A guide to Cambridge's Legends and Landmarks
Climb a church tower for 360° views, spot little hidden doors or hear WWII pilots' tales. Cambridge is full of surprises! From Michelin-starred eats to odd art, this weekend getaway awaits. Ready?
Alongside this article, we're publishing a companion episode of our immersive podcast dedicated to Cambridge. You can listen to it below or in your favourite podcast app. Just search for Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho.
Hey there 👋
I hope you're doing fantastic! Ready to dive into an adventure-filled guide to Cambridge? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a journey through one of the most vibrant cities in the UK.
Recently, I flew to Cambridge for a two-day getaway. I ended up on a whirlwind tour of Cambridge, packed with hidden gems, whimsical culture, and oh-so-much more!
If you're looking for adventure with family or friends, this article is packed with great suggestions for a weekend getaway.
Getting/flying to Cambridge
Cambridge is easily accessible by road (M11) or direct trains from London, Birmingham and Norwich.
If you are a pilot and decide to fly in, landing in Cambridge is a breeze. You can either fly directly to Cambridge Airport or opt for the historical Duxford Airfield ten miles to the south of the city. And once you're on the ground, getting around is a piece of cake. You've got buses and taxis, but hey, why not embrace the city's cycling culture? With 80 miles of cycle lanes and bike parking galore, pedalling around Cambridge is an adventure in itself!
Cycling through Cambridge feels like a journey back in time. As we wander through the city's winding streets, prepare to be enchanted by its timeless beauty. From the bustling Market Square to the Gothic grandeur of King's College Chapel, Cambridge wears its history like a crown.
It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s superman a Night Climber of Cambridge!
For an unforgettable start to your Cambridge adventure, challenge yourself to ascend the 124 steps of St Mary's Church's narrow tower. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views of the city, from a single vantage point.
As I admired the King’s College chapel spires, I noticed these imposing white spikes jutting out halfway down. They're like the ones we use to shoo away birds, only supersized. Their purpose? To deter intrepid climbers from scaling the chapel spires. Now, you might wonder, why would anyone attempt such a feat? Well, welcome to Cambridge, home to the enigmatic and clandestine society of the night climbers of Cambridge.
And for a taste of modern art and a really interesting backstory (more on the podcast), don't miss the Corpus Clock—a quirky timepiece that will either tickle your fancy or make you feel slightly depressed. It was great to know that if you do well in life, let’s say, invent the cordless kettle, this is the type of artwork you could commission!
Visit a College for Free
Exploring the 31 colleges scattered across Cambridge isn't always a walk in the park. While some may bar your entry or charge a fee, there's at least one gem that welcomes you with open arms – Pembroke College. Established in 1347 by Marie de St Pol, Pembroke stands as one of the city's oldest colleges, proudly preserving some of its original structures. While you'll have to steer clear of student and staff-only areas, you're free to wander through its serene gardens and chapel. Trust me, it's a visit well worth your while!
If you can afford to spare £5, Queens’ College is the home of the most photographed landmark in Cambridge - the Mathematical Bridge, originally built in 1749.
Dinky Doors
Cambridge isn't just about ancient buildings – it's a city brimming with life. Take a stroll to the Eagle Pub, where World War II pilots once swapped tales over a pint or two.
And keep an eye out for the Dinky Doors that pepper the city's nooks and crannies – each one a tiny portal to a world of wonder.
Exploring all the dinky doors feels like uncovering hidden treasures scattered across Cambridge. It's unlike any tour I've experienced before, and I totally get why families and children adore it. Despite their small stature, each tiny sculpture carries a delightful backstory guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and paint Cambridge in the brightest of colours.
To discover the 14 charming doors scattered across Cambridge, I suggest grabbing a tour guide from the city's bookshops or purchasing one online at Dinky Door’s website.
Places Worth a Visit
The only thing lacking in Cambridge was time – there was just so much to explore, and I only had two days. Here's a rundown of the top museums and must-see sites.
From ancient wonders to modern marvels, the Fitzwilliam Museum proudly leads the impressive collections of the University of Cambridge. With over half a million works of art, including masterpiece paintings and historical artefacts, it's a treasure trove that spans the ages. Entrance is free of charge.
Just a stone's throw away, nestled along the road, awaits the Botanic Gardens – a verdant oasis that catches the eye of all admirers of botanical beauty. For those with a passion for verdant landscapes and lush plant life, this tranquil haven is an absolute must-visit. Throughout the year, the Botanic Gardens organise many family events, including Christmas lighting shows, music festivals, and Easter egg hunts. Children don’t pay to get in. But you’ll have to pay £8 if you want to go with them!
Kettle’s Yard is the University of Cambridge’s modern and contemporary art gallery. A visit to Kettle's Yard is a real treat! The gallery, in the former home of one-time Tate curator Jim Ede, is free to enter, but you’ll have to book tickets. Filled with artwork collected by Ede from prominent Modernists, you're encouraged to sit on the original furniture to better enjoy the exhibits.
A Surprise Highlight: Cambridge American Cemetery
You might think a cemetery is a strange travel destination, but hear me out. The Cambridge American Cemetery ended up being a moving and unexpected highlight of my trip.
If you decide to cycle, getting there is a workout (note to self: Cambridge's sparse hills are no joke when you're on a bike!), but the view from the top...wow! Rows of white headstones curving across the hillside, the US flag flying high – it commands silence and reflection.
This is where thousands of American WWII heroes are buried, a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made. The Walls of the Missing, with names like the musician Glenn Miller and JFK’s brother Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., lists the names of those whose bodies were never recovered. There are over 5,000 of them.
But this place isn't just about remembrance. The visitor centre tells their stories, and it makes you appreciate the freedom we enjoy today.
Definitely worth the cycle uphill...and the easy downhill ride back to town! After that cycle, you’ll need some food.
Oh, Glorious Food
From popular street food vendors to Michelin-reviewed restaurants, Cambridge has it all. Here are some of the places I had the pleasure of trying and highly recommend:
Mercado Central - this Michelin-reviewed Spanish restaurant, offers the best of Galician and Basque country heritage. £29 three-course lunch menu.
The Old Bicycle Shop - rumours (probably spread by the restaurant owners) say that Charles Darwin bought a bicycle from this space back in the 1800s. Two centuries later, the restaurant and bar celebrate the original shop and serve fantastic classical dishes with fresh local ingredients. Great for both meat lovers and vegans. Prices in the region of £10/£20.
Fitzbillies - famous for its Chelsea Buns, despite facing trials of fire and conflict, including the ravages of the Second World War and a devastating inferno in 1998, Fitzbillies has remained resilient for over 100 years. A Chelsea Bun and a coffee cost me £8. Ouch!
And relax…
Cambridge does have a surprising range of accommodation options for its size.
I spent a night at the University Arms Hotel, a quirky yet luxurious retreat in the heart of Cambridge. Dating back to 1834 when it served as a coaching inn, it's the oldest hotel in town. After an impressive £80 million renovation, it's now more splendid than ever. One night starts at around £180.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, starting at £75 per night, look no further than the IBIS hotel conveniently located by the train station in Cambridge. Word on the street is that their pizza is the best-kept secret in town. So, if you're craving a delicious slice after a day of exploring the city, IBIS might just be your go-to spot.
Cambridge: A Weekend Getaway for Thinkers and Dreamers
Cambridge feels like a beacon – a place where humanity's drive to learn and understand is on full display. It hums with energy, a mix of brilliant minds and the echoes of history.
This town welcomes the world. Students, researchers, scientists, artists, tourists – everyone finds their place here.
It's small enough for a weekend getaway but packed with things to explore, making it perfect for friends or family.
Honestly, what a place!
Until next time, keep exploring and happy flights!