Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Michelle Chadwick, Pexels
Cambridge, England, offers a captivating blend of historical grandeur and vibrant intellectual life, primarily known for its prestigious university, stunning architecture, and the serene River Cam. Visitors are drawn to its rich academic heritage, picturesque college grounds, and opportunities for punting along the river.
While Cambridge does not feature specific 'party' districts for tourists, the city provides ample opportunities for social interaction. Green spaces like Jesus Green and Midsummer Common are popular gathering spots for outdoor activities. The city also hosts various cultural events at venues such as the Corn Exchange, which naturally brings people together. Exploring the university's many colleges and participating in guided tours can also lead to encounters with fellow travelers and students.
Top 7 Things to do in Cambridge
Exploring Cambridge offers a delightful blend of historical immersion, serene river experiences, and cultural discovery.
1. Punting on the River Cam
This quintessential Cambridge activity provides a unique perspective of the city's famous university colleges, their picturesque 'backs,' and historic bridges like the Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge. Guests are guided along the tranquil River Cam in a flat-bottomed boat, traditionally propelled by a long pole. It is a relaxing way to admire the stunning architecture and riverside scenery. Shared guided tours typically last around 45-50 minutes, offering informative commentary, or visitors can choose to hire a punt and try punting themselves for a more active experience.
Cost: Shared guided tours typically cost from approximately £15-£23 per adult, with online advance booking often providing discounts. Self-hire punts are available for around £25-£32 per hour.
Transport: Punting stations are conveniently located along the River Cam, easily accessible on foot from most central areas of Cambridge.
2. Visit King's College Chapel
King's College Chapel stands as a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, globally recognized for its grand scale, intricate fan-vaulted ceiling, and magnificent stained-glass windows. Visitors can explore its awe-inspiring interior, which features Peter Paul Rubens' 'Adoration of the Magi,' and appreciate its profound historical and architectural significance. Attending a chapel service offers an opportunity to experience its grandeur without an entry fee.
Cost: Adult tickets range from approximately £16-£18 for in-person purchases, while online advance bookings may offer a slightly lower price. Reduced rates are available for children and students. Entry is free for Cambridge residents with a valid resident's card or for those attending a service.
Transport: Located centrally on King's Parade, the Chapel is easily accessible by walking from most parts of the city center.
3. Climb Great St Mary's Church Tower
For unparalleled panoramic views across Cambridge's historic skyline, including a bird's-eye perspective of the university colleges and the bustling market square, climbing the 123 steps to the top of Great St Mary's Church tower is a rewarding activity. The newly-refurbished outdoor viewing platform offers a 360-degree vista of the city's iconic landmarks.
Cost: Tickets for ascending the tower are £7.50 for adults.
Transport: The church is situated on Senate House Hill in the city center, adjacent to the Market Square, making it well within easy walking distance.
4. Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum, a prominent institution of the University of Cambridge, houses an extensive and diverse collection of art and antiquities from around the globe. Visitors can embark on a cultural journey through various historical periods, discovering Ancient Egyptian artifacts, classical sculptures, medieval illuminated manuscripts, and celebrated European masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
Cost: Admission to the museum's general collections and permanent displays is free. Some temporary special exhibitions may incur a charge, although children under 18 often receive free entry to these as well.
Transport: The museum is located on Trumpington Street, a short walk from the main city center.
5. Stroll through Cambridge University Botanic Garden
This tranquil 40-acre Grade II* listed garden offers a peaceful escape and features an impressive collection of over 8,000 plant species from all over the world. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, including a winter garden, expansive glasshouses, and a serene lake, providing both a calming experience and educational insights into plant science and horticulture. It is an ideal location for a relaxing walk and appreciating natural beauty.
Cost: Adult admission is £8.00 (or £8.80 with an optional donation). Entry is free for children aged 0-16 and for students of Cambridge University with a valid ID card. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket office upon arrival.
Transport: The Botanic Garden is located approximately a 15-minute walk from Cambridge city center and 5 minutes from Cambridge train station, with entrances on Trumpington Road and Hills Road.
6. Wander through Cambridge Market Square
Operating since the Middle Ages, Cambridge Market Square is a vibrant open-air market situated in the historic heart of the city. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, delicious baked goods, unique artisan crafts, second-hand items, and an eclectic mix of international street food. It provides an authentic glimpse into local life and culture and is particularly lively on weekends.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to the market; costs apply only to purchases made from the vendors.
Transport: The market is centrally located on Market Hill and is easily accessible on foot from surrounding city attractions.
7. Admire the Mathematical Bridge and Bridge of Sighs
These two distinctive bridges are iconic architectural landmarks of Cambridge. The **Mathematical Bridge**, located within Queens' College, is a wooden footbridge celebrated for its ingenious construction of straight timbers forming a striking arch, though often mistakenly attributed to Sir Isaac Newton. The **Bridge of Sighs** at St John's College is a beautiful covered bridge in the Victorian Gothic style, drawing comparisons to its Venetian namesake and admired for its picturesque setting over the River Cam. Both bridges are best viewed from the river via a punt tour. Visitors can also gain closer access to them by purchasing entry to their respective colleges.
Cost: Viewing the bridges from a punt is included in the cost of a punting tour. To walk across the Mathematical Bridge, entry to Queens' College is required (approx. £3.50). Access to the Bridge of Sighs requires entry to St John's College, where admission fees vary.
Transport: Both bridges are centrally located within their respective colleges and are easily reachable by walking through the city center.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
