The Thicket Entrance from St Ives
The Thicket Entrance from St Ives
Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
4.9
(37)
The Thicket Entrance from St Ives marks the beginning of an ancient routeway leading into The Thicket, a distinctive woodland area nestled between St Ives and Houghton in Cambridgeshire, England. This viewpoint, situated at an elevation of approximately 61 meters, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance within the wider Great Ouse Valley landscape. It serves as a gateway to exploring a narrow, steep bank of ash and field maple woodland, providing a tranquil escape for those…
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June 23, 2023
Hiking
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Best routes near The Thicket Entrance from St Ives
4.8
(56)
326
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13.6km
03:27
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
68
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
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Monday 16 March
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24 %
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Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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The Thicket Path, which begins at this entrance, navigates a narrow and sometimes steep bank. While generally accessible, some sections can be uneven, especially after rain. It's considered suitable for a range of fitness levels, with options for both leisurely strolls and more extended explorations. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Yes, several circular routes can be planned from The Thicket Entrance, often incorporating the Thicket Path and extending into nearby areas like Houghton Meadows Nature Reserve or along the River Great Ouse. These routes allow hikers to experience the ancient woodland, riverside views, and historical landscapes before returning to St Ives.
Visitors commonly access The Thicket Entrance via Berman Park. A convenient parking option is the St Ivo Indoor Sports Centre car park in St Ives, which provides easy access to the starting point of the Thicket Path.
Yes, The Thicket Entrance offers family-friendly walks. The peaceful woodland environment and relatively accessible paths make it a pleasant location for families. Shorter, easier walks are available, allowing children to enjoy nature and spot wildlife. However, be mindful that some sections of the Thicket Path can be narrow and steep.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around The Thicket Entrance. It's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after your pet.
The Thicket Path is an ancient routeway with a history spanning over a thousand years. Along the path, you can observe deep ditches on either side, a characteristic feature of medieval routeways designed for flood-prone areas. Nearby, in Houghton Meadows Nature Reserve, you might also spot traces of medieval ridge and furrow ploughing and ancient drainage ditches, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past.
The Thicket is rich in biodiversity. Visitors frequently spot various bird species, including green woodpeckers and jays. Keep an eye out for muntjac deer. The woodland also boasts a beautiful variety of flora, such as sweet violet and the distinctive King Alfred's Cakes fungi.
The Thicket Entrance is located close to St Ives, which offers a range of amenities. In St Ives, you'll find various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options to suit different preferences, all within a short distance of the viewpoint.
The length of time to walk the Thicket Path can vary depending on your pace and how far you choose to explore. A straightforward walk along the main path to Houghton and back might take 1-2 hours, but many visitors extend their walks by exploring connecting trails or enjoying the views, making it a longer outing.
The Thicket Entrance can be visited in winter, offering a different, often tranquil, experience. However, the path can become muddy and potentially slippery due to rain and frost. It's essential to wear waterproof and sturdy walking boots with good grip, along with warm, layered clothing, a hat, and gloves to stay comfortable.
The Thicket Entrance is easily accessible from St Ives town centre, which is well-served by local bus routes. Visitors can take a bus to St Ives and then enjoy a short walk to Berman Park, leading to the Thicket Path entrance.