Things to do in Cambridge for self travelers
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Most recommended in Cambridge
Eerie Cambridge: A Haunted Walking Journey
Delve into Cambridge's spectral side with this Self-Guided Audio Tour. Aimed at those with a curiosity for the eerie and the occult, the tour guides brave souls through the city's most haunted landmarks. The stories you'll hear are grounded in the ghostly lore that surrounds Cambridge's storied streets and ancient edifices, making this journey perfect for enthusiasts of paranormal intrigue and gothic architecture alike. The tour begins at the historic Magdalene College, weaving through famous sites like Cambridge Market Square, Corpus Christi College, and the formidable University of Cambridge. The path then winds towards the hallowed St John's College, The Round Church, and culminates at the curious structure known as The Mathematical Bridge. The route is designed to be easily navigable, starting on Magdalene Street and completing the spectral circuit back at the city's heart, leaving travelers with a sense of the uncanny history embedded in Cambridge's walls. As you move between shadowy courtyards and echoing chapels, you'll encounter the stories of ghostly scholars and nobility who some say still inhabit their beloved Cambridge. The visual highlights, including the timeless architecture and the mysterious clock at Corpus Christi, are brought to life with chilling tales that offer a glimpse into the city's haunted heritage. Remember, the tour is meant to both educate and thrill, promising a memorable adventure into the darker corners of this illustrious university city.
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About Cambridge
Visitors to Cambridge should not miss the iconic King's College Chapel, known for its Gothic architecture and historical significance. The Bridge of Sighs at St John's College offers an exquisite photo opportunity, while The Backs provide a scenic stroll featuring the rear aspects of the colleges. The Fitzwilliam Museum is a must for art and culture enthusiasts.
Families visiting Cambridge can enjoy a fun and educational day out at the Cambridge Science Centre, exploring hands-on exhibits. The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences fascinates with fossils and dinosaurs, and punting on the River Cam offers a leisurely way to see the city from a fresh perspective.
Cambridge is renowned for punting on the River Cam, a tranquil way to view the historic colleges. The city is also a haven for cyclists, with bike-friendly paths and tours available. For leisure, picnicking on the Cambridge University Botanic Garden's lush grounds is a favorite.
Indoors, visitors can explore the rich collections of the Fitzwilliam Museum and the University museums such as the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Attending a choral evensong at King's College Chapel provides a serene musical experience.
Apart from the classic punting tours, the best Cambridge tours include the self-guided audio walking tours of the historic city center, the university college grounds, and the themed tours focused on literature, science, and espionage that Cambridge is known for.
The Fitzwilliam Museum is Cambridge's most popular, housing a world-class art collection. The Kettle's Yard art gallery and the Whipple Museum of the History of Science also draw many visitors interested in modern art and scientific instruments, respectively.
For those seeking shelter from the rain, Cambridge offers a range of indoor audio tours, including those at the Fitzwilliam Museum, King's College Chapel, and the various university museums which provide engaging narratives on their extensive collections.
Short but insightful, the 'Historical Highlights of Cambridge' audio tour can be completed in under an hour, offering a brisk introduction to the city's landmarks. Most of the university museums also offer concise guided tours that fit neatly into a busy explorers schedule.
Best Things to Do In Cambridge
Immerse yourself in the historical aura of Cambridge, discovering a rich tapestry of educational heritage and charming cityscapes.
Cambridge: Botanic Garden
What is it?
A living plant collection spanning 40 acres, the Botanic Garden is a horticultural delight.
Why you should go?
Cambridge University's Botanic Garden is a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. It is not only a haven for plant enthusiasts but also provides a tranquil escape for visitors. With its extensive collection of flora from around the world, informative labels and self-guided audio tours enhance the experience, detailing botanical facts and conservation efforts. It's one of the most serene Cambridge activities available, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation and education.
Cambridge: The Round Church
What is it?
One of England's oldest buildings, The Round Church offers a glimpse into medieval history.
Why you should go?
Visiting The Round Church stands out as a unique experience when exploring what to see in Cambridge. This cherished historical structure, dating back to the 12th century, is one of only four medieval round churches still in use in England. A self-guided audio tour not only explains the architecture's symbolism but also transports visitors back to the origins of Cambridge as a town, making it a captivating stop on various Cambridge tours.
Cambridge: Trinity College
What is it?
Trinity College is the largest of the Cambridge colleges, known for its excellence and traditions.
Why you should go?
Embark on a journey through Trinity College, whose alumni include Sir Isaac Newton and Lord Byron. Among the best Cambridge tours, the self-guided visit allows exploration of the historic courtyards, chapel, and the Wren Library. The audio narration provides a deep dive into the college's legacy within the academic world and insights into student traditions, making it one of the more exclusive things to do in Cambridge for culture aficionados and prospective students alike.
Cambridge: Corpus Clock
What is it?
A unique and thought-provoking timepiece located outside Corpus Christi College.
Why you should go?
The Corpus Clock is a must-see scientific masterpiece blending art with horology. Known colloquially as the 'Chronophage' or 'time-eater,' it provides an arresting visual metaphor for the passage of time. It is a perfect addition to any walk on what to do in Cambridge, with an audio guide offering a deeper understanding of the clock's innovative design, engineering, and the philosophical message it conveys.
Cambridge: Scott Polar Research Institute
What is it?
A world-leading hub for polar research, with an associated museum on polar exploration.
Why you should go?
For an off-the-beaten-path experience among the things to do in Cambridge, the Scott Polar Research Institute offers unparalleled insight into polar environments and history. Its museum features exhibits on epic explorations and the science of cold climates. Through the available audio guides, visitors learn about the heroism and hardships faced by polar explorers, as well as contemporary scientific discoveries, making it an essential and educational part of Cambridge excursions.
Cambridge: The Backs
What is it?
A picturesque area where several Cambridge colleges back on to the River Cam.
Why you should go?
The Backs offers an idyllic setting that frames the historical grandeur of Cambridge colleges with their sweeping lawns extending down to the river's edge. The area is especially enchanting in spring when the trees and flowers bloom in abundance. An amble along The Backs provides a quintessential Cambridge panorama, best enjoyed through a self-guided audio tour that elucidates the rich past and architectural marvels of the adjacent colleges.
Cambridge: King's College Chapel
What is it?
An architectural masterpiece known for its impressive gothic structure and chapel choir.
Why you should go?
King's College Chapel is a symbol of Cambridge, famed for its startlingly beautiful fan vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows, which narrate historical and religious stories. It is truly one of the best things to see in Cambridge. Visitors are enchanted by the chapel's acoustic during choir performances, making it a must-visit for those interested in Cambridge's musical heritage. The self-guided audio tour offers listeners historical insights and anecdotes that enhance the visual splendor.
Cambridge: The Fitzwilliam Museum
What is it?
An art and antiquities museum housing a vast collection of world-renowned works.
Why you should go?
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a treasure trove for art lovers and history buffs. It ranks highly among the places to visit in Cambridge, offering an extensive array of exhibits, from Egyptian sarcophagi to the artworks of the Impressionists. The significance of each masterpiece can be appreciated through an expertly crafted audio tour, which provides context and enriches the museum experience, making it one of the most educational Cambridge activities available.
Cambridge: Mathematical Bridge
What is it?
A wooden bridge at Queens' College, famous for its unique design and engineering.
Why you should go?
As intriguing as it is picturesque, the Mathematical Bridge is a feat of 18th-century engineering that continues to draw curious minds. Its distinctive structure has given rise to numerous legends, all debunked by the accompanying audio guide that demystifies its actual history and construction method. This bridge is a visual symbol of Cambridge's scientific heritage and is fundamental to any itinerary on things to do in Cambridge.
Cambridge: Market Square
What is it?
The central historical market in Cambridge, offering a range of goods every day of the week.
Why you should go?
Market Square lives and breathes the local culture, presenting a sensory array of fresh produce, artisan crafts, and international cuisine. There's a palpable buzz that represents the community spirit of the city, making it one of the fun things to do in Cambridge. Visitors can uncover the square's history and the stories of its vendors through an engaging audio tour, providing a lively narrative that complements the market's vibrant atmosphere.
TOP-5 tours in Cambridge for first time visitors
- Delve into the prestigious realm of academia with our "Cambridge University Highlights" tour, showcasing the venerable colleges and iconic libraries.
- Explore the "Cambridge Riverbanks Experience" tour, highlighting the serene banks of the River Cam, coupled with the enduring legacy of punting.
- "Historical Pubs of Cambridge" tour invites you to discover ancient inns where scholars have toasted to knowledge over centuries.
- The "Cambridge Art & Sculpture Trail" provides an aesthetic journey through public artworks and galleries, narrating the city's cultural story.
- Our "Cambridge City Center" tour reveals the intricate architecture and bustling market squares, central to urban life in Cambridge.
Fun things to do in Cambridge with kids
Journeying with children through Cambridge is a delight, offering a mix of educational and enjoyable attractions that appeal to young minds. The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences is a treasure trove of natural history, waiting to ignite the imagination with dinosaur fossils and an array of minerals. Here, audio guides can turn a family outing into an exciting prehistoric adventure. For a more hands-on experience, the Cambridge Science Centre, located in the heart of the city, provides interactive exhibits and live shows aimed at making science fun and accessible to kids. Finally, no family visit would be complete without a punt down the River Cam, an ideal activity to soak in the sights and sounds of Cambridge from a different perspective. Kids can listen to stories of the university and the city's history from the comfort of a traditional punt, providing an educational tour that is sure to be a highlight of any family trip.
Things to do in Cambridge with family
Cambridge emerges as a fantastic destination for those embarking on a family adventure, with a variety of attractions catering to all ages. A visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum opens the doorway to cultures around the world, with family-friendly audio guides to help young explorers delve into ancient civilizations and art. The spacious lawns of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic, offering a tranquil retreat from the city bustle. Children are often enchanted by the diverse plant life and sensory garden, while parents appreciate the garden's beauty and serenity. Lastly, the historical spectacle of The Backs, with its picturesque views along the rear of the colleges, provides a tranquil backdrop for a family walk or bike ride. The rich narrative of a self-guided audio tour complements the experience, allowing families to learn about the university's storied past while enjoying the natural beauty of the riverbanks.
Free things to do in Cambridge
Exploring Cambridge need not come with a hefty price tag; the city is brimming with complimentary attractions that promise a rich experience. Notably, the historical corridors of the University of Cambridge offer an architectural feast for the eyes. Stroll among the prestigious college buildings and revel in the academic ambiance without spending a penny. Another gem is the Jesus Green, where locals and tourists alike unwind. This spacious park is ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and watching the world go by. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a moment of peace or a fun family day out. Lastly, the Fitzwilliam Museum beckons art lovers and curious minds to immerse in its extensive collections of art and antiquities. With no entrance fee, it’s a cultural haven where one can spend hours appreciating works from various epochs. These attractions, enriched by informative self-guided audio tours, highlight the best Cambridge has to offer without the expense.
Cheap things to do in Cambridge
Budget-conscious travelers will find Cambridge teeming with affordable attractions that offer enriching experiences. One of the city's best value activities is punting on the River Cam. While hiring a private punt can be costly, joining a group tour or renting a self-punt provides a cheaper alternative to enjoy the tranquil riverbanks and stunning college backs. Another cost-effective option is visiting the Cambridge Market Square, where you can browse locally made goods, sample fresh produce, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. Many self-guided audio tours are available that delve into the history and culture of the marketplace. Finally, the expansive green space of Parker's Piece invites visitors for a leisurely walk, game of football, or a relaxing break amidst the day's explorations. With these low-cost offerings, Cambridge ensures a memorable visit full of discovery and enjoyment, without straining your wallet.
Things to do in Cambridge for couples
Cambridge sets the stage for romance with its array of enchanting activities perfect for couples. Begin with a serene punt along the River Cam, a quintessential Cambridge experience that allows intimate moments beneath the bridges and alongside the historic college buildings. Cozy up or take turns navigating as you drift by the scenic Backs, amplifying the charm with an audio tour that whispers the city’s secrets. For art aficionados, a leisurely visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum offers a cultural date, exploring exquisite artifacts and artworks. Enhance the experience with an audio guide providing rich narratives of the masterpieces on display. As evening settles, stroll hand-in-hand through the cobbled streets to the Cambridge University Botanic Garden for a twilight meander. The calming ambiance is accentuated by the botanical audio tour, making it a memorable end to a day of amorous exploration in this university town.
Things to do in Cambridge at night
When the sun dips below the horizon, Cambridge transforms into a nocturnal playground with its own unique offerings. Couples and friends alike can revel in the city's vibrant nightlife, starting with a scenic twilight punt on the River Cam. As the evening stars appear, this peaceful activity provides a different perspective of the city, with the softly-lit college buildings reflecting on the gentle waters. For those seeking intellectual stimulation, the Cambridge Union hosts debates and talks in the evenings, offering a chance to engage with contemporary issues and profound ideas. Enrich the experience with a background audio tour detailing the Union's historic significance. Lastly, the city's myriad of cozy pubs and bars come to life at night, inviting visitors to sample local ales in historic settings. Many pubs are tucked away in ancient buildings, each with a story that a self-guided audio tour can uncover, mixing culture with leisure for a night out in Cambridge.
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