Discover Cambridge | Recommended Places to Stay & Visit

Why is Cambridge Worth a Visit?

Cambridge is worth visiting for its remarkable history, picturesque landscapes, and the prestigious University of Cambridge, founded in 1209 and home to some of the world’s finest minds. The city is a living museum, with its medieval college buildings, leafy courtyards, and bridges over the River Cam providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and reflection. Beyond its academic reputation, Cambridge boasts beautiful gardens, excellent museums, and a delightful mix of independent shops and cosy cafés. Whether you’re here to tour the famous colleges, take a punt down the river, or enjoy the lively arts scene, Cambridge has a unique charm that’s hard to match.

Cambridge Highlights: Things to See and Do in Cambridge

1. King's College Chapel

King’s College Chapel is one of the most iconic sights in Cambridge. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture and majestic fan-vaulted ceiling, this chapel is a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and the grand organ, as well as a serene ambience that makes it a must-visit for anyone coming to Cambridge. Join an official guided tour to learn more about its history, and consider visiting during Evensong to hear the world-famous King’s College Choir.

2. The River Cam and Punting

Punting on the River Cam is a quintessential Cambridge experience. You can hire a punt to navigate the river yourself or take a guided tour to learn about the history of the university and its colleges from the water. The river route through "The Backs" offers one of the best ways to see the city’s architectural beauty, passing by landmarks like Clare College and Trinity College. Punting is most popular in spring and summer, but tours are available year-round for those looking to enjoy a quiet winter float.

3. Trinity College and the Wren Library

Trinity College, founded by Henry VIII, is one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge and is known for its alumni, including Sir Isaac Newton. The Wren Library, designed by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren, houses a priceless collection of manuscripts, including works by Shakespeare and Newton’s personal notebooks. The beautiful lawned courtyards and grand buildings make Trinity College a fantastic place to soak up the academic heritage of Cambridge.

4. The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum is an impressive museum and art gallery housing a wide variety of artefacts and artworks. Its extensive collection includes Egyptian antiquities, Impressionist paintings, and medieval manuscripts. Admission is free, and the museum offers a delightful setting with neoclassical architecture and vast halls filled with treasures. A must-visit for art and history enthusiasts, it’s also perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a few hours immersed in cultural heritage.

5. The Cambridge University Botanic Garden

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a lush, 40-acre garden founded in 1846, featuring a variety of plant species from around the world. The gardens include everything from exotic glasshouses to lovely open lawns, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Highlights include the Systematic Beds, the Rock Garden, and the Winter Garden, each showcasing unique flora. Visit in spring for colourful blossoms or in autumn for a display of changing leaves.

6. St. John’s College and the Bridge of Sighs

St. John’s College is one of Cambridge’s most picturesque colleges, known for its impressive architecture and its beautiful Bridge of Sighs. This enclosed bridge, inspired by Venice, spans the River Cam and is especially popular with photographers. The college chapel and Great Gate are also notable landmarks, and the college grounds are perfect for exploring on a sunny day.

7. The Round Church

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, commonly known as the Round Church, is one of only four round churches in England, built in 1130. Its unique circular structure and Norman design make it a fascinating sight, and it’s a quiet spot to reflect on the city's long history. There’s also a small exhibition about the history of Cambridge, making it an interesting and relatively undiscovered gem.

8. The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

For geology enthusiasts, the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences is an excellent stop. This museum, the oldest of the University of Cambridge's museums, houses an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks. Highlights include fossils from the time of the dinosaurs and early specimens collected by Charles Darwin himself. Admission is free, and the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of our planet.

9. Cambridge Market Square

The bustling Market Square is located in the heart of the city and has been a marketplace since the Middle Ages. Here, you’ll find stalls selling everything from artisan bread and street food to handmade crafts and fresh produce. It’s a lively spot perfect for shopping or grabbing a quick lunch, with street musicians adding to the atmosphere. The market is open daily, making it a convenient place to pick up unique souvenirs.

10. The Mathematical Bridge at Queen’s College

The Mathematical Bridge, officially known as the Wooden Bridge, is an iconic footbridge that crosses the River Cam at Queen’s College. It’s named for its elegant design, which is said to use mathematical principles to hold itself up without nails (although nails are indeed present). This bridge is popular for its architectural charm and is often included in river punt tours.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Cambridge is well-connected by rail, road, and air. The train from London takes about an hour from King’s Cross, making it a popular day-trip destination. Cambridge also has easy road access via the M11 motorway. If you’re flying, London Stansted Airport is the closest international airport, around 30 miles south of the city, with direct train connections to Cambridge.

Parking

Cambridge city centre is compact, so walking or cycling is often the best way to get around. Parking in the centre can be limited and expensive, especially during peak times, so consider using one of the city’s five Park & Ride services, which are cost-effective and easy. The Grand Arcade car park is the most central, but spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Dining

Cambridge’s dining scene offers a mix of traditional British fare, international cuisine, and quaint tea rooms. For a true taste of local produce, try Midsummer House, a Michelin-starred restaurant set along the river, known for its creative, seasonal menu. For a casual meal, the Eagle Pub is a historic favourite, known as the place where Crick and Watson announced their discovery of DNA’s double helix. Afternoon tea is a must, and Fitzbillies, famous for its sticky Chelsea buns, is a popular spot to indulge in this English tradition.

Shopping

Cambridge has a delightful mix of high-street shops and independent boutiques. Alongside Market Square, you’ll find everything from vintage books to handmade crafts. Grand Arcade and Lion Yard offer modern shopping experiences, while Heffers Bookshop is a beloved spot for book lovers. For unique Cambridge-themed souvenirs, stop by the Cambridge University Gift Shop or visit craft stalls in Market Square.

When to Visit

Cambridge is beautiful year-round, but late spring and early autumn are especially popular as the weather is pleasant, and the gardens and college grounds are in full bloom. Summer brings crowds and warm weather, making it ideal for punting, though autumn offers a quieter, picturesque experience as the leaves change. Winter has its own charm, with festive lights and quieter streets, and fewer tourists mean a more relaxed visit to museums and attractions.

Local Events

Cambridge has an exciting events calendar, with something for everyone. The Cambridge Science Festival in March showcases the latest in science and technology and is an excellent experience for families and curious minds. The Cambridge Folk Festival in July is one of the longest-running folk festivals in the world, drawing crowds for live music and a friendly atmosphere. Winter events include Christmas markets and carol singing at King’s College Chapel, providing a festive feel to the historic setting.

Exploring Beyond Cambridge

Cambridge is a great base for exploring other parts of East Anglia. Ely, a charming cathedral town just 15 minutes by train, offers the stunning Ely Cathedral and lovely riverside walks. Newmarket, famous for its horse racing heritage, is around 20 minutes away by train, with attractions such as the National Horseracing Museum and racecourse tours. Further afield, the Norfolk coast and historic city of Norwich make for interesting day trips by train or car.