There is more to punting in Cambridge than taking selfies. Punting is a storytelling experience, and it has a history that not many people know about. But let’s change that. It’s about time we honoured the history of punting!
What is Punting
Punting is an activity where people ride a small square-ended boat with a flat bottom. A chauffeur uses a long pole to push against the riverbed, which propels the boat. That propulsion is what’s known as “Punting.”
But beyond the technical use of the term, now punting represents so much more. Classically associated with Cambridge, punting is a novel mode of transportation, a leisurely activity for locals and tourists alike, and a thriving industry within the city. Let’s explore the history of punting to truly appreciate this unique aspect of British culture.
History of Punting in Cambridge
Between 1902-1904, Cambridge witnessed a more organised set-up for traditional punting, which then went on to become a major recreational activity along the River Cam. As a result, the River Cam is the thriving hub of punting. Nowhere else in the country holds up compared to The River Cam!
Punts became a recreational mode of transport in Cambridge at the beginning of the 20th century. Before that, they were popular on the Thames and in Bath. Even during poor weather and strong winds, punting holds up! The boats are built for sturdiness.
A punt is a little harder to navigate compared to a rowing boat, but people still enjoy riding them and getting their sightseeing done from the waterways around Cambridge. At times, the poles get stuck at the bottom, and chauffeurs struggle to yank the poles free. This can result in the odd mishap. They might have to go in the water to pull it out, but in the Cambridge area, there are stone beds in many areas that prevent poles from getting stuck easily. These stone beds were placed during a time when horses were allowed to wade up the river, so riders didn’t have to pay tolls to the university if they were crossing their lands.
But the history of punting is not necessarily Cambridge-oriented. On the Thames in London, punting boats were ideal for fishermen transporting goods.
Punting Along The Cam River
The boats were constructed in medieval times to travel in shallow water. Cambridge has marshy flatlands that the locals used for hunting ducks, eel fishing, and transporting cargo until the nineteenth century. Punts don’t have a keel – a flat blade that sticks down into the water. Consequently, this makes the boats more manageable when moving around in narrow waters.
The entire ecosystem is naturally structured to give any onlooker some of the most breathtaking visuals in the world. Combining the natural scenery with architectural wonders from the university makes for a unique delight. As one travels upstream, the river enters the quaint and serene countryside in the village of Grantchester. Numerous historical monuments, churches, pubs and traditional buildings are situated in this scenic village.
Modern Day Punting in Cambridge
More and more boats are built for comfort. Our raised seating, fitted with cushions of course, allows for a very cosy 50-minute tour. Even umbrellas and blankets are available to ensure maximum relaxation – come rain or shine. When gliding along The Cam in summer, keep an eye out for the Pimms boat! That’s right, a floating bar in the form of a punt! That takes us all the way back to the history of punts being used for cargo.
Today, punting is more than just a boating trip. It’s a picnic opportunity, a destination for wedding proposals, a celebratory get-together. When tourists come to Cambridge, punting is the highlight of their visit. Make your booking with us!
Why is it called punting?
It refers to the shape of the boat! The word derives from Latin – and describes the flat and square structure.
How can I go punting?
By booking with us! We offer chauffeured tours that allow you to absorb the sights and history of the Cambridge colleges.
Where is it famous for punting?
Cambridge has to be the most famous, but Oxford is a close second. But even Australia has a punting industry!