Histon

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the peaceful charm of Histon, a quaint village just a stone's throw away from Cambridge, UK. If you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a rich cultural experience, then Histon is the perfect destination for you. This guide provides a detailed overview of the village's population, number of schools, accommodation options, dining experiences, and a range of activities and attractions to explore. 

Population

Histon is a village located in Cambridgeshire, England, with a population of approximately 10,000 people. The population has been steadily increasing in recent years, as Histon has become an increasingly popular place to live for those who work in Cambridge.

In terms of age range, Histon has a relatively diverse population. There is a significant number of families with young children, as well as a growing number of retirees who are attracted to the village's peaceful and picturesque setting.

In terms of ethnicity, Histon is relatively homogenous, with the majority of the population being white British. However, there is a small but growing minority population, with people from a range of different ethnic backgrounds.

Schools

Histon is home to several primary and secondary schools, making it an ideal location for families with children. There are currently four primary schools in the village: Histon and Impington Infant School, Histon and Impington Junior School, St. Andrew's CofE Primary School, and The Orchard Primary School. All of these schools have received good or outstanding Ofsted ratings, ensuring that children in Histon receive a high-quality education.

For secondary education, there is Impington Village College, a comprehensive school that caters to students between the ages of 11 and 18. Impington Village College has been rated as outstanding by Ofsted and offers a range of academic and vocational courses, as well as a thriving extracurricular program.

In addition to the primary and secondary schools, Histon is also home to a number of preschools and nurseries, including Little Owls Nursery and Histon Early Years Centre.

Accommodation

One of the most popular hotels in Histon is the Holiday Inn Express Cambridge, which is conveniently located just a short drive from both Histon and Cambridge city centre. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Another great option for accommodation in Histon is the Red Lion Inn, a historic pub that offers a range of rooms and suites. The Red Lion Inn has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, with traditional English decor and a roaring fire in the winter months. The pub also offers a menu of classic British dishes, as well as a selection of real ales and other drinks.

For those who prefer self-catered accommodation, there are also a number of holiday cottages and apartments available for rent in and around Histon. These range from cosy one-bedroom cottages to spacious family homes, and offer the freedom and flexibility to explore Histon and the surrounding area at your own pace.

Accommodation

Histon is a small village located near Cambridge, and while there are not many hotels in the immediate area, there are a number of options available within a short drive or bus ride.

One of the top hotels in the area is the Cambridge Belfry Hotel, which is located approximately 15 minutes away from Histon by car. This modern hotel features spacious rooms with comfortable furnishings, an indoor pool, sauna and fitness center, as well as a restaurant and bar. The hotel is located in a peaceful location and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Another option for a weekend getaway in Histon is the Rectory Farm, which is located approximately 10 minutes away from the village. This bed and breakfast features cozy rooms with comfortable furnishings and picturesque views of the countryside. The farm also offers guests the opportunity to interact with the animals on site, such as pigs, chickens, and sheep.

For those looking for a more unique and personalized experience, there are also several vacation rental options available in Histon and the surrounding area. These range from small cottages to large homes, and offer guests the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace.

Restaurants

Histon has a small but vibrant dining scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious food from around the world. Here are some of the top places to try during your weekend getaway:

1. The Boot: This cozy pub and restaurant serves up classic British dishes with a modern twist. The menu includes favorites such as fish and chips, as well as more inventive dishes like venison pie and vegetarian wellington.
2. The Crown and Punchbowl: Located in nearby Horningsea, this gastropub offers a range of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce available.
3. The Raj: If you're in the mood for Indian food, The Raj is a great option. This family-run restaurant offers a range of dishes, from spicy curries to mild kormas, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
4. Chiang Mai Kitchen: For Thai food lovers, Chiang Mai Kitchen is a must-visit. This cozy restaurant serves up classic dishes such as pad thai and green curry, as well as more unusual options like crispy pork belly and papaya salad.
5. The Geographer: This cafe and bar serves up a range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as an extensive drinks menu. The Geographer is known for its great coffee and cozy atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Proximity to Cambridge

Histon is located just 4 miles north of Cambridge, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Here are some transportation options for getting to Cambridge from Histon:

1. Bus: There are regular bus services from Histon to Cambridge, with buses departing every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and tickets can be purchased onboard or in advance from the bus company's website.
2. Car: If you have access to a car, the journey from Histon to Cambridge takes just 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. There are several car parks in the city center where you can park for a fee.
3. Bicycle: Cambridge is a bike-friendly city and there are several cycle paths that connect Histon to the city center. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike from one of the many cycle hire shops in Cambridge and explore the city on two wheels.

Once you arrive in Cambridge, there are plenty of things to see and do. Here are some suggestions for day trips:

1. Visit the colleges: Cambridge is famous for its historic colleges, which are open to visitors for a fee. Take a walking tour of the colleges or explore them on your own.
2. Explore the museums: Cambridge is home to several museums, including the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, and the Whipple Museum of the History of Science.
3. Go punting: Punting is a popular activity in Cambridge, and there are several companies that offer punting tours along the River Cam. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history and architecture.
4. Visit the Botanic Garden: The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the garden's 40 acres of landscaped grounds and glasshouses, which are home to thousands of plant species from around the world.

Histon offers the perfect weekend getaway destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing break. With its friendly community, stunning surroundings, and proximity to Cambridge, you won't want to leave! So pack your bags, and get ready to experience the best that Histon and Cambridge have to offer.