Punting and Professors
Cambridge, is a town full of folks who, are well aware of the world of academia with the city being world-renowned for it’s top-rate university. It's a place which is steeped in rich history and stunning architecture which attracts visitors from around the world and it’s easy to see why.
If you're looking for things to do in Cambridge, consider this blog your backstage pass to the city that’s more than just a powerhouse of academia. It's a city that effortlessly manages to combine age-old traditions with new-age experiences, where the charming echoes of history meet the bustling student life.
We'll take you on a ride down the River Cam, introduce you to the world of delicious food, and unveil the secrets behind those closed grandiose college gates. We'll be your guide to the city's unexplored nooks and crannies, introduce you to the locals, and turn you into a true local, without the worry of exams and papers.
Punting Through The Ages
Is it really a trip to Cambridge if you haven't almost fallen into the River Cam while attempting to punt? Punts are flat-bottomed boats, and the act of punting involves propelling the boat by pushing against the river bed with a pole. Trust me, punting is far trickier (and more entertaining) than it sounds.
Whether you punt yourself, or hire a professional, floating down the Cam is a must. You'll cruise beneath the famous Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, with a backdrop of elegant college buildings. If you choose to go it alone, without the professional punter, remember you’ll need to get down very low to make it under those bridges or you’ll likely end up in the river!
College Crawling
Imagine wandering through the hallowed halls where luminaries like Newton, Darwin, and Hawking once pondered the universe's mysteries. With 31 colleges forming the University of Cambridge, there's plenty of history, art, and architectural wonders to discover. Not to mention the opportunity to act out scenes from Harry Potter or The Theory of Everything. Just remember to be respectful of the actual students studying there.
Check out King's College Chapel for some of the finest Gothic architecture around. And don't forget Trinity College, it's got a Great Court and even greater tales. Just keep an eye out for mischievous students trying to convince you that the clock tower is actually a time machine.
Climbing at Clip 'n Climb
Unleash your inner Spider-Man at Clip 'n Climb, an indoor climbing center with challenges to suit all abilities. With brightly colored walls, funky geometric shapes, and a range of climbing routes, this is a far cry from your standard climbing wall. And for the fearless among you, there's the "Leap of Faith" - a jump from a 20-foot high platform!
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Proudly posing as the treasure chest of Cambridge, the Fitzwilliam Museum offers a sweeping journey through works of art, masterpiece paintings and historical artefacts. Their impressive array of exhibits includes relics from ancient Egypt, masterpieces from artists like Titian and Picasso, and a collection of medieval manuscripts that might inspire you to write your own Canterbury Tale. And the best part? It's completely free!
A Feast in Cambridge
The Cambridge food scene is as rich as its history. Grab a Chelsea bun at Fitzbillies, a century-old café. Despite their age, these sticky, fruity pastries haven't lost their charm (or their sweetness). And if you fancy something savory scoff a pie in a riverside cafe, or head to the Eagle pub which serves pub classics and seasonal specials. Besides their tempting menu, they also offer a side of history, as it's where Watson and Crick first announced their discovery of DNA's structure. Talk about a conversation starter over your fish and chips!
Paddleboarding at Milton Country Park
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has taken the world by storm, and Cambridge is no exception. Head over to Milton Country Park, where you can hire a board and test your balance on the park's beautiful lake. It's a full-body workout that's also incredibly peaceful – if you manage to stay upright, that is. You'll also find a cafe, playground, bike track, woodland, lakes and miles of accessible paths to enjoy.
Cycling: Cambridge Style
It's no secret that Cambridge folks love their bikes. After all, when the city looks like it’s been lifted straight out of a Jane Austen novel, it's only fitting to explore it in the most romantic way possible. Rent a bike and pedal your way through cobblestone streets, narrow lanes, bustling marketplaces, and serene parks. But remember, the locals treat cycling as a serious business, so make sure to follow all the rules and watch out for fast-approaching professors on two wheels!
Find Magic in the Cambridge Botanic Garden
Over 8,000 plant species live in this 40-acre living green museum. Whether you're a botanist at heart, a photographer hunting for that perfect shot, or someone who just enjoys peaceful strolls among stunning landscapes, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is your place. And if you're lucky, you might even get to enjoy it on a sunny day.
Kettle's Yard
Kettle's Yard is a marvel where art meets homeliness. The brainchild of former Tate curator, Jim Ede, this gallery come residence is a tuneful blend of modern art, natural light, and personal memorabilia. The eclectic mix of artwork is creatively arranged amidst furniture, plants, and found objects. The relaxed, homey atmosphere offers a unique contrast to the usual ‘do not touch’ gallery vibe.
Tenpin Entertainment Center
Tenpin in Cambridge is the ultimate destination for fun and entertainment. Home to 28 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, Tenpin offers multiple experiences from children's bowling parties with pizza and balloon modelling, to adult karaoke parties featuring an impressive song selection, pizza, prosecco, and nachos. Their inviting bar area is ideal for casual get-togethers or post-work drinks, complemented by an appetising food menu. Additional offerings include popular amusement games, pool and table tennis, and live broadcasts of TNT & Sky Sports, creating a unique blend of entertainment for all ages.
Follow the Footsteps of Pink Floyd
Did you know that Cambridge is the birthplace of the legendary band Pink Floyd? Why not take a walk through Grantchester Meadows, the beautiful riverside spot that inspired one of their songs? You can also visit the numerous pubs and venues where they performed in their early days. If you're a rock and roll lover, it's a unique pilgrimage to make!
Mathematical Bridge and The Round Church
The Mathematical Bridge, connecting the two parts of Queens' College, is an engineering marvel, originally built by James Essex in 1749. Its precise construction, making it look like an arch from a distance, is an attraction in itself.
Not too far away, you'll find the Round Church, one of the oldest buildings in Cambridge. Dating back to the 12th century, it is one of the four medieval round churches still in use in England. A must-visit for architecture enthusiasts!
Escape into the Wildlife at Wicken Fen
Just a short drive from Cambridge, Wicken Fen is the oldest nature reserve in Britain. With over 9000 recorded species, including several rare ones, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. Wander through the fenland, farmland, and reedbeds while listening to the orchestra of nature.
Visit Cambridge and see for yourself
Whether we've convinced you to brave the waters on a punt, to challenge your tastebuds with some great food, or to explore the hallowed halls where professors crunch complex conundrums, we're sure you're now equipped to face the city with a gleam in your eye and an adventurous spring in your step. There is no shortage of things to do in Cambridge.
Remember, Cambridge isn't just a place, it's a state of mind. It's knowing that you can balance a book on your head, a Chelsea bun in one hand, punt pole in the other, and still manage to look like you belong on a Cambridge postcard. So go forth, strike a pose on King's College Bridge, scoff a pie at a riverside cafe, and let's not forget our professors - they're not as scary as they look in their gowns!