Lock (Waterbeach) and the locks in between, namely Jesus Green Lock (JGL) in Cambridge and Bait’s Bite Lock (BBL). ​Each lock has an island between the lock chamber and the sluice and weir structures, which it supports. At both Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock, the Conservators own the lock and lock island, while the Environment Agency (EA) own and operate the sluice and weir. In addition, the lock islands support footbridges and public right of way in these locations, which are managed by the relevant Local Authorities.​

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Following observations of cracks in both lock islands, early in 2024 the Conservators of the River Cam commissioned structural surveys.​ The consequent reports identify significant structural fragility in the lock islands and a need for reinforcement work in the short to medium term.​ The Conservators have collectively reviewed the reports and are urgently drawing up a detailed risk assessment, commissioning more detailed surveys, and developing a project plan for remedial works.

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