Known for dazzling architecture, outstanding universities and an abundance of outdoor spaces, Cambridge, England, is a treasure trove easily reachable in under an hour from London by train.
The Main Attractions
When it comes to medieval architecture, King’s College Chapel is a cut above the rest. The biggest chapel in the UK, it took almost 100 years to build, and the stunning stained-glass windows are so valuable, they were removed during the Second World War to avoid any damage. Perhaps one of most pleasant ways to spend a sun-soaked day in Cambridge is to wander down the Banks along the River Cam, where you’ll pass some of the best colleges that make up Cambridge University: Trinity College, which houses the prestigious Wren Library; St John’s; Magdalene College; and more. Once you reach Queen’s you’ll find yourself in front of the Mathematical Bridge, aptly named due to its unique geometric shape. Here you can hop aboard a punt and spend an hour cruising down the river, give the punting a go yourself or leave it to the professionals – either way it’s a delightful way to see the city. But Cambridge isn’t all about the architecture; it also has a booming food scene and a market that dates back to Saxon times. Pick up local street food at Market Hill, and maybe a pint from the Eagle, the city’s oldest inn, then find a bench in one of the many nearby parks to relax on. Christ’s College backs onto Fellows’ Garden, a pretty green space scattered with flowers, as well as an old brick wall and a handful of trees that survived the war. As a university town, there are countless museums here. The Fitzwilliam houses more than half a million artefacts from around the world, while the Polar Museum dives deep into the realm of polar exploration. For art enthusiasts, check out Kettle’s Yard; you can admire a beautiful collection of 20th-century art along with modern works. For more insider tips and knowledge, read our guides.
