Best Things to Do in Cambridge – The Ultimate Cambridge Travel Guide
When people think about Cambridge, they usually think a sepia-toned imagery comprising college students rushing to their classes, professors in tweed jackets, big libraries, and old Gothic buildings. However, in reality, there are so many things to do in Cambridge that people often don't know about.
Cambridge has been wrongly limited to being a place where geniuses come to study. However, truth be told, there are many things to do in Cambridge. From historic colleges, museums, and churches to trendy pubs, restaurants, and shopping centres, Cambridge has it all.
Tourists can participate in various activities, explore the best things to do in Cambridge, or make a one-day trip to nearby places. Although Cambridge is one of the most expensive cities in England, we also have a list of free things to do in Cambridge for you.
By the time you are done reading this article, we are sure you will have a Cambridge bucket list ready for yourself!
An Overview of the Cambridge Travel Guide
Historic buildings, commercial streets, contemporary architecture, lush green areas in the city centre, and modern sustainable transport options comprise the city of Cambridge. To get around the city, you can walk on foot or cycle to reach nearby places, but Cambridge hop on hop off are the best option when it comes to covering long distances in the city.
The neighbourhoods that you can choose as a base include Newnham, Chesterton, Romsey, Grantchester, and Old Town. There are many fun things to do in Cambridge, and staying in one of these areas will make the experience memorable.
Best Things to See in Cambridge
As we have mentioned above, there are a lot of things to do in Cambridge. We have curated a list of the best things to see in Cambridge. From famous colleges and museums to picturesque gardens, bustling shopping centres, and the Backs, this list will ensure you have the best time in Cambridge.
1. King’s College Chapel
King’s College Chapel is one of the finest examples of England’s Perpendicular Gothic style of architecture and one of the best things to see in Cambridge. This chapel is located on the campus of the prestigious King’s College. The Chapel features the world's largest fan vault, which took nearly years to add to the majestic building.
We recommend that you invest in a guided tour to have a deeper understanding of the architecture of the chapel, its features, and the complex history behind it.
| Interesting Nugget: It took nearly 100 years and 4 English kings to complete the construction of the Chapel. On the south side of the chapel, you can notice the subtle changes in the colour of the stone and other details, marking the changing phases of construction. |
| King’s College Chapel, Cambridge Information | |
| Timing | 9:30 am to 3:15 pm |
| Ticket | $22.01 (for adult) $18.68 (for child) |
| Insider Tip | Purchase online tickets in advance, and visit on a weekday to avoid the crowd. You can attend the free Evensong Services and enjoy the choir's performance. |
2. The Backs
The Backs refer to the “back” of the Cambridge colleges adjoining the River Cam. This stretch of land features beautiful gardens and parks with an exceptional view of the colleges and the shimmering water. The colleges that comprise the stretch of land along the River Cam are King’s College, Clare College, Trinity College, and St. John’s College.
You can take a walk and immerse yourself in the ethereal views of The Backs, or go punting on the River Cam to admire the architectural landmarks of the city. While punting, keep an eye out for the King’s College Chapel, Clare Bridge, the Great Court of Trinity College, the Mathematical Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs.
| The Backs, Cambridge Information | |
| Timing | ` |
| Price | Walking on The Backs is free, but you have to pay for a punting tour. Alternatively, you can hire a punt and use Google Maps to navigate and identify the sights. |
| How to Get There | You can reach The Backs on foot. From the city centre, head towards the King’s Parade to reach The Backs. You can access the river from several points along Silver Street, Garrett Hostel Lane, and Queen’s Road. |
| Insider Tip | Book the tickets to the punting tour in advance, especially during peak season. Opting for shared punting tours can save you a significant amount of money. |
3. Fitzwilliam Museum
One of the most interesting things to do in Cambridge is exploring the artefacts in the famous Fitzwilliam Museum, at the University of Cambridge. While the museum houses many works on antiquity and old artefacts, the interiors are majestic to look at. Here, you will find paintings of Vincent van Gogh and Picasso, sculptures by Michelangelo, a wide Egyptian collection including coffins of Ramesses III and Nakhefmut, and much more.
However, the museum has three levels, and you may miss some important exhibitions. Thus, we recommend you procure a map of the museum from the official website before you pay a visit.
| Information about Fitzwilliam Museum | |
| Timing | 10 am to 5 pm (Tues-Sat) |
| Price | Entry to the museum is free, but some exhibitions may have an entry fee. |
| Insider Tip | You cannot carry any food or drink inside the museum. However, there is a café in the courtyard, and we recommend you drink the black coffee and try the delicious carrot cake. |
4. Kettle’s Yard
If you are an art connoisseur, then one of the most exciting things to do in Cambridge for you would be to explore the Kettle’s Yard. Kettle’s Yard was Jim and Helen Ede’s home. The modest house features a 20th-century collection of art curated by the Ede’s.
Although the house is filled with various paintings and objects of art, it still retains its homely vibe. While you are here, remember to check the painting by Joan Miró, gifted to Ede by the painter himself.
| Information about Kettle’s Yard | |
| Timing | 11 am to 5 pm (Tues-Sun) |
| Price | $18.69 (for adults above 25) |
5. Explore Cambridge University
A trip to Cambridge cannot be complete without exploring its colleges. Cambridge University has 31 colleges under its aegis, and each college has a unique history behind it. The colleges that you must consider visiting include King’s College, Trinity College, St. John’s College, and Queen’s College.
Apart from the college grounds, you can visit the museum, the libraries, the famous bridges such as the Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, take a walk along The Backs, and shop at Market Square.
| Cambridge University Information | |
| Timing | Check the official page of the Colleges before planning a visit. |
| Price | Check the official page of the college for the entry fee. Some colleges do not charge any fee for entry. |
| Insider Tip | While exploring the colleges is pretty straightforward, consider a walking tour if you are short on time. |
Also Read: Explore London's Gems with Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours
The Best Free Things to do in Cambridge
Cambridge is one of the costliest cities to live in England, and so, exploring the city can be expensive for many. However, rest assured, there are many free things to do in Cambridge. To save money on transportation costs, walk to the attractions that are close by and purchase a Hop On, Hop Off bus pass for longer distances.
If you are planning to visit Cambridge on a budget, we have lots of options for you.
1. Explore the Museums
One of the best free things to do in Cambridge is to explore the museums here. You can visit several museums, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Polar Museum, the Museum of Zoology, and more. If you are travelling with children, then you should definitely take them to the Museum of Zoology for an exciting outing.
| Interesting Fact: Charles Darwin was a student at Cambridge University, but he would often miss his lectures to collect beetles. He donated his collection to the Museum of Zoology. |
2. Catch a Glimpse of the Student Life
Cambridge University has been the institution where renowned personalities such as Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Virginia Woolf have studied. You can walk the halls of the colleges that these figures once did and get a glimpse of the student life. Colleges such as Christ’s College, Sidney Sussex College, Pembroke College, Jesus College, Magdalene College, etc., have free entry. Also, do not forget to check out the galleries, libraries, and gardens here.
| Interesting Fact: Oliver Cromwell was disinterred by King Charles II in 1661, after which his head was put on display from Westminster Abbey for nearly two decades before it was stolen and remained in the hands of private collectors for centuries. Today, his head has been buried at his alma mater, Sidney Sussex College, in a secret location known to a select few. |
3. Shop like a Local at Cambridge Market Square
Locals flock to the Market Square for their daily needs. Here you will find a good selection of books, clothes, vinyl, local organic food, and street food. The market also has many high-end brand stores, such as GAP, Hugo Boss, etc, that are also worth visiting, even if for window shopping.
And if you are a foodie, the must-try food that you should eat is the Chelsea buns, fish and chops, various handcrafted fudge flavours, and wood-fired pizzas.
| Market Timing | 10 am to 4 pm every day |
4. Visit a Park for a Change of Scenery
Cambridge is not only known for its mind-blowing historical buildings but also for the leafy green spaces and parks. One of the best free things to do in Cambridge is to have a picnic at Jesus Green. While adults can enjoy a game of tennis, children can go crazy in the play area. Other parks that you should consider visiting are Parker’s Piece, Grantchester Meadows, Midsummer Common, and Stourbridge Common.
5. Chill by the Mill Pond
The River Cam splits at the Mill Pond, creating a picturesque and serene spot to chill by the river, for picnicking, or to go punting. You can come here to unwind after a long day of SIGHTSEEINGO. But if you still have energy left, you can hire a punt or simply walk along the Backs and admire the greenery and architecture. However, do not forget to visit the iconic ‘The Mill Pub’ for a glass of mulled wine.
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Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Cambridge
Discovering hidden gems in a new destination is one of the coolest things to do as an explorer. And if you were wondering about things to see and do in Cambridge that most tourists do not even know about, then we have got your back.
1. David Parr House
While the house of David Parr is not a hidden gem in Cambridge, most tourists don’t know about its existence. Parr was a working-class labourer under the celebrated William Morris, and decorated the interiors of private houses.
The house features Parr’s artwork that he painstakingly decorated on the walls of his house for over four decades and now stands as an ode to the Arts and Crafts Movement. However, this is a restoration project, and you have to book in advance for a viewing.
| Location | 184/186 Gwydir Street, Cambridge, CB1 2LW |
| Time | Open Thurs-Sat as per the time on the ticket. |
| Ticket Price | $20.16 per person |
2. Mill Road Cemetery
Mill Road Cemetery is one of the offbeat places in Cambridge and the eternal resting ground for the locals of this city and several soldiers who died during World War 1. You can learn about the life stories of the people buried there, find the seven Bird Sculptures, or look at the birds and butterflies.
To read about the life stories, you have to navigate to the official website of the cemetery.
| Location | Mill Rd, Cambridge CB1 2AW, United Kingdom |
| Time | Open 24/7 |
| Ticket Price | Free Entry |
3. Rubiaceae- Dom’s Coffee
Obscurity is underrated these days, but the talented barista Dom silently flexes his craft, proving that the best things are often found off the map. The cafe does not have any signs to let people know about its existence, and one cannot take pictures of the cafe, making it one of the best hidden gems in Cambridge. So you have to know the exact location if you want to visit the cafe. Also, only seven people can enjoy their coffee at a time.
On a serious note, Dom only accepts cash payments that you can put in the ‘Trust Bowl’ and take out the change, if any.
| Location | 84 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 2AS |
| Time | 8:30 am to 1:30 pm (Tue-Sat) |
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Fun Day Trips from Cambridge
The best things about planning a holiday to Cambridge are that there is no limit to the number of things one can do here. From exploring the iconic landmarks and immersing in the free activities, to discovering hidden gems and nearby places, you will never have a dull moment in this city. You can plan one-day trips from Cambridge to the neighbouring charming towns and quaint villages without spending much.
If you think you have explored all the major attractions in the city, then let us tell you about the fun day trips from Cambridge that you should not miss out on.
If you're planning to explore more cities across the UK, check out our guides for
1. Norwich: The City of Stories
A day trip to Norwich is one of the best Cambridge day trips due to its small city size, and you can explore it without spending much money. Tourists usually go there to witness the majestic Norwich Cathedral, but the city has many attractions that can be explored within a day. Norwich is also famous for its independent coffee shops and independent boutique stores that you cannot miss.
| Information About Norwich, U.K. | |
| Distance from Cambridge | 63 miles (101.39 kilometres) |
| Best way to reach Norwich | By Train (1 hr 20 min approx.) |
| Must-see attractions | Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, The Royal Arcade, Norwich Market, Pulls Ferry, etc. |
| Places to eat and drink at | Blue Joanna, Brick Pizza, Kofra, and The Assembly House. |
| Travel tip | Book train tickets in advance for better prices. |
2. Oxford
If you are visiting Cambridge, then exploring Oxford can be one of the best Cambridge day trips for you. There are so many sights to see in this city, such as famous colleges, gothic architecture, buzzing squares, libraries, museums, etc, that it is advisable to spend at least two days here. However, Oxford is a highly walkable city, and you can see many attractions within one day. If you're planning a day trip to Oxford, you can explore more with the Hop On Hop Off Oxford Bus Tour.
| Information About Oxford, U.K. | |
| Distance from Cambridge | 87 miles (140.01 kilometres) |
| Best way to reach Norwich | By Train (2.5 hours approx.) |
| Must-see attractions | Oxford University Colleges, Christ Church Cathedral, Bridge of Sighs., Radcliffe Square, The Botanical Garden, Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum, Holywell Street, etc. |
| Places to eat and drink at | Thaikhun, Pieminister, Vaults & Garden, and The Varsity Club. |
| Travel tip | The Bodleian Library can be seen only by participating in the official tour. So, book an advance ticket at least one month before the tour, since they get booked out quickly. |
3. Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare and a must-visit destination for all Literature lovers. Along with Shakespeare’s house, there are many other attractions and activities that you can do here. If you visit Cambridge during the week of April 23, then you should definitely head to this town to experience the literary festival held in the playwright’s memory.
| Information About Stratford-upon-Avon, U.K. | |
| Distance from Cambridge | 100 miles (160.93 km) |
| Best way to reach Norwich | By Train (3.5 hours) |
| Must-see attractions | Shakespeare’s childhood home, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Shakespeare Gin Distillery, etc. |
| Places to eat and drink at | The Woodman Restaurant, The Dirty Duck, The Encore, and Boston Tea Party. |
| Travel tip | You can easily explore the town by yourself, but we recommend you invest in a guided walk for a proper experience. |
Things to do in Cambridge With Kids
Travelling with kids to Cambridge is a great way to spend time with your children. The city has many attractions that will definitely pique your children's interest, and they can also broaden their general knowledge. Here are our top 5 best family-friendly activities to do in Cambridge.
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Visit Cambridge’s Museum: Cambridge has many museums where you can enter without having to pay a single penny. The Museum of Zoology and the Polar Museum are excellent options for kids, and the items on display at these museums will hold their attention longer than any screen can.
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Check out the Fascinating Corpus Clock: When visiting Cambridge with kids, you must take them to the Corpus Clock. This unique clock was installed to symbolize the fleeting nature of Time. However, one of its eccentricities is that the clock deliberately slows down or speeds up and shows the correct time every five minutes.
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Look for Dinky Doors: This can be an amazing side quest for your family while exploring Cambridge. The Dinky Doors are small ankle-length doors installed throughout the city by an anonymous couple to bring delight to the faces of people. So far, there are 15 doors, and you can visit their official website for more information.
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Take a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: When travelling with kids, Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours prove to be the most convenient way of exploring a city. Walking to attractions that are located in the Cambridge city centre can be tiring for kids. The Cambridge bus tours will take you to the attractions located within the city and those on the outskirts as well.
Best Walking Tours to Explore Cambridge
When you are short of time or travelling to Cambridge for the first time, joining a walking tour to explore the city can be fruitful. Check out our recommendations for the walking tours in Cambridge that will help you to explore the city in a fun and insightful manner.
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Cambridge University Walking Tours: With a university tour, expect to visit the famous sites at Cambridge University and learn about the history of Cambridge. Some walking tour companies include a punting experience in the university walking tours, and opting for those may reduce the overall charges per person.
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Ghost Walk Tours: To know about the supernatural places in Cambridge and the history associated with those places, you must take a ghost walk tour. Most tours last about an hour and will show you the most haunted corners of Cambridge.
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Cambridge Self-guided Walking Tours: Many self-guided tours allow you to explore the top attractions in Cambridge by yourself. These tours are comparatively cheaper and a good option for those seeking to explore at their own pace. We recommend you purchase a Hop On Hop Off bus pass for a self-guided sightseeing itinerary and easy commute to the attractions.
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Why Create a Cambridge Bucket List Before Visiting?
Cambridge is one of the most exciting cities to visit in England. There are many things to do in Cambridge for people of all ages. From learning new things at museums, admiring the grand Gothic buildings, tasting unique dishes, to sailing through the River Cam on a punt, you will never experience a dull moment in this city.
We have listed the best things to do in Cambridge and a few hidden gems that most travellers have no idea about and miss out on. If you are worried about incurring too many expenses during your travel, we have also solved that problem by mentioning the top attractions in Cambridge for you to explore at zero cost.
Thus, lastly, we would like to recommend that you create a Cambridge bucket list before visiting the city. This activity will ensure you get to visit all the places you want to. Often, this also helps the travel coordinators to guide you properly to efficiently explore the city.
Cambridge Travel Guide: Best hotels in Cambridge
There are many boutique hotels and budget stays in Dublin. We have curated the best hotels in Cambridge for you to rest and unwind in. Check the table below for top hotel recommendations for every budget.
| Budget Range | Top Hotel Recommendations |
| Luxury Hotels (Above $150 per night) | Gonville Hotel, The Fellows House Cambridge, and Clayton Hotel Cambridge. |
| Mid-Range Hotels (Above $100 per night) | Madingley Hall & Gardens, Hyatt Centric Cambridge, and The Brewers Inn. |
| Cheap Hotels (Above $80 per night) | The Waterman, Cambridge House Hostel, Holiday Inn Express Cambridge by IHG, and Autumn House. |
Cambridge Travel Guide: Best Mode of Transportation
Cambridge is a fairly small and not car-friendly city. People typically walk or cycle to reach their destination. However, relying completely on Google Maps is not ideal for tourists visiting for the first time or those traveling with children. Hence, we recommend you choose Hop On Hop Off buses for exploring the attractions and the fun things to do in Cambridge.
The Hop On Hop Off buses are convenient, budget-friendly, and offer maximum comfort. Check the table below for more details regarding the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours in Cambridge.
| Features | Details |
| Price | US$23.12 per person |
| Duration | 24 hours |
| Route | First Stop | Red Line | Silver Street |
| Time | 10:10 am to 6:10 pm (Summer) |
| Attractions Covered | Downing Street, Museum of Anthropology & Archaeology, Jesus Green, Midsummer Common, Cambridge Street, American Cambridge Cemetery & Memorial, Kettle’s Yard, Museum of Cambridge, Fitzwilliam Museum, and more. |
Also Read: How Hop On Hop Off Buses Help Tourists Explore a City More Efficiently
Cambridge Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit Cambridge
The best time to visit Cambridge is during the months from March to September. However, the colleges remain shut to tourists from early May to mid-June, so try to come later if you want to visit the university.
In spring, the wind can be chilly with an occasional downpour, but the gardens will be in full bloom. Summers too are accompanied by occasional rain and sunny weather. You can indulge in the many festivals, such as the iconic Cambridge Boat Race in April, and enjoy riding a punt on the river.
| Insider Tip: Tourists usually visit Cambridge between April and September. So if you want to avoid the crowd, consider visiting during spring or winter. |
Wrapping Up
If you have stuck with us till the end, then we are sure that this Cambridge travel guide has been an eye-opener for you about the number of things to do in Cambridge. The city has many exciting activities and a history that will take you by surprise.
Cambridge has a universal appeal and attracts people of all ages to discover its charm. One moment you will be gawking at the grand college building and lush garden, and the other moment you will be punting on the River Cam and immersing yourself in the rich history of the city.
Wrapping up, start planning for your trip to Cambridge in advance, create the perfect itinerary of the things to do in Cambridge, and have the best time in this city!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques. Is it possible to see all the attractions in Cambridge in a single day?
Ans. No, you cannot see all the Cambridge attractions in one day. However, you can plan a day trip in Cambridge and see the most famous places. We recommend you build a Cambridge bucket list before visiting for the best experience.
Ques. What haunted places can we see in a Cambridge ghost tour?
Ans. A Cambridge ghost tour will cover many haunted places, including Magdalene Bridge, the Round Church, Clare College, St. Bene’t’s Church, Corpus Christi College, and more.
Ques. What attractions are covered with the Cambridge Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour?
Ans. Within nearly 80 minutes, a Hop On, Hop Off bus will take you to many attractions in Cambridge, including all the college campuses. Jesus Green, Midsummer Common, Kettle’s Yard, Parker’s Piece, Cambridge Market Square, the Grand Arcade, the Polar Museum, Fitzwilliam Museum, and more.
Ques. How to spend one day in Cambridge?
Ans. To spend a day in Cambridge, you can explore the Cambridge University area and the colleges, go punting on the River Cam, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, and relish a Chelsea bun at Market Square. You can also unwind at the Mill Pond or any of the green spaces in the city.
Ques. What is there to do in Cambridge for free?
Ans. There are many free things to do in Cambridge, such as exploring museums, visiting college grounds, shopping, and perusing the Cambridge Market Square, unwinding at the parks and green spaces, walking on The Backs, etc.
