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Parks #4 in Cambridge

Jesus Green

4.6 · 4,592 reviews
Active and communal riverside green space.
Jesus Green, Cambridge CB5 8BL, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The outdoor swimming pool measures 100 yards long, making it significantly larger than a standard Olympic-sized pool.

2

The park was laid out in 1892 as a direct result of the Cambridge Corporation's efforts to provide a riverside leisure area for the growing town.

3

The tree-lined avenues of London planes were planted in the 19th century and are now mature, providing substantial canopy cover.

4

The site hosts a portion of the Cambridge Midsummer Fair, one of the oldest travelling fairs in England dating back to 1211.

5

The swimming pool is one of the few remaining examples of an open-air 'lido' in the UK that is still heated and open to the public.

Overview

Jesus Green is a historic 26-acre Victorian park situated along the River Cam in central Cambridge. The park features a large outdoor public swimming pool, which is one of the oldest and largest in the United Kingdom. Recreational facilities include tennis courts, a bowling green, and a play area for children. It serves as a central hub for communal events, including the Cambridge Midsummer Fair. The park's landscape is characterized by its large avenue of mature London plane trees and extensive open grass areas. A narrow-gauge railway track, no longer in use, once ran nearby, adding to the site's historical footprint. The park connects seamlessly to the neighbouring Midsummer Common. It is maintained by the local city council as a public green space.

Photo spot

The riverside path looking toward the historic bridges, or under the mature London plane tree canopy.

Insider tips

Bring a picnic blanket, as the open lawns are popular spots for relaxation during warm weather.

Check local council notices before visiting for information on seasonal pool openings and event-specific closures.

The path along the river edge is ideal for a gentle walk, but it can be congested with cyclists during peak hours.

What to avoid

Avoid entering the River Cam directly from the park banks, as swimming in the river is discouraged due to water quality and boat traffic.

Good to know

The outdoor swimming pool is seasonal and typically operates from spring through early autumn.

Etiquette

Public swimming rules apply at the pool; standard park etiquette regarding litter and noise levels is expected.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-3 hours
Best time to visit
Summer afternoons, when the outdoor pool is open and the riverside environment is most vibrant.
Address
Jesus Green, Cambridge CB5 8BL, United Kingdom
52.211, 0.123
Get directions
Details
AmenitiesOutdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, bowling green, and children's play area.
LandscapeRiverside setting with mature London plane tree avenues.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Summer afternoons, when the outdoor pool is open and the riverside environment is most vibrant..

The riverside path looking toward the historic bridges, or under the mature London plane tree canopy.

Close by you'll find The Fitzwilliam Museum, Parker's Piece, Midsummer Common.