Visiting Cambridge University: Girton College

Girton College

Founded in 1869, Girton College was the first residential college for women in the UK and played a pivotal role in advancing women’s education.

Established by Emily Davies and Barbara Bodichon, Girton’s founding marked a significant step in the fight for women’s access to higher education at a time when universities were exclusively male. Girton began admitting men in 1979, but its pioneering commitment to gender equality remains at the core of its identity.

What makes Girton special is its inclusive, forward-thinking ethos combined with a strong academic tradition. Known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere, the college fosters a community where students of all backgrounds are encouraged to excel. It has a rich academic legacy in both the arts and sciences, making it a popular choice for students pursuing a wide range of subjects. Girton’s slightly more remote location, set in extensive green grounds, offers a unique and peaceful environment that sets it apart from the more centrally located Cambridge colleges.

Architecture and Grounds

Girton College is situated about two miles northwest of Cambridge city centre, on a beautiful 50-acre site that offers a tranquil, rural atmosphere. The college’s original red-brick Victorian building, designed by architect Alfred Waterhouse, is one of the most striking and recognisable in Cambridge. The main building, known as the “Tower Wing,” has a distinctive Gothic Revival style, with its bold arches, spires, and detailed stonework.

The college grounds are expansive and include large gardens, playing fields, and even a duck pond, creating a serene and spacious environment for students. Girton also boasts one of the best collections of art among Cambridge colleges, with its own museum, the Lawrence Room, housing a range of antiquities and rare objects. The mix of historic architecture and beautiful natural surroundings makes Girton a unique and inspiring place to live and study.

Notable Alumni

Girton College has produced an impressive array of alumni who have excelled in a wide variety of fields. Among its most notable graduates is Baroness Brenda Hale, the first female President of the UK Supreme Court, whose work in law has been groundbreaking. In the sciences, the Nobel Prize-winning economist Amartya Sen also studied at Girton.

In the arts, the college has produced figures such as the poet and writer Alison Brackenbury, and the actress Tilda Swinton, known for her distinctive performances in film. Girton’s history of fostering talent in both the humanities and sciences has led to a long tradition of alumni making significant contributions to their fields, reflecting the college’s commitment to academic excellence and equality.

Visiting Girton College

Girton College is located around two miles from the city centre of Cambridge, but it is easily accessible by bus, bike, or a pleasant walk along Huntingdon Road. The college is open to visitors, though access may be limited during term time or for specific events.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the college’s grand Victorian architecture and extensive gardens. The college’s art collection, housed in the Lawrence Room, is open to the public at certain times and provides a fascinating insight into the college’s cultural heritage. Checking the college’s website for visitor information, opening hours, and any events or exhibitions is advised before planning a visit.

More Cambridge Colleges

Cambridge colleges are the heart of the University of Cambridge, each with its own distinct history, traditions, and community. Explore more of them below:

Visiting Cambridge University: St Edmund's College

St Edmund’s College

St Edmund’s College was founded in 1896 and initially established to provide a home for Roman Catholic students.

Visiting Cambridge University: Trinity Hall

Trinity Hall

Founded in 1350 by William Bateman, the Bishop of Norwich, Trinity Hall is the fifth-oldest college at the University of Cambridge.

Visiting Cambridge University: Corpus Christi College

Corpus Christi College

Founded in 1352, Corpus Christi College is one of the oldest and most unique colleges at the University of Cambridge.

Visiting Cambridge University: Girton College

Girton College

Founded in 1869, Girton College was the first residential college for women in the UK and played a pivotal role in advancing women’s education.

Visiting Cambridge University: Churchill College

Churchill College

Churchill College is one of the newer additions to the University of Cambridge. It was founded in 1960 in honour of Sir Winston Churchill.