Best Things To Do in Cambridge

Known for its prestigious university, Cambridge is a place where history meets innovation. Some call it "the wise city", while others prefer to say that Cambridge is the city around the university.

This destination not only fascinates for its academic institutions, but also for the richness of its architectural heritage, the renowned figures that have come out of the alma mater of the city, its museums and the charm of its natural corners. Strolling through its streets, touring its canals by boat or exploring its most hidden secrets are just some of the activities that make this city an unforgettable place and here I tell you the best things to do in Cambridge.

Of course, the ideal is to start at the beginning, and in this case, we are talking about the alma mater and the heart of the city: the University of Cambridge. Founded in 1209, this institution stands out for its history, prestige and architectural beauty, being one of the most notable and respected universities in the world.

As you walk through its 31 different colleges, such as the famous Churchill College, King's College or Darwin College, you will be immersed in an atmosphere full of history and knowledge. The landscaped courtyards, libraries and chapels will make you feel as if you were walking through an open-air museum. In addition, many of the buildings are open to the public, allowing you to learn more about student life and the great minds that have passed through these classrooms, such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and Stephen Hawking.

Details of interest

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on the tour you choose and how many colleges you decide to visit.
• What you should know: this university city is one of the largest, besides the colleges it has 9 museums including its Botanical Garden, a majestic library with a history dating back to 1416 and not to mention its impressive chapels. You could spend days here if you want to delve into every corner, but if you are interested in the highlights, you can book your guided tour of the University of Cambridge in advance, so that an expert can guide you inside the campus.

You can't visit Cambridge without enjoying one of its most emblematic tours: a boat trip on the River Cam. The**"punting**", as this activity is called, consists of sailing in a small flat boat, propelled by a long pole that guides the boatman through the river, in other words, it is the English version of the gondolas.

But the boats are not the only part that try to emulate the Italian experience, also some of the points visited share similarities, for example its historic Bridge of Sighs that crosses the river between Third Court and New Court. No doubt the architect Henry Hutchinson had seen the Bridge of Sighs in Venice since it was built some 230 years earlier. Of course, the views you will have and the history behind this bridge, change the atmosphere completely.

During the ride, you can enjoy breathtaking views of some of the most famous colleges, such as King's College and Trinity College. It's a relaxing activity and perfect for getting to know Cambridge from a different perspective, while you let yourself be carried away by the gentle rhythm of the river.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 45 and 60 minutes.
• What you should know: you can choose to rent a boat and paddle yourself, or hire a guide to take charge of the navigation while telling you stories about the city. The boats are available all year round, but summer is when they are most popular.

Although a sacred site older than Stonehenge has been discovered, this World Heritage-listed megalithic monument remains one of the most enigmatic and visited sites in the UK.

Stonehenge has been a subject of fascination for centuries, and its exact purpose remains a mystery. Some believe it was a religious temple with its various altar stones surrounded by monoliths, while others consider it to be an ancient astronomical observatory attended by thousands of people every year to view the winter solstice.

Being only about two hours from Cambridge it is well worth a trip to this monument. Regardless of your personal theory, the energy you feel around this circle of stones is special.

Details of interest

• Duration: full day tour.
• What you should know: many tours combine a visit to Stonehenge with a stop in the city of Bath, where you can relax like in ancient times. If you want to make the most of your experience, be sure to book a tour to Bath and Stonehenge, and don't forget to bring comfortable clothes and something to protect you from the wind, as the site is located on an open plain.

Cambridge is an ideal city to explore on foot. Its cobblestone streets, its mix of historic and contemporary architecture, and its relaxed atmosphere invite you to lose yourself in its nooks and crannies and discover little details that may not appear in the guidebooks.

Strolling through the city without a fixed plan will allow you to admire places like Market Square, the Botanical Gardens, King's College Chapel and the courtyards of the colleges. Along the way, you will find charming cafes, old bookstores and small museums that further enrich the experience.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 2 and 3 hours if you plan to only tour the outside of the points of interest, however this could be extended as your stops.
• What you should know: Cambridge is a safe and easily accessible city on foot. I recommend you start in the historic center and explore the adjacent streets. And if you feel like learning about hidden treasures, myths, and local stories, you can schedule a guided tour of Cambridge, the guides provide valuable information and answer your questions live.

Cambridge is not only known for its rich academic history, but also for the folk folklore that shrouds its streets, bogs and marshes with legends and dark tales. But what are these spots in Darwin's city?

Taking part in a ghost tour of the city will lead you to discover them in an entertaining and spooky way, to unravel the mysteries surrounding some of the oldest buildings using your grey cells, Sherlock Holmes style.

Signing up for a ghost tour of Cambridge by night, expert guides will take you through shadowy alleyways and forgotten corners as they recount stories of apparitions, supernatural phenomena and dark secrets that have left their mark on **Cambridge'**s history. From stories of the Lady in Grey to apparitions in the colleges, these tours will not leave you indifferent.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 60 and 90 minutes.
• What you should know: the tours usually take place at night to add a spookier touch, so bring a coat if it's chilly.

The Fitzwilliam Museum is one of Cambridge's top cultural attractions. This museum, which is part of the University of Cambridge, houses nearly half a million works, a vast collection of art and antiquities ranging from the Ancient Ages to the 21st century.

Inside, you can admire works by artists such as Turner, Monet and Picasso, as well as a collection of illuminated manuscripts, ceramics, sculptures and artifacts from ancient civilizations. The neoclassical building itself is already a work of art worth admiring. It is an ideal place to spend an afternoon immersed in culture and art, and admission is free.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 2 and 3 hours, approximately.
• What you should know: the museum is located on Trumpington Street, a perfect place to stop if you plan to book a ticket for the city's tourist bus. Its hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Although admission is free, some temporary exhibitions may have a cost. The museum has a cafeteria and a gift store, perfect for a break during the visit.

Cambridge enters the ranks of Europe' s oldest and most fun university towns, and the local beer is key to this status. Like other prestigious universities, student life is combined with fun for those looking to relax between classes or celebrate the end of exams. This mix has given rise to a rich craft beer culture that is a must when booking a tour of Cambridge's classic pubs.

One of the most iconic pubs is The Eagle, a venue that has witnessed historical and cultural landmarks. Founded in the 17th century, this pub has served pints to such legendary figures as Winston Churchill and Charles Darwin. Even Francis Crick, one of the discoverers of the structure of DNA, announced his revolutionary discovery in the middle of lunch here in 1953.

The Eagle was also frequented by members of Pink Floyd, who, like many other art students in the city, found inspiration in the creative atmosphere that this pub and other venues such as The Cambridge Blue or the risky Champion of the Thames. In addition, the craft beer scene in Cambridge has grown, offering a wide selection of local beers that reflect the fun and contemporary side of this "wise" city.

Details of interest

• Duration: approximately 2 to 3 hours.
• What you should know: this is an ideal activity for groups of friends or couples. Be sure to book in advance, especially on weekends. A beer tour of these iconic pubs is a way to connect with the stories behind Cambridge's history.

To connect with the authentic local Cambridge atmosphere, you can't miss Cambridge Market Square. This open-air market, located in the heart of the city, is the perfect place to find fresh produce, crafts, clothing, vintage books and all kinds of souvenirs.

With a history dating back to the Middle Ages, the market remains a meeting point for residents and tourists alike. In addition to shopping, you can enjoy local food at the street food stalls, which offer everything from English specialties to international flavors.

Details of interest

• Duration: about 1 hour.
• What you should know: you find this market in Market Hill, you can even get there with the tourist bus, and it opens its doors from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00 hours, although some stalls may vary.

A visit to Cambridge isn't complete without sampling Fitzbillies' legendary Chelsea Buns, a sticky, spicy treat that this bakery has been perfecting since 1920. These scones, filled with raisins and dipped in an irresistible cinnamon-sugar mixture, have become an emblem of the city, to the point that more than 200,000 are produced each year. The original store on Trumpington Street has witnessed the passing of generations of students and visitors who, in between chats, enjoy this classic.

In addition to its famous scones, Fitzbillies offers an excellent selection of brunch, lunches and the traditional afternoon tea. In an atmosphere that evokes the history and tradition of Cambridge, it is the perfect place to take a break, refuel and enjoy some quiet time.

Details of interest

• Duration: from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you decide to have brunch or just a scone.
• What you should know: they are located at 51-52 Trumpington St, two blocks from the Fitzwilliam Museum, which you can reach after buying a ticket for the City Sightseeing bus They work Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm and Sundays from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. Afternoon tea starts at 16:00, and is usually very crowded.

The Corpus Clock, located on the facade of Corpus Christi College's Taylor Library, is a curious attraction that combines science, art and a bit of philosophy.

This unique clock, opened in 2008, has no visible hands or numbers. Instead, time is marked by a series of LED lights surrounding its golden dial, while a lobster-shaped metal figure, known as**"The Chronophage**" (devourer of time), seems to devour each passing second. The Corpus Clock is designed to represent the uncontrollable nature of time, something that always keeps moving forward, even when we don't notice it.

Details of interest

• Duration: approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
• What you should know: the clock is located on a public street, at 58 Trumpington St, so you can visit it at any time. However, at night is when its light effect is most spectacular.

King's College Chapel is one of Cambridge's most iconic attractions. Built between 1446 and 1515, it is a magnificent example of late Gothic architecture. Its impressive fan vault is the largest in the world, and its stained glass windows, dating from the 16th century, are considered a masterpiece of glass painting.

During your visit, you can admire both the exterior architecture and the impressive interior, where concerts and special events are held. In addition, if you are lucky enough to visit Cambridge during Christmas, the chapel is the setting for the famous "Nine Lessons and Carols" Christmas Eve service.

Details of interest

• Duration: about 1 hour.
• What you should know: it is located on King 's Parade. Entrance to the chapel is included in the entrance ticket to King's College. It is one of the most visited places in the city, so it is advisable to book in advance, especially during high season.