Cambridge is definitely known for its historic colleges and bustling city center, but it also harbors a few secret places that most visitors don’t know about. These places are often overlooked in favor of more famous attractions, yet they offer deeply rewarding and memorable experiences for those who discover them. So, let me show you my favourites.
Hidden gems might be tucked into quiet neighbourhoods, down narrow alleyways, or in remote areas accessible only to those willing to explore. For example, a small chapel, garden, or café could be overshadowed by bigger landmarks nearby. But why do the matter, apart from… you know, being off the beaten path?
Well, many secret spots have compelling backstories that add depth to the experience. This could be a forgotten piece of local history, ties to famous figures, or stories of cultural significance. And, unlike those popular and crowded tourist hotspots, hidden gems offer a peaceful, often intimate environment. Which means you can experience a place without distractions, noise, or large groups. So, let’s dive in!
Top Cambridge Lesser Known Places
The best hidden gems are usually known by locals or shared through personal recommendations rather than guidebooks or major travel sites. However, we will start this guide with a few places that are easy to visit and still have that historical or natural appeal that means they MIGHT also be included in such books, like David Parr House (a house full of Victorian decorative elements) or the grounds of Cherry Hinton Hall. As you read one, though, you will find more of the little secrets locals will share if you get them a drink. So, let’s take a look!
Castle Hill Mound and Lime Kiln Bank
Hidden away behind what seems like just an odd path at the back of a car park, Castle Hill Mound is the kind of place you’d never think to explore unless you knew it was there. But once you climb to the top, you’re rewarded with really great views over the city. The sight is both surprising and special, offering a unique perspective of Cambridge’s skyline—one that feels almost secret… like it belongs to you alone.
The viewpoint at the top of Lime Kiln Bank also offers another unexpected gem. Located on the other side of town, this spot gives you fantastic, sweeping views from a completely different angle. It’s for sure the kind of place that feels refreshingly off-the-radar.
Tip: The peaceful atmosphere adds to its charm, making it the perfect place to pause, reflect, and take it all in.
David Parr House
Located at 186 Gwydir Street, this modest terraced house conceals intricate interior decorations crafted by Victorian artist David Parr 🔗 between 1886 and 1926. The house showcases Parr’s work as a decorative artist, reflecting the Arts and Crafts movement. And I know, I know. David Parr House is not exactly the most unknown of places, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this gem. And what a nice atmosphere this place has!
To visit the house, you will need to join a house tour. These tours cost £14.50, last an hour and a half, and are led by a trained guide. There are tours ONLY on Saturday and Sunday, at 9.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
Tip: Save some time to explore the giftshop. You will find some great stuff from local makers and artists.
The American Military Cemetary
The Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial is a deeply moving and historically significant site located just outside Cambridge in the village of Madingley. It serves as a memorial to the American service members who lost their lives during World War II, particularly those involved in the air campaigns over Europe and those who perished in the Atlantic.
The cemetery was established in 1943 on land donated by the University of Cambridge and is the only American military cemetery in the United Kingdom from World War II. It spans 30.5 acres and is beautifully landscaped, with rows of white headstones and peaceful green spaces. Don’t miss the Memorial Chapel (the focal point of the cemetery), the Reflecting Pool and Flagpole, and the Wall of the Missing. The Cemetery also has an interpretative center that tells the story of the cemetery and the men and women it honors.
Tip: Designed by architect Perry, Shaw, and Hepburn, the layout reflects simplicity, dignity, and respect.
Cambridge Museum of Technology
The Cambridge Museum of Technology is a fascinating industrial heritage site that highlights the city’s engineering and technological history. It is located on Cheddars Lane, just northeast of Cambridge’s city center, and occupies the former sewage pumping station, which dates back to 1894. The museum offers a unique glimpse into how Cambridge evolved during the Industrial Revolution and beyond.
The museum offers a unique perspective on how Cambridge contributed to the development of technology and engineering. It celebrates the city’s industrial legacy with working engines and hands-on exhibits, telling the story of innovation, education, and industrial progress. The museum doesn’t receive the same level of promotion as Cambridge’s iconic attractions. Tourists typically come for the world-famous university colleges, punting on the River Cam, or the Fitzwilliam Museum, which overshadow smaller, more niche sites like this.
Zhonghua Traditional Snacks on Norfolk Street
Tucked away on Norfolk Street, Zhonghua Traditional Snacks is a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic, no-fuss Chinese food. It’s small, unpretentious, and feels like stepping into a local eatery straight from a bustling corner of China. Known for its handmade dumplings, steamed buns, and hearty noodle dishes, the food here is flavorful, fresh, and seriously satisfying.
What makes it special is the warm, low-key vibe and unbeatable prices—it’s the kind of place where you’ll find both homesick students and in-the-know locals grabbing a quick, delicious bite. If you’re tired of tourist crowds and fancy cafes, Zhonghua is a perfect, quiet spot to discover some of the best comfort food in Cambridge.
The Centre For Computing History
The Centre for Computing History in Cambridge is a must-visit for tech enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Tucked away on an industrial estate, this interactive museum is a hidden gem that charts the fascinating evolution of computers—from room-sized machines to the gadgets we carry in our pockets today.
What makes it special is its hands-on approach: you can play with retro computers, classic games consoles, and vintage tech, making it a nostalgic trip for adults and an eye-opener for kids. It’s packed with rare artifacts, like early Apple computers, Sinclair ZX Spectrums, and even historic software. If you love tech, innovation, or just want a quirky, fun afternoon, this place is a goldmine.
Cherry Hinton Chalk Pits
The Cherry Hinton Chalk Pits are a fascinating and lesser-known natural site located on the outskirts of Cambridge, offering a mix of history, geology, and nature. These former chalk quarries were once an important source of lime and building materials for Cambridge’s famous architecture, including its colleges and churches.
Now managed as part of the East Pit and West Pit Nature Reserves, they’ve been reclaimed by nature, creating a peaceful and atmospheric retreat. The chalky landscape is home to rare flora and fauna, including wildflowers like pyramidal orchids, butterflies, and bird species such as green woodpeckers. The pits’ unique terrain, with its white cliffs and sunlit open spaces, feels almost otherworldly and is perfect for quiet walks, photography, or spotting wildlife.
Cambridge Tours
Do you prefer a more organised experience? Here are some highly-rated tours:
