Muddy Stilettos name the 10 best places to live in Cambridgeshire in 2025

The 10 best places to live in Cambridgeshire in 2025 have been named by lifestyle brand Muddy Stilettos. Several places that made the 2025 list have also featured in previous years.

The lifestyle website creates a list of the best places to live each year. The list has been expanded this year to include locations in London, Yorkshire, and Cheshire, with research completed in association with estate agent Knight Frank.

Muddy Stilettos said: "Flat fenland and lively market towns to the north, gorgeous bucolic villages to the east and west and the world-famous historic university city to the south. There's something for everyone in this county of contrasts."

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Abbots Ripton

This 'picture-postcard' Huntingdonshire village made the list thanks to its thatched cottages, pub, and woodland setting with countryside walks, according to Muddy Stilettos. The brand praised commuter links via Huntingdon, saying: "This slice of idyllic country life can be yours to come home to at the end of a day's work in London or Cambridge."

The village is also home to The Elm pub, with a thatched roof and 'excellent' Sunday roast. Other attractions include nearby Johnsons of Old Hurst and the gardens of the Abbots Ripton estate.

Bourn

Bourn made it into the top 10 thanks to its 'community feel', while still being just eight miles from Cambridge city centre. Places to eat and drink in the village include The Willow Tree, Stove Café, and Indian restaurant Lalbagh.

Wellness fans can also enjoy the golf course and spa facilities at the Cambridge Country Club. "If you want to make friends when your move here join one of the 15 or so clubs or associations that take place each week," Bourn's entry said.

Ely

The cathedral city of Ely is much-loved by residents and you can see why. With direct trains to Cambridge and London, it's possible to live in Ely and commute easily to work in either city.

Muddy Stilettos said: "Ely Cathedral is one of the wonders of eastern England and to see this marvel of architecture rising above the flat vista makes living here a daily delight. But Ely isn't just amazing because it's home to The Ship of The Fens. The streets of the bijou town are lined with picture-postcard historic houses and cute little cobbled squares and it lies on the beautiful River Great Ouse, where you can row and walk to your heart's content."

Histon and Impington

These two villages are often paired together because they are neighbours and have a shared community feel. "Histon and Impington marry countryside cottage charm and riverside walks with a buzzing close-to-city vibe, plus commuting into Cambridge is an absolute breeze," according to Muddy Stilettos.

There are plenty of good foodie spots in the villages, including The Station House, Stir, and The Boot. Shops in the villages include The Histon Chop Shop, Barkers Bakery, and Gin House Flowers.

Linton

Linton has featured on previous lists, praised for everything it has to offer both residents and visitors – including a vineyard and a zoo. It is also home to some great pubs, bakeries, and independent shops.

The listing said: "Plenty of ways to make friends and get stuck into village life here with an annual Music Festival and a biennial Children's Book Festival. You’ll find all the regular clubs too including Gardening, Historical, Computer, Whist, Photography… you name it."

Newnham, Cambridge

This Cambridge area has a village feel, while still being a short distance from the city centre. With Grantchester Meadows practically on the doorstep, there are also lots of great walks and green spaces to enjoy.

"There's everything you need for daily life and then some in Newnham. There's a butcher's, a baker's, a gift shop, a florist, a deli, a chemist, and a couple of food shops and convenience stores, plus you're within walking distance of the shopping in Cambridge city centre," Muddy Stilettos said.

St Ives

This Cambridgeshire market town may not have beaches like its Cornish counterpart, but the river running through the town centre is just as beautiful. It's also an easy commute into Cambridge along either the A1307 or the A14.

"There's a good community vibe here with plenty of annual events to help you immerse yourself in local life including the St Ives Carnival and Music Festival, Picnic in the Park at Warners Park and The Old Riverport Jazz and Blues Festival," according to Muddy Stilettos. Foodie places include the River Terrace Café, The Taproom, Amore, and Tom's Cakes.

Thriplow

Thriplow made the list thanks to its community pub, thatched houses, and ideal commuter location. The village is well-known for its annual daffodil festival that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Village amenities include The Green Man pub, village shop, and nearby RSPB nature reserve. The village is also close to IWM Duxford, Wimpole Hall, and Shepreth Wildlife Park.

Wansford

This village in the Nene Valley is on the border of Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, as well as being conveniently located near the A1. "Wansford is an historic and pretty village on the River Nene, full of eye-catching honey-coloured stone buildings that give strong Cotswolds vibes," Muddy Stilettos said.

"There's a strong sense of community here with two village halls." The village is home to an award-winning restaurant and two 'lovely' pubs.

Whittlesford

With a direct train to London and the M11 right on the doorstep, Whittlesford is a village with great connections. It made the list because it has "pretty thatched cottages, a huge and lovely village green, river walks along the River Cam and excellent amenities".

Foodies will love The Tickell Arms, Red Lion Pub, and nearby Provenance Kitchen. There is also plenty going on the village for residents of all ages.

You can see the full Muddy Stilettos list here for more details about each place that made the list.