Looking for things to do in Cambridge? As one of the most well-known cities in the United Kingdom, Cambridge is not only home to a world-class university but also a city with a long, rich history dating back to prehistoric times where the old meets the new. From the grand King’s College Chapel to the buzzing at the Eagle, from scenic River Cam to the lively Mill Road, the city offers something for everyone to explore, relax, and have fun. Get ready with us to find the 20 Cambridge things to do and see today!
20 Things to do in Cambridge
No matter as a student or a visitor, there is no need to worry about what to do in Cambridge since you will find a list long enough to explore. From ancient architecture to museums, local markets to unique restaurants and bars, we have included some of the best places to visit in Cambridge that will add colors to your trip.
1. Visit Cambridge Colleges
Of course, visiting the University of Cambridge should be on the top of things to do in Cambridge list. The university is the second oldest University (the first is the University of Oxford) in the English speaking world. It has 31 colleges, and each of them provides some fantastic sites to visit.
The Trinity College is Cambridge’s Royal college, St John’s College is the wealthiest college,and the Christ’s College is where Darwin once studied. If you’re planning a visit to these Cambridge colleges, remember to check the official website and buy tickets in advance and obey the rules when visiting.
2. Admire King’s College Chapel
Kings College Chapel stands as the iconic building in Cambridge and is one of the best things to see in Cambridge. Built from 1446 to 1515, It is the world’s largest fan vault building with late Perpendicular Gothic English architecture style and the glory stained glass windows.
The Chapel also plays a central role in college. It is where new students matriculate and where the BBC’s Christmas Eve carol service is recorded. Pop inside the King’s College Chapel and admire the best Italian wooden carvings in the UK.
3. Spot The Corpus Clock
Located on outside the Taylor Library at the Corpus Christi College, The Corpus Clock is a large grim-looking metal sculpture with a huge grasshopper sits on it. The huge beast is said to be a “time eater“, which seems to eat the seconds when they tick by. This place is listed as one of the good places to visit in Cambridge since you will feel strongly how time flies when standing in front of it.
4. Stroll at Botanic Gardens
Take a leisurely stroll at the Botanic Gardens is of course on the list of things to do in Cambridge. This 16-hectare garden in the University of Cambridge is home to over 8,000 plant species, including 9 National collections and a wonderful arboretum. The Garden opens from 10 Am to 4 PM everyday and the ticket is £7.70 for adult and free for student at Cambridge University and children under 16.
5. Study at Wren Library
If you are a students who loves history and literature, visit and study at the Wren Library should be on your list of what to do in Cambridge. Established in 1695, the Wren Library is the library of the Trinity College. It boasts the largest collection of valuable and famous works, including two of Shakespeare’s first folios, letters of Sir Isaac Newton, and A. A Milne’s original drawings for Winnie the Pooh.
6. Punt along River Cam
Punting down the River Cam is always one of the best things to do in Cambridge and view the city sight. The river runs through the heat of the city and splits it into two, passing by some of the most beautiful areas. Over the years, punting along the river has became the most popular pastime and one of the best ways to see the city.
7. Shop at Cambridge Market Square
Another good way to feel the local life in this city is to visit the Cambridge Market Square. It might have not came to you that Cambridge is in fact also a market city and stalls have been trading at the Market Square since middle ages. From clothes, jewellery, CDs to street food, fruit and vegetables, you can find everything here. The market opens 10am-4pm from Monday to Sunday. Add it to your things to do in Cambridge and meet your favourite little stuff here.
8. Explore Mill Road
The Mill Road is one of the good places to visit in Cambridge where you can find everything from local and international restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs, boutique stores and independent shops. It is the most vibrant street in Cambridge, and locals usually eat, drink, and shop at this “The Mile” street.
9. Cross the Mathematical Bridge
Standing as one of the landmarks in the city, the Mathematical Bridge is also a top Cambridge places to visit. This wooden footbridge is built in 1749 and rebuilt in 1866 and in 1905, but the design has been remained. It connects the old Tudor part to the new Erasmus buildings of Queen’s College, and it can be accessed from the porter’s lodge on Silver Street for £3.50.
10 See the Bridge of Sighs
Another iconic bridge at Cambridge must be the Bridge of Sighs. Different from the Mathematical Bridge, it is a stone covered bridge at St John’s College. It is the only covered bridge to cross the River Cam and also the only College bridge built in the Victorian Gothic style, making it one of the best places to visit in Cambridge. The best way to see the Bridge of Sighs is punting on the river.
11. Explore Modern Art at Kettle’s Yard
Kettle’s Yard is one of the good places to go in Cambridge to explore modern and contemporary art. It is was once the residence of Jim (curator at the Tate Gallery) and Helen Ede, who collected many artworks and then it all with the house to the University of Cambridge. Now, Kettle’s Yard hosts many remarkable collections and regular art exhibitions.
12. Wander to Grantchester
Wondering what to do in Cambridge for the next weekends? Why not visit the historic and picturesque village Grantchester. Located just two miles from the centre of Cambridge, this small village is accessible and features a magnificent medieval church, quaint thatched cottages, large green spaces, and a pool where Lord Byron used to swim.
13. Climb the Great St Mary’s
The Great St Mary’s is the parish church in the Diocese of Ely, and also the university church for the University of Cambridge. It is located just next to the market square, one of the best places to visit in Cambridge after joining the market. You can buy a ticket to the top of the tower and climb the stairs to the top, where is the best viewpoint in all of Cambridge.
14. Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum
When it comes to museums, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum is of course one of the best things to do in Cambridge. Founded in 1810, it is the art and antiquities museum of the University of Cambridge. The museum hosts over half of a million objects from Egyptian coffins to Impressionist masterpieces, illuminated manuscripts, and Asian arts.
15. Watch a Show at Cambridge Junction
The Cambridge Junction is a independent arts venue with a wide range of things to do in Cambridge. From alternative rock and folk to some of the best stand-ups, Cambridge Junction offer more than you can imagine. There is also some of the best pubs in Cambridge here like The Mill and The Regal.
16. Have Fun at Cambridge Science Centre
One of the good things to do in Cambridge with kids is to visit and have fun at the Cambridge Science Centre. It offers a place for children and young adults to explore over 20 new, hands-on, and open-ended exhibits. There are also exciting shows and experiment and workshop spaces where kids can challenge themselves.
17. Have a look at Museum of Zoology
Check out the Museum of Zoology is also one of the good things to do in Cambridge for some people or parents with kids. From moths to monkeys, mammoths to manatees, discover stories of extinction, survival, evolution and exploration. It opens from Tuesday to Sunday and is free for admission.
18. Check the Ruskin Gallery
The Ruskin Gallery is a is a contemporary gallery located in the historic building of WM College in Camden. It hosts a unique exhibition space with artists’ studios of Cambridge School of Art. The gallery is open to the general public Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm. All exhibitions and shows are free and there is no need to book in advance, making it a good stuff to do in Cambridge.
19. Try Best Restaurants in Cambridge
Believe me, you will have no problem at all to find the best restaurants in Cambridge. The city is home to seven Michelin restaurants, including Midsummer (modern British cuisine with classical French technique), Restaurant 22 (British dining), VanderLyle (seasonal ingredient-led plant-based tasting menus), Mercado (Galician and Basque heritage), and Fancett’s (French Style cuisine).
20. Find Best Pubs in Cambridge
As a university town with more than 20,000 students, Cambridge is a city also renowned for its young community and vibrant nightlife. Explore some of the best pubs in Cambridge life the Pint Shop, The Eagle, The Mill, The Town and Gown, The Brew House, and more. As a students, you will never get bored by the nightlife here and there are always exciting activities to explore.
When to Visit Cambridge
Many places to visit in Cambridge are pedestrain-only, so it is best to be there when the weather is good for outdoors. Most visitors come to Cambridge between April and September when the weather is warm and the days are long. But it might not be a good time to visit Cambridge if you want to avoid the crowds.
If you’re fond of natural views, Spring is a good time when most gardens are in bloom and the weather tends to be gentle. If you are here to visit the University of Cambridge, it is suggested to avoid May to June since the university might not open to tourists during the exam period.
How to Get Around Cambridge
Cambridge is a small city and you will find it is easy to get around most areas in Cambridge on foot, by bike, bus, or Uber. Walking and cycling are the most common way for local residents, and it will also be enough for visitors to get to most places to visit in Cambridge city centre. There are two covered cycle parks in the city centre, as well as ample parking spaces elsewhere nearby.
The excellent City Bus Network will get you covered, including a night bus on Friday and Saturday nights. You can buy a day ticket for £4.50 to take rides unlimited for one day. There is also Hop on Hop off Bus, which is specially designed for sightseeing with 19 stops all over the city, taking you on a tour across all the city’s top attractions.
How to Get to Cambridge
Cambridge is a well-connected city in the East of England and enjoys regular train connections with nearby cities. London and Stansted airport is about a 50-minute trip by train and Birmingham is about 2 hours and a half. It is only a 10-minute bus or a 15-minute walk from the train station to the city centre.
Getting to Cambridge by bus is also possible. There are many buses to and from the bus station near the city centre, but the trips might usually take a few hours for example if you travel from London. Bus is usually suggested for traveling to local towns and villages.
How Long to Visit Cambridge
As you can see from our list, there is a lot of things to do in Cambridge and plenty of places to visit. We suggest you can stay for at least s few days to cover primary landmarks in the city, so that your schedule will not be too tight. Of course, if you live around Cambridge, the comprehensive railway network makes it also convenient to stay for just one or two days.
Where to Stay in Cambridge
For longer stays, there is a lot of accommodations in Cambridge, including student accommodations, serviced apartments, hotels, hostels, and more. You can choose a good place to stay in the city with proximity to attractions so that to save a lot of time and energy.
For incoming students, find the perfect student accommodation in Cambridge is crucial for your student life. As a professional platform, uhomes.com provides over the best all-inclusive student accommodation options catred to all preferences and budgets. With several minute walking distance to the university campus and the best amenities, you will find a home away from home. We have picked op some of our best options to help you find the right place to stay:
- The Cam Foundry: It is a popular student accommodation in Cambridge offers studios, en-suites and non en-suites. There is a bus stop right before the flat, connecting you with the university campus and city centre. Train station is also a 6-minute bike/14-minute bus.
- The Railyard, Cambridge: This student accommodation has all-inclusive bills and is furnished with matching furniture and amenities like gym and onsite security. The Cambridge train station is only a 4-minute walk.
- Castle Hill Student Accommodation: Close to both the University of Cambridge (8 mins walk) and Anglia Ruskin University (17 mins bus). It provides well-furnished rooms with a private ensuite bathroom, as well as a high-speed WiFi gym, lounge, gaming area, and 24-hour CCTV in the communal area.
- Castle Street: It provides double occupancy, perfect for students to save money and stay with friends, and is also close to close to the University of Cambridge (6 mins walk) and Anglia Ruskin University (12 mins bus).
Conclusion
With so many things to do in Cambridge, no matter students or visitors will get a remarkable experience in this city. From university colleges to iconic landmarks, museums to galleries, local markets to best restaurants and pubs, Cambridge will never let you down. Plan your trip according to our list of Cambridge things to do and have fun at this historical city!
FAQ
How to Get to Cambridge?
Cambridge is easily accessible by train, with direct services from London King’s Cross (45 minutes) and London Liverpool Street. You can also take trains from cities like Oxford or Birmingham, usually requiring a change. By car, it’s a 1.5-hour drive from London via the M11. National Express coaches offer budget options from major cities. The nearest airport is London Stansted, 30-40 minutes away by train.
How do I spend a day in Cambridge?
Start your day in Cambridge with breakfast at Fitzbillies, then explore the iconic university colleges like King’s, Trinity, and St. John’s. Afterward, enjoy punting on the River Cam, offering scenic views of the colleges. For lunch, visit the Cambridge Market or a local café. In the afternoon, relax at the Botanic Garden or visit the Fitzwilliam Museum. Wander around the town centre for shopping or a coffee, and end the day with dinner at a traditional pub like The Eagle. Cap it off with an evening stroll by the river or a night punt for a unique experience.
Is Cambridge good for a weekend days out?
Yes, Cambridge is perfect for a weekend day out. Its blend of historic colleges, beautiful river views, and charming streets makes it ideal for exploring in a short time. You can visit iconic colleges, take a punt on the River Cam, stroll through the Botanic Garden, and enjoy local cafes and pubs. With its relaxed atmosphere, Cambridge offers a wonderful mix of culture, nature, and history, making it an excellent weekend destination.
Is it safe to walk at night in Cambridge?
Yes, Cambridge is generally considered safe to walk at night, especially in well-lit areas and near popular spots like the city center, the university colleges, and along the River Cam. The city has a low crime rate, and there is a strong presence of students and locals, making it feel lively even after dark. However, as with any city, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas.
Is Cambridge a walkable city?
Yes, Cambridge is a very walkable city. The city center is compact, with most attractions, including the university colleges, museums, parks, and shops, within walking distance of each other. The pedestrian-friendly streets, scenic riverside paths, and quiet college courtyards make exploring on foot a pleasure. Additionally, the city has excellent signage and plenty of benches and green spaces for resting, making it ideal for leisurely walks.
What are some cool things to do in Cambridge for free?
There are many cool things to do in Cambridge for free. Here are some highlights:
Explore the University Colleges: While entry to many colleges requires a fee, you can wander around the college grounds, courtyards, and gardens for free, especially around places like King’s College and Trinity College.
Punt on the River Cam (Bring Your Own Boat): While guided punting tours have a fee, you can bring your own boat or rent a kayak for a lower cost to experience the river.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden: Free to enter on certain dates (e.g., during open days or special events), and you can also visit the surrounding areas like Parker’s Piece for outdoor activities.
Fitzwilliam Museum: Free entry to this world-class museum, which features a diverse collection of art, antiquities, and rare books.
Walk along the River Cam: Enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks, where you’ll see beautiful views of the colleges, gardens, and wildlife.
