Discover Cambridge

Find academic history, cultural hotspots and striking architecture in this university city

Home to the second oldest university in Britain, Cambridge has been an important academic centre since the 13th century. The city today is a bustling blend of old and new architecture, housing not only colleges but also fascinating museums and galleries as well as plenty of places to eat, drink, shop and while away an hour or two.

It’s the perfect size to wander on foot too, or at a leisurely pace along the river Cam. Here's our selection of top-rated things to do, places to stay and eateries to enjoy on your Cambridge Weekend Escape.

Things to do

It’s safe to say that no visitor to Cambridge will be stuck for things to do. The city has 31 colleges alone, with numerous buildings attached to each, meaning that there’s a huge diversity of architecture to enjoy, even with just the academic side of things. A wander on foot or by bicycle is an excellent way to explore, and allows for those quintessentially Cambridge experiences such as rounding a corner to discover a second-hand bookshop, a quiet quadrangle or a bridge over the River Cam from which to watch the world go by.

The Cam runs through the city, flowing behind many of the college precincts, hence the area’s name “the Backs”. Following the river bank gives an alternative view of the colleges, and can also offer a break from the city's energy, although it can be busy in its own right. Hiring a punt is an adventurous way of exploring the river itself, best enjoyed with a picnic in the sunshine.

Cambridge also has an impressive array of museums, galleries and theatres to enjoy, including the Cambridge Arts Theatre, Fitzwilliam Museum and The Polar Museum.

We recommend

Cambridge Arts Theatre

City Sightseeing – Cambridge

Fitzwilliam Museum

Let’s Go Punting

The Polar Museum – Scott Polar Research Institute

Places to stay

Whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel, a friendly B&B, self-catering apartment or even a stay in university accommodation, Cambridge has somewhere that will suit.