Magdalene College: a riverside gem and rather intimately small college with a rich history. Whether you’re a history buff, a prospective student, or simply a curious traveller, Magdalene College offers a glimpse into the heart of Cambridge’s academic and cultural heritage. Originally a hostel for Benedictine monks, the college today has gone through so much in its long history. But what is it like today?
The two libraries at Magdalene College
The Magdalene New Library sits overlooking a green outdoor space before the river edge. It was designed with eco-intentions, and this ambition has been realised – and then some. One of the primary assets is the natural lighting that soaks in from angles. Three words that best describe the library are: spacious, linear and fresh. With the heavy use of wood within the library, the modern atmosphere is balanced with a homely and natural essence.
This innovative design is more than just aesthetically pleasing – it’s also highly functional. The spacious layout ensures that students can find their own quiet study base, while the linear design guides the flow of movement throughout the numerous levels of the building. Think of it as a twenty-first-century academic sanctuary for wonderful minds.
Tucked away within the grounds of Magdalene College is an even more important library: Pepys Library. This remarkable collection, housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, is not just a library but a time capsule, preserving the personal collection of one of England’s most famous diarists, Samuel Pepys. Read more on the history of the library here.
women’s ADMISSION TO MAGDALENE COLLEGE
Yes – it’s true that Magdalene College was the last of all Cambridge colleges to admit women. Can you guess the year? The answer might surprise you: it was as recent as 1988. While this fact may seem like a relic from the past, it’s important to recognize that the college culture today is vastly different from what it once was. Rather than defining Magdalene, this historical tidbit serves more as an intriguing footnote in the college’s long and storied history.
The first cohort of women who studied at Magdalene experienced the college at a time of significant transition. Understandably, those very students – now middle-aged – have mixed feelings on their experiences in the late 1980s. Regardless, the Magdalene College of today is a diverse, inclusive community that values equality and celebrates the contributions of all its members.
FORMALS AT MAGDALENE COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE
Formals at Magdalene College, Cambridge, are more than just a meal; they are a cherished tradition rich in history, elegance, and camaraderie. These formal dinners, held in the magnificent candlelit dining hall, offer students and guests a unique opportunity to experience the quintessential charm of Cambridge life while indulging in an extensive culinary experience.
The meal that follows is a multi-course feast, carefully prepared by the college’s talented chefs, featuring a blend of classic British dishes and international cuisine. Each course is served with precision, and the quality of the food is matched only by the attentive service. The formal dinner is an opportunity to take a break from the rigors of academic life, to enjoy the company of friends, and to create lasting memories.
magdalene accommodation
Perhaps Cripps Court is one of the nicest buildings to be housed in as a student. Why is it a contender for the best accommodation in Cambridge? It’s very modern, light, bright, and large. All bedrooms are ensuite, with, of course, bedders who come most days of the week to clean. Modern rooms, double beds, ensuite, it has it all. If, however, you want a more quintessentially Cambridge medieval-esque room, this isn’t for you.
It’s always going to be a trade-off. Do you choose the well-lit, spacious accommodation with better facilities? Or, do you go for the Cambridge accommodation that looks like something out of a fairy tale but can often be cramped and charmingly problematic? The choice is yours. Unless it isn’t. Sometimes, as with many things in life, you get what you are given when it comes to Cambridge accommodation. Have a look at the other options that Magdalene offers here.
outdoor spaces at Magdalene
Now of course, as is standard, there is also the Masters Garden. This is the private surrounding space of the Master’s Lodge (essentially the headteacher). This garden is perhaps the most exclusive of Magdalene College. Even the students may not ever see it during their years onsite. It’s entirely at the liberty of the Master to decide when to open up the grounds to the larger college body.
What can the students see when they eat their meals riverside? They can see us! If the weather is pleasant enough, college members eat their meals on welcoming picnic benches overlooking the river Cam. Give them a wave if they are hanging about whilst you glide by on a punting tour!
Punting tours
Magdalene College is the first sight you will see from our punting tour. As you will see from our location, we are just opposite the Fellows Garden. What a way to kickstart your punting experience! For many visitors who make their way straight from the train station to our punts, Magdalene College serves as an introduction to the city and university.
Do you want to prepare for your punting tour by reading up on other colleges? Read here for the secret life at King’s College Cambridge.