There are a lot of best things to do in Cambridge. Are you visiting this prestigious place for the first time? Or maybe you’ve been in such for a while but struggle to know where to go and what to do. Even with its world-renowned and ancient institutions, life in Cambridge is not all about studying. You’ll have a great time in a city full of British scenery. Follow our GUIDE and discover this place’s delights and hidden charms.
Cambridge Overview
The city of Cambridge is located north of London. It is situated on a plain, and the River Cam flows from the city’s west gate through the city centre to the northeast, emptying into the River Ussher. Many bridges have been built over the city’s river, so the city was named Cambridge. It is a fascinating traditional university town and also a vibrant town. The exquisite blend of rural tranquillity and classical architecture gives it a unique charm and attracts many foreign visitors to live here.
Best Things to do in Cambridge
1.Enjoy a punt
When you take off the train, the first things to do in Cambridge UK is embarking on a unique wooden boat trip along the River Cam. This is not just any boat trip, but a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Cambridge. It’s a rare experience that should not be overlooked, especially when it’s right at your fingertips with the Cambridge Boat Tour, a classic local tourist attraction.
During the 45-minute cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to take in about 3/4 of the length of the River Cam, embarking on a complete historical, cultural, and natural journey. The cruise will take you past the seven colleges, each with its own unique charm: the famous Maths Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, known for their architectural beauty, and King’s College Chapel, a landmark of the University of Cambridge. It’s a journey that will give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s history and beauty.
Cruises usually cost £15-18 for a group of 6 people, and each boat has an experienced local guide on board. The beautiful scenery along the way and the professional guide’s explanation will make the tourists’ trip to Cambridge a perfect experience.
2.Explore the colleges
There are many colleges in the University of Cambridge, or rather, these colleges make up the University of Cambridge.
King’s College
King’s College, a part of the Old Campus of Cambridge, was established in 1441 by King Henry VI of England. This historical institution, named after its founder, has been a learning hub for centuries.The buildings of King’s College are ancient and majestic, so it is the best place to visit in Cambridge
Tickets: Adults £8, Children, Students, Seniors £5.50
Opening times: Monday 9:45-15:30, Tuesday-Friday 9:30-15:30, Saturday 9:30-15:15, Sunday 13:15-14:30 during term time; Monday 9:45-16:30, Tuesday-Sunday 9:30-16:30 outside term time
Trinity College
It is a beacon of academic excellence, boasting a robust financial standing and a prestigious status within the University of Cambridge. With a student body of approximately 700 undergraduates, 350 postgraduates, and 180 Fellows, it is one of the largest colleges in the university. Its architectural splendour and picturesque grounds further enhance its allure, making it a must-visit destination in Cambridge.
The Trinity College Chapel, a testament to the college’s rich history, was erected in 1554 by Mary Tudor, the daughter of Henry VIII. While the interior was fully furnished in the 18th century, it still retains its original charm. Notably, the church’s vestibule houses jade statues of renowned Trinity College graduates, including Newton, Bacon, and Tennyson, adding a touch of reverence to the chapel’s ambience.
The legendary apple tree where a falling apple hit Isaac Newton and thus discovered gravity is in Trinity College. Whether the rumours are true or not, people always stop when they pass by. When people ask what to do in Cambridge, you can say, “Take a photo of the tree.”
Tickets: Adults £2; children and older people need £1; residents and Cambridge University students and alums free of charge; visitors free of charge every year from 26 December to 12 March.
Opening hours: Courtyard: 10:00-16:30 daily; Lane Library: 12:00-14:00 Monday to Friday; 10:30-12:30 Saturdays during term time.
3.Explore market square
The Market is the soul of Cambridge for many residents. Located in the centre of Cambridge, surrounded by supermarkets, shopping malls, the Guildhall and Great St Mary’s Church, the marketplace is a place you will pass by no matter how you walk around. It’s said to have been a marketplace since the Anglo-Saxon period (c.410-1066), and the fountain in the centre dates from 1641. You’ll find a lot of fun things to do in Cambridge here.
It’s open seven days a week from 10 am to 4 pm, and there are dozens of stalls daily, but the ones vary according to the day. Butchers, for example, will only be there on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the market barber can only be encountered on Thursdays. From bike shops and vinyl shops to fresh food stalls to national specialities and mobile cafes, whether you’re a tourist or a resident, you’ll find something that appeals to you, and you’ll be able to buy a wide range of food and meat at a better price than in the supermarkets.
4.The Fitzwilliam Museum
As soon as you get off the train at the railway station, you’ll find the imposing Fitzwilliam Museum, built in 1816. This museum is so striking that it’s one of the best attractions in Cambridge. There is no need to buy a ticket; not only is the exterior of the building very atmospheric, but the interior is also very exquisite and luxurious, and more importantly, there is an extensive collection of artefacts and works of art. Three more interesting ones are the Ceramics Gallery, the Impressionist Pavilion, and the JMW Turner paintings.
The Impressionist Pavilion, a haven for art enthusiasts, is conveniently located in a room adjacent to the main gallery, just a short climb up the stairs from the main entrance. This compact yet captivating space houses works by Seurat, Cézanne, Monet, and more, making it a must-visit for those with a keen eye for Impressionism.
Visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum is a must for admirers of Turner’s watercolours. The collection began with John Ruskin’s donation of 25 paintings to Cambridge University in 1861 and has steadily grown to over 50 pieces through various new acquisitions. This testament to the enduring appeal of Turner’s work is a sight to behold.
In addition to these, the Fitzwilliam Museum has many other collections, including jade, sculpture, antiques, and so on. These are very beautiful, and every once in a while, there will be different temporary exhibitions.
5.Blooming flora at Botanic Gardens
Cambridge University Botanic Garden (CUBG)
As the world’s premier university botanic garden, it supports leading scientific research and welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year. Founded in 1831, the Botanic Garden covers approximately 40 acres and brings together more than 8,000 species of plants worldwide.
CUBG doesn’t just research iconic and endangered trees and plants; the botanic garden cultivates a passion for plant science and gardening. The garden, home to the finest collection of trees in the East of England, is a living classroom that inspires schools, the local community, and visitors worldwide about the importance of plants and the joys of gardening. They are committed to meeting future challenges such as food security, climate change, and medicine through our research and educational initiatives.
The Winter Garden, a jewel in our botanical crown, was lovingly crafted in 1979 by garden directors Peter Orriss and Norman Villas. Its key features are a symphony of colour, smell, structure, and flowers, creating a sensory feast for visitors. Various plants are on display, each with its dramatic visual effect. With its unique play of winter light, this garden has long provided a serene retreat for visitors and a wellspring of inspiration for amateur and professional gardeners alike.
Key to the new design is the use of winter light. The garden faces south and meanders east-west. The winter sun shines low across the garden, backlighting one side and concentrating light on the other. This light, combined with the clever use of colour and structure, makes the winter garden and its planting look spectacular.
6.Step on the Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs is a gallery bridge in Cambridge, England, belonging to St John’s College, University of Cambridge. It is said that the Bridge originated from connecting the student halls of residence of St John’s College with the teachers’ offices. Legend has it that the students must sigh long when they cross the Bridge, hence the name. The view here is charming so that you can look at the Bridge!
Tickets are valid for St John’s College and are £15 for adults and £5 for students.
7.Watch the Corpus Clock chime
The Corpus Clock, a monumental sculptural clock, stands proudly in the street outside the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge University, Cambridge, England. This remarkable piece of art was conceived and funded by John C. Taylor and unveiled by the renowned Cambridge University physicist Stephen Hawking on 19 September 2008. The Eucharistic Bell, a part of the clock, was listed by Time Magazine as one of the best inventions in 2008. It even appeared in the Indian film Father, further cementing its significance.
The giant golden grasshopper is known as “Chronophage” – the devourer of time. Its carapace is sprinkled with gold dust and blood plasma, a reminder of the brevity of life. The grasshopper’s jaws open and close once a minute, and its eyes flash erratically! The venomous stinger is raised every 15 minutes, and a deadly sting is delivered every hour with the sound of a chain striking a coffin. Things that so sophisticated and meaningful must be the top things to do in Cambridge
Address: Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RH (on the corner of King’s Parade and Benet Street)
8.Listen to the singing and worship
King’s College Chapel has always been a common attraction in Cambridge, but here’s a word about an unconventional visitor activity. During term time, there is a chapel service seven days a week, where prayers are said and hymns are sung in the chapel. Though such events are held everywhere else, it is a special experience to feel them inside King’s College. This is only Cambridge things to see that you can’t see in any other places.
Since the chapel is a sacred place, it is recommended that you dress in a dignified manner and refrain from taking pictures during the service. Monday through Saturday and Sunday services have different hours and special holidays. You can check the King’s College website for details.
9.Pick up a Cambridge bag
While walking around Cambridge, you’re bound to find shops selling Cambridge bags. The Cambridge Satchel Company was founded in 2008 by Julie Deane and her mother. The brand is committed to preserving the most traditional British manufacturing techniques. Each piece is handmade in the UK, from classic Cambridge bags to push-lock bags and totes.
10.Go to the theatre and see a play
Another Cambridge things to do is to go to the theatre. The ADC Theatre is Cambridge University’s drama centre, an integral part of the University and the oldest university theatre in the UK. The famous Cambridge Footlights and the Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club are based at the ADC Theatre!
Founded in 1883, The Cambridge Footlights is a theatre group formed by Cambridge students. The Comedy Troupe has produced many famous comedians, writers, and directors from the history of British comedy. Footlights put on four main shows each year – a pantomime, a comedy festival, a spring play and a summer tour.
11.See bands & have a drink
The Portland Arms is a legendary local Cambridge pub where you can enjoy good food and drink, as well as folk, indie, hip-hop, and very niche speciality electronic music. If you have a date or just want to see the nightlife here, this is one of the best places to go out in Cambridge.
12.For Shakespeare lovers
Cambridge Shakespeare Festival
What is there to do in Cambridge? Every year in July and August, Cambridge becomes a sea of Shakespeare fans, with the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival featuring daily performances of Shakespearean masterpieces over eight weeks in the gardens of Cambridge University colleges. Grab a picnic mat and a glass of wine, and sit on the grass while you watch – it’s the perfect way to spend a summer’s evening in Cambridge.
13.An Open Meadow Music Festival
Every year on the 1st Saturday of June, Strawberry Fair, a free music and arts festival, takes place in the centre of Cambridge and has been running for 40 years now. Locals, students, and tourists gather in Midsummer Park to celebrate the vibrant and creative city. The night before the festival kicks off, the Cambridge Buddhist Centre screens a selection of short films, and the festival day is packed with a bike costume parade. Sitting on the grass and watching shows must be the Cambridge best things to do.
14.Try some awsome food
The Anchor restaurant is in the centre of Cambridge, with stunning views of the city and river. It is situated next to the Silver Street Bridge, just a short walk from Queen’s College and the famous Maths Bridge. The restaurant is set over two floors with a picturesque riverside terrace and serves a fresh, seasonal menu.
Address: Silver Street, Cambridge, CB3 9EL
15.Climb up Castle Hill
Although the most popular part of the town is by the river, there are also mountain things to see in Cambridge. The road to Castle Hill is also home to stylish buildings. The top of Castle Hill is the best viewpoint in Cambridge and is worth the climb!
Conclusion
You already know all these best things to do in Cambridge after reading this article. The academic atmosphere, rich history, and picturesque scenery make Cambridge an ideal place to live in the East of England. There are some great options for making your home here, as you can see by clicking on our website uhomes.com, where we offer a great rental service!
You can visit the most famous university in the area, Cambridge University, and you can go to the various music festivals in Cambridge.
Cambridge is famous for the rivers and bridges in the city, as well as the historic University of Cambridge.
Since Cambridge is not a big city, it’s great to spend a day visiting. But there’s so much to do here that a few extra days would be great!
