Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 things to do in Cambridge UK this year. Cambridge, renowned for its prestigious university, is steeped in history and brimming with culture.
Visitors to this quintessentially English city are treated to an array of activities ranging from punting on the River Cam to exploring architectural marvels. Its blend of tradition and innovation offers a unique experience that caters to a variety of interests, whether one is seeking education, relaxation or adventure.
- Punt on the River Cam
- Visit the University of Cambridge Colleges
- Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum
- Walk around the Cambridge University Botanic Garden
- Climb to the top of Great St. Mary’s Church
- Attend a Choral Evensong
- Visit Kettle’s Yard House and Gallery
- Explore the Cambridge Market Square
- Take a Walking Tour
- Enjoy the Cambridge Science Centre
10 Things to Do in Cambridge UK
So, if you are visiting the United Kingdom and have put Cambridge on your list of places to see, let’s see if we can find you some things to do there below:
1. Punt on the River Cam
Punting on the River Cam is one of the most iconic and enjoyable experiences for visitors to Cambridge. This traditional flat-bottomed boat, guided by a long pole, offers a serene and picturesque journey through the heart of the city and the University of Cambridge’s stunning college backs.
Tourists can choose between hiring a punt for a self-guided adventure, which allows for a personal and leisurely exploration of the river, or opting for a chauffeured punt, where an experienced guide not only navigates the boat but also shares fascinating stories and insights about the university, its colleges and various bridges that span the Cam.
This blend of natural beauty, architectural grandeur and rich history makes punting an unforgettable experience, offering both relaxation and a deep connection to Cambridge’s academic and cultural heritage. Whether you’re gliding under the Bridge of Sighs at St John’s College, past the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College or alongside the majestic King’s College Chapel, punting on the River Cam is a quintessential Cambridge activity not to be missed.
Check out these: Must Visit Cities in the United Kingdom
2. Visit the University of Cambridge Colleges
Visiting the University of Cambridge Colleges is an essential experience for any tourist to Cambridge, offering a deep dive into the city’s rich academic and architectural heritage. The University of Cambridge, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, is comprised of numerous colleges, each with its own unique history, character and beauty.
Notable colleges such as King’s College, Trinity College and St. John’s College are famous for their striking buildings and expansive, meticulously maintained gardens and grounds. A visit to these colleges allows tourists to step back in time and explore the ancient halls, chapels, libraries and courtyards that have been the center of academic life for centuries.
King’s College Chapel, in particular, is renowned for its breathtaking Gothic architecture and the world-famous choir that performs there. Each college has its own set of stories and legends, contributing to the rich tapestry of Cambridge’s history. Exploring these colleges not only provides a glimpse into the academic excellence and traditions of Cambridge but also offers an inspiring insight into the pursuit of knowledge and the scholarly spirit that defines this historic institution.
3. Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a journey through time and across cultures, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in Cambridge. As one of the most impressive art and antiquities museums in the United Kingdom, the Fitzwilliam houses a vast and diverse collection that spans centuries from ancient Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces of European painting.
The museum’s elegant neoclassical building itself is a work of art, providing a fitting backdrop for the treasures within. Visitors can marvel at works by renowned artists such as Titian, Rubens, Van Gogh and Monet, alongside a remarkable array of ceramics, coins, medals and manuscripts. The museum’s galleries are thoughtfully curated as well, offering not just a view of individual pieces but an immersive experience that tells the story of human creativity and civilization.
Admission to the Fitzwilliam Museum is free, making it accessible to all who wish to delve into its collections and whether you’re an art aficionado, a history enthusiast or simply curious, the museum offers a wealth of beauty and knowledge for all.
Book your trip to Cambridge here!
4. Walk around the Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Spanning over 40 acres, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a living museum of plants, showcasing more than 8,000 species from all over the world. The garden’s layout is designed to take visitors on a journey through different landscapes and climates, from the scented trails of the Mediterranean and alpine gardens to the lush greenery of the woodland and glasshouse collections. Each section of the garden is meticulously curated to demonstrate the diversity of global flora, as well as to support research and conservation efforts.
The glasshouses are a highlight, offering a glimpse into tropical rainforests, arid deserts and the fascinating world of carnivorous plants. The seasonal displays, particularly in spring and summer, are full of color and fragrance, with flowering bulbs, shrubs, and trees in full bloom.
The garden also hosts a variety of educational programs and events, making it a dynamic place of learning and discovery for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or someone seeking a moment of peace, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a refreshing and inspiring experience.
5. Climb to the top of Great St. Mary’s Church
Great St. Mary’s, the University Church since 1209, stands at the heart of Cambridge, not only geographically but also historically and academically. The climb up the narrow, winding staircase to the tower is an adventure in itself, a journey through the ancient structure’s stone passages that have withstood the test of time.
Once at the top, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Cambridge. From this vantage point, you can see the intricate layout of the city, the River Cam meandering through and the stunning architectural ensemble of the University of Cambridge colleges.
The iconic King’s College Chapel, the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College, and the verdant college backs are all visible, offering a picturesque scene that encapsulates the essence of Cambridge’s historic and academic spirit. Visitors not only leave with memorable views but also a deeper appreciation for Cambridge’s heritage as well.
6. Attend a Choral Evensong
Attending a Choral Evensong in Cambridge is an experience that embodies the transcendent beauty of English choral music, set against the backdrop of the city’s historic and architecturally magnificent college chapels. This traditional Anglican service combines evening prayers with exquisite music, sung by choirs that are often composed of some of the most talented choristers and scholars in the country.
The practice of Choral Evensong dates back centuries and is a cornerstone of the English choral tradition, offering a moment of reflection, peace and spiritual enrichment at the end of the day. The setting for these services, such as the renowned King’s College Chapel, with its soaring Gothic architecture and ethereal acoustics, adds an unparalleled dimension to the experience as well.
The repertoire ranges from ancient Gregorian chants to contemporary compositions, showcasing the choir’s versatility and the rich heritage of sacred music. For visitors, attending a Choral Evensong is chance to sit quietly and let the world-class choral music transport you, regardless of your personal beliefs or religious affiliations.
7. Visit Kettle’s Yard House and Gallery
The Kettle’s Yard House and Gallery in Cambridge is a unique cultural experience that blends art, architecture and personal history into a seamless and intimate encounter. Originally the home of Jim Ede, a former curator at the Tate Gallery, and his wife Helen, Kettle’s Yard was conceived as a living space where art could be enjoyed in a domestic setting.
The house itself is a testament to their vision, with its rooms arranged as if they were still inhabited and where artworks by significant 20th-century artists such as Henri Gaudier-Brzeska, Joan Miró, and Ben Nicholson mingle effortlessly with natural objects, furniture and ceramics.
The Edes’ belief that art should be a part of everyday life is palpable as you move through the space, with each room telling a story through its carefully curated objects and artworks, illuminated by natural light that floods in through the windows.
The gallery extension, added to host temporary exhibitions, continues this ethos by showcasing contemporary art that resonates with the original collection’s spirit. Here, visitors can engage with new ideas and creative expressions that challenge and inspire.
Book your trip to Cambridge here!
8. Explore the Cambridge Market Square
The Cambridge Market Square is just a stone’s throw from many of the University of Cambridge’s historic colleges and has been a focal point of city life for centuries, evolving over time but always remaining a hub of activity and commerce. Every day of the week, the square comes alive with stalls offering a diverse array of goods from fresh local produce, artisan breads and cheeses, to books, vintage clothes and handmade crafts.
This variety not only caters to the eclectic tastes of Cambridge’s residents and students but also offers tourists a glimpse into the local culture and the opportunity to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Furthermore, the air is filled with the aromas of freshly prepared foods, from international cuisines to traditional British fare, inviting visitors to indulge in a culinary adventure as well.
Beyond its commercial offerings, the Cambridge Market Square is a place of social interaction and community. It’s where locals meet and catch up, where tourists can feel the pulse of the cit, and where the historic setting blends seamlessly with the energy of modern life. The surrounding architecture, from the medieval Guildhall to the classical facades of the surrounding buildings, provides a picturesque backdrop, reminding visitors of the city’s long and storied past.
9. Take a Walking Tour
Taking a historical walking tour in Cambridge is an immersive way to connect with the city’s rich tapestry of history, architecture and academia. These guided tours offer a narrative journey through the centuries-old streets, providing insights into the lives of scholars, poets, scientists and revolutionaries who have walked these paths before.
Led by knowledgeable guides, often with their own deep connections to the city, these tours peel back the layers of Cambridge’s storied past, revealing the human stories and historical events that have shaped the university and the city at large.
As you meander through cobbled lanes and across ancient college courtyards, you’ll be introduced to iconic landmarks, such as the King’s College Chapel, with its world-renowned Gothic architecture and the Mathematical Bridge, famous for its design and myths surrounding its construction.
But beyond these well-known sights, the tours delve deeper into the less visible aspects of Cambridge’s history, uncovering hidden gems and tales of intrigue, innovation and inspiration that are not immediately apparent to the casual observer.
10. Enjoy the Cambridge Science Centre
The Cambridge Science Centre is a journey of discovery and fascination, particularly appealing to families and anyone with a curious mind about the wonders of science and technology. Situated in the heart of a city renowned for its academic excellence and scientific achievements, the Cambridge Science Centre offers an interactive and engaging experience that makes science accessible and fun for visitors of all ages.
Unlike traditional museums where exhibits are often behind glass, the centre encourages hands-on interaction, allowing visitors to experiment with and explore scientific principles firsthand. The exhibits cover a wide range of scientific disciplines, from physics and engineering to biology and environmental science, ensuring that there’s something to spark the interest of every visitor.
These interactive displays are designed not only to educate but also to inspire creativity and critical thinking, challenging visitors to solve problems, conduct experiments and think like scientists. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Cambridge Science Centre hosts a variety of workshops, shows and events that delve deeper into specific topics, often featuring guest scientists and experts from the University of Cambridge and the broader scientific community as well.
FAQs
What are some budget-friendly attractions in Cambridge?
Take advantage of the free access to the university gardens and the market square, or take in the majesty of the Choral Evensong without spending much at all. The walking tour is another great option which won’t break the bank as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 10 best things to do in Cambridge. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here or if there are any other must visit locations that I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
