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

Cheap & Cheerful: 3 Days in Cambridge

Explore the charming city of Cambridge on a limited budget with a variety of affordable options. Start your day by admiring the breathtaking architecture of the University of Cambridge and take a punt down the River Cam for a unique view of the city. End your day with a cozy dinner from one of the many affordable pubs in the city center.

Romantic Day Trip to Cambridge: A Guide

A romantic trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom promises stunning architecture, picturesque parks, and charming riverside walks. Couples can indulge in the city's rich history and cultural sites, including the famous University of Cambridge and its museums, galleries, and chapels. Additionally, the city's thriving restaurant and nightlife scene offers endless opportunities for intimate dining experiences and memorable evenings out.

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.

Cambridge Chronicles: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure

A family friendly trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom promises an enriching experience for all ages. Explore the prestigious University of Cambridge, take punting trips along the River Cam, and visit the impressive Fitzwilliam Museum with its remarkable art and antiquities. Enjoy picnics in the beautiful botanical gardens, indulge in delicious treats at quaint cafes, and witness the striking architecture of King's College Chapel.