Cambridge Neighbourhoods

Cambridge is a city full of vibrant and distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique character, history, and atmosphere. As a compact city with a rich academic and cultural heritage, Cambridge is known for its blend of historic charm and modern development, creating diverse areas that cater to students, professionals, families, and visitors alike. 

All Neighbourhoods

At the heart of Cambridge is its historic city centre, home to world-renowned university colleges, museums, and iconic landmarks like King’s College Chapel and The Backs. The area is lively and bustling, with a mix of students, tourists, and locals enjoying its shops, restaurants, and markets. Its narrow, medieval streets and historic architecture give it a timeless feel. Beyond the city centre, though, there are all sorts of amazing places to visit or live in. 

Each Cambridge neighbourhood has its own distinct personality, whether you’re looking for the peaceful green spaces of Newnham, the bustling energy of Mill Road, or the historical charm of the city centre. The city’s excellent transport links, cycle-friendly infrastructure, and proximity to green spaces make it an ideal place to live, work, and explore.

Cambridge Neighbourhoods: Romsey

Cambridge Neighbourhoods: Romsey

Part of the wider Mill Road area, Romsey is known for its vibrant, multicultural community, independent shops, cafés, and lively atmosphere.

How to Choose a Cambridge Neighbourhood

When choosing a neighbourhood in Cambridge as a student, several factors can help guide your decision. Ultimately, your choice will depend on balancing proximity, cost, and lifestyle preferences. The city’s compact size means most areas are within a reasonable distance of university facilities, making many neighbourhoods viable options for students.

Proximity to Your College or Department:

  • If you prefer to be close to your classes and college, living near the city centre (such as in areas like Newnham, Castle, or Market) might be ideal. These areas provide easy access to university buildings, libraries, and other key facilities.
  • For those attending colleges on the outskirts, like Girton or Homerton, living slightly further out in neighbourhoods like West Cambridge or Trumpington might be more convenient.

Budget:

  • City centre areas tend to be more expensive due to their central location and proximity to landmarks, shops, and restaurants.
  • More affordable options are typically found in areas like Chesterton, Arbury, or Cherry Hinton, which are further from the centre but still well connected by public transport or cycling paths.

Lifestyle and Atmosphere:

  • Newnham and Petersfield are known for their quieter, more residential feel, making them good choices if you’re seeking a calm environment.
  • For a more lively, student-friendly area, neighbourhoods like Mill Road and Romsey offer a vibrant mix of cafes, bars, and diverse cultures.

Transport and Accessibility:

  • If you cycle, Cambridge is a very bike-friendly city, and most neighbourhoods are within a 15-20 minute ride from the city centre.
  • Areas like West Cambridge and Chesterton are well connected by bus routes, while Trumpington offers access to the Cambridge Guided Busway for easy commuting.

A Cambridge Neighbourhood Walking Tour

Here’s a suggested walking tour of Cambridge that will take you through some of the city’s main neighbourhoods. This route offers a blend of historical sites, cultural hotspots, and picturesque views. The tour is designed to take about 3-4 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop.

City Centre (Start at King's Parade)

Walk east toward Parker’s Piece (10 mins).

Petersfield

  • Key sights: Mill Road, Parker’s Piece, Mill Road Cemetery.
  • Neighbourhood Overview: Petersfield is one of Cambridge’s most vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods. The eclectic shops and restaurants on Mill Road offer an international feel. Parker’s Piece, an iconic green space, is a hub for picnics, sports, and local events.

  • Time: Explore for 30 minutes. Grab a coffee at one of the independent cafes on Mill Road and take a stroll through Parker’s Piece.

Walk 15 minutes south to Newnham via Fen Causeway.

Newnham

  • Key sights: The Mill Pond, Lammas Land, Sheeps Green.

  • Neighbourhood Overview: Newnham offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere despite being so close to the city centre. You can enjoy scenic views along The Mill Pond or relax in the large open spaces of Lammas Land. The area’s green spaces and riverside walks make it a popular retreat for locals.

  • Time: Spend around 30 minutes walking along the river and through the meadows.

Walk 15 minutes northwest toward Grange Road.

West Cambridge

  • Key sights: The Backs, Selwyn College, Robinson College.

  • Neighbourhood Overview: This residential area is home to some of the university’s newer buildings, such as Robinson College. Walking along The Backs gives you scenic views of the colleges and gardens from behind, along the River Cam. It’s a quieter, less crowded part of Cambridge.

  • Time: Spend 30 minutes exploring the green spaces and the tranquil atmosphere along The Backs.

Walk 10 minutes north to Castle Hill.

Castle Hill and North Cambridge

  • Key sights: Castle Mound, Kettle’s Yard, St. Giles’ Church.

  • Neighbourhood Overview: Castle Hill is one of the oldest parts of Cambridge, where you can climb Castle Mound for panoramic views of the city. Nearby, Kettle’s Yard offers contemporary art and exhibitions. The neighbourhood has a mix of old and new, with historical sites alongside modern developments.

  • Time: Spend 30 minutes exploring the hill and Kettle’s Yard, and take in the view from Castle Mound.

Walk 15 minutes east to Jesus Green.

Chesterton and Jesus Green

  • Key sights: Jesus Green, River Cam, Midsummer Common.

  • Neighbourhood Overview: As you reach the riverside area of Chesterton, you’ll find wide open spaces like Jesus Green and Midsummer Common, both popular for outdoor activities. This neighbourhood is perfect for walking along the River Cam, watching punters, and enjoying the peaceful greenery.

  • Time: Spend 30 minutes walking along the river and through the park.

You’ve now explored several key neighbourhoods in Cambridge, from the bustling city centre to the tranquil riverside and green spaces of Newnham and Chesterton. This walking tour gives you a great mix of Cambridge’s history, culture, and natural beauty.