What is punting? A punt is a flat bottomed boat in which up to four people sit whilst one person stands at the rear end and pushes the punt along using a pole.

Where to punt? You can punt from Silver Street bridge, Quayside, Trinity College or at Grantchester. You can either punt along The Backs (of the colleges) or punt towards Grantchester.

How to punt? It really is easy but if you are not fit be careful as the pole is heavy and you might fall in.

Hold the pole vertically and let it slide through your hands until it touches the bottom. Then simply "walk" you hands up the pole trying to keep the pole vertical and away from your body. This helps you to punt in a straight line and stops you getting your clothes wet! When your hands reach the end of the pole, twist it to make sure it is not stuck in the mud. Whilst you hold the end of the pole use it as a lever to make sure the punt is going in the correct direction. Then lift the pole back through your hands so that it is vertical again and repeat the cycle. Watch the other visitors first and work out why they are going in circles!

Cost There is a deposit of about 40ukp and a hire charge of about 8ukp per hour. Always check the prices before you leave.

Chauffeur Punt Like Venice, you can hire a chauffeur and punt and be taken down the The Backs (of the colleges) in style and learn some of the history of the colleges you pass. Price negotiable.

---

Market Cambridge-uk

Cambridge has a large market in the centre of town on Market Hill. The word Hill to describe a flat place seems peculiar to Cambridge. It is open from early in the morning until late in the afternoon. There are various cafes nearby.