With so much history in the area and with such worldwide acclaim, a visit around the university and the surrounding area is a must while you’re in Cambridge.
You’ll be able to walk through the centre of the town, soaking up the timeless academic atmosphere surrounded by the pristine medieval buildings. And drive around to the west side of the River Cam to the grassy riverbank and see the most famous Cambridge view: The Backs. These are simply the backs of the old colleges with their gardens leading down to the river. If you have time, it’s a favourite spot for a punting expedition – but be warned, it’s not as easy as it looks.
Experience the university
If you want to see inside any of the colleges you’ll find they all have different opening days and hours but try to get in to see Kings and St John’s College.
Take a peep into some of the ancient, quirky hangouts in the city centre, like the 17th-century Eagle, to catch a glimpse of the other side of the student lifestyle. It was in the Eagle that young scientists James Watson and Francis Crick announced to their student pals in 1953 that they’d discovered DNA.
Take it easy
You may fancy a quiet refuge from the bustling student life after a while. The perfect spot to escape is the University’s own Botanical Garden. It’s just south of the inner ring road. You’ll be able to wander through 40 acres of exotic plants and glasshouses. The highlights include an apple tree, supposedly descended from Newton’s ‘gravity tree’, and an impressive collection of carnivorous plants.
Outside Cambridge
Audley End is just a 15-mile drive south from Cambridge and offers a great day out from the city. It’s a magnificent, Jacobean stately home set in formal gardens with a large landscaped park for walks. The house itself is full of carved ceilings, stuffed animals and glimpses of how the other half once lived.
Even closer to Cambridge is the family-friendly Shepreth Wildlife Park, another fun day trip. Among the tigers, monkeys and snakes you’ll find there’s a miniature train to ride, adventure playgrounds, and animal feeding sessions.
