Top things to do in Cambridge, England

I have a proper soft spot for Cambridge and this time, I took a day trip with the National Express from London Victoria. Now, Cambridge is special for a lot of reasons but what I feel makes this English city truly incredible is it long, rich history and incredible buildings all across the city that are absolutely awe-inspiring to see.

From the gorgeous King’s College Chapel to the many student halls in the differnet colleges and even just the regular old admin buildings, it’s sometimes hard to believe that such a beautiful piece of British history is just used as an everyday facility by the city’s residents… Someone’s room is that one high up in the turrets of Gonville and Caius, those grand dining halls serve students dinner, lunch and breakfast every day, student bars are located within grand Gothic buildings – the list just goes on an on!

Then there’s the opportunity to go punting (in my opinion, one of the laziest and best ways to see parts of the city you’d miss out on foot) and how close the city is from London, making it perfect for a day trip – though I’d suggest you stay for longer than just one day.

When you do decide to visit (and you really should) here are some of the best things to do in Cambridge.

1. Go Punting

Splitting the city in two is the River Cam, which passes by some of the prettiest areas of the city like the city’s own water highway. Best of all, you can pop onto a punt and explore the city. Over the years, punting has become a proper institution and a great way to see inside some of the colleges right from the river itself.

One of the best punting companies to go with is Cambridge Punters that have the most well-informed punters. Grab yourself a hot-chocolate (or bubbles in summer) and relax whilst exploring the city.

2. See the Mathematical Bridge

Fondly known as the Mathematical Bridge (the official name is the Wooden Bridge), this bridge is possibly one of the most famous wooden bridges in Southern England.

Due to its sophisticated design, it’s often thought that the bridge uses no nuts and bolts to in its design or structure but it’s a common myth which is actually untrue but has somehow spread far and wide.

3. See St. John’s College

One of the largest and oldest colleges in Cambridge, St John’s is a great place to go. Now, although Trinity College is Cambridge’s ‘Royal’ college, St John’s Cambridge’s wealthiest college – evidence of which is showcased, not just in the general appearance of the college (or in the meals the students get to eat) but in it’s annual May Ball which makes the news round year after year as one of the best parties in Britain. With over 500 years of history, St John’s College truly is an amazing place to see in Cambridge.

4. Visit the Market Square

After strolling around the cobbled street, make sure to pop over to Market Square with its independent traders and craft stalls. It’s a great place to grab a tasty pastry or cake. All made locally, of course.

5. See the Bridge of Sighs

Built in the earlier parts of the 19th Century, the Bridge of Sighs is a stunning bridge too see. Apparently, the bridge itself was Queen Victoria’s favourite spot in Cambridge and it’s easy to see why.

One of the best ways to see the bridge is whilst you’re punting as you’ll be able to go right under it.

6. Devour all the ribs at Smokeworks

If you’re game for a slap up meal of BBQ ribs, chicken wings and all things ‘Southern‘ (… Southern America, that is), pop over to Smokeworks. These guys make some of the best ribs in all of Cambridge so when you arrive, be prepared to get your hands messy and get stuck right in! Oh, and don’t forget to try their spicy fries!

Smokeworks is based on Station Road (and on Free School Lane) and is one of the best things to do in Cambridge as you make your way back to the train station once you’ve worked up an appetite.