A simple guide to Cambridge

How to get to Cambridge

Cambridge is easily accessible from London train stations and other major cities. Trains run regularly from London King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations, taking just over an hour. If you’re driving, it’s about a 90-minute journey. Always check for a parking space and cost of tickets before you leave home.

For information on train tickets I always book with Traineline.com.

Once you arrive at Cambridge station. You will see that the Botanic gardens is just a 5 minute walk from the station. I recommend you pay a visit, tickets are as little as £8 at the entree gate. There are lots of plants from all over the world to see. This is the one place you’ll find so calm and quiet but also a joy to explore.

What to See and Do in Cambridge

One of the must-do experiences in Cambridge is exploring its historic university colleges. King’s College is famous for its majestic chapel. Trinity College with its grand Great Court. St. John’s College and its iconic Bridge of Sighs.

One of the best activities to do in Cambridge is go punting along the River Cam. There are private tours, shared tours and group tours. All priced at reasonable prices. The boats are operated by knowledgeable tour guides. You’ll find that some of the tour guides are students of Cambridge university making extra pocket money. So please tip generously.

Punting is so fun, you get to see serene views of the college backs from the water. The best times to go are in the mornings or at sunset. This is when it’s less busier.

For more information check out Cambridge Punt Company or get yourself some fantastic discounted tickets on GetYourGuide.

For panoramic views of the city, climb the tower at Great St. Mary’s Church. The tower has 123 steps to the top. It is worth it for the breathtaking views of Cambridge’s skyline, perfect for snapping photos.

You must not forget to walk down Trinity Lane, it is the most photographed street in Cambridge. It is a good reason too. The buildings along this tiny street have tudor chimney stacks. A historic sight that can’t be missed on your visit.

The other two things you should include on your list is the Mathematical bridge (official name is wooden bridge). It is a fascinating bridge. The Corpus clock a must see too!. Also known as the grasshopper clock. Which quite frankly looks like one. The clock is located on the corner of Trumpington street. It gets super busy, watch out for cars turning into the street.

Where to eat in Cambridge

Cambridge has a fantastic food scene. Market Square is a lively hub for fresh food and local street eats. Fitzbillies is the best bakery to visit for its famous Chelsea buns. Get a nice hot cup of tea to drink as you take a bite of the bun. It’s simply so delicious you’d want more.

Where to Stay

Luxury seekers will love these boutique hotels located within the city center and close to these attractions.

The Varsity Hotel & Spa

Graduate by Hilton Cambridge

Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Cambridge

Final Tips for First-Timers

The best time to visit Cambridge is in spring or summer. During these seasons, the city is alive with outdoor events. Beer gardens, picnics in front of King’s college. Punting along the river with stunning views all round. You can hire a bike and cycle around the town center, which you’ll find easy to navigate.

Want to read more day trips outside London, read my recent blog

• The 10 best day trips from London by train.
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• How to spend a weekend in Canterbury

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