Why evening is the best time to go punting

The weather this year has had amazing sunshine. It hasn’t been the usual rainy summer that we have come to expect in this country. Apparently, this has been the best summer weather since 1976. Folks have come down to the river in their thousands to escape the heat of the city and relax on a punt.

When do most people come?

Most punters, (excuse the pun) arrive between 1 pm and 4 pm on a Saturday afternoon. Whilst the river maintains its charm, long waiting times and hordes of out of control self-drive can affect the enjoyment of the trip.

When should you come punting?

The best time to depart is an hour before sunset. At that time the sun is at its most beautiful, and the river has relatively few punters. Time it just right and you will watch the shadow of the setting sun sweep across the college backs. At this time the chauffeurs are more relaxed, partly because there are less self-drive and partly because it’s their last tour of the day. It’s after five ‘clock, so you can treat yourself to a chilled glass of wine or beer. The day should be spent walking around the colleges and shops, you should save your luxury Cambridge punt tour as a treat to enjoy in the evening.