18 Things To Do In Cambridge, England
The university city of Cambridge is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. With its medieval colleges, peaceful riverside paths and sense of history around every corner, it is a destination that always feels special.
I have visited many times over the years and every trip gives me a new favourite spot, whether it is a quiet garden, a college courtyard glowing in the sunshine or a slow punt along the River Cam.
Cambridge works beautifully as a day trip from London, but it is also a lovely place to slow down for a night or two. It is compact, walkable and full of character, and you can easily mix history, culture, food and gentle scenic strolls in a single visit.
Below are the top things to do in Cambridge, including its most beloved landmarks, beautiful riverside spots, fascinating museums and some of my favourite places to eat and explore.
Cambridge At a Glance
Best for: architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, gardens, museums, gentle city breaks
Top highlights: King’s College Chapel, punting on the River Cam, Trinity College, The Backs, Fitzwilliam Museum
Best time to visit: spring and summer for river views, autumn for golden colours, December for lights and cosy pubs
Travel time from London: around 50 to 70 minutes by train
How long to spend: a full day is perfect, although two days lets you explore at a relaxed pace
1. King’s College Chapel
King’s College Chapel is the crown jewel of Cambridge and one of the most extraordinary buildings in England. Construction began in 1446 under King Henry VI and continued for nearly a century, with each monarch adding their own influence. The result is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture that feels just as awe inspiring today as it must have to the students and scholars who walked through its doors hundreds of years ago.
The moment you step inside, your eyes are drawn upward. The chapel’s fan vaulted ceiling is the largest of its kind in the world, flowing across the stone like a carved wave. Coloured light pours in through the towering stained glass windows, most of which date back to the 1500s and tell biblical stories with incredible detail. Even if you have seen photos, nothing prepares you for the real thing. It is a space that feels both grand and peaceful, a reminder of how much skill and craftsmanship went into sacred buildings long before modern tools existed.
Outside, the chapel is just as impressive. Its enormous buttresses and pinnacles line the riverfront and dominate the skyline.
If you can, try to be here for Evensong. Entry is free and you experience the chapel in the way it has been used for generations. Listening to the choir fill the enormous space is unforgettable. Many visitors say it is the most moving part of their visit to Cambridge.
Tip: King’s is extremely popular so book tickets ahead of time if you want to explore during the day. Photography is allowed, but be respectful during services. Evensong usually does not require a ticket, but arrive early to get a seat.
2. Trinity College & the Wren Library
Trinity College is one of the colleges people naturally gravitate towards when visiting Cambridge, partly because of its scale and partly because of the names connected to it.
Founded by Henry VIII in 1546, it has been home to writers, scientists, prime ministers and generations of students who shaped both the university and the country. You feel that history the moment you step through the Great Gate and into the Great Court.
The first courtyard is striking in its symmetry, with long arcades and stone staircases overlooking a wide lawn. If you arrive early in the day, it can be surprisingly quiet, and you get a real sense of the college as a working part of the university rather than simply a tourist stop. Watching students head off to tutorials brings the place to life.
The highlight for many visitors is the Wren Library. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it is a long, bright room overlooking the river and filled with rare books and manuscripts. Displays rotate throughout the year, but the items often shown include A A Milne’s original Winnie the Pooh manuscript, early editions of Shakespeare, and books once owned by Sir Isaac Newton. There is something fascinating about standing in front of Newton’s own annotated texts, knowing they played a part in ideas that changed the world.
The library maintains a peaceful atmosphere. Photography is not permitted and entry is limited, so even during busier seasons it never feels crowded. The surrounding Nevile’s Court is also worth your time, with a calm, tidy layout that contrasts with the busy streets just outside the gate.
The Wren Library is only open to the public at set times, usually in the afternoons. Check the college website before your visit and consider arriving slightly early, as the number of visitors allowed inside is small.
Side Note: If you are a Winnie the Pooh fan, be sure to check out how you can visit 100 Acre Wood in Sussex, England!
3. Punting on the River Cam
Punting is one of the activities most people associate with Cambridge, and it is a genuinely enjoyable way to see the city from a different angle. The river runs behind several of the colleges along a section known as The Backs, where lawns slope down to the water and historic bridges cross overhead. From a punt, you get a close look at these views without needing to navigate busy streets.
You can either join a chauffeured tour or try punting yourself. Both options have their appeal. A guided trip means you can sit back and listen to stories about the colleges and the people who once studied in them. Some guides share historical facts, others lean more towards lighthearted anecdotes, and both add something to the experience.
If you decide to steer the punt on your own, be prepared for a short learning curve. Balancing on the back platform and using the pole to turn takes a little practice, but it is good fun once you get the hang of it.
The route usually passes under the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College and the Bridge of Sighs at St John’s, two of the best known sights on the river. The scene changes with the seasons. In spring the trees along the banks fill with blossom, while summer afternoons are lively with students and visitors relaxing by the water.
Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter, and the light can be lovely at those times. If you prefer a more peaceful trip, booking ahead with a punting company will save you queuing on busy days and often works out cheaper than paying at the riverside.
Tip: If you want to try punting yourself, choose a weekday or earlier in the day when the river is less crowded. It is easier to practise steering when you are not avoiding a line of punts coming towards you.
4. Great St Mary’s Church and Tower
Great St Mary’s stands at the centre of Cambridge, both geographically and historically. A church has existed on this site for hundreds of years, and the current building has long served as the university’s official church. Students once gathered here for ceremonies and debates, and the bells have marked time for the city for generations.
From the outside, the church blends naturally into the surrounding streets, but the real highlight is the tower. Climbing it takes a little effort. The staircase is narrow and winding, and you may need to pause to let people pass on the way up. Once you reach the top, though, the view is worth every step. From the rooftop walkway you can see King’s College Chapel, the zigzag of rooftops around the market square, and the flat countryside stretching beyond the city.
The interior of the church is also pleasant to explore. It has a light, open layout with wooden pews and a bright chancel. Displays explain the building’s role in university life and the history of the surrounding area. It is a good spot to visit if you want a short break from the busier streets outside.
If you are short on time in Cambridge, this is one of the best places to come for a quick overview of the city. The tower gives you a sense of how compact everything is and helps you get your bearings before heading back out to explore.
Tip: The tower has a small entry fee and can get busy on weekends. Arrive early in the day to avoid queues on the stairs and to enjoy clearer views across the rooftops.
5. The Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is one of Cambridge’s cultural highlights and an easy place to spend an hour or an entire afternoon, depending on how deeply you like to browse. It was founded in 1816 and sits just outside the historic centre in a grand, classical building that looks more like a small palace than a museum. Even before you step inside, the stone columns and wide steps give you a sense that something important is held within its walls.
The collections cover a broad range of periods and styles. On the ground floor you will find ancient Egyptian artefacts, Roman sculptures and pieces from the medieval world. Many visitors are drawn to the Egyptian gallery first, where the beautifully displayed sarcophagi and everyday objects give a tangible sense of life along the Nile thousands of years ago.
Upstairs, the focus shifts towards European art. The museum holds works by artists such as Degas, Gainsborough, Monet and Poussin, alongside an excellent collection of decorative arts. The layout encourages slow exploration rather than rushing from room to room.
One thing that stands out about the Fitzwilliam is how calm it feels. Even during busier times, the galleries rarely feel crowded, and there are plenty of quiet corners where you can pause without being in anyone’s way. The building itself contributes to this atmosphere, with tall ceilings, large windows and a sense of space that makes the museum feel welcoming rather than overwhelming.
The museum is free to enter, which makes it an easy addition to any itinerary, especially if you are visiting Cambridge on a day trip. It is also a good option if you encounter a rainy afternoon or simply want a break from walking between colleges.
Tip: If you enjoy art and history but prefer shorter visits, choose one or two sections instead of trying to see everything. The Egyptian galleries and the European paintings are two of the most rewarding areas and can easily be enjoyed in under an hour.
6. Walk Along The Backs
The Backs is one of the most picturesque parts of Cambridge and a peaceful place to slow the pace of your day. This stretch of parkland and riverside paths runs behind several of the central colleges, offering views that feel far removed from the busier streets nearby. It is the kind of place where you can simply stroll without a plan and still feel like you have seen something special.
The name comes from the fact that you are walking along the “backs” of the colleges. From here you can admire the lawns that sweep down to the river, the bridges that arch across the water and the elegant façades of buildings such as King’s, Clare and Trinity.
The route itself is easy and gentle. You can start from Queen’s Road and wander at your own pace, stopping for photographs or simply to sit on a bench and watch the punts glide past. If you are visiting for the first time, this is one of the best places to get a feel for the city.
Because this area is open to the public, it is a good option if you are visiting during times when some of the colleges are closed or restricted. You still get a sense of their scale and setting without needing to go inside.
Tip: Early mornings are particularly peaceful along The Backs. If you arrive before the day trips begin, you may find the paths almost empty, and the light at that time of day is perfect for photographs.
7. Cambridge University Botanic Garden
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a lovely place to slow down for an hour or two, especially if you enjoy a quieter break from the busy streets.
Spread over 40 acres, it was founded in 1846 as a living collection for teaching and research. Today, it is just as popular with visitors who simply want a quiet break from the busy streets and college buildings.
The garden is divided into a series of themed areas, each with its own character. The Glasshouse Range is one of the highlights, with everything from tropical palms to arid desert plants arranged in carefully controlled environments. Outside, the Systematic Beds offer a completely different experience, with long, tidy rows of plants grouped by botanical family. You do not need to be a plant expert to enjoy it. The layout makes it easy to wander and appreciate the variety.
One of my favourite parts of the garden is the lake area. It feels calm and secluded, with benches tucked away under the trees and plenty of space to sit quietly for a few minutes.
The on site café is handy for lunch or a quick drink, and the garden shop has a surprisingly interesting selection of botanical themed gifts and books.
Tip: If you are visiting in spring or early summer, make time for the glasshouses and the rose collection, which are usually at their best in those months. The garden is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the city centre, or an easy bus ride if you prefer not to walk.
8. Market Square
Market Square sits right at the centre of Cambridge and has been a trading spot for centuries.
The market runs daily, with a slightly different mix of traders depending on the time of week. Food stalls are always popular. You can find fresh produce, hot lunches, pastries, global street food and small independent vendors selling things you might not come across elsewhere in the city.
It is a convenient place if you want something quick to eat without committing to a full sit down lunch. The surrounding streets also have plenty of cafés, so it works well as a starting point for exploring nearby.
One thing I like about Market Square is its location. From here you can walk straight to King’s Parade, Great St Mary’s, the colleges along Trinity Street or the shops around Sidney Street.
Visually, it is also a good spot for photographs. The colourful canopies against the backdrop of historic buildings give the square a lively, cheerful feel even on quieter days.
Tip: Lunchtime can be busy, especially on weekends. If you want a quick, inexpensive meal, the food stalls at the back of the square often have shorter queues than those at the front.
9. The Round Church
The Round Church, officially known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is one of the oldest buildings in Cambridge and a striking sight as you approach from Bridge Street. Built around 1130, it is one of only a small number of round churches in England, a design inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
Displays explain the history of the church and how Cambridge grew around it, which is helpful if you want a short introduction to the medieval layout of the city before exploring the surrounding streets.
A small exhibition also covers the story of Christianity in Britain and the role Cambridge played in teaching and scholarship over the centuries. It is well presented and easy to follow, even if you only have a few minutes to spare. Because the church is small, the visit is naturally brief, but it adds a nice layer of context to the rest of your day.
The location is convenient too. From here you can walk straight towards St John’s College, Magdalene Bridge or the shops around Sidney Street, making it an easy stop as you move between sights.
Tip: The Round Church is at its quietest early in the morning. If you are interested in architecture or photography, the soft light at that time of day highlights the stonework beautifully.
10. The Mathematical Bridge
The Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College is one of the river’s most recognisable structures, and it becomes an easy highlight of any walk or punting trip. Despite its name and the stories surrounding it, the bridge is not a mystery of engineering with no bolts or nails. It is held together with traditional fixings, but the curved shape created from straight timbers is still an impressive piece of design.
The original bridge was built in 1749 and has been reconstructed a couple of times since, always following the same layout. Seen from the river, the structure has a clean, almost geometric look that stands out against the older stone buildings behind it. The contrast between the wooden framework and the brick walls of the college makes it a particularly good spot for photographs.
You cannot walk across the bridge unless you are a member of Queens’ College, but you can get a clear view from Silver Street Bridge or from a punt on the river. If you are exploring on foot, the small viewing area outside the college gate gives you a decent look at the structure and the surrounding buildings.
Part of the bridge’s charm comes from the stories that continue to circulate. One common tale claims that the original version was assembled without any nails and that when students took it apart out of curiosity, they were unable to put it back together. It is a fun story but not supported by historical records. Even so, the bridge often comes up in local anecdotes, and guides on the river enjoy sharing the myths as much as the facts.
Tip: If you plan to photograph the bridge, visit earlier in the day. The river gets busy in the afternoon, and it can be harder to get a clear shot.
11. Kettle’s Yard
Kettle’s Yard is a unique part of Cambridge, with art arranged in a way that feels welcoming and easy to explore.
It began as the home of Jim Ede, a former curator at the Tate, who transformed a group of cottages into a space where paintings, sculpture and everyday objects sit together in a calm, natural arrangement. His idea was to show that art did not need to be separated from daily life, and that philosophy still guides the house today.
The collection includes works by artists such as Henry Moore, Alfred Wallis and Ben Nicholson, alongside furniture and objects Ede collected throughout his life. The house is not large, so you can see it at a relaxed pace.
Next to the house is the modern gallery, which hosts temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists throughout the year.
Tip: Entry to the house is free, but access is by timed ticket. Booking ahead is recommended, particularly on weekends or during special exhibitions.
12. The Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs at St John’s College is often photographed and naturally fits into a visit to the central colleges.
Built in 1831, it crosses the River Cam between two parts of the college and has a distinctive covered design with tall windows and decorative stonework. Although it shares a name with the bridge in Venice, the two look completely different. The Cambridge version has its own character and fits naturally into the surrounding college buildings.
You cannot walk across the bridge unless you are a member of St John’s, but you can see it clearly from the river during a punting tour. This is one of the reasons punting is so popular, as the view from the water gives you a close look at the structure and the college buildings that rise up behind it. From the riverbank, the best vantage point is usually from the area near the St John’s backs, where you can admire the bridge framed by the trees along the river.
The bridge often appears in local stories and university traditions, and guides on the punts enjoy sharing little anecdotes as you pass underneath. Whether or not you choose a tour, it is still worth making time to see the bridge simply because of how neatly it fits into the setting.
Because the bridge sits within the private grounds of St John’s, the closest view on foot is from the outside. If you want to explore the college further, you can purchase a visitor ticket to walk through the courts and gardens, which gives you a better sense of how the bridge connects different parts of the college.
13. Scott Polar Research Institute
The Scott Polar Research Institute is a small but fascinating museum that tells the story of human exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic. It was founded in 1920 to commemorate the achievements and lives of Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his team, and over the years it has grown into a respected centre for polar research. Despite its academic background, the museum is very accessible for visitors and offers a clear, engaging look at life in some of the world’s harshest environments.
The exhibitions explore the challenges faced by early explorers and the scientific work that continues in the polar regions today. Displays include original equipment, clothing and personal belongings used on expeditions by Scott, Shackleton and their crews.
Photographs and film footage provide valuable context, showing the landscapes these teams travelled through and the daily routines they established in the ice.
Although the museum is compact, it covers a wide range of themes, from navigation and survival techniques to wildlife, weather patterns and cultural interactions with Indigenous Arctic communities. Most visitors spend around 45 minutes here, but it is easy to stay longer if you enjoy reading the detailed interpretation panels.
The institute is located a short walk from the main city centre, near the Downing Site and several university departments. Its quieter location means it rarely feels crowded, even during weekends.
Tip: If you enjoy historic expeditions or are interested in climate and environmental science, allow extra time to explore the displays at a slower pace. Entry is free, although donations are welcome.
14. Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial
The Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial is located a few miles west of the city and offers a thoughtful and quietly moving place to visit. Set across 30 acres of landscaped grounds, it commemorates the American servicemen and women who lost their lives during the Second World War while stationed in or operating from the United Kingdom.
The cemetery contains the graves of more than 3,800 individuals, arranged in precise, curved rows of white marble headstones. Nearby, a long Wall of the Missing lists the names of over 5,000 service members who have no known resting place.
The visitor centre is well designed and provides useful background if you want to understand more about the events represented here. Exhibits combine photographs, personal stories, maps and short films that explain the air operations, naval missions and supply routes based in the UK during the war.
Although the cemetery is a short distance from the centre of Cambridge, it is easy to reach by bus, taxi or car. The hop on hop off sightseeing bus also stops here seasonally, which can be convenient if you are exploring without your own transport.
Tip: The visitor centre makes the experience much more meaningful, so stop there before walking through the grounds. Plan for around one hour in total, more if you like to read the individual stories included in the exhibits.
15. The Centre for Computing History
The Centre for Computing History is a fun and surprisingly engaging place to visit, especially if you have any interest in how technology has changed over the past few decades. It sits a short distance from the main city centre, and although the building looks unassuming from the outside, it holds an impressive collection of computers, consoles and gadgets that span everything from early home computing to modern developments.
What makes the museum particularly enjoyable is its interactive approach. Many of the computers and gaming systems are switched on and ready to use, so you can try out old software, listen to the familiar sounds of dial up connections or pick up a controller from the 1980s and revisit games you may not have played in years. For families, this is often a highlight, as children and teens get to see the technology their parents grew up with, while adults enjoy the nostalgia.
Temporary exhibitions often run throughout the year and cover themes such as early video game design, the development of home computers or the history of specific brands. If you enjoy retro tech, you could easily spend longer here than expected.
Because the museum is located slightly outside the centre, it is often quieter than other Cambridge attractions, which makes it a good choice if you want something a little different from the usual college tours and historical sights.
Tip: Check the museum’s website before visiting. They frequently host special events, hands on sessions and themed weekends that are especially engaging if you are travelling with children or have a keen interest in gaming history.
16. Walking Tours
Walking tours are one of the best ways to see the historic centre. Companies such as Cambridge Tour Guides offer small group and private tours led by guides who know the city well. They cover key sights like King’s Parade, the colleges along Trinity Street and the markets, but they also include stories about student traditions, famous alumni and the quirks that give Cambridge its character. A good guide can add a lot of context, especially if it is your first visit.
These tours usually last around 90 minutes to two hours, making them easy to fit into a day trip. Some include entry to a college when access is available, although this depends on university schedules and events.
17. Hop On Hop Off Bus
The City Sightseeing hop on hop off bus operates seasonally and can be useful if you want to explore areas beyond the city centre without walking long distances. The route includes stops near the Fitzwilliam Museum, the River Cam, the Botanic Garden and the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial. It also provides a recorded audio guide that gives a broad overview of Cambridge’s history and highlights.
This can be a practical choice if you have mobility concerns or prefer not to walk between sites that are spread out.
18. Special Interest Tours
Throughout the year, Cambridge also hosts themed tours, such as architecture walks, college specific tours, photography walks, ghost tours and alumni led experiences. These are good if you have already seen the main sights and want a different angle on the city.
Tip: Walking tours are very popular in peak seasons, so booking online in advance can help you secure a spot. If you prefer a quieter experience, try an early morning or late afternoon tour when the streets are usually less crowded.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cambridge
The Eagle
A historic pub dating back to the 1500s, known for its links to the discovery of DNA and the RAF bar where WWII pilots left their signatures on the ceiling. Expect classic British pub dishes in a warm, traditional setting.
Fitzbillies
A Cambridge institution famous for its sticky Chelsea buns. Great for breakfast, coffee, light lunches and afternoon tea. The Trumpington Street branch is closest to many attractions.
The Maypole
A welcoming pub near Jesus Green serving hearty British and Italian dishes. A good choice for a relaxed evening meal away from the busiest streets.
Hot Numbers Coffee
A reliable stop for excellent coffee, pastries and light brunch. Popular with locals and students and ideal for a quick break during the day.
Bread & Meat
A simple, informal spot near Market Square offering roast meat rolls and generous sandwiches. Convenient for a fast, good quality lunch.
The Pint Shop
Modern British dishes and an impressive drinks list in a Georgian building just off the market. Suitable for something a little more contemporary.
The Orchard Tea Garden (Grantchester)
A short walk or cycle from the city centre. Known for its deckchairs, peaceful gardens and links to the Bloomsbury Group. Ideal if you want a quiet break outside the main sights.
Getting To Cambridge From London
Train – Direct trains from London Kings Cross and London Liverpool Street go to Cambridge Station. The actual train station isn’t as close to the city centre as other places, so look out for the Citi1, Citi 3 and Citi 7 services from the station to the centre. If you would rather walk it will take about 30 minutes.
Car – It is about 60 miles from central London to Cambridge. Journey time should be about 90 minutes on the M11. There are 5 Park and Ride sites on the outskirts of the city that offer parking and a frequent bus ride into the centre.
