Cambridge University

The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Located in Cambridge, England, it is renowned for its rich academic history, groundbreaking research, and exceptional teaching. The university is made up of 31 autonomous colleges, each with its own unique traditions, community, and academic focus, but all are integral parts of the larger university.

Cambridge Colleges

Cambridge offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across various disciplines, from the humanities and social sciences to natural sciences, engineering, and medicine. The university consistently ranks among the top academic institutions globally, known for its rigorous admission standards, excellence in research, and contributions to various fields. It has produced a remarkable list of alumni, including influential figures like Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and A.A. Milne.

Research plays a crucial role at Cambridge, with the university leading innovations across many fields, from medicine and technology to environmental science and humanities. Its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary study and collaboration makes it a global leader in advancing knowledge.

Alongside its academic reputation, the university is famous for its historic architecture, beautiful colleges, and vibrant student life, including traditions such as May Balls, Formal Halls, and Cambridge rowing. Cambridge remains a centre of learning, intellectual debate, and global influence, drawing students, scholars, and visitors from all over the world.

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: 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: Hughes Hall

Hughes Hall

Hughes Hall is one of Cambridge’s oldest graduate colleges, originally established as a teacher training college for women.

Visiting Cambridge University: Downing College

Downing College

Downing College is renowned for its grand neoclassical architecture, a striking departure from the Gothic and Baroque styles.

Visiting Cambridge University: Homerton College

Homerton College

Originally established as a dissenting academy, Homerton has long been associated with teacher training and education.

Visiting Cambridge University: Gonville and Caius College

Gonville & Caius College

Gonville & Caius College has a tradition of nurturing some of the world’s brightest minds, particularly in the sciences.

Visiting Cambridge University: Clare Hall

Clare Hall

Clare Hall has attracted numerous distinguished academics and intellectuals from a variety of fields thanks to its focus on research.

Visiting Cambridge University: Fitzwilliam College

Fitzwilliam College

Named after Viscount Fitzwilliam, this college reflects the values of accessibility, diversity, and community.

Cambridge Libraries

Libraries in Cambridge are a vital part of the academic and cultural fabric of both the university and the city. With more than 100 libraries distributed across different colleges, faculties, and departments, they serve a broad array of disciplines and interests, offering students, researchers, and the public access to extensive collections of books, manuscripts, and rare materials.

The Cambridge University Library (UL), one of the largest and most important libraries in the UK, serves as the central resource, holding over 8 million books and functioning as a legal deposit library. It supports research across all subjects and is known for its extensive special collections, including medieval manuscripts and archives from prominent historical figures like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.

Visiting Cambridge's Seeley Historical Library

Seeley Historical Library

Part of the Faculty of History, this library is one of the largest libraries in the UK dedicated to studying history.

Visiting Cambridge's Squire Law Library

Squire Law Library

Located within the Faculty of Law, this library is a leading resource for law students and scholars, offering an extensive collection.