Cambourne is a new settlement ten miles west of Cambridge. Terry Farrell, the master planners, imagined that the traditional character of an English village would give the settlement its image and identity and sustainability was the big idea that would provide a sense of purpose. This evaluation provides a unique insight into the development of Cambourne. The study combined a comprehensive literature review with interviews with over 50 stakeholders. The result is a series of practical lessons that can be applied in the planning and development of other new settlements.