So – you are planning a trip to the highly esteemed city of Cambridge! Or, perhaps you are a local looking for a way to pleasantly pass the day. There is no shortage of things to do in Cambridge. Whether you are looking to splash some cash, or enjoy many of the free activities, Cambridge is the place to be.
The best museums
Cambridge is crammed with culture, and its museums are a must-visit. Two standouts? The Museum of Zoology and the Fitzwilliam Museum. It’s unforgivable to visit Cambridge and miss out on either one of them. Especially considering that admission to both is free!
The Fitzwilliam Museum is perfect for sparking your imagination, creativity, and admiration for a range of artists whose work features inside the luxurious museum. One might even say that the building itself is a piece of art! With marble pillars, intricate ceilings and delicate details, you’ll be immersed in Cambridge grandeur.
The Museum of Zoology is especially fun for families – all ages have a fantastic time exploring the vast collection of weird and wonderful creatures. When it comes to unlocking childlike curiosity, this is the place to be!
Visiting Colleges
Let’s be honest—can you really say you’ve visited Cambridge if you haven’t explored its iconic colleges? The historic buildings, grand courtyards, and hidden passageways hold centuries of stories. From King’s College Chapel, with its breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling, to the ivy-clad walls of Trinity and St John’s, you simply have to experience it all.
Each college has its own personality and history. But unless you have extraordinary determination and a lot of time on your hands, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll visit all 31 colleges. So which to choose? There’s no doubt that King’s College, St John’s College and Trinity College are the top three most famous – and beautiful.
But if you pop into Christ’s College Cambridge, you’ll find an intimate community with lush gardens and a homely bar called the ‘buttery’. Another honourable mention is Pembroke College. The tranquil gardens and quaint courtyards make it a dreamy spot for a quiet stroll. Plus, Pembroke’s dining hall is one of the oldest in the university, offering a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Do make sure to check the websites of each college to see if visitors are allowed in on the day in question.
Punting
The easiest way to tick all the best colleges off the to-do list is to book a chauffeured punting tour. Sit back, relax, and be serenaded by the iconic sights of the River Cam. Punting is perhaps the thing to do in Cambridge.
The outdoors, relaxation, and unbeatable views—punting is Cambridge at its finest! It’s a centuries-old tradition awaiting your attention. There is a reason why punting has remained a popular pastime for as long as it has.
Eating Cambridge
What are the go-to Cambride snacks that you simply must try? If you want a quintessentially Cambridge treat, Fitzbillies is a must. Their famous Chelsea buns are a sticky, sweet delight that locals and visitors alike adore. Packed with cinnamon and dripping with syrup, they’re the perfect indulgence after a stroll through the city. Pair one with a rich, smooth coffee from their café, and you have a classic Cambridge snack.
Market Square offers fresh pastries, artisan breads, locally made fudge, and international street food. The stalls are always in rotation, meaning there’s always new! And, of course, no visit to Cambridge is complete without trying a scoop of Jack’s Gelato, known for its ever-changing, creative flavours.
Whatever you’re craving, Cambridge has plenty of delicious snacks to fuel your adventure!
Green Spaces in Cambridge
Cambridge is far from a modern concrete maze. When it comes to fancy highrises and skyscrapers, stick to London. The beautiful thing about Cambridge is the combination of historical architecture and natural scenery. So – which green spaces do we recommend?
Midsommer common
If a stroll along the river, surrounded by flowers and cows sounds appealing to you, give Midsummer Common a visit! Only a 10-15 minute walk from the very centre of Cambridge, this is a lovely thing to do on a warm day.
Jesus Green
Where else is better for a picnic than Jesus Green? It’s idyllic. Only minutes away from the city centre sits a stretch of grass framed by the iconic River Cam.
Interesting fact: once a year, Cambridge students gather here to celebrate the last Sunday of term before end-of-year exam preparations.
so, what things to do in Cambridge will you try?
Get your day planned in advance and book your punting tour here! For any advice, we are on hand every day of the week to reply to your email. Reach us at info@cambridgepunting.co and we’ll be in touch.