Wisbech landscapes

Wisbech is situated in the heart of the Cambridgeshire Fenlands and is locally known as the ‘Capital of the Fens’.

The Cambridgeshire Fenlands is considered one of the most enchanting landscapes in the United Kingdom. The flat, low-lying, and naturally marshy region is home to an abundance of rare wildlife, waterfowl, and wildflowers.

The Fenland waterways are popular for boating holidays and make a great visitor destination to explore. To learn more about the Fens landscape, visit Welney Wetland Centre, one of the world’s leading wetland conservation charities.

History of Wisbech

A Georgian market town located in the county of Cambridgeshire in the East of England.

The town of Wisbech began as a large village and during the Middle Ages, a weekly market began. Originally held in the Old Market, it was moved to the Market Place in the 13^th Century. The Market Place continues to be popular with locals today, displaying some of the best produce in the area every week.

Wisbech first prospered after the draining of the Fens in the 17^th Century. The rich fertile landscape of the Fens allowed it to be cultivated for agricultural and horticultural use. Agricultural products including grain, butter and rapeseed oil were exported from Wisbech to London.

During the 18^th Century, the town continued to flourish. A theatre and brewery were erected, and the famous Peckover House was built in 1722. An act of parliament in the early 19^th Century gave the town powers to pave, clean and light the streets, and by 1832 the streets of Wisbech were lit by gas.

The town is renowned for its glorious Georgian architecture and magnificent buildings from this era can be found along the North Brink.

Walking trails

Explore miles of stunning unspoilt landscapes on foot. There are many different routes available for all ages and abilities in Wisbech.

Go on a Town Walk and delve into the history of Wisbech. Highlighting the town’s historic buildings, Cambridgeshire Fens have produced a leaflet with two linked trails that guide you through the Georgian market town.

Starting from the Tourist Information Centre, learn more about the famous characters of Wisbech on the Merchants Trail.

For an easy stroll around the North and South Brinks, follow the Octavia Hill Wisbech heritage walk and spot famous buildings including Peckover House, Wisbech Castle, and more.

Roads

Major roads within 30 minutes of Wisbech are A1(M), A17, A15, and A47.

Notable rural hotspots

Boasting 38 acres of open spaces, Wisbech is home to some of the best parks and gardens in the Fens.

Set in the heart of Wisbech, St Peter’s Church gardens are bursting with beautiful flowers and is complete with a stunning central water fountain. The open space has been awarded the Green Flag by Keep Britain Tidy after winning the 11^th gold in Anglia in Bloom contest.

Close to the historic Castle grounds, you will find Crescent Gardens. With a wide range of flora and fauna including butterflies and birds, the green space is a wonderful location to relax and unwind.

Described as a unique tropical oasis, Walpole Water Gardens is sheltered from the wind and offers a truly relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. The exotic park has over 20 kinds of eucalyptus and palms, bamboos, grasses, and so much more.