10 Best Things to Do in Cambridge

Many of the colleges of Cambridge University back onto the River Cam, creating a view unimaginatively known as The Backs. Taking a punt, the most iconic of river transports in English university towns, is a great way to enjoy this view, which features many of the beautiful old buildings of King’s College, Trinity College and St John’s College.

Along the way, you can pass under the Mathematical Bridge (made entirely out of perfectly straight timbers) and the Bridge of Sighs, which has a similar design to the bridge it’s named after in Venice, Italy. Punts are available for rent at Quayside by Magdalene Bridge, among other places.

King’s College Chapel is one of the most famous and popular buildings in Cambridge. If you think the outside of this late Gothic edifice is impressive, you’ll be amazed by the interior, with its many beautiful stained-glass windows, one of the largest fan-vault ceiling in the world, and historical artworks.

As remarkable as the building is, the chapel choir is arguably even more famous. You can attend the evensong service daily to hear the world-renowned singers and their joyous hymns.

Great St Mary’s Church, built in the 15th century, is very beautiful both inside and out. It’s worth taking the self-guided tour to see the two organs, the slightly bizarre pulpit on rails, and the impressive stained-glass windows.

However, it’s the tower which is especially famous. Added in 1608, it gives great views over Cambridge from the official center of the city, with college buildings to the west and the city streets to the east. Access to the tower costs a small fee and you’ll need to climb 123 steps to get to the top.

The fabulous Fitzwilliam Museum is much like London’s British Museum. Not only is it free to enter and look around, but it houses a massive collection of antiquities from around the world inside a beautiful classical building. There are about half a million artworks, manuscripts, statues, coins, weapons, basically anything you can think of which has some historical value.

The star attraction is the sarcophagus lid of Ramesses III in the Egyptian collection. Other highlights include mummies and everyday objects that offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life. The museum also has a strong collection of Renaissance paintings, Greek and Roman antiquities, Islamic art, ceramics and applied arts.

Cambridge Market Square has been a place of trading since the Middle Ages, and it remains a good place to find everything from fresh food to second-hand bicycles. The Sunday market has a more arts-and-crafts feel, but you’ll still find good deals on local produce, too.

Being fairly central and surrounded by cafés and restaurants, it’s a good place to get a refreshing start to your day and get a feel for the city. The square is surrounded by some of Cambridge's most iconic buildings, including the Guildhall, the Great St Mary's Church, and the Corn Exchange. It's a great place to people-watch, have a coffee or simply relax and enjoy the sunshine.

While the real name of this quaint old building is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, it’s almost always been known as The Round Church. There’s no prize for guessing why. The church was modelled after the Holy Sepulchre building in Jerusalem.

First built around 1130, it’s among the oldest buildings in Cambridge and is one of the most iconic. Inside, the church is quite modestly decorated, but there is a small exhibition showing the impact of Christianity throughout history. Coincidentally, the church is surrounded by several excellent sweet shops and bakeries.

Quite far south of the city centre, but conveniently close to the train station, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a beautiful, peaceful place. A small admission fee will give you access to an impressive 40 acres of well-maintained grounds containing over 8,000 different plant species from around the world.

There are several seasonal trails, helping you get the best out of your visit at any time of year, but it’s also nice just to wander along the winding paths. Check out the historical greenhouses to the north of the Main Lawn for flowers from the tropics, mountains and deserts.

Grand Arcade boasts more than 60 shops around a John Lewis department store, with a general trend towards high-street fashion and lifestyle brands. It has a bright and airy feel, for a 3-story indoor mall, thanks to its glass roof and mostly white décor.

Top brands include Calvin Klein, Laura Ashley, Ted Baker and many other mostly British designer labels. There’s also a good choice restaurants and coffee shops to choose from. The Grand Arcade is situated right in the heart of Cambridge city center, making it convenient to get to and explore other parts of the city after your shopping trip.

There’s more to charming pub The Eagle than meets the eye. It’s fairly large but typical English pub with a pleasant beer garden, but what’s more, it’s actually the place where Francis Crick and James Watson announced that they had discovered the structure of DNA in 1953. There’s even a special ale available to commemorate the fact: Eagle’s DNA.

You should also check out the RAF bar in the back, where you’ll find graffiti left by Second World War aircrews on the walls and ceilings (those must have been some wild parties). For even more history, cross the road from The Eagle to St Bene’t’s Church. It’s said to be the oldest building in Cambridge.

Cambridge Arts Theatre stages a wide variety of productions throughout the year, including drama, comedy, musicals, dance and family shows. Some shows come here directly from London's West End. The theater is known for its high production quality and professional performances. Popular shows can sell out quickly, so book your tickets in advance.

The theater is located in the heart of Cambridge city center, making it easy to get to by public transport or on foot. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat before or after the show.