Visiting Cambridge is a journey into one of Europe’s most venerable learning centres. Founded in 1284, its first college set the stage for centuries of academic excellence. The alumni list reads like a list of intellectual giants, including John Milton, Stephen Hawking, Iris Murdoch, Charles Darwin, and Isaac Newton.
Cambridge’s narrow lanes are brimming with ancient bookstores, traditional inns, and fine dining pubs, making them perfect for a delightful stroll.
Must-see highlights I loved
King’s College Chapel
One of the unmissable highlights is King’s College Chapel. This architectural marvel is the UK’s finest example of late Gothic Perpendicular style. Art lovers will be particularly thrilled by Rubens’ 17th-century masterpiece, “Adoration of the Magi,” which hangs behind the main altar.
Kettle’s Yard
A visit to Kettle’s Yard is a highlight of any trip to Cambridge. This gallery, housed in the former home of Tate curator Jim Ede, reopened in 2018 after a two-year, £11.3 million refurbishment. It offers free entry and showcases Ede’s collection of works from prominent Modernist artists he befriended, including Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Joan Miró, and Constantin Brancusi.
Seeing these masterpieces in situ is a unique experience, as they’d appear in a home setting.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Behind its grand neoclassical façade, the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum boasts a world-famous collection of paintings and sculptures featuring masterpieces by Titian, Modigliani, and Picasso.
It also houses ancient artefacts from Egypt, Rome, and Greece. Bequeathed to Cambridge University in 1816 by Viscount Fitzwilliam, this museum is an architectural and cultural marvel.
Punting on the River Cam
The picturesque meadows along the willow-shaded Cam River, known as the Backs, are a sight to behold, especially in spring when carpeted with crocuses.
The Backs actually offer a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls all year long. Don’t miss the quintessentially Cambridge experience of punting: a ride in a traditional wooden, flat-bottomed boat propelled by a long pole.
Enjoy the scenic boat ride to the Orchard Tea Rooms in Grantchester, where you can relish tea and scones.
Cambridge: a tranquil alternative to Oxford
With its world-class university, a collection of ancient colleges, and a love for punting, Cambridge shares much with its Oxfordshire counterpart. However, with more green spaces and less traffic, Cambridge offers a more tranquil experience. A walking tour of the university is a must, but the town has plenty to offer.
The colleges of Cambridge, including Corpus Christi, Clare College, King’s College, and Christ’s College, are steeped in history, academia, and culture. Each college, with its imposing gates, stern porters, and beautiful green meadows along the idle River Cam, offers a glimpse into a world where time seems to have stood still since the 18th century. The historic architecture and renowned reputation make the colleges an essential stop for any traveller.
How to get to Cambridge
Trains from London Kings Cross run several times an hour, with a journey time of about 45 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 90 minutes to get to central London.
Embark on your adventure to Cambridge and immerse yourself in its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene beauty. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Cambridge has something to offer everyone.
