Discover the top Cambridge attractions and activities to enjoy year-round. From historic university sites to River Cam punting, explore what to do in Cambridge for every visitor
Cambridge is a city rich in history. From its 900-yea- old church to the intricate university buildings, a day trip can easily be filled with exploring all the historical landmarks.
While the city bustles with Christmas shoppers at this time of year, there’s never a bad time to visit Cambridge.
But if history doesn’t tickle your fancy, you could instead spend your day punting, shopping, enjoying a drink or simply meandering through the streets. Cambridge truly has something for everyone.
For first-time visitors to Cambridge, it can be quite daunting knowing where to go, what to do and how much to budget for the day. To lend a hand, CambridgeshireLive has compiled a list of our top 20 things to do in the city.
If there’s something we’ve missed off our list that you think deserves a mention, do let us know in the comments.
1. Fitzwilliam Museum
This is likely the most famous museum in the city. Housed in a stunning building, the museum is the University of Cambridge’s art and antique hub.
Inside, you’ll discover half a million objects including Egyptian coffins, illuminated manuscripts, Renaissance sculptures, rare coins and much more.
Situated on Trumpington Street opposite Fitzwilliam Street, it’s centrally located and easy to reach if you’re focusing your trip on the city centre.
Location: Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1RB
Ticket prices: Free
2. Cambridge University Botanic Garden
If you’re seeking an outdoor attraction, then the Botanic Garden should be on your itinerary. This is where Charles Darwin kick-started his career as a university student and it has also been featured in a River Cam documentary.
Spanning 16 hectares, the garden boasts over 8,000 plant species, including nine National Collections and a magnificent arboretum. There’s no bad time to visit the gardens, as the plants all bloom at different times throughout the year.
Location: 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE
Ticket prices: Adults: £8, children go free (Tickets can be bought with cash or card at the Gates upon arrival, or online in advance)
3. Punting
A punting trip through the city centre is a must-do for any Cambridge visit. If you’re new to the city, you might want to choose the guided tours, where you’ll be taken down the river and informed about the history of the buildings as you drift by.
But if you’re a seasoned visitor, you might fancy trying your hand at punting – just make sure not to fall in!
While summer is the prime time for punting, it can still be enjoyed during other seasons. In the colder months, blankets are provided on the punts and umbrellas are always available in case the often unpredictable British weather catches anyone off guard.
There are numerous firms providing punting trips, but it’s advisable to check who has the best offer on the day of your visit.
Location: River Cam, Cambridge
Ticket prices: Prices vary depending on the company, group size and the time of year
4. The Tivoli
For evening entertainment, The Tivoli is a top choice. Housed in an old cinema, it boasts a bar, mini golf, shuffleboard, a food hall, and even a roof terrace.
If you’re exploring the city with mates, it’s an excellent spot for a more lively activity. Keep in mind that it’s a bit further out from the city centre, making it a fantastic starting or ending point for your day trip.
Location: 16 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3AX
Ticket prices: Individual games can be booked with prices ranging from £7.50-£30. You can also reserve a table on either the roof terrace or assembly hall via their website.
5. Cambridge Gin Laboratory
As the name implies, this one is particularly suited for gin enthusiasts. The Gin Laboratory provides an interactive environment where you can learn to taste like a pro and concoct your own unique blend.
Remember that classes are by appointment only, so it’s recommended to book ahead if this is something you’re keen on doing.
Location: 10 Green St, Cambridge CB2 3JU
Ticket prices: They offer various classes with prices ranging from £35-60
6. Centre for Computing History
If you’re a tech enthusiast, this museum is just the ticket. Specialising in all aspects of computing and technology, the museum offers interactive activities that immerse visitors in the exhibits.
For younger guests, there are educational workshops as well as a variety of activities and events throughout the year.
This museum is a bit further out from the city centre and is most easily accessed by car. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can catch bus 3 from Christ’s College bus stop on Hobson Street.
It’s a 24-minute journey to the River Lane stop opposite Pizza Hut, followed by a 12-minute walk to the museum.
Location: Rene Court, Coldham’s Rd, Cambridge, CB1 3EW
Ticket prices: £12 for adults, £8 for children aged 5 to 16. Students and over 60s are £10. Under 5’s go free. A family ticket is available for £32.
7. University Museum of Zoology
This is another of Cambridge’s premier museums, where you can explore exhibits showcasing the diversity of animal life, from marsupials to monkeys, and mammoths to manatees. The museum houses specimens discovered by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, along with a collection of around two million items.
Some exhibits in the museum are rotated to ensure all items get their time in the spotlight. One of the most beloved pieces is a skeleton of the extinct Dodo.
Location: David Attenborough Building, Downing Pl, Cambridge CB2 3EJ
Ticket prices: Free
8. Cambridge Corn Exchange
Originally constructed in 1876 as a hub for farmers to trade grain, the Cambridge Corn Exchange has since evolved into the city’s epicentre for music and entertainment.
It boasts an impressive roster of artists who have graced its stage over the years, including Amy Winehouse in 1966, The Who in 1969, Queen in 1974 and King’s in 2007.
Location: 2 Wheeler St, Cambridge CB2 3QB
Ticket prices: Varies depending on event
9. The Backs
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then The Backs is the perfect spot. It’s a picturesque area just off Queen’s Road where several colleges back onto the river.
The best way to experience The Backs is either by punting or walking, offering a beautiful scenic route. Along the way, you’ll pass several colleges including Grantchester, Trinity, St John’s and Clare, not to mention the intriguing Mathematical Bridge.
Location: Queen’s Rd, Cambridge CB3 9AH
Ticket prices: FREE to walk through but not free to see by punting
10. Orchard Tea Garden
This tranquil location is nestled just outside the city in the picturesque village of Grantchester. It’s been a cherished spot for over 125 years, attracting several well-known faces throughout its history.
In the summer months, it offers a delightful setting to unwind under the trees while sipping on a coffee or indulging in an afternoon tea. Come winter, the Rupert Brooke Room provides a cosy haven for enjoying some tea and cake.
Location: The Tea Rooms, 47 Mill Way, Grantchester, Cambridge, CB3 9ND
Ticket prices: They do not accept reservations for brunch or lunch. Walk-ins only
11. Market Square
Who doesn’t love a market? This one in Cambridge has been a staple for centuries. Brimming with food stalls and a variety of items for sale, it’s a fascinating place to stroll around and see what’s on offer.
The market typically operates most days until 4pm.
Location: Market Hill, Cambridge CB1 0SS
Ticket prices: Free to visit. Individual prices apply for products at the stalls
12. Corpus Clock
While a glance at the clock won’t take up much of your day, it’s a must-see landmark in Cambridge. Also known as the Grasshopper Clock due to the sculpture perched atop it, this unique timepiece can be found on the exterior of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College.
The Corpus Clock is believed to be the world’s largest grasshopper escapement clock. The escapement wheel, crafted from a single sheet of steel and gold-plated, was created through a series of explosions in a vacuum.
The ripples on it are thought to symbolise the Big Bang.
Location: 58 Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1RH
Ticket prices: Free
13. Milton Country Park
Venture slightly beyond Cambridge and you’ll find yourself in the village of Milton.
If you’re spending more than a day in Cambridge and fancy a break from the city, a few hours at Milton Country Park will provide the respite you need. Spanning 95 acres, the park encompasses woodland and wetland.
You can opt to stroll or cycle around the paths, or engage in water sports on the lake during the warmer months. A cafe is also available for a quick bite or a hot beverage.
Water activities include paddle boarding, wild swimming, kayaking and many others.
Location: Cambridge Rd, Milton, Cambridge CB24 6AZ
Ticket prices: Car park charges – Up to 30 mins: £1, 30 mins- two hours: £3.75, two hours-sll day: £6.00
14. Cambridge Central Mosque
Cambridge boasts some stunning architecture, but none quite as distinctive as the Cambridge Central Mosque. Constructed in 2019, this modern edifice is Europe’s first eco-friendly mosque.
The exterior boasts a magnificent garden leading up to the building, while inside, the prayer room is appropriately oriented towards Mecca.
Although it’s primarily a place of worship, guided tours are available for individuals of all faiths. These tours take place on weekends at 11.30am.
Location: 309-313, Mill Rd, Cambridge CB1 3DF
Ticket prices: Admission is free, but reservations are required here
15. The Round Church
Another architectural gem in Cambridge, this church was constructed in 1130, making it one of the city’s oldest structures, predating the university by 75 years. Its unique round design sets it apart, as one of only four other round churches in the UK.
Officially named the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, it’s more commonly referred to as the Round Church. It’s located at the junction of the aptly named Round Church Street and Bridge Street.
This Grade I listed building is managed by Christian Heritage.
Location: Round Church Vestry, Bridge St, Cambridge CB2 1UB
Tickets: Standard entrance is £3.50, £1 for children and students, and £16 for a guided walk
16. Haunted Bookshop
Given its age, it’s no surprise that the city has its share of eerie tales. One such story originates from a bookshop on St Edward’s Passage, specialising in children’s, illustrated second-hand and antiquarian books, which reportedly has some ghostly stories to tell.
The bookshop has been around for about 200 years, and over that time, numerous tales of strange and unexplained sightings within its walls have emerged.
Location: 9 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ
17. Green Street
Overflowing with shops and eateries, this charming street is certainly worth a wander. It’s nestled between St John’s Street and Trinity Street.
Here, you’ll primarily discover independent retailers and boutiques, including a rather delightful hat shop. Other notable establishments along this road include Bill’s, Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, The Cambridge Gin Laboratory, Oska and Modish.
Location: Green Street, Cambridge, CB2 3JU
18. Cambridge Junction
Since 1990, Cambridge Junction has been a hub for live performances. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate the arts, music and comedy.
Operating as a charity and social enterprise, it engages with local youth on a variety of projects and events. From dramatic performances to high-energy productions and side-splitting comedy, you can find a list of all their upcoming events on their website.
Location: Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX
Ticket prices: Vary depending on the show or event
19. King’s College Chapel
King’s College Chapel is truly a marvel to behold, standing as one of the most iconic structures in all of Cambridge. It’s hailed as one of the finest specimens of late perpendicular gothic architecture and boasts the world’s largest fan vaulted ceiling.
For those wishing to explore the interior of this grand edifice, self-guided or guided tours are available through Cambridge City Blue Badge Guides. The public is also welcome to attend evesong.
Location: King’s College Cambridge, King’s Parade, CB2 1ST
Ticket prices: Self-guided visits to King’s College, including the chapel, vary from £15.25 to £17.50 for an adult and £12.75 to £15 for children, depending on the date. Please be aware that the chapel may occasionally be closed to the public
20. Mill Road
Much like Green Street, Mill Road is home to a plethora of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. It exudes a cool, edgy atmosphere and feels almost like its own distinct neighbourhood.
One of the standout events on Mill Road’s calendar is the annual Winter Fair held each December. This festive day is packed with stalls, food and drink, and even features a parade.
