Why Fulbourn Is a Great Place to Live

1. Perfect Blend of Village Charm and City Proximity

Fulbourn is a quintessential English village—historic, characterful, and distinct. It lies just 5 miles (8 km) southeast of Cambridge, yet remains separated from urban sprawl by farmland and green belt land. This positioning means residents enjoy peaceful village life with easy access to Cambridge’s jobs, shops, culture, and universities.

2. Rich History and Beautiful Built Environment

Settlement in Fulbourn stretches back to Neolithic times, with Roman and Anglo-Saxon remnants, including the historic Dunmowes Manor moat and the Grade II‑listed Fulbourn Manor. The village design emphasizes traditional architecture: two‑storey homes, elegant doors, hedgerows, and integration of greenery for wildlife—creating a harmonious and visually appealing setting.

3. Community Spirit and Lively Local Life

Fulbourn’s local ethos is strong, with active neighborhood planning ensuring the village maintains its identity while benefiting from Cambridge’s proximity. The high street offers essential shops—Co‑op, butchers, greengrocer, chemist, takeaways, and even a car dealership, with a large Tesco just two miles out. Community hubs include a recreation ground, the Townley Memorial Hall (hosting sports and social clubs), a village hall, and more. Cultural life flourishes too—the St John’s Players amateur dramatics group celebrates over 70 years of local theatre.

4. Excellent Education Choices

Families in Fulbourn have access to a range of educational settings:
- Fulbourn Primary School: A warm, supportive state school rated 'good', with strong pastoral care.
- Landmark International School: Private, IB Primary Years Programme, inclusive environment.
- Waldorf Cambridge: Independent, progressive education for ages 2–16.
Additional pre-school options and inclusion in the catchment for Village College in Bottisham for secondary education.

5. Nature, Green Spaces, and Biodiversity

One of Fulbourn’s standout features is Fulbourn Fen, a 27-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest managed by the Wildlife Trust. With ancient meadows, diverse flora, plus woods and meadows, it’s an ideal natural retreat. The village’s Neighbourhood Plan emphasizes protecting the rural landscape and enhancing biodiversity.

6. Quality of Life & Housing

With a population of around 4,700 (2011), Fulbourn maintains a welcoming, small‑village feel while incorporating newer housing sympathetically. The design guide ensures development respects village scale and aesthetics. As of March 2023, the average house price was around £524,893—reflecting its desirability without Cambridge’s premium.

7. Local Services, Employment & Healthcare

Employment opportunities include Cambridge-based jobs (Addenbrookes Hospital, university, tech hubs) and local business parks. Healthcare is well supported by Fulbourn Hospital’s facilities and a local health centre.

Summary: Why Fulbourn Makes Sense to Call Home

1. Best of both worlds—serene village life with Cambridge on the doorstep.
2. Heritage-rich and architecturally delightful.
3. Friendly, active community with shops, clubs, and culture.
4. Excellent schooling options.
5. Green spaces and biodiversity.
6. Balanced property market.
7. Ample local employment and essential services.

In essence, Fulbourn offers a harmonious life: historic yet modern, rural yet connected, relaxed but vibrant.