Exam season been getting you down? Perhaps a walk a day can keep the revision stress at bay. I admit, it’s not quite the catchiest of phrases, but it’s the sentiment that counts!

“Castle Mound is well worth a (short) walk up”

Coming from the Lake District, I’ve always found a half an hour or so escape into nature to do me the world of good. In those moments when revision seems a little all-consuming, taking time out to go for a stroll can become a haven away from it all. Listen to the birds, feel those sunrays, and remind yourself that the world will not stop turning if you don’t happen to finish the piece of work that you were hoping to. With hopes of warm summer days ahead, a few wanders into the local countryside are maybe just what we all need this Easter term. So here are my top recommendations for finding some escapism from the silence of the library, or the hustle and bustle of King’s Parade at the weekend.

Castle Mound

An old classic, but who doesn’t love a short hike up Castle Mound? (Emphasis on short – not quite the trek up Ben Nevis, Snowdon or Scafell Pike). It’s one of the only hills across the city, so it is perfect for when you need to find a bit of perspective, or just fancy watching the sunset. I always find getting up somewhere high is a great way to clear my head (not an easy task in the flattest place ever!). Castle Mound is well worth a (short) walk up. Perhaps you’ll have the best essay idea you’ve ever had whilst you’re up there. But be quick – on a hot summer’s evening post-exams, it can get busy! You don’t want to be jostling through crowds trying to capture that sunset picture for your story.

Grantchester

This is one of my personal favourites for a few reasons. Firstly, starting at Lammas Land you can make your way along the river through Paradise Local Nature Reserve. Whilst it’s small, it’s certainly beautiful, with a path winding along the Cam through the trees. Once through, head along Grantchester Meadows and, before you know it, you’re ready to turn off into Grantchester Village. With its thatched cottages and quintessential English country village feel, it’s perfect to wander down and escape the busyness of the city centre. Finally, if food is the way to your heart, like it is for me, the village has a few lovely pubs (and beer gardens for a sunny day). So why not make a day of it, have lunch out and a nice cold pint in the sun, or take a picnic as a cheaper option?

Jesus Green, Midsummer Common and Fen Ditton

If you’ve already explored all that Jesus Green and Midsummer Common have to offer, next time try carrying on to Fen Ditton. Beyond Midsummer Common you’ll cross Stourbridge Common, another perfect picnic spot – and you might even see some swans whilst you’re at it. Continue on through Ditton Meadows where you can wander along the river into Fen Ditton Village, with its selection of pubs and a very quaint 12th century church. If you’re keen to support your college rowers, why not combine this walk with a trip to watch Bumps in June? (Because, to be honest, watching the rowing sounds more up my street than doing it).

Cambridge Botanical Gardens

Free to all Cambridge students, you might as well make the most of all the flowers in bloom at the University’s Botanical Gardens. With several ponds, a greenhouse full of tropical plants and a scented garden, it has an abundance of small peaceful pockets to sit and listen to nature and soak up some vitamin D. It also boasts a gorgeous café, with indoor and outdoor seating, if you fancy a cake before you head home (which I know I always do). It’s the perfect place to go with a few friends or even take yourself on a little self-care date with a good book - I’m sure you’d come away feeling refreshed, recharged and ready to take on the rest of the day.

Other honorable mentions

Working in West Cambridge? Sounds like it’s time to have a wander to Coton Countryside Reserve at lunchtime to take a break. Or if you fancy a bit of a walk and a cycle, Cherry Hinton boasts some pretty impressive Chalk Pits just a 20-minute cycle from the city centre. (Physical Geographers, I’m looking at you…) And for those who have a car, a short drive to Wandlebury Country Park (less than 15 minutes from the centre!) is the perfect way to really immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

With so many options, where to start? Even if you don’t take any of my recommendations (don’t worry I won’t be offended) I hope you do get a chance to get outside and have a wander this Easter term – you’ll only wish you’d done it sooner.