Rightfully known as “the city that changed the world.” Cambridge is home to more Nobel Prize winners than any other local city across the globe. Cambridge is an international city brimming with opportunity for learning, culture, and excitement. If you haven’t already visited Cambridge then maybe it’s about time that you did.
Regardless of your budget, personal interests, or travel needs. Cambridge is an excellent destination to add to your travel itinerary. Keep reading for everything you need to know about visiting this gorgeous city.
Looking towards the Senate, which is just out of shot on the left
Cambridge at a Glance
Cambridge is worth visiting because it has something for everyone. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of lush, brightly coloured landscapes or the man-made charm of a historical building with distinct architecture, the city looks like a scene from a film.
Actually, this may be because the city of Cambridge literally IS out of a movie. Multiple films and TV shows have used notable sites in Cambridge as a setting or backdrop for their filming. Some notable pieces that showcase famous Cambridge locations include:
Grantchester
Chariots of Fire
The Amazing Race
Love Story
Silent Witness
Wonder Woman 1984
Cloud Atlas
The city is an idyllic combination of greenery, beautiful floral gardens, and breath-taking structures. Walk alongside the incredible River Cam as you take in the city’s atmosphere and picturesque views. It’s hard to leave Cambridge without feeling a sense of inspiration and respect for nature and discovery.
Internationally famous Cambridge University is one of the city’s top destinations. This historic university dates back to the 13th century and displays some of England’s earliest brickwork. Top writers, actors, and politicians have attended the colleges. The grounds of the colleges and Cambridge Backs are enchantingly beautiful and resemble a scene from a storybook.
An empty Clare bridge during the summer
Punting the River Cam is a terrific way to experience the city. You’ll have a chance to take photographs and converse with your travel partners while your guide takes you through Cambridge. Or, if you want to turn your punting tour into a learning experience, look for a historical tour.
Getting to Cambridge
Cambridge is a city that’s incredibly easy to reach, no matter where you’re coming from. If you’re driving, the M11 and A14 roads provide direct links to London and other major cities, making your journey straightforward and relatively stress-free. For those who prefer to travel by train, regular services from London King’s Cross and other major stations ensure a quick and comfortable trip, with the scenic countryside whizzing by.
For international visitors, London Stanstead Airport offers flights to various European destinations and is a short train ride from the city. Cambridge airport serves as a popular hub for private aviation. Once you arrive, the city’s excellent network of bus services, including the convenient Park and Ride scheme, makes it easy to navigate. This scheme allows you to park on the outskirts and hop on a bus that takes you straight into the heart of the city.
Cycling enthusiasts will find Cambridge a dream come true, with numerous scenic routes and bike paths to explore. Whether you’re commuting or just enjoying a leisurely ride, the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure ensures a pleasant experience.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Cambridge has something to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious 5-star hotels like the renowned University Arms Hotel to budget-friendly hostels and charming B&Bs, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head. During the summer months, many of the historic colleges and universities open their doors to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to stay in rooms steeped in history.
For families or groups of friends, self-catering apartments and cottages provide a home-away-from-home experience, complete with all the amenities you need. If you’re looking for a more personalised stay, the city’s boutique hotels and guesthouses offer a unique charm and attentive service that will make your visit truly special.
There are also college rooms available for rent that are designed to mimic a university experience. These college rooms aren’t just for students; they’re perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Cambridge’s heritage and experience a day in the life of some of Cambridge’s most famous graduates, like Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton or King Charles III.
Free Attractions in Cambridge
If you’re on a budget or need to stretch your travel funds, you might worry if you can afford to see the top attractions in Cambridge. Fortunately, there are a lot of things you can do in Cambridge that are completely free.
Check out these free things to do in Cambridge:
Attend an evensong at St. John’s Chapel or King’s College Chapel: at King’s College, choral services take place at 5:30 PM Monday through Saturday and at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM on Sunday. At St. John’s College, evensong services occur every day at 6:30 PM
Go to the Fitzwilliam Museum: The Fitzwilliam displays rotating exhibits and permanent collections that include medieval weapons and Impressionist paintings.
Check out the Scott Polar Research Institute: This is a museum and library devoted to the collection of materials related to the polar region. Named after explorer Robert Falcon Scott, the institute includes journals and other exploration artefacts.
Stop by The Eagle: The Eagle is a historic pub, best-known for being frequented by Francis Crick. Crick was in the pub when announced that he and James Watson had uncovered DNA’s double-helix structure, building on work done by Rosalind Franklin and other scientists .
Observe the stars at the Institute of Astronomy: On Wednesdays, the Institute of Astronomy sets up historical and modern telescopes for stargazers to look for their favourite constellations. Observation is only available when the skies are clear
Walk around: Cambridge is so full of historical architecture and lovely nature scenes that a simple walk is an excellent way to experience the city. Try a route that goes through Grantchester Meadows, or follow a riverside trail.
Visit the Sedgwick Museum: The Sedgwick Museum is devoted to earth science. It houses over two million fossils, rocks, and minerals.
Pay your respects at the American Cemetery and Memorial: This is a cemetery that honours American servicemen who were lost during World War 2. The memorial is hauntingly beautiful and serves as a stark reminder of the war’s impact.
Explore Kettle’s Yard: A major centre for 20th century and contemporary art, Kettle’s Yard offers a rich artistic scene with its galleries and exhibitions.
What to Know About Visiting the Cambridge Colleges
Today, Cambridge University is comprised of 31 different colleges. Each college boasts stunning architecture and gorgeous grounds. The Cambridge colleges are often open to visitors, though some of the colleges do charge an admission fee.
King’s College is usually regarded as the University’s most well-known site thanks to the distinctive Gothic architecture and famous alumni. You can explore the grounds on your own, or you may take a walking tour.
Pembroke College is the University’s third-oldest college and one of its largest. It displays splendid architecture and lovely floral gardens and is free to visit.
Trinity College is another one of the University’s most renowned colleges. It was attended by Sir Isaac Newton and houses the Wren Library.
Food and Drink
Cambridge’s food and drink scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Traditional English pubs, such as The Eagle, serve up local ales and hearty pub food, providing a cosy atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring. The city’s restaurants offer a culinary journey around the world, with cuisines ranging from Italian to Indian, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Don’t miss the chance to sample some of Cambridge’s famous local produce, like the savoury Cambridge sausages and the unique Ely eel. The city’s cafes and bakeries are perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon tea, offering a tempting array of cakes, pastries, and sandwiches.
For those seeking a dining experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, Cambridge boasts several innovative restaurants that push the boundaries of traditional cuisine, offering experimental and avant-garde dishes that are sure to spark your curiosity and delight your taste buds.
When to Visit Cambridge
The ideal time to visit Cambridge depends on your goals for your trip. Weather-wise, from May 28th to September 30th is a fantastic time to see Cambridge. These are the warmest months, with July having the hottest temperatures. Follow us on Threads for daily weather forecasts.
The average July temperature is usually around 23.5 degrees Celsius (74.3 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and 13 degrees Celsius (55.4 degrees Fahrenheit) at night.
Visiting Cambridge During the Winter
However, despite the slightly harsher weather, winter is a popular season for visiting Cambridge. Cambridge in the winter is often regarded as one of the prettiest cities in the world. A coating of snow looks stunning next to all the historical buildings and architectural attractions. Just don’t expect to be guaranteed snow, it is not a given.
King’s College Cambridge during the Beast from the East
If you’re visiting Cambridge during the Christmas season, a Christmas service at King’s College is a must-do. The college’s choir is internationally famous, and the Christmas Eve service is annually broadcast on the BBC.
There are also Christmas markets that take place each year, though the location and specifics of the markets may vary. Typically, the markets have multiple zones, including food vans, market stalls with different wares, craft areas, and entertainment for children.
The North Pole at Parkers Piece is a free event that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. While entry is free, there is a charge for fair rides, ice skating, and any food and beverages that you choose to purchase.
Mill Road hosts a winter fair that begins sometime in early December. It includes food, arts and crafts, cosy beverages, and live entertainment, including singing, dancing, and story-telling.
Even though you’ll need to bundle up, punting along the River Cam is a terrific activity during the winter months. You’ll experience unique views from the river of Cambridge’s winter scenes and the river is usually not as busy during the winter, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Warm up and refresh with brunch or afternoon tea at one of Cambridge’s delicious eateries. Choose from finger sandwiches, scones, mini cakes, and a selection of teas.
Events and Festivals
Cambridge is a city that knows how to celebrate, with a vibrant calendar of festivals and events that draw visitors from all over the world. The Cambridge Folk Festival is a highlight for music lovers, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary folk music that creates an unforgettable atmosphere. The Cambridge Beer Festival is another favourite, offering a chance to sample a wide range of local ales and beers.
The city’s colleges and universities host a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and exhibitions that showcase the talents of students and faculty alike. Cambridge University plays a significant role in the city’s cultural life, hosting events like the annual Cambridge Festival of Ideas, which celebrates the city’s rich history of innovation and discovery.
Whether you’re a festival-goer, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere, Cambridge’s events and festivals offer something for everyone, making it a city that’s always buzzing with excitement and creativity.
Planning a Trip to Cambridge
Don’t feel as if you need to plan a lengthy holiday to enjoy Cambridge. Even one day in Cambridge will allow you to see many of the city’s most famous locales and bask in the city’s culture and heritage.
Cambridge is a 50-mile train ride from London, and trains depart every half hour from King’s Cross Station. A day trip to Cambridge might include some of the following sites:
- Set the scene for a relaxing day by visiting the Cambridge University Botanical Garden
- Tour the Fitzwilliam Museum
- Traverse the King’s Bridge and enjoy the gorgeous architecture of King’s College and King’s College Chapel
- Sample the Chelsea Buns at Fitzbillies
- Go on a private punting tour
- Explore the Sedgwick Museum
- See Trinity College
- Visit the Wren Library at Trinity College: The library houses Sir Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica and a Winnie the Pooh manuscript, alongside other fascinating works
- Enter the Medieval Round Church
- End the day with an evening song at St. John’s Chapel
A great thing about visiting Cambridge is that you can spend as little or as much time as you want at an attraction, making it easy to customise the trip to your needs. It’s possible to maintain a steady walking pace and observe many of Cambridge’s main attractions within a few hours.
Or, if you’re feeling inspired by a particular spot, spend a couple of hours taking photos, having a snack, or just basking in the atmosphere. A fantastic trip to Cambridge can be as short as a day or as long as a few weeks. Let your budget, schedule, and personal preferences guide your travels.
Plan Your Cambridge Visit
Don’t delay planning your visit to Cambridge. This enchanting city hosts multiple attractions, hotels, and eateries that make it ideal for any traveller. Whether you’re searching for a relaxing getaway or prefer a trip that inspires your creative side, Cambridge is ready to welcome you.
Inspired by this? Why not read about how we got our name and setup our business in the first place.