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

Discover a world of wonder and whimsy in the heart of Cambridge, UK.

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the City's Literary Brilliance!

  • Start your adventure with a stay at the picturesque Auntie Mabel's Inn, adorned with bookshelves filled with charming tales and mismatched teapots.
  • Immerse yourself in literature at the historic Cambridge University Library, where the air whispers secrets from countless books.
  • Take a whimsical punt along the River Cam, guided by a punter who recites poetry and shares scandalous tales of student shenanigans.
  • Quench your thirst at The Eagle, a pub where scientific titans like Crick and Watson unraveled DNA secrets over a pint.
  • Fill your belly at The Fitzwilliam Inn, a cozy eatery serving dishes named after famous literary characters. Try the Sherlock Holmes Shepherd's Pie!
Day 2

A Stroll Through Architectural Majesty

  • Greet the day with a stuffed breakfast at The Buttered Scone, a charming café where scones reach heavenly levels.
  • Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of King's College Chapel, where angels seem ready to leap off the towering roof.
  • Wander through the cobbled streets of the Market Square, inhaling the aroma of exotic spices and stumbling upon hidden treasures.
  • Lose track of time at the magnificent Fitzwilliam Museum, home to ancient artifacts, eclectic art, and ghostly custodial whispers.
  • Indulge in a heavenly dessert at Grand Arcade, where sugary delights tempt even the most disciplined souls.
Day 3

Science and Sweets Galore!

  • Start your day with a physics-themed breakfast at The Atomic Café, where celestial omelettes and quantum coffee fuel the adventurous.
  • Unleash your inner scientist at the Cambridge Science Centre, a playground of hands-on experiments that will ignite curiosity in all ages.
  • Satiate your sweet tooth at Fudge Factory, where molten rivers of chocolate cascade over gooey marshmallows and buttery fudge.
  • Discover the eerie beauty of the Whipple Museum of the History of Science, where bizarre medical contraptions and celestial globes await.
  • Graze on scrumptious tapas at La Rueda, a buzzing Spanish restaurant brimming with chatter and succulent bites.
Day 4

Punting and Patisserie Paradise

  • Take to the River Cam once more, this time commandeering your own punt. Don't forget to pack a whimsical picnic to enjoy along the way!
  • Treat yourself to a pastry pilgrimage at The Patisserie, where flaky croissants and meticulously crafted cakes tantalize you into a sugary bliss.
  • Delve into the fascinating world of genetics at the Museum of Zoology, where dead creatures come alive with tales of evolution and adaptation.
  • Devour delicious fish and chips at The Eagle's Fish Bar, where crispy batter and succulent fish melt in your mouth like a seaside dream.
  • Get lost in a maze of books at Heffers Bookshop, the mecca for any bibliophile searching for literary treasures.
Day 5

A Dose of Nature and Farewell Feasts

  • Escape the city and venture to Cambridge University Botanic Garden, where flora and fauna weave a tapestry of vibrant colors and fragrances.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious lunch at Fitzbillies, famous for their sticky Chelsea buns and hearty British classics.
  • Discover the secret hives of bees at The Cambridge Bee Project, a buzzing sanctuary where you can learn the secrets of honey production.
  • Enjoy an evening of cultural delights at the magnificent Cambridge Arts Theatre, where world-class performances and enchanting shows await.
  • Savor a farewell dinner at The Willow Tree, a charming gastropub nestled in the countryside, offering seasonal delights rooted in local produce.

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.

More travel plans

A Fun-Filled Day in Historic Cambridge

A trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom as a tourist offers an opportunity to explore the historic and prestigious University of Cambridge. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or a punting tour along the River Cam to admire the breathtaking architecture and verdant surroundings. Additionally, Cambridge boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and lively markets that offer a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture and heritage.

Cambridge on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Visiting Cambridge on a limited budget is a smart idea as it offers multiple free attractions like the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Botanic Gardens and the Parker's Piece Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city and take in the breathtaking architecture of the buildings and colleges while sipping a drink in a cozy café. Eating at the local eateries, such as The Eagle and Cambridge Chop House, is ideal for trying local cuisine and simple yet filling dishes.

Cambridge on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

A trip to Cambridge on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and enriching. Explore the many free museums and parks, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum and Grantchester Meadows. Grab a meal from a local market or food truck and take a stroll through the historic city center to see the colleges and architecture.

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.