Northstowe seems like it has been around forever, but it is still one of the UK’s newest and most ambitious planned communities. Scary statistic time: Northstowe is rapidly heading towards its tenth anniversary…and is continuing to grow in popularity with every new year. How has it been a decade since the first bricks were laid? It is a town designed for modern living, combining sustainability, strong community vibes, and all the amenities you would want – and expect – from a growing neighbourhood. We like Northstowe, and our clients seem to like it too. But what does it have to offer an individual, couple or family looking to move to the area? Let’s see…

A Bit of History (just a bit, don’t panic…)

Northstowe might be one of the newest towns in Cambridgeshire (did we mention that already?), but its roots are tied to the area’s history. The site where Northstowe now stands was once part of the Oakington Barracks and Airfield, a military installation that played its part in World War II. Over time, as the military presence wound down, the government saw an opportunity to transform this land into a vibrant new town. And the rest is history, as they say.

The vision for Northstowe was bold from the start. Planned to accommodate around 25,000 residents eventually, it was designed – like many modern developments – with sustainability and community at its core. Since then, it has been the inspiration for other developers looking to follow suit. Construction began in 2016, and since then, the town has grown steadily. While it is still evolving, Northstowe has already developed a character of its own. What makes it unique is its commitment to green spaces, eco-friendly infrastructure, and fostering a sense of togetherness among its residents. Yes, other towns are doing this, but Northstowe is undoubtedly leading the way…and claiming all the well-deserved glory!

A Thriving Community

One of the perks of moving to Northstowe is the convenience. The town has modern living and convenience at the top of its priority list, meaning that most of what you need is either already in place or in the pipeline. Northstowe Sports Pavilion serves as a hub for everything from fitness classes to community events, and for those who love the outdoors, Northstowe is also dotted with parks and green spaces. There is a network of cycle paths that connect different parts of the town and even extend to nearby villages, making it ideal for both Sunday afternoon bike rides and daily commutes. It is worth mentioning that the developers placed a strong emphasis on sustainability, so you will notice eco-friendly features like solar-powered streetlights dotted throughout the area.

Northstowe Community Forum is an excellent example of how locals are shaping their town. It’s an open space where residents, developers, and council representatives can come together to discuss plans, share ideas, and address any concerns. This collaborative approach has helped foster a real sense of ownership and pride among the people who call Northstowe home. Everyone is allowed a voice, and everyone is listened to; that is rare, and we like it…a lot. There is no shortage of events to bring people together, either. From pop-up markets to seasonal festivals, there is always something going on. We aren’t sure if there is an annual beer festival, but if not, it is always something to bring to the forum…we certainly would.

Shops, Pubs, and More

The town already has some essential shops and services to make daily life convenient. The Local Centre is the main hub for shopping, offering a mix of retail outlets, cafes, and essential services. It is still a work in progress, with new businesses gradually setting up shop, but the goal is to create a vibrant high street that meets the needs of residents. We are in no doubt that this will be achieved. For your weekly grocery run, there are supermarkets nearby in Longstanton and Bar Hill, which are both just a short drive or cycle away. As Northstowe grows, more shops and dining options will pop up, meaning there will be no requirement to travel out of the town itself. Although the current options on the doorstep are nothing to turn your nose up at, it is a bonus to have the variety!

Schools and Education

Education is a big part of what makes Northstowe attractive to families. The town already boasts some excellent schools, with more in the pipeline as the population grows. The Northstowe Secondary College is a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2019, offering top-notch education for students in the area. It’s a modern school with a strong focus on academic achievement and creativity. For younger children, Pathfinder Primary School has been serving the community since 2017 and has quickly established itself as a nurturing and high-quality educational environment. There are plans for additional primary schools as the town’s population increases, ensuring that families have plenty of options close to home. For further education, Northstowe’s proximity to Cambridge is a major advantage; the town’s transport links make it easy for students to commute or attend classes in the city.

Getting Around

Transport links are another big plus for Northstowe – yes, we have said that about everything, but it is true! The town’s location just off the A14 means that getting around by car is a breeze as the connections are excellent. For those who prefer public transport, the guided busway is a game-changer. With stops right in Northstowe, it provides a quick and – usually – reliable link to Cambridge and beyond. The buses are frequent, making it a stress-free option for commuters or anyone who wants to enjoy a day out in the city without worrying about parking.

Cycling is another popular way to get around, and Northstowe’s extensive network of cycle paths makes it safe and enjoyable. Wherever you look, you will find well-maintained routes that connect different parts of the town and the surrounding areas. The options really are impressive.

Could It Become Home?

Northstowe is a town with a bright future. While it’s still growing and evolving, the foundations are already in place for a vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming community. The mix of modern amenities makes it an attractive option for anyone considering a move to Cambridgeshire. It is easy to see why so many people are excited about calling Northstowe home. Maybe you will become one of them…