Cambridgeshire
WELCOME TO Cambridgeshire
Province Overview
Cambridge
3,389 km2
852,523
English
Popular
Geography and Tourist Attractions
Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
The Fens
The River Cam
Cambridge University
Political
Economy and Government
Cambridgeshire is a prosperous county in the east of England with a diverse economy and a strong focus on innovation and research. The county is home to a number of world-leading companies in the technology, science, and engineering sectors, including ARM, AstraZeneca, and Marshall Aerospace. The university town of Cambridge is particularly important to the local economy, as it is a hub of research and innovation, with a thriving start-up scene and a wealth of talent in science and technology.
In terms of government, Cambridgeshire is governed by a two-tier system, with the county council responsible for services such as education, social care, and highways, and the district councils responsible for services such as waste collection, planning, and housing. The county council is made up of 61 councillors, who are elected every four years, and is led by a leader and cabinet. The county also has a directly elected mayor, who has powers over transport, housing, and planning. The current mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is Dr Nik Johnson. Overall, the combination of a strong economy and effective governance makes Cambridgeshire an attractive place to live, work, and do business.
History
History and Culture
Cambridgeshire has a rich and varied history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. The county played an important role in the Roman period, with settlements and military camps established throughout the area. In the Middle Ages, Cambridge grew into a thriving market town and became an important center of learning with the founding of the University in the 13th century. The historic city is home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including the famous colleges, museums, and galleries. One of the most iconic landmarks in the county is Ely Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and is renowned for its impressive architecture.
The cultural scene in Cambridgeshire is vibrant and diverse, with a range of festivals, concerts, and events taking place throughout the year. The Cambridge Folk Festival, which has been running since 1965, is one of the largest and most popular folk music festivals in the UK, while the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival offers a unique opportunity to see Shakespeare's plays performed in the beautiful gardens of the colleges. The county is also home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Fitzwilliam Museum and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, which showcase the rich history and culture of the area.