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GREENS, PARKS & PIECES - Truly one of the most precious assets, the simple but multi-purpose and freely available, greens and commons offer the best place to relax. 

Thumbnail Name and Description Weblink / Address Google ads
Parkers Piece
Apparently the birthplace of Football Association  rules! This green is a melting pot of people from all places and walks of life. A large expanse of green grass divided in four sections - a great place to chill out or play sports such as football or volleyball. Festivals and events, Picnics and BBQs (the latter, possibly not legitimate) are frequent here.
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Parkers Piece, Parkside
(bordered by Regent Street and Lensfield Road)

Jesus Green
With the river running alongside it and columns of imposing trees lining its paths, this green is also very popular during the summer. You can feed the ducks and swans (though this is not officially advised) or hang out on the spacious green. There are tennis courts and a refreshments kiosk as well as an open-air swimming pool.
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Jesus Green
Christ's Piece
Located in the centre of town, bridging the Grafton centre area with the town centre, this piece is next to the central Drummer St bus station and also home to a Princess Diana memorial. There are four free tennis courts, a refreshment kiosk and toilets situated on it. However, be cautious when night falls, as less reputable folk are known to frequent the area.
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Christ's Piece, Town centre
Midsummers Common
Formerly part of Jesus Green, until it was dissected by the construction of Victoria Avenue. A much more rugged common, that hosts seasonal fairs as well as touring performances such as circuses. At certain times of the year, cows are released to graze here.
Midsummers Common, Victoria Avenue
Grantchester Meadows
A well visited spot for students and picnics in particular, this lush, but often raw green has been made famous by a Pink Floyd song of the same name. The river meanders alongside it and so punts and their crew are often seen dotted across its sleepy and ample girth.
Grantchester

CAFES & OTHER - We'll steer clear of the chain monopolies and recommend places of more quaint nature and character.

Thumbnail Name and Description Weblink / Address
Mill Pond
The Millpond is a grassy cove situated by the river and has two well known pubs - The Millpond and The Anchor - that serve thirsty passer-byers.
Or better still, in the summer, grab some drinks from the off-licence and pick a spot on the circular green by the river. At some times of the year, you may have to fight off grazing cows for real estate.
Millpond, Silver Street area

Photos of the area in the gallery.

Or see a panoramic view here on this BBC webpage.

Quayside
Pronounced 'Key-side' (or 'Kway-side if you're a buffoon) this is an often lively area by the river. The centre of the punting trade, but also home to several restaurants and bars - sitting by the river with an ice cream or cold beverage is a relaxing way to spend some time!
Quayside
CB2 Internet Bistro
A cosy, amiable and independently run net cafe that offers more than web access. Exemplary food, friendly service and frequent small art exhibitions combine to make this a nice place to hang out. Order a drink and bring your laptop for cheap and often free wireless connection.
http://www.cb2bistro.com

5-7 Norfolk Street
Dining Room: 01223 508503 Office: 01223 508355
Central Library Cafe
A little known gem at the top level of the central library. Great tasting and value jacket potatoes are the best assets, go between 12 - 3pm to avoid disappointment. Although avoid their lattes...

3rd Floor Central Library, Lion Yard
Open Mon - Saturday

Clowns Cafe King Street