Places to visit in Cambridge

Start your trip by checking into The Varsity Hotel which is located amongst the colleges besides the River Cam. It’s roof terrace offers stunning views of Cambridge’s romantic skyline of spires and turrets. The bedrooms are modern and comfortable, plus you’ll be able to unwind after a day of exploring at the on-site spa, gym and restaurant which is attached to the neighbouring 17th century brewery.

Tuck into a plate of something delicious at one of the best places to eat in Cambridge, Fitzbillies, which has been dishing out the city’s best Chelsea buns since 1921. See what all the fuss is about with a syrupy Chelsea bun or go for a more brain-friendly brekkie such as smashed avocado on toast. The original Trumpington Street branch is all art nouveau dark wood and golden lettering.

Known as “the finest small museum in Europe” but by locals simply as the “Fitz”, this much-loved institution toes the line between museum and art gallery. The collections are important, and exquisitely beautiful, with artworks by the likes of Rembrandt and Munch alongside items such as autograph music by Handel and Purcell.

Let your inner botanist blossom at Cambridge’s wonderful 40-acre gardens. Home to more than 8,000 plant species from all over the world, lose yourself in the fascinating flora that’s professionally cultivated year around. Founded by John Steven Henslow, aka, Charles Darwin’s mentor, the botanic gardens have been nurturing plant life from across the globe for over 260 years.

Pop into The Eagle for a pint – the Eagle DNA feels right – and lap up the history. This 16th-century pub is where Francis Crick announced he and James Watson had discovered the DNA double helix, in 1953. Check out the graffiti from World War II airmen in the RAF bar too.

Get a sense for the city with Cambridge Bike Tours and peddle past all the best historic buildings and landmarks. You’ll get to stop and explore highlights such as King’s College Chapel, the riverside rowing boathouses, Corpus Christi Gold Clock and a few extra hidden gems. The leisurely routes span roughly four miles and are suitable for all ages.

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday lunchtime, local street food traders set up shop across Cambridge. On Fridays they’re near Mill Road, and you can stuff yourself full of everything from buttermilk fried chicken burgers, wood-fired pizza, churros and ice cream. Look out for their night markets too.

Punting is likely one of the first things that spring to mind after mentioning the city, so you’ll want to include it on your Cambridge weekend breaks. Nothing beats a sunset punting tour down the River Cam through the college backs, a scenic area aptly named for its views of the university college building which line the waterway.

You can’t miss one of the most magical musical experiences in England, the choral evensong in King’s College Chapel. Regardless of faith or religion, the performance is a moving experience, especially considering the venues impressive fan-vault ceiling which happens to be the largest in the world. Founded in the 15th century, sit back and soak in choir songs at one of the chapel’s daily services.