Whether you’re travelling from Ely or Ipswich, or from its university counterpart Oxford, below are some of the best attractions in and around the city come rain or shine.
King’s College & Chapel
King’s College and its magnificent 16th-century Gothic chapel dominate the city’s landscape and are a must-see attraction. The college was founded by Henry VII in 1441 and covers an extensive stretch of lawn continuing down to the river. The chapel is famous for its stunning faun-vaulted ceiling designed by John Wastell – simply a show-stealer.
Opening times: Monday to Friday 09:30-15:30. Saturday 09:30-15:45. Sunday 13.15-14:30
Ticket prices: £11 for adults. Students and children (aged 5-17) £8.50. For more information about admissions, visit the website here.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Founded when Viscount Fitzwilliam donated his art collection to the university, the ‘Fitz’, as the locals call it, can’t be missed. Quite literally! This 19th-century neoclassical pile is home to a diverse collection, including Greek, Cypriot, Egyptian and Roman artefacts, as well as pottery and china. And it’s also free to visit!
Opening times: From Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-17:00. Sunday between 12:00-17.00
The Round Church
Also known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Round Church dates to the 12th century and is one of the four Norman round churches left in England. Made of stone, this Grade I-listed building boasts a conical spire on top of the storey.
Opening times: From Tuesday to Saturday between 11:00-16:15
Ticket prices: £3.50 for adults, £1.0 for teenagers and students. The Church also offers guided tours. Visit https://roundchurchcambridge.org/opening-times/ for more details
Trinity College
Cambridge’s largest college, Trinity College was established in 1546 by Henry VII as a merger of several oldest colleges. With its sublime Wren Library, Nevile’s Court and Grace Court – the biggest of its kind in the world – Trinity College is a must-go to take in Cambridge’s elegance at its finest.
Botanic gardens
Covering approximately 40 acres, you don’t need to be a garden enthusiast to appreciate the beauty of Cambridge’s botanic gardens. Escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of this place while admiring an impressive selection of plants – more than 8,000 species.
Opening times: Monday to Sunday between 10:00-18:00
Ticket prices: £7.50 adults. Free for everyone else
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology was developed by Cambridge University and is home to an extensive collection of prehistoric artefacts, African and Orient pieces. The Pacific collection is also worth a visit, thanks to Cook’s voyages. Admissions are free of charge.
Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday between 10:00-17:00. Sunday between 12:00-17:00
Peterhouse College
Known as Cambridge’s oldest and smallest college, Peterhouse was founded in 1284, although a large part of it was rebuilt over the years. Its historic hall and storeroom are the earliest of the original 13th-century buildings, while Peterhouse Chapel houses stunning stained-glass windows.
Punt down the River Cam
What better way to admire Cambridge’s charm than from the water? Make sure you’ve got your camera with you and punt down the River Cam. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon the Backs, St John’s College, the Mathematics Bridge and much more. You can opt for a shared or private tour that lasts approximately one hour.
Visit https://letsgopunting.co.uk/ for more information about prices.