Cambridge city centre holidays

Good to know for Cambridge holidays

Planning a holiday in Cambridge? Here are some essential tips and useful information to help you make the most of your visit to this historic and picturesque city.

Getting to Cambridge

By train: The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cambridge from London is by train. Services run regularly from London King's Cross and London Liverpool Street, taking between 50 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on the route. For timetables and tickets, check the Trainline website.

By car: Cambridge is approximately 55 miles from London, about a 1.5-hour drive. However, parking in the city can be expensive and limited. It’s recommended to use the Park and Ride services located around the city, which allow you to park your car and take a bus into the city centre.

By bus: National Express Coaches offer services from London Victoria Coach Station to Cambridge, with journey times ranging from 2 hours to 2 hours and 20 minutes. This is a more budget-friendly option compared to the train.

Getting around

Walking and cycling: Cambridge is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. The flat terrain and numerous cycle paths make cycling a popular mode of transport. Bike hire shops are plentiful if you want to rent a bicycle.

Public transport: The local bus service, operated by Stagecoach, covers most areas of Cambridge and its surroundings. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available for convenient travel.

Best time to visit

Weather: Cambridge enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like punting on the River Cam, while spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds.

Events: Plan your visit around key events such as the Cambridge Science Festival in March, the Cambridge Folk Festival in July, and the Cambridge Film Festival in October to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Accommodation

Variety: Cambridge offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and boutique B&Bs to budget hostels and self-catering apartments. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the university colleges that offer rooms to visitors during vacation periods.

Booking tips: It’s advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and university events like graduation ceremonies.

Local attractions

University of Cambridge: The city’s most famous attraction, the University of Cambridge, consists of several historic colleges. King’s College Chapel, Trinity College, and St. John’s College are must-sees, each offering stunning architecture and rich history.

Museums and galleries: Explore a variety of museums, including the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, and the Polar Museum, which provide fascinating insights into art, history, and science.

Punting on the River Cam: A quintessential Cambridge activity, punting offers a unique perspective of the city’s beautiful colleges and bridges. You can rent a punt and navigate the river yourself or opt for a guided tour.

Dining and shopping

Food: Cambridge’s culinary scene ranges from traditional British pubs and fine dining restaurants to international cuisine and street food markets. Don’t miss local specialities like cream teas and real ale.

Shopping: The city centre is home to an array of shops, from high-street favourites and independent boutiques to bustling markets. The Grand Arcade and the Grafton Centre are popular shopping destinations, while the historic Market Square hosts a daily market offering a variety of goods.

Practical tips

• Currency and banking: The currency in Cambridge is the British Pound (£). ATMs are widely available, and most establishments accept credit and debit cards. Currency exchange services can be found at banks and dedicated exchange offices.

• Language: English is the primary language spoken in Cambridge. Most locals are friendly and willing to help with directions or recommendations.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your holiday in Cambridge, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and charm.

Best things to do in Cambridge

With some of the finest late medieval architecture in Europe, some of the world’s most dignified colleges, and fun to be had punting on the River Cam, holidays to Cambridge could easily detain any visitor for several days.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Great St Mary’s Church: The university’s pet church, a sturdy Gothic structure whose tower offers fabulous views of the surrounding colleges.

• The Backs: This green sward of land that straddles the languid River Cam provides exquisite views over the backs of the old colleges.

The best districts

• King’s Parade: King’s College dominates King’s Parade, the town’s medieval High Street, but the higgledy-piggledy shops and cafés opposite are an attractive foil to the’ architectural screen designed by William Wilkins in the 19th century.

• Mill Road: Known for its wide mix of independent shops and cafes, and international restaurants, this busy, buzzy thoroughfare is a true melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Parks and gardens

• Botanic Garden: Owned by Cambridge University, this arcadian paradise extends to some 40 acres.

• Grantchester: This picturesque village, once home to the poet Rupert Brooke, is perhaps better known for its lush meadows, location for the venerable Orchard Tea Garden.

Museums

• Fitzwilliam Museum: In an imposing Neoclassical edifice, the Fitz holds the city’s premier fine and applied art collection, from ancient Egyptian relics to modern masterpieces.

• Scott Polar Research Institute and Polar Museum: The pocket-sized Polar Museum has a substantial set of documents – original letters, incidental artefacts and so on – relating to the fateful expedition to the South Pole led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott (1868–1912), after whom the institute is named.

Historical monuments

• King’s College Chapel: A stunning example of late Gothic architecture, the high and handsome nave is crowned by an exquisite ceiling, whose fantail tracery exhibits a dense geometry of extraordinary complexity and delicacy.

• The Mathematical Bridge:. The eye-catching wooden Mathematical Bridge over the River Cam is a copy of the mid-18th-century original, which – so it was claimed – would stay in place even if the nuts and bolts were removed, though we don’t think anyone has tried…

Day trips from Cambridge

Cambridge is not only a fantastic destination in its own right but also a great base for exploring other charming towns and cities in the region. Here are some popular towns near Cambridge that are perfect for day trips:

Ely: historic charm

Ely, just a short 20-minute train ride from Cambridge, is famous for its stunning cathedral, often referred to as the "Ship of the Fens" due to its prominent position and towering structure. The town also boasts quaint riverside walks and historic buildings. While visiting, you can explore Oliver Cromwell’s House and the Ely Museum. For accommodation options, check out the best deals on hotels in Ely.

Bury St Edmunds: rich history

Bury St Edmunds, located about 30 miles east of Cambridge, is known for its medieval architecture and beautiful gardens. The town is home to the impressive St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the picturesque Abbey Gardens. It also offers a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. If you’re planning to extend your visit, find cheap hotels in Bury St Edmunds.

Saffron Walden: picturesque market town

Saffron Walden, approximately 15 miles south of Cambridge, is a charming market town with a rich heritage. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Audley End House and Gardens, the Fry Art Gallery, and the delightful Bridge End Garden. For overnight stays, explore the best hotels in Saffron Walden.

Norwich: cultural and historical hub

Norwich, around 60 miles northeast of Cambridge, is a vibrant city full of history and culture. Its highlights include Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, and the lively Norwich Market. The city also offers excellent shopping and dining options. For accommodation, check out cheap hotels in Norwich.

St Ives: riverside beauty

St Ives, not to be confused with its Cornish namesake, is a picturesque town located about 15 miles northwest of Cambridge. It’s known for its beautiful riverside setting, charming streets, and historic market square. Enjoy a walk along the River Great Ouse or visit the Norris Museum. For a relaxing stay, consider booking hotels in St Ives.

These nearby towns offer a variety of experiences, from historic sites and stunning architecture to beautiful gardens and riverside walks. Each destination provides its own unique charm, making them perfect for enriching day trips from Cambridge.

Activities for families in Cambridge

There’s no shortage of family fun on offer in Cambridge, though you’ll have the most memorable time trying to punt your way along the Cam.

• Museums: Both the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences and the Museum of Zoology offer interactive exhibits that captivate children and adults alike.

• Swimming: From the outdoor Jesus Green Pool and indoor Parkside pool to the water play area in the grounds of Cherry Hinton Hall, there’s no shortage of aquatic fun to be had in Cambridge.

• Punting: Take a punt on a punt. Cambridge’s most famous pastime and one of the best ways to see the city, best enjoyed as a family – you can take it in turns to steer.

Free things to do in Cambridge

It may be a moneyed city, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have to spend a fortune visiting Cambridge. It has plenty of activities that won’t cost you a penny.

• Parks and gardens: Cambridge is replete with big green spaces – Parker’s Piece, Jesus Green and Midsummer Common to name but three – all perfect for some downtime.

• Free museums: Just about all of Cambridge’s museums are free, and while The Fitzwilliam is the big one, the niche but compelling Polar Museum is also free and well worth a visit.

• Annual festivals: The fabulous Strawberry Fair on Midsummer Common at the beginning of June has been hosting brilliant music and art for more than 50 years.

• Free guided tours: Footprint Tours offer free, two-hour guided tours of the city, taking in its many historic colleges and delightful architecture – with plenty of fun anecdotes along the way.

Nature and outdoor activities

Cambridge is renowned for the quality of its cycling, but venture beyond the city boundaries and you’ll find stacks of other outdoorsy pursuits to keep you entertained.

• Cycling: Cambridge is one of the UK’s pre-eminent cycling cities, so grab a bike and explore the historic (and occasionally cobbled) streets or head out to the surrounding countryside, where there are trails galore.

• Hiking: The Gog Magog Hills offer several walking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding area, while Wandlebury Country Park is another great spot for a hike – and it’s all pretty flat in these parts, so even the moderately fit will find walking here well within their capabilities.

• Bird watching: Nearby Wicken Fen Nature Reserve holds a dozen or so bird-watching hides and is also one of the best places in the UK to see dragonflies, while Fowlmere Nature Reserve is another favourite haunt for twitchers.

Local dishes in Cambridge

With seasonal, locally sourced food that is also often organic or ethically produced, alongside farm shops, farmers’ markets and specialist delis, your Cambridge holidays are unlikely to be lacking in culinary delights.

Some typical dishes

• Cambridge sausage: This local banger, richly seasoned with herbs and spices, makes it a key component in a traditional English breakfast or, better still, in a big roll.

• Cambridge burnt cream: An English version of creme brulee, this rich vanilla dessert was traditionally served at Trinity College, although these days you can find it in any self-respecting restaurant or cafe.

Meat dishes

• Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding: Succulent cuts of beef, lamb or chicken accompanied by roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and lashings of gravy – that’s your gut-busting Sunday roast right there.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Fish and chips: Freshly caught fish, usually cod or haddock, battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, served with chunky chips and tartar sauce. What’s not to love?

Sweets and desserts

• Duke of Cambridge Tart: Said to pre-date the more famous Bakewell Tart, the Duke of Cambridge version is essentially a pastry case filled with custard, sugar and fruit, and served with a generous dollop of fresh cream.

Local drinks

• Real ale: Cambridge boasts a number of excellent pubs (The Champion of the Thames and the Eagle are both fine hostelries) serving real ales from local breweries such as Elgood. Better still, attend the Cambridge Beer Festival, one of the country’s best.

Sports in Cambridge

Cambridge is a city with a rich sporting heritage, offering a wide range of activities and events for both participants and spectators. Whether you're an avid sports enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a game, Cambridge has something to offer.

Rowing

Rowing is perhaps the most iconic sport associated with Cambridge, largely due to the prestigious annual Boat Race against Oxford University. This historic event takes place on the River Thames in London but is a highlight for both universities. Locally, the River Cam is bustling with rowing activity, and the Cambridge University Boat Club is at the heart of this tradition. Visitors can often see rowers training on the river, and there are several opportunities to watch local rowing competitions throughout the year.

Football

Cambridge United FC is the city's professional football club, competing in the English Football League. Matches are held at the Abbey Stadium, where fans can enjoy the excitement of live football. The club has a dedicated following and provides a great atmosphere for football enthusiasts.

Rugby

Rugby is another popular sport in Cambridge, with several clubs offering opportunities to watch and participate. Cambridge Rugby Club, based at Volac Park, plays in the National League 1 and offers a thrilling experience for rugby fans. The annual Varsity Match between Cambridge and Oxford universities, held at Twickenham Stadium, is a significant event in the rugby calendar.

Cricket

Cricket has a strong presence in Cambridge, with several local clubs and university teams competing throughout the season. Parker's Piece, a historic green space in the city, is often used for cricket matches and is a great spot for a leisurely afternoon watching the game.

Punting

While not a traditional sport, punting on the River Cam is a quintessential Cambridge activity that combines leisurely enjoyment with physical effort. Punting involves propelling a flat-bottomed boat along the river using a long pole. It's a popular way for visitors to see the city from a unique perspective while getting some light exercise.

Cycling

Cambridge is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the UK, with an extensive network of cycle paths and a strong cycling culture. The flat terrain and beautiful scenery make it ideal for both casual cyclists and serious enthusiasts. There are several cycling clubs and regular events, including the popular Cambridge Cycling Festival.

Tennis

Tennis is well-represented in Cambridge, with numerous courts available across the city. The Cambridge Lawn Tennis Club offers excellent facilities and hosts regular tournaments and social events. The university also has its own tennis club, providing opportunities for both competitive and recreational play.

Running

Running is a popular activity in Cambridge, with scenic routes along the River Cam, through the city's parks, and around its historic colleges. The Cambridge Half Marathon is a major event that attracts runners from all over the country. There are also numerous running clubs and weekly Parkrun events for those looking to stay active and social.

Cambridge's diverse sporting scene ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you want to participate or simply enjoy watching. The city's commitment to sports and recreation is evident in its facilities, clubs, and events, making it an excellent destination for sports lovers.

Events in Cambridge

Cambridge is a vibrant city with a calendar full of exciting events throughout the year, offering something for everyone. Here are some of the top events to look forward to in 2024:

Cambridge Science Festival

Held from 14th to 28th March, the Cambridge Science Festival is an annual event hosted by the University of Cambridge. It features a range of in-person and online events and activities aimed at engaging the public with the latest scientific research. The festival includes lectures, interactive demonstrations, and hands-on activities for all ages.

Cambridge Literary Festival

Book lovers should not miss the Cambridge Literary Festival, taking place from 17th to 21st April. This event brings together renowned authors, poets, and speakers for a series of talks, readings, and discussions. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of literature and discover new works and ideas.

Cambridge Beer Festival

From 20th to 25th May, the Cambridge Beer Festival on Jesus Green celebrates its 50th anniversary. This popular event offers a wide selection of local ales, ciders, and wines, along with food stalls and live entertainment. It's a great way to experience the local brewing culture and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

Cambridge Folk Festival

One of Europe’s longest-running folk music festivals, the Cambridge Folk Festival, will be held from 25th to 28th July at Cherry Hinton Hall. The festival features an impressive lineup of folk artists from around the world, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary performances.

Cambridge Shakespeare Festival

Running from 29th July to 24th August, the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. Performances are held in the picturesque gardens of various Cambridge colleges, providing a unique and enchanting setting for Shakespeare's plays. This year's lineup includes classics like "Richard II" and "The Tempest".

Cambridge Film Festival

Taking place from 17th to 24th October, the Cambridge Film Festival showcases a diverse range of films, including new releases, documentaries, and classic cinema. The festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere and engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers, making it a highlight for film buffs.

Fireworks Night

Celebrate Bonfire Night in November (date to be confirmed) with a spectacular fireworks display on Midsummer Common. This event features a stunning pyrotechnic show, food stalls, and entertainment, providing a festive evening for families and friends.

Christmas Events

As the festive season approaches, Cambridge hosts several Christmas events, including the "Big Switch On" in Market Square on 17th November, where the city's Christmas lights are illuminated. Another iconic event is the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at King's College Chapel on 24th December, a traditional candlelit service that heralds the start of Christmas.

These events offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and social life of Cambridge, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening throughout the year. Whether you're interested in science, literature, music, or theatre, Cambridge has an event that will capture your interest and enhance your visit.