Welcome to Soham, a picturesque town nestled halfway between the Cathedral City of Ely and the horseracing centre of Newmarket and only twenty miles from Cambridge. It is a small and ancient market town which (as taken from the Ely Museum Website) ‘straddles a ridge of chalk that reaches from the Suffolk uplands into the Cambridgeshire fens. At one time, this was the only route across dry land to the Isle of Ely, which was cut off on all sides by water.’ With its rich history and friendly community, this vibrant town is an exceptional and popular place to live. If you are considering moving here, you will find a community that embraces newcomers and helps you create a sense of belonging. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the wonders of Soham and explore the fascinating historical events that have shaped the town. Grab a cup of tea – or something stronger – sit back, and let’s embark on a journey to discover the hidden past of Soham!
A Bustling Community
Whether a newcomer, visitor or a long-time resident, you’ll quickly feel at home in this tight-knit community. The village hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as festivals, fairs, and community gatherings, which provide ample opportunities to socialise and forge lasting connections. If you don’t attend their annual beer festival and carnival, you are missing out…and nobody wants that! These events are key dates for the diary, especially if you are partial to a beer tent and a selection of exceptionally stinky cheeses. We may be talking about ourselves…
One of the must-visit spots is the Soham Museum, which showcases the village’s rich history through fascinating exhibits and artefacts. We must also mention the selection of good pubs and eateries; because Soham is full of time. For outdoor enthusiasts, the town boasts beautiful green spaces and parks; the local recreation ground is a popular destination, featuring playgrounds, sports facilities, and open fields for picnics and leisurely walks. Additionally, nearby Wicken Fen Nature Reserve offers breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, providing a perfect day out for the whole family. And this is why Soham is popular…yes, it is a town, but it has a village feel. Some may say the best of both worlds; we would agree!
Historical Significance
We mentioned Soham Museum, and Soham has a captivating history that stretches back centuries. People settled in and around Soham from the Bronze Age, and as the years went by, it became a thriving trading port receiving cargo from all over Europe. At the Fountain Inn pub in Soham, the original ‘weighing machine’ (aka The Steel Yard) was erected during the 17th century to weigh goods and empty carts on their route to and from the docks. This is the only remaining steelyard in the country and is Grade 11 listed. Soham Museum was established in 1998 as a community project, researching the past and recording the present for future generations. Soham has way too much history to cover in this blog, but if you want to know more about the Soham Rail Disaster of 1944 (one of the most notable events in the village’s past) or the wool-weighing process of the Huguenot cloth trade, then this is the place to visit.
Another historical gem in Soham is St. Andrew’s Church, a magnificent medieval building that is a testament to the village’s past. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere, something we all need occasionally. Take a moment to explore the churchyard, where you’ll find ancient tombstones that reveal the stories of Soham’s past inhabitants.
We could go on forever about the history of Soham (sorry…we love it!), but where would we stop? Let’s move on to what this town offers for its modern-day residents…
Transport Links
Soham benefits from excellent transport links, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas. If you’re craving the hustle and bustle of city life, Cambridge is a short 20-minute drive away. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene, visit world-class museums, or take a leisurely punt along the River Cam. Strawberries and a bottle of bubbles are optional, but we highly recommend them…especially if you are getting a chauffeured tour. Scrap that; bubbles are compulsory!
If you’re in the mood for a day trip to a historic city, Ely is just a 15-minute drive from Soham. A visit there is your opportunity to marvel at the grandeur of Ely Cathedral, explore the charming riverside area or delve into the city’s rich heritage at the Ely Museum. It is one of the most beautiful cities in East Anglia, and it won’t take you long to see why. If you are on a flying visit and only have time to do one thing, you must take a tour inside the Octagon Tower to explore its wooden lantern. This unique structure, suspended over the centre of the Cathedral, is one of the wonders of medieval engineering. But beware, it’s a LONG way up and not for the faint-hearted. We might just make it to the top – on a good day.
For those seeking the bright lights of the capital, London is easily accessible from Soham. A train journey from Ely to London King’s Cross takes approximately 70 minutes, allowing you to enjoy all the attractions and landmarks the capital has to offer.
We promise you won’t be disappointed…
Soham is a true gem in Cambridgeshire, offering a blend of rich history, family-friendly charm, and a welcoming community that makes it a desirable place to live. Whether exploring the captivating exhibits at the Soham Museum or basking in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, there is always something to discover in Soham. There are convenience stores, hairdressers, pubs, restaurants, and takeaway shops…if you need something, we guarantee there will be somewhere selling it – or a friendly resident pointing you in the right direction. And schools? Soham is home to Soham Village Collage, a secondary school with a fantastic reputation and an impressive ‘Good’ Ofsted rating. What is there not to like?
Come and experience the vibrant town life, where a warm welcome awaits you at every turn.