Founded in 1966, Clare Hall is one of the University of Cambridge’s youngest colleges, established as a sister institution to Clare College. Its primary focus is on graduate study, making it unique within the university as a dedicated centre for advanced research and scholarship.
Clare Hall was created to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and provide a supportive environment for graduate students, visiting academics, and postdoctoral researchers from all over the world.
What makes Clare Hall special is its strong emphasis on creating an informal, egalitarian academic community. The absence of rigid hierarchies—such as those between fellows and students—encourages open dialogue and a collaborative spirit. This collegial atmosphere is further enhanced by the college’s small size, which allows for close interactions and intellectual exchange among its members. With a global outlook and a vibrant community of international scholars, Clare Hall is known for promoting diversity, inclusivity, and innovation in research.
Architecture and Grounds
Clare Hall’s architecture reflects its modern origins, with buildings designed to promote both communal and private study. The college’s main structures were designed by Sir Leslie Martin, blending contemporary and functional architectural elements with a sense of openness. The architecture is characterised by clean lines, expansive glass windows, and an emphasis on natural light, creating an atmosphere conducive to scholarly work and reflection.
The college is located on Herschel Road, slightly west of the city centre, in a quiet, residential area. Clare Hall’s grounds are compact but beautifully maintained, offering peaceful gardens and open spaces for relaxation. Unlike the historic grandeur of older Cambridge colleges, Clare Hall’s modern architecture and tranquil setting offer a calm, reflective environment that supports focused academic work.
Notable Alumni
Clare Hall has attracted numerous distinguished academics and intellectuals from a variety of fields, thanks to its focus on graduate study and research. One of its most notable former members is Sir Martin Rees, a leading astrophysicist and former President of the Royal Society, who was a visiting fellow at the college. The renowned physicist Stephen Hawking also had connections with Clare Hall, attending events and fostering collaborations with scholars there.
The college is proud of its strong international ties, welcoming visiting academics and researchers from prestigious universities and institutions worldwide, creating a dynamic and globally connected academic environment. Clare Hall’s alumni continue to make significant contributions to academia, science, and the arts.
Visiting Clare Hall
Clare Hall is located on Herschel Road, to the west of the main university area, and is slightly off the usual tourist track. As a graduate college, it is smaller and less frequently visited by the public compared to the more centrally located undergraduate colleges.
Visitors interested in exploring Clare Hall should check in advance, as access is sometimes restricted due to its academic focus. The college is known for its peaceful, welcoming atmosphere, and during open days or by special arrangement, visitors may have the opportunity to explore its gardens and contemporary architecture. Given its location near the university’s West Cambridge site, Clare Hall is a pleasant stop for those seeking a quiet, reflective experience away from the busier parts of the city.