Cambridge, renowned for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture, is a city that combines historical charm with a vibrant academic atmosphere. For those considering things to do in Cambridge, exploring the historic colleges of the University of Cambridge, each with its own unique heritage and stunning architecture, and visiting the King’s College Chapel, known for its magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows, are top activities.
Punting along the River Cam offers a tranquil and picturesque way to view the city, passing by the famous ‘Backs’ of the colleges. The Fitzwilliam Museum, with its vast collection of art and antiquities, is a cultural highlight.
Beyond its academic and architectural landmarks, Cambridge is celebrated for its lush green spaces like the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. For those exploring the best places to visit in the United Kingdom, Cambridge’s blend of historical elegance, intellectual vibrancy, and natural beauty makes it a serene and inspiring destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Cambridge, United Kingdom
1. The University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, is a federation of colleges, each with its own unique history and architecture.
Location: Central Cambridge, spread across multiple colleges. Accessible by foot, bike, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Stunning historic architecture, beautiful courtyards, and academic atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer when the weather is pleasant and gardens are in full bloom.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some areas may have restricted access for visitors.
Price: Some colleges offer free entry, while others charge around €10-€15 per person.
Travel Tip: Many colleges allow visitors, but check college websites for visiting hours. Highlights include King’s College and its chapel, Trinity College, and St. John’s College.
2. Punting on the River Cam
Punting on the River Cam is a quintessential Cambridge activity, offering a unique view of the university colleges and bridges.
Location: Along the River Cam, passing through the ‘Backs’ of Cambridge colleges. Tours available at various locations.
Scenic Spot: Riverside views of historic university buildings, bridges, and gardens.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for warm weather, but autumn offers stunning foliage views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children should be supervised.
Price: Guided punting tours cost approximately €25-€40 per person; self-hire punts cost around €30-€50 per hour.
Travel Tip: You can hire a punt for a self-guided tour or choose a chauffeured punt. A guided tour provides fascinating insights into the university’s history.
3. Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum houses an impressive collection of art and antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, as well as European paintings and pottery.
Location: Trumpington Street, Cambridge, near the university. Easily accessible by foot or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Grand neoclassical building housing art and historical artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits for children.
Price: Free entry, though donations are encouraged.
Travel Tip: Admission is free, and the museum is a great option for a rainy day activity.
4. Cambridge University Botanic Garden
This 40-acre garden is home to a collection of over 8,000 plant species from around the world, designed for both enjoyment and scientific research.
Location: 1 Brookside, Cambridge. A short walk from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Over 8,000 plant species, glasshouses, and tranquil walking paths.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families and nature lovers.
Price: Approximately €8 per adult, free for children under 16.
Travel Tip: Visit in spring or summer when the garden is in full bloom. The glasshouses are also worth exploring.
5. Mathematical Bridge and Queen’s College
The Mathematical Bridge is a wooden footbridge at Queen’s College, famous for its design and rumored to have been built without nails (although this is a myth).
Location: Queen’s College, University of Cambridge, spanning the River Cam.
Scenic Spot: Famous wooden bridge with a geometric design.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon when the lighting is best for photographs.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but access inside Queen’s College may be restricted.
Price: Around €5-€10 for entry to the college (bridge is visible from the river for free).
Travel Tip: The bridge is best viewed from a punting tour on the River Cam.
6. King’s College Chapel
Known for its stunning Gothic architecture and the world-famous King’s College Choir, the chapel is a landmark of Cambridge.
Location: King’s Parade, Cambridge, within King’s College.
Scenic Spot: Stunning Gothic chapel with intricate stained glass windows and fan-vaulted ceilings.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or during Evensong for a magical choir experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children may not find it engaging.
Price: Approximately €12-€15 per person.
Travel Tip: Attend Evensong to experience the choir, but check the schedule in advance as it’s popular.
7. The Backs
The Backs is a picturesque area where several colleges back onto the River Cam, offering beautiful views of the colleges and their bridges.
Location: Behind several Cambridge colleges, accessible by foot or bike.
Scenic Spot: Scenic walking area along the River Cam with green spaces and college views.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: It’s particularly beautiful in the spring when the daffodils and crocuses are in bloom.
8. Corpus Clock
The Corpus Clock at Corpus Christi College is a unique artistic and mechanical clock, featuring a creature called the Chronophage (time-eater).
Location: Outside Corpus Christi College, visible from the street.
Scenic Spot: Unique mechanical clock with a golden time-eating creature (Chronophage).
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during daylight or evening when the clock is illuminated.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for those interested in science and engineering.
Price: Free to view.
Travel Tip: The clock is easily viewable from the street, and it’s worth seeing both in daylight and when it’s illuminated at night.
9. Trinity College Library
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, Trinity College Library is an architectural masterpiece.
Location: Trinity College, University of Cambridge.
Scenic Spot: Historic library designed by Sir Christopher Wren, home to rare manuscripts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for book lovers and history enthusiasts; limited appeal for young children.
Price: Free for Cambridge residents; around €10 for tourists.
Travel Tip: The Wren Library houses many rare books and manuscripts, including Isaac Newton’s notebook and A.A. Milne’s ‘Winnie the Pooh’ manuscripts.
10. The Round Church
One of the oldest buildings in Cambridge, the Round Church is known for its distinctive circular shape. It now houses a visitor center that provides an overview of the city’s history.
Location: St John’s Street, Cambridge, near the city center.
Scenic Spot: One of the oldest buildings in Cambridge, with a distinctive circular design.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during opening hours; evenings for a peaceful ambiance.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may not find it particularly engaging.
Price: Approximately €4 per person.
Travel Tip: Check out the exhibitions inside the church for insights into Cambridge’s history.
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Cambridge, United Kingdom: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Cambridge: 7/10 – Cambridge offers several family-friendly activities, including visits to the Botanic Garden, punting on the River Cam, and exploring the interactive exhibits at the Cambridge Science Centre. However, the city is more renowned for its academic atmosphere, which may not appeal as much to younger children.
Nightlife in Cambridge: 6/10 – Cambridge has a modest nightlife scene, with a variety of pubs, bars, and a few clubs. The nightlife is vibrant yet controlled, catering more to university students and professionals than to wild party-goers.
Sport in Cambridge: 8/10 – Cambridge is known for its rowing culture on the River Cam and has extensive opportunities for both participating in and watching rowing events. The city also has facilities for cycling, running, and college sports, along with local football and rugby clubs.
Culture and Attractions in Cambridge: 9/10 – The city is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical colleges, museums such as the Fitzwilliam Museum, and beautiful architecture. Events like the Cambridge Arts Theatre performances and literary festivals add to its cultural allure.
Gastronomy in Cambridge: 7/10 – Cambridge offers a diverse range of dining options, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. The quality is generally high, but prices can be on the steeper side compared to other cities in the region.
Shopping in Cambridge: 6/10 – Shopping in Cambridge includes a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and markets like the famous Cambridge Market Square. However, it lacks the extensive shopping experience found in larger cities.
Prices in Cambridge: 5/10 – Cambridge is relatively expensive, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining. While there are budget-friendly options, the overall cost of living and visiting can be high.
Average price for a hotel night: 125-230 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15-29 €
Price of a beer: 4.5-6.5 €
Price of a coffee: 2.5-4 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Cambridge, United Kingdom
For those keen to explore beyond the university’s historic colleges, top day trips near Cambridge lead to the charming English countryside, the majestic Ely Cathedral, and the quaint market towns of Bury St Edmunds and Saffron Walden, each offering a unique glimpse into England’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Cambridge accommodations vary from elegant boutique hotels nestled within ancient buildings to cozy bed and breakfasts overlooking the River Cam, ensuring every visitor finds a peaceful retreat within this iconic city of education and beauty.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge
https://www.getyourguide.com/cambridge-england-l439/
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