Cows about Cambridge art trail: a staycationer's day out

The Cows About Cambridge art trail is proving popular with staycationers on day trips to the city as well as local families looking for a fun walk.

With most of the sculptures located outside, near hospitality venues or picnic spots, the Cows about Cambridge trail – supported by the Cambridge Independent – offers a Covid-friendly way for families and groups of friends to explore the city.

You can discover all 90 cow sculptures using the app or use the interactive map on our website, but those who want to get to know Cambridge better are invited to book a walking or cycle tour with a ‘hoofing guide’ – Blue or Green badge guides – who will delight in sharing some of the more quirky stories and facts that link these cow sculptures to the city.

“The River Cam features on several of the cows, unsurprisingly, because it’s such an iconic symbol of Cambridge,” said Ruth Meyer, Secretary of the Society of Cambridge Tourist Guides, “but can you explain why the punt pole ‘clunks’ when it hits the bed of the river? And do you know why the student rowing races are called ‘the Bumps’?

“In the city centre, on Senate House Hill, the cow might be jumping over the moon in the Hey Diddle Diddle design, but did you know that a student prank back in June 1958 led to an Austin 7 van ‘jumping’ onto the roof of the Senate House itself?”

The first cows to spot as visitors arrive at Cambridge train station are designed to celebrate the surrounding countryside. Around The City, a sculpture sponsored by Thameslink, is inspired by Cambridge and its green belt, featuring local homes as well as iconic landmarks. The Bovine Line, created by internationally-acclaimed artist Phil Daniels, is inspired by the countryside and views seen from the trains that travel the railway line between Norwich and Cambridge.

Ian Sandison, CEO of Cambridge BID, added: “If you unlock cows using the app there are many generous offers to be had, including dinner and drinks in various venues.”

Other cows to watch out for include The Botanicow, which features plant collections found in Cambridge University Botanic Garden, and Now for Something Udderly Different, which pays tribute to Monty Python and the famous Footlights Club.

Visit cowsaboutcambridge.co.uk or see our interactive guide at https://cambridgeindependent.co.uk/whats-on/cows-about-cambridge/.