Best 20 things to do in Cambridge, United Kingdom

Are you ready to get lost in the charm of Cambridge? According to a recent article, there are 20 things you simply cannot miss while exploring this beautiful city. From punting in the River Cam, to indulging in some good old-fashioned people watching - Cambridge has got it all. Oh, and don't forget to visit the world-renowned University of Cambridge, where you can pretend to be a student for the day and walk through halls of academia (just don't get too carried away with your newfound intelligence).

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1. St. John's College

4.5 (137)

St John's College, St Johns St, Cambridge CB2 1TP, UK

As you make your way to St. John's College in Cambridge, be sure to prepare yourself for a top-notch education and a heaping dose of old English charm. With its historic buildings and lush green spaces, this college is a great place to get lost in a good book or engage in some academic shenanigans with your classmates. Once you've had your fill of intellectual stimulation, take a stroll through the college grounds and bask in the glory of its stunning architecture. From the majestic Great Gate to the picturesque Bridge of Sighs, there's no shortage of sights to marvel at here. And when hunger strikes, fear not. St. John's College has plenty of dining options to satisfy your cravings, whether you're in the mood for a hearty English breakfast or a light afternoon tea. Just be sure to keep your wits about you–those Cambridge scholars can be quite fierce when it comes to defending their dining hall seats!

www.joh.cam.ac.uk

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2. The Backs

4.6 (587)

Queen's Rd, Cambridge CB3 9AH, UK

The Backs in Cambridge, also known as the "bumper-to-bumper" of quaint little bridges and pretty gardens, are the perfect destination for those with an insatiable interest in punting. Expect to spend a leisurely afternoon navigating the winding River Cam on a flat-bottomed boat, whilst dodging enthusiastic selfie-takers and rogue ducks. And if you're feeling particularly bold, channel your inner Lewis Hamilton and give the pedal-to-the-metal approach a go - just don't forget to tip your punter.

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3. Anglesey Abbey

4.7 (5877)

Quy Rd, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJ, UK

Welcome to Anglesey Abbey, where the history of England meets the style of Downton Abbey. Stroll through the lavish gardens and discover why the British are so passionate about their topiary. Inside the house, immerse yourself in the life of Lord Fairhaven and his love for collecting everything from art to antique clocks.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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4. Clare College

4.7 (65)

Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TL, UK

Clare College: the quintessential Cambridge college. Its stunning architecture and charming gardens will transport you back in time to a bygone era when students studied by candlelight and wore waistcoats to breakfast. Be warned, however - the ducks that populate the nearby River Cam are notoriously aggressive and have been known to steal sandwiches right out of unsuspecting visitors' hands. Keep your wits about you!

www.clare.cam.ac.uk

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5. King's College Chapel

4.7 (1385)

King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST, UK

Welcome to King's College Chapel in the heart of Cambridge, where the walls are so old, they make you feel young again. The stained glass windows are so colorful, they make unicorns jealous. And the acoustics are so good, you could drop a pin and hear it from the back row.

www.kings.cam.ac.uk

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6. ADC Theatre

4.6 (425)

Park St, Cambridge CB5 8AS, UK

Just a stone's throw away from the bustling streets of Cambridge is the ADC Theatre, the minuscule yet mighty pearl of the city's performing arts scene. Its snug size and steeply tiered levels give the audience an intimately immersive experience, and the performers a comfortable proximity to the audience's sweat glands. With its blend of student productions and professional shows, the ADC Theatre offers a rare opportunity to experience the best and worst of both worlds, all in one outrageously charming package.

www.adctheatre.com

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7. The River Cam

4.5 (309)

River Cam, United Kingdom

As you paddle down the River Cam in Cambridge, don't be surprised if you feel like you've entered a new dimension of tranquility. With willows dipping their branches into the water and the quacking of ducks, the river feels like a place more akin to fantasy than reality. Just make sure not to hop out of your punt to try and kiss a swan – they might not be as friendly as you think.

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8. Mathematical Bridge

4.5 (725)

Queens' College, Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9ET, UK

Ah, Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge - the bridge that has befuddled the brightest minds in science for centuries. Legend has it that if Stephen Hawking couldn't solve its mathematical mystery, then you probably won't either. But hey, don't let that stop you from taking a leisurely stroll across this iconic bridge - just try not to fall in the river.

www.queens.cam.ac.uk

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9. Castle Mound

4.3 (518)

Castle St, Cambridge CB3 0RG, UK

Welcome to Castle Mound. It’s not actually a castle, but it’s a mound that used to have a castle on top. So, technically, it’s a non-castle castle mound. It’s got great views of Cambridge and beyond, and the best part is, you don’t have to climb a whole mountain to get to the top.

www.cambridge.gov.uk

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10. Laundress Green

4.5 (48)

Granta Pl, Cambridge CB2 1RX, UK

Laundress Green in Cambridge is a quaint and picturesque spot that could easily be overlooked by the average passerby. However, this little patch of grass is a charming refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life - unless, of course, you count the occasional sound of laundry machines whirring in the distance. But hey, at least you can get your laundry done while lounging in the sun!

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11. Punting on the River Cam

4.7 (127)

La Mimosa Punt station Thompson's Lane, Cambridge CB5 8AQ, UK

Welcome to Cambridge, where the River Cam awaits with its famous pastime- punting. Hop on one of these quaint boats and propel yourself using a big stick – yes, you heard that right, a big stick. Glide gracefully with friends or family, or try it alone and see how far you can get before getting stuck in the reed beds. Don't forget to take in the stunning scenery along the way, but do keep an eye out for the swans - they don't take kindly to unwanted attention.

puntcambridge.co.uk

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12. Kettle's Yard

4.6 (1052)

Castle St, Cambridge CB3 0AQ, UK

Welcome to Kettle's Yard, where the art is as cool as a cucumber and the atmosphere is as cozy as a warm blanket. This unassuming cottage in the heart of Cambridge will make you feel like you're stepping into your quirky aunt's living room, but with better paintings on the walls. So come on over, put your feet up, and prepare to fall in love with one of the sweetest galleries in all of England.

www.kettlesyard.co.uk

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13. The Eagle

4.4 (5524)

Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, UK

The Eagle in Cambridge is one of the oldest pubs in the city, although they won't let you forget it because there are signs everywhere reminding you of this fact. They claim that Francis Crick and James Watson discovered the structure of DNA there, but honestly, I'm pretty sure they just had a pint and shouted "I've got it!" across the room. The pub has a great selection of beers and ales, and if you're lucky, you might even get a seat in the RAF bar upstairs, where you can pretend to be a pilot while sipping your pint.

www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

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14. Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial

4.8 (160)

Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB23 7PH, UK

If you're looking for a resting place with a view, Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial is the spot for you. It's like a park, but instead of squirrels and picnic blankets, there are acres of white headstones and a chapel that could rival Westminster Abbey. And, let's be real, who wouldn't want to spend a lovely afternoon admiring the peaceful serenity of a military cemetery?

www.abmc.gov

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15. Cambridge University Botanic Garden

4.7 (5638)

1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE, UK

Tucked away in the heart of quaint Cambridge lies the Botanic Garden, a green haven for flora enthusiasts and those who just like to pretend they know something about plants. Stroll along the winding paths and marvel at the beauty of exotic flowers and trees from around the world, but don't touch anything or you might get yelled at by the strict gardeners. And be sure to pack a picnic - there's nothing quite like dining al fresco amongst the bees and butterflies.

www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

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16. The University Church of St. Mary the Great

4.6 (1305)

The University Church, Senate House Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PQ, UK

Tucked away in the charming city of Cambridge lies The University Church of St. Mary the Great, a delightful house of worship that's sure to delight even the most hardened of atheists. With its towering spire and gorgeous architecture, it's a real feast for the eyes. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of one of the local students, scurrying in to pray for an A on their next philosophy exam.

www.greatstmarys.org

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17. Trinity College

4.6 (358)

Cambridge CB2 1TQ, UK

Trinity College is a bit like the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, minus the magical creatures and flying broomsticks. The stunning architecture and sprawling, immaculately kept lawns make it feel like a posh country club. And if you look closely, you might just catch a glimpse of a bespectacled student with a lightning scar on his forehead running around with a wand.

www.trin.cam.ac.uk

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18. The Round Church

4.4 (418)

Round Church Vestry, Bridge St, Cambridge CB2 1UB, UK

If you're looking for a church that's a little different, look no further than The Round Church in Cambridge. This circular wonder was built in the 12th century and boasts a unique design that's sure to impress. The stained glass windows are also a must-see, especially if you're a fan of colorful glass and not a fan of pigeons.

roundchurchcambridge.org

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19. Fitzwilliam Museum

4.6 (5964)

Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB, UK

Welcome to the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, a place where history and art collide in a charmingly chaotic harmony. Step inside and prepare to be dazzled by the sheer amount of stuff inside - seriously, there are more paintings than you can shake a stick at! And trust me, I tried shaking a stick at them all.

fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

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20. The Cambridge Gin Laboratory

4.9 (153)

10 Green St, Cambridge CB2 3JU, UK

Nestled in the heart of Cambridge is The Cambridge Gin Laboratory - a charming nook for gin aficionados. A visit to this laboratory is like a pilgrimage for gin enthusiasts, minus the feigned spirituality. Here, you can discover the mysteries of the noble gin, sample its flavours and aromas, and possibly even find enlightenment (or at least a good buzz).

www.cambridgeginlab.co.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cambridge by plane is to fly into London Stansted Airport and take the National Express coach service which goes directly to Cambridge city center. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and the coach departs directly outside the airport terminal.

Car

The most convenient way to reach Cambridge by car is by taking the M11 motorway which is directly linked to London. The city center can be accessed by taking either the A14 or A428 roads.

Train

Cambridge has its own train station which has direct connections to major cities such as London, Birmingham and Edinburgh. It is quick and efficient to travel to Cambridge by train, with regular services available throughout the week.

Boat

Cambridge is not accessible by boat due to its inland location, however, there are a number of punting companies which offer tours along the River Cam which is a popular tourist attraction in the city.

Bus

The easiest way to get to Cambridge by bus is to take the National Express coach service from London Victoria station which departs every hour. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and arrives directly at Cambridge city center.

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Cambridge is a charming city known for its prestigious university, historic architecture, and tranquil waterways. While popular tourist attractions such as the colleges and Botanic Garden may require an entrance fee, visitors on a limited budget can still enjoy free activities such as punting on the River Cam, exploring the city’s markets and museums, and wandering the picturesque streets and parks. With affordable accommodation options such as youth hostels and budget hotels, a trip to Cambridge can be an enriching experience without breaking the bank.

Cambridge in 5: Literary adventures, punting, and more!

A family-friendly trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Explore the stunning architecture of Cambridge University, take punting trips along the River Cam, and visit the famous Fitzwilliam Museum for a dose of art and culture. With ample parks and gardens, such as Jesus Green and Parker's Piece, families can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities, creating unforgettable memories in this charming and historic city.

Escape to Cambridge: A Romantic Long Weekend

A romantic trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom offers an enchanting escape with picturesque views of architecture and scenery. Take a punt on the River Cam and admire the winding waterway and stunning views of stunning buildings like the King's College and the Clare College. Explore the city's centuries-old museums, galleries, and restaurants and fall deeper in love with your partner amidst the charming and breathtaking surroundings.

Cambridge Adventures: Punting, Palaces, and Picnics

A trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom is perfect for a family-friendly adventure. Explore the prestigious campuses of Cambridge University, go punting on the picturesque River Cam, and visit the fascinating Fitzwilliam Museum with its vast collection of art and artifacts. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see the stunning King's College Chapel, a true architectural gem that will leave the entire family in awe.