Moving to… Huntingdon
Huntingdon is perhaps best known for its close links to Cambridge, the famous university city just under 20 miles away. But this market town has plenty going in its own right, with connections to London taking around an hour and an appealing mix of new homes and period properties. If you’re thinking of moving to Huntington, you’ve come to the right place. In this area guide, we’re finding out what it’s like living in the Cambridgeshire town.
A brief history of Huntingdon
Founded by Anglo-Saxons and Danes, Huntingdon first appeared as Huntandun and was a staging post for Danish raids outside East Anglia until 917. By the 18th and 19th centuries, Huntingdon was known as a coaching centre, with the now-famous George Hotel a focal point in the town. Today, you can still find original documents relating to Huntingdon’s history at the local County Record Office.
Huntingdon on a map
Huntingdon lies on the north bank of the River Great Ouse and is close to the market town of St Ives, Cambridgeshire and the village of Brampton. It’s around 20 miles to Cambridge and 67 miles to London. The town covers postcodes PE26, PE28 and PE29 and is located in the district of Huntingdonshire.
Moving to Huntingdon
Thanks to its close connection to Cambridge and London, Huntingdon has become a popular commuter town. Houses don’t tend to stay on the market for long, with the new-build homes close to Huntingdon station in high demand. Anyone looking for older properties should head to the town centre, where Victorian homes with grand bay windows can be found.
Buying in Huntingdon
The average house value in Huntingdon is £297,829, with paid prices often completing close to initial values at £296,408. Expect to pay around £388,900 for a detached home, £212,790 for a terraced home and £140,770 for an apartment.
Huntingdon properties are higher than the UK national average of £251,000. Over the last 12 months, house prices have seen a marginal increase of 0.68% and a 15% increase over the past five years.
There’s a good mix of estate and letting agents serving Huntingdon and the surrounding towns and villages. You’ll find both chain and independent options.
Renting in Huntingdon
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £700 per month in Huntingdon, two-bedroom properties fetch in the region of £800 per month, and three-bedroom houses achieve £900 per month. Around 63% of residents rent their home in Huntingdon.
If moving to a new city, it’s always handy to get an idea of average rent yields, even if not renting yourself. It’s a useful insight into the value of an area and handy if you’re looking to invest.
Cost of living
The average meal for one person in Huntingdon costs around £25, which is higher than the UK average of £12. However, the costs of everyday items like coffee and milk are in line with the national average.
Expect to pay an average of £187 per month (£30 more expensive than the national average) for utility bills, including gas, electricity, heating and water. Broadband bills cost in the region of £36 per month for a 40mbps connection.
Life in Huntingdon
Huntingdon is well connected to several towns and villages in the county of Huntingdonshire, meaning there are plenty of things to see and do. Enjoy historical delights in nearby villages or grab a bite in one of the many Huntingdon restaurants.
Open spaces
The Riverside Park covers 79 acres and has a mile-long waterside frontage where you can go for a stroll. There’s also a kiosk and cafe serving snacks, just in case you get hungry during your pleasant walk.
Transport links
Huntingdon train station runs regular services to London, with trains taking around an hour to arrive at King’s Cross. You can also get trains to Peterborough in less than 20 minutes. Drivers can make use of the A14 road, which goes straight to Cambridge and links to the M11.
Shopping
Huntingdon Market occurs every Wednesday and Saturday in the town centre, where there’s also a regular farmers’ market. The high street has a selection of independent and chain shops, such as M&S. For vintage stores, head to nearby Ramsey with its 85-plus independent retailers.
Eateries
Ramsey is also the place to visit for great food, with the Jolly Sailor a well-known boozer in the area where you can enjoy great pub grub. King of the Belgians is another popular pub with an all-day menu and separate dining area.
Nightlife
If you’re looking for all-night clubbing, then you’re better served by visiting nearby Cambridge. As a university city, it has a range of nightlife options. Huntingdon, however, features cosy local bars, while St Ives has OutOut, a nightclub, bar and lounge.
Art & culture
Abbots Ripton near Huntingdon features the Secret Garden Party music festival, which takes place once a year and stages a variety of music acts. St Ives also hosts a contemporary and classic jazz music festival.
Things to do
Visit the 14th-century town bridge to marvel at its mixture of architectural styles. It features an unusual appearance, which is the result of being jointly constructed by Huntingdon and Godmanchester, with both having different ideas about how to complete the landmark.
What’s not to like?
Compared to nearby Cambridge, some may find Huntingdon somewhat bland. It also doesn’t have the same charm as nearby towns and villages like St Ives and Godmanchester.
Who lives there?
Huntingdon has a population of 23,000 and a median age of 36.
Typical broadband speeds
There is an average broadband speed of 40mbps in Huntingdon, which is below the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
Crime rates in Huntingdon average 2,210 per year, which is considerably lower than the national average of 10,000.
Thinking of moving to Huntingdon?
Get even more information about moving to Huntingdon with Phil Spencer’s property report, which provides in-depth information on any specific property in the area. This includes details on property value, local schools and more. Get yours below.
Last Updated: November 20th, 2024
