Hobson's Conduit Trust


Bringing fresh water into the city of Cambridge
since 1609

What is Hobson's Conduit Trust?

Hobson’s Conduit Trust was established to maintain good quality water supply from Nine Wells into Cambridge.

In the late 1500s, Cambridge was affected by the plague and other fatal infections. These were thought to be caused by ‘bad air’ resulting from the sewage contaminated water in the river and local ditches.

The Nine Wells Springs were a source of clean water. The authorities from Cambridge Town and University collaborated with the Lord of the Manor in Trumpington to create a ‘new river’ to divert some of this fresh water into Cambridge.

In 1631, Thomas Hobson, whose income came from transporting goods to and from London, bequeathed land to fund and maintain this public water supply – hence the association with his name. Hobson’s Conduit Trust is now a registered charity, that was established to have rights over the stream and to maintain it in good order for the town and the University.

More info

The Conduit Head at the end section of the watercourseThe Conduit Head at the end section of the watercourse

Where is Hobson's Conduit?

The water in Hobson’s Conduit runs above ground from the Nine Wells Nature Reserve, south of Cambridge (CB22 5JY). The stream passes west of Addenbrooke’s Hospital (CB2 0QQ), and Hobsons Park, under Long Road and Brooklands Avenue, beside the western end of the Botanic Garden (CB2 1JE). Finally the water flows by Brookside, terminating at the Conduit Head (CB2 1PY). From here the water runs along the Trumpington Street runnells and in underground channels into two College ponds.

 

 

Flora and Fauna along the brook

The above ground section of Hobson’s Conduit supports many plant and animal species much of which may be seen during a visit. Many have been seen during the annual Bioblitz - click on the links below to see more.