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Category: Visiting Cambridge

Visiting Cambridge offers rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences. Here’s how to plan your journey.

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Cambridge Markets, Fairs & Celebrations

The All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market

Things to Do in Cambridge: All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market

The All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market is a unique and charming outdoor market held in the All Saints Garden, located just off Trinity Street, near Trinity College in Cambridge. It runs every Saturday throughout the year, with occasional weekday openings, providing a regular platform for local artists and craftspeople to showcase their handmade goods.

The market is perfect for those seeking unique, handmade gifts or looking to support local artists. It provides a delightful opportunity to discover high-quality, original art and crafts in a charming outdoor setting. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the market offers a refreshing alternative to high-street shopping, where each item has a story, and each purchase supports a local maker.

What You’ll Find at the Market

  • Handmade Arts and Crafts: The market is renowned for its array of handcrafted items created by local artisans. You’ll find a diverse range of products, including jewelry, pottery, ceramics, paintings, textiles, woodwork, and more. Each stall is run by the artist or craftsperson themselves, allowing visitors to engage directly with the makers, learn about their techniques, and purchase unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

  • Local Talent: The market is a celebration of local craftsmanship, showcasing the talents of Cambridge-based artists as well as creators from surrounding areas. Many of the items reflect the artistic flair and cultural heritage of Cambridge, making it a great place to find something special as a gift or a personal keepsake.

  • Seasonal and Special Events: The All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market often hosts special events during festive periods like Christmas, adding seasonal crafts and decorations to its already impressive selection. The market’s setting, amidst the leafy and peaceful All Saints Garden, makes it an idyllic place to explore during these events.

Atmosphere and Experience

Set in a quiet, green space near the heart of Cambridge, the market has a tranquil and relaxed vibe, making it a pleasant escape from the busier parts of the city. Visitors enjoy wandering between the stalls, admiring the handcrafted goods while engaging with the creators in a peaceful, almost intimate atmosphere.

The market’s location, near some of Cambridge’s most famous landmarks like King’s College and The Round Church, makes it a convenient stop for tourists and locals alike, whether you’re out for a stroll or exploring the city.

How to Get There

To reach the All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market, head to Trinity Street in central Cambridge, near Trinity College. The market is located in All Saints Garden, just a short walk from the city’s main landmarks. It’s easily accessible on foot or by bicycle, and nearby bus routes also serve the area. If driving, consider using Cambridge’s Park & Ride, as parking in the city centre is limited.

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Cambridge Markets, Fairs & Celebrations

The Cambridge Strawberry Fair

Things to Do in Cambridge: The Cambridge Strawberry Fair

Known for its colourful and eclectic atmosphere, the Cambridge Strawberry Fair (held at Midsummer Common) celebrates local creativity, music, and arts, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Established in 1974, it remains a free, volunteer-organized event, making it one of Cambridge’s most beloved traditions.

The fair features a wide range of live music performances across multiple stages, showcasing genres from rock and folk to reggae and electronic music. Alongside music, visitors can enjoy street performances, art installations, food stalls, and a bustling market area offering crafts, clothing, and unique handmade goods. There are also family-friendly areas with activities like face painting, storytelling, and circus skills workshops.

The Strawberry Fair is renowned for its inclusive, laid-back vibe, celebrating diversity, creativity, and community spirit, making it one of Cambridge’s most anticipated summer events.

What to Expect at the Strawberry Fair

At the Cambridge Strawberry Fair, a variety of activities cater to all ages and interests. Some examples include:

  1. Live Music Performances: Multiple stages feature a diverse lineup of bands and solo artists, covering genres like rock, folk, reggae, and electronic.
  2. Street Performances: Expect to see jugglers, acrobats, fire dancers, and other street entertainers scattered across Midsummer Common.
  3. Workshops: Join creative workshops such as circus skills, dance, and arts and crafts.
  4. Kids’ Area: Family-friendly activities include face painting, storytelling, and interactive games.
  5. Market Stalls: A bustling marketplace offers handmade crafts, vintage clothing, jewelry, and unique local goods.

These activities make the fair a lively, fun-filled event for visitors of all ages.

How to Get There

To get to the Cambridge Strawberry Fair at Midsummer Common, you can walk or cycle from the city centre. Alternatively, local buses run nearby, and Cambridge’s Park & Ride is a good option if driving, as parking near the event is limited.

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Cambridge Markets, Fairs & Celebrations

The Cambridge Folk Festival

Things to Do in Cambridge: The Cambridge Folk Festival

The Cambridge Folk Festival has been held annually since 1965. Typically taking place over a weekend in late July or early August, the festival is hosted at Cherry Hinton Hall, a beautiful park just outside the city centre.

The festival attracts a diverse mix of established folk legends and up-and-coming talent from around the globe, covering a wide range of folk, roots, and acoustic music styles.

What to Expect at the Cambridge Folk Festival

The festival is renowned for its welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite for families and music lovers alike. Beyond the main stage performances, visitors can enjoy acoustic sessions, workshops, and singalongs, creating an interactive and immersive experience. There’s also a dedicated area for children’s activities, arts and crafts, and an eclectic mix of food stalls.

With a reputation for fostering a sense of community and promoting cultural exchange, the Cambridge Folk Festival offers not just incredible music but a memorable celebration of folk traditions and creativity.

Typical Activities

At the Cambridge Folk Festival, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities and music styles, making it a dynamic and immersive experience for all ages. Here are a few examples:

  • Workshops: These include instrument workshops (like guitar, fiddle, and banjo) and singing workshops, where attendees can learn new skills or hone their musical talents.
  • Dance Sessions: You can join in Ceilidh dances or folk-inspired group dances, often led by professional dancers.
  • Children’s Area: A dedicated space for kids with activities like arts and crafts, storytelling, and puppet shows.
  • Pop-up Acoustic Sessions: Intimate, impromptu performances around the festival grounds where musicians and audience members gather for more personal, acoustic sets.

Music Styles

These activities and music styles create a rich and vibrant atmosphere, appealing to both folk purists and those new to the genre:

  • Traditional Folk: Performers play music deeply rooted in British and Irish folk traditions, featuring classic folk instruments like fiddles, banjos, and accordions.
  • Contemporary Folk: Artists often blend modern genres like rock or pop with traditional folk, pushing boundaries and creating fresh sounds.
  • Bluegrass and Americana: Featuring banjos, mandolins, and harmonies, these styles from the US bring a rootsy, raw energy to the festival.
  • World Music: The festival also showcases global music traditions, from Celtic rhythms to African folk, giving the event a diverse and international flavour.

How to Get There

To get to the Cambridge Folk Festival at Cherry Hinton Hall, you can take a bus or cycle from Cambridge city centre, which is just a few miles away. If driving, use Cambridge’s Park & Ride services, as parking near the venue is limited. Shuttle buses may also be available during the festival.

Categories
Cambridge Markets, Fairs & Celebrations

The Mill Road Winter Fair

Things to Do in Cambridge: The Mill Road Winter Fair
The Mill Road Winter Fair. Image courtesy of sasastro via Flickr Commons.

The Mill Road Winter Fair is a colourful street fair that celebrates the unique, multicultural spirit of the area, bringing together local residents, businesses, and visitors in a day filled with festive fun. Mill Road, known for its diverse range of independent shops, restaurants, and cultural spots, transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the fair.

The Mill Road Winter Fair is a truly unique event in Cambridge, offering a chance to experience the city’s diversity, creativity, and festive spirit. Whether you’re looking for holiday shopping, delicious food, or simply want to soak in the atmosphere, the fair is a wonderful way to kick off the winter season. It’s a celebration of local culture, and its vibrant, friendly vibe makes it one of the highlights of Cambridge’s social calendar.

What to Expect at the Mill Road Winter Fair

  • Street Performances: One of the highlights of the Winter Fair is the variety of street performers, including live music, dancers, and theatrical acts. Stages are set up along the road, and performers entertain crowds with everything from jazz bands to samba dancers, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.

  • Market Stalls: Mill Road is lined with stalls selling handmade crafts, artisan foods, and unique gifts. Local businesses and independent artisans showcase their goods, making it an excellent place for holiday shopping. You can find everything from handmade jewelry and art to gourmet treats and international street food.

  • Food and Drink: The Winter Fair is a food lover’s paradise, with stalls offering a wide variety of culinary delights. From local delicacies to international cuisine, there’s something for every palate. Mulled wine, hot chocolate, and seasonal snacks are also popular offerings, adding to the festive cheer.

  • Parades and Family Activities: The fair is family-friendly, with activities for all ages, including children’s workshops, games, and a parade that often features local schools and community groups. The parade is a colorful procession with costumes, music, and themed displays, delighting both children and adults.

  • Cultural Diversity: Mill Road is known for its diverse community, and the Winter Fair celebrates this by embracing the many cultures represented in the area. Visitors can enjoy music, food, and performances from around the world, reflecting the multicultural heart of Cambridge.

Community Spirit

The Mill Road Winter Fair is more than just a festive celebration; it’s a reflection of the strong community ties that define the Mill Road area. Local residents and businesses come together to create an inclusive, welcoming environment, where people of all backgrounds can share in the fun. The fair is organized by a team of volunteers, further emphasizing the importance of community participation.

How to Get There

To get to the Mill Road Winter Fair, you can easily walk or cycle from Cambridge city centre, as it’s just a short distance away. Public buses also run frequently along Mill Road. If driving, it’s best to use one of Cambridge’s Park & Ride services, as parking can be limited.

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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

Fitzbillies Bakery

Cambridge Shops: Fitzbillies Bakery
Cambridge Shops: Fitzbillies Bakery. Image courtesy of Kake via Flickr Commons.

Fitzbillies is one of the most famous and beloved institutions in Cambridge, known especially for its iconic Chelsea buns and rich history that dates back to 1920. Located on Trumpington Street, just a stone’s throw from many of the city’s historic colleges, Fitzbillies has been serving generations of students, locals, and visitors for over a century. 

With its original Art Deco shopfront, mouth-watering baked goods, and cosy café atmosphere, Fitzbillies is a must-see. For anyone visiting Cambridge, a trip to Fitzbillies is a must. It’s not just a bakery—it’s part of the city’s cultural and culinary heritage, beloved by generations of students, locals, and visitors.

Whether you’re grabbing a Chelsea bun to go or sitting down for a leisurely afternoon tea, Fitzbillies offers a quintessential taste of Cambridge life.

What Makes Fitzbillies Special?

  • The Famous Chelsea Buns: Fitzbillies is renowned for its signature Chelsea buns, which have become a hallmark of the Cambridge culinary experience. These sticky, sweet, and spiced buns are filled with currants and smothered in a rich, glossy syrup. The recipe has remained largely unchanged since the bakery’s founding, making them a nostalgic favorite for Cambridge alumni and a must-try for first-time visitors. The Chelsea buns are baked fresh daily, and their gooey, indulgent texture has earned them a legendary status in the city.

  • A Cambridge Tradition: Since its establishment in 1920 by the Mason family, Fitzbillies has become intertwined with the fabric of Cambridge life. Over the decades, it has attracted everyone from students cramming for exams to visiting academics, tourists, and famous alumni. The bakery experienced financial difficulties in 2011 and almost closed its doors, but after a passionate public response—including support from Stephen Fry via social media—it was saved and has since flourished under new ownership.

  • Bakery and Café: Fitzbillies offers much more than just Chelsea buns. The bakery produces a wide range of freshly baked goods, including cakes, pastries, and breads, all made using traditional methods and quality ingredients. Alongside its bakery, Fitzbillies operates a charming café where visitors can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea. The menu includes classic English fare such as full English breakfasts, eggs Benedict, and cream teas, all served in a warm and inviting setting.

  • Celebrating Local and Seasonal Ingredients: Fitzbillies places a strong emphasis on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Whether it’s in their cakes, pastries, or savory dishes, the bakery’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite. The café’s menu often changes to reflect the best produce available, ensuring that each visit offers something new and fresh.

  • Fitzbillies on Bridge Street: Due to its growing popularity, Fitzbillies expanded to a second location on Bridge Street, offering another spot to grab their famous baked goods and enjoy a delicious meal. Both locations maintain the same level of quality and service, but the original shop on Trumpington Street holds a special place in the hearts of many Cambridge residents and visitors.

Atmosphere and Location

The moment you step inside Fitzbillies, you’re greeted by the aroma of freshly baked goods and the sight of beautifully presented cakes, tarts, and pastries in the window. The café’s interiors retain a traditional charm with a touch of modern comfort. Wooden tables, cosy seating, and an inviting atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch or a quick coffee break. The historic shopfront, with its iconic Art Deco lettering, has remained unchanged over the years, contributing to its timeless appeal.

Fitzbillies isn’t just a favorite among locals—it’s famous worldwide, thanks to its enduring reputation and the high profile of many of its patrons. Stephen Fry is one of its most vocal supporters, but countless other Cambridge alumni, tourists, and food lovers have shared their love for the bakery’s Chelsea buns and its welcoming café.

Fitzbillies also offers online ordering, so you can enjoy their Chelsea buns anywhere in the UK. For those who can’t make it to Cambridge, this is the next best way to experience one of the city’s most iconic treats.

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Bookshops Shopping

Heffers Bookshop

Cambridge Shops: Heffers Bookshop

Heffers Bookshop is one of Cambridge’s most cherished independent shops and a cornerstone of the city’s intellectual and literary life. Founded in 1876, Heffers has been serving the local community, students, and visitors for nearly 150 years.

It is renowned for its vast collection of books, specializing in academic texts, fiction, rare titles, and children’s literature, as well as an impressive array of gifts and stationery. Located on Trinity Street, in the heart of Cambridge, Heffers is a must-visit for anyone with a love for books and literature.

For book lovers, students, and anyone with an interest in literature and culture, Heffers Bookshop is an essential stop in Cambridge. Its long-standing reputation, extensive selection, and commitment to promoting literary engagement make it far more than just a place to buy books—it’s a cultural institution and a beloved part of Cambridge life. Whether you’re hunting for an academic text, browsing for a great novel, or attending a book signing, Heffers offers a unique and enriching experience that reflects the city’s deep connection to learning and literature.

What Makes Heffers Special?

  • Extensive Book Collection: Heffers is well known for its wide-ranging selection of books across various genres and disciplines. As a bookshop in a city famous for its university, Heffers has a particularly strong focus on academic titles, catering to the diverse needs of Cambridge’s scholars and students. Whether you’re interested in history, philosophy, science, or literature, Heffers offers one of the best-curated collections in the city. The shop also stocks fiction, children’s books, and niche genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

  • Rare and Antiquarian Books: For collectors and book lovers seeking rare or out-of-print titles, Heffers has a special selection of antiquarian books. This section is a treasure trove for those in search of first editions, limited print runs, and historical works, making it a unique destination for serious bibliophiles.

  • Events and Literary Culture: Heffers is not just a bookshop; it is also a hub of literary activity in Cambridge. The shop regularly hosts book launches, signings, and author talks, attracting both high-profile writers and emerging voices. These events make Heffers a focal point for Cambridge’s literary scene, offering locals and visitors the chance to engage with authors and the world of literature. In addition, the bookshop organizes workshops and book clubs, fostering a deeper connection with its reading community.

  • Personal Service: The staff at Heffers are known for their expertise and passion for books. Whether you’re seeking a specific academic title or just looking for a great recommendation, the knowledgeable team is always on hand to offer personalized advice. Their friendly and helpful approach adds to the charm of shopping at Heffers, giving it a personal touch that’s often lacking in larger chain stores.

  • Gifts and Stationery: In addition to its impressive selection of books, Heffers offers a wonderful range of gifts and stationery. From beautifully designed notebooks and journals to literary-themed gifts, it’s a perfect place to find unique presents for book lovers. The shop’s selection of puzzles, games, and educational toys also makes it a favorite among families and students alike.

Atmosphere and Location

Heffers’ prime location on Trinity Street, surrounded by historic colleges, adds to its appeal. Walking into Heffers is like stepping into a world of books, with the store’s cosy atmosphere, wooden shelves, and well-organized sections making it easy to lose yourself for hours browsing through the collection. The shop’s layout is inviting, with dedicated spaces for fiction, non-fiction, and academic subjects, as well as a large area devoted to children’s books.

The bookshop’s proximity to Trinity College, St John’s College, and King’s College places it right at the heart of Cambridge’s academic community. It’s a regular stop for students and professors, as well as tourists exploring the city’s intellectual heritage.

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Historical & Interesting Places

Clare College’s Old Court

Clare College Cambridge - Old Court

Located within Clare College, the Old Court dates back to the early 17th century, making it one of the oldest and finest examples of Classical architecture in the city. Its construction began in 1638 and was completed in 1715, creating a harmonious blend of the Renaissance and Classical architectural styles.

Old Court is renowned for its symmetry and elegance, with four-sided enclosed buildings surrounding a central green space. The stone buildings are marked by their simple yet refined design, featuring sash windows, a balustraded parapet, and classical columns. The court’s harmonious proportions give it a distinctive sense of balance and beauty.

One of the most famous features of Old Court is its gatehouse, which serves as the entrance to the college from King’s Parade. The gatehouse is topped with a clock and is adorned with the college’s coat of arms. The southern side of Old Court opens onto the Cambridge Backs, offering stunning views of the River Cam and Clare Bridge.

Significance and Atmosphere

As one of the most picturesque parts of Clare College, Old Court serves as both a functional and ceremonial space for the college. It’s a key location for student life, where events, formal gatherings, and college traditions often take place. Its architecture reflects the evolution of Cambridge from medieval times into the Renaissance, and it remains a popular spot for tourists, students, and scholars alike.

What to See and Do

Old Court is notable for its close proximity to Clare Bridge, the oldest bridge in Cambridge, which connects Old Court to the gardens on The Backs. This scenic riverside area adds to the serene beauty of the court and makes it one of the most tranquil spots in the city.

How to Visit the Old Court

While Clare College is open to visitors at certain times, Old Court is an especially popular spot for those interested in Cambridge’s history and architecture. Its peaceful, green courtyard provides a contrast to the busy streets nearby, offering a quiet retreat to admire the elegant surroundings.

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Historical & Interesting Places

St John’s College Great Gate

Two Essential Cambridge Places to See: St John's College Great Gate

Passing through the Great Gate is a step into the history and heritage of Cambridge. Built in the early 16th century, the gate is a striking example of Tudor Gothic architecture and serves as the main point of entry to St John’s College’s beautiful courts and buildings.

The gate leads into First Court, where the college’s tranquil gardens and historic buildings immediately surround you. It is one of the most photographed spots in Cambridge, both for its architectural beauty and its symbolic role in university life.

The Historical Significance of the Great Gate

The Great Gate has been the main entrance to St John’s College for over 500 years and remains a symbol of the college’s long history and academic tradition. It is part of the college’s First Court, one of the earliest parts of the college to be constructed. The gate has witnessed centuries of student life and Cambridge’s evolving academic world, making it a landmark not only for St John’s but also for the wider university.

Architectural Features

The Great Gate is known for its red brick construction with stone detailing, typical of the Tudor style. Its most prominent feature is the imposing statue of St John the Evangelist, the college’s patron saint, placed in a niche above the arch. Beneath this statue is the coat of arms of the college’s founder, Lady Margaret Beaufort, the mother of King Henry VII, who founded St John’s College in 1511.

Above the archway, there are also decorative battlements and oriel windows, which add to the grandeur of the gate. The gatehouse’s crenellated towers enhance its fortress-like appearance, creating a sense of importance and history as you pass through.

How to Get There

To visit the Great Gate of St John’s College, head to St John’s Street, located in the heart of Cambridge’s city centre. The college is easily accessible on foot, by bicycle, or by local buses that stop nearby. The gate is a short walk from major landmarks like King’s Parade and Trinity College.

Visitors can enter the college through the Great Gate by purchasing a ticket at the college entrance, allowing access to explore the historic grounds.

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Historical & Interesting Places

Bridge of Sighs

Cambridge Must-Sees: Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge is located within the grounds of St John’s College, it spans the River Cam and connects the college’s Third Court and New Court. Despite its name, the Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge has little in common with the more famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy, which was historically used to transport prisoners to the Venetian dungeons. 

The name was likely given in a romantic or whimsical spirit by students in the 19th century, and it’s stuck ever since.

While the Bridge of Sighs in Venice carries a more somber history, Cambridge’s version is a symbol of the city’s academic life and its enduring traditions. The peaceful river setting and the beautiful college buildings around it create an atmosphere of timelessness and contemplation. Its connection to student life and exams has only enhanced its mystique over the years.

Architecture and Design

The Bridge of Sighs was built in 1831, designed by Henry Hutchinson, and it is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. It features intricate stonework, arched windows, and a covered roof, which adds to its charm and uniqueness. Its ornate design and location make it one of the most photographed spots in Cambridge.

Unlike Venice’s version, which symbolizes sorrow, the Cambridge Bridge of Sighs is associated more with the daily lives of students. It is said that the “sighs” refer to the students’ emotions as they cross the bridge for exams or during moments of reflection while studying.

What to See and Do

  • View from the River: The best views of the Bridge of Sighs are from the river. You can take a punting tour on the River Cam, which passes under the bridge, offering breathtaking views of its architecture and surrounding college buildings. Many punting guides provide stories and interesting facts about the bridge and St John’s College.

  • Explore St John’s College: To walk across the bridge itself, you’ll need access to St John’s College. Visitors can purchase tickets to tour the college, which allows you to walk across the bridge and explore the beautiful grounds, including the magnificent New Court (also known as the “Wedding Cake” due to its ornate design).

  • Photography: The bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Cambridge, particularly from the river. The combination of the Gothic architecture, the surrounding trees, and the calm river makes for a striking image, especially at sunrise or sunset.

How to Get There

The Bridge of Sighs is an essential stop for anyone exploring Cambridge, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local revisiting the city’s iconic landmarks. Its combination of history, beauty, and association with university life makes it a standout feature in a city already rich in architectural wonders.

To visit the Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge, the best way is via a punting tour on the River Cam, which passes underneath the bridge, offering great views. If you’d like to walk across the bridge, you’ll need to visit St John’s College, which is located in the city centre. You can access the college from St John’s Street and purchase a visitor ticket to explore the grounds, including the bridge itself. The college is easily reachable on foot, by bike, or via local buses from anywhere in central Cambridge.

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Cambridge Markets, Fairs & Celebrations

The Cambridge Beer Festival

Things to Do in Cambridge: The Cambridge Beer Festival

The Cambridge Beer Festival is one of the UK’s longest-running and most popular beer festivals, held annually in May on Jesus Green in Cambridge. Organized by the Cambridge & District branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), the festival celebrates traditional British ales and ciders, along with international beers, wines, and other beverages. It is a beloved local event that attracts thousands of visitors yearly, from beer enthusiasts to casual drinkers.

The Cambridge Beer Festival offers a unique opportunity to sample a wide array of real ales and craft beverages in a fun, relaxed setting. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur looking to try new brews or simply want to enjoy a sunny day with friends, the festival is a highlight of the Cambridge social calendar. Its focus on local beers and regional food, combined with the charm of its riverside location, makes it an authentic and enjoyable way to experience the city’s vibrant community.

With a strong sense of tradition, a focus on quality, and a welcoming atmosphere, the Cambridge Beer Festival is a must-visit for anyone in Cambridge during the spring. So, let’s see what it’s all about!

What to Expect at the Festival

  • Wide Selection of Beverages: The festival is renowned for its impressive variety of real ales, with over 200 beers from breweries across the UK. In addition to ales, there is a broad selection of ciders and perries, as well as foreign beers from Belgium, Germany, and beyond. You can also explore wines and meads, making it a well-rounded experience for all kinds of drink lovers.

  • Local Cambridge Breweries: Many of the beers on offer come from local Cambridge-area breweries, giving visitors a chance to taste some of the finest craft beers from the region. The festival serves as an excellent platform for showcasing the rich brewing heritage of East Anglia.

  • Food Stalls: To complement the drinks, the festival features a range of food stalls offering traditional festival fare such as pies, cheeses, bread, and sausages. The Cambridge Beer Festival Cheese Counter is particularly famous for its wide selection of artisanal cheeses that pair perfectly with the beers on offer.

  • Relaxed Atmosphere: The festival is held on Jesus Green, a beautiful open space by the River Cam, which contributes to its laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Visitors can relax at picnic tables or on the grass, enjoying their drinks in a sociable and family-friendly setting. It’s an event where locals, students, and visitors alike come together to celebrate good beer in a picturesque environment.

  • Events and Talks: The festival often includes talks and presentations by brewers and beer experts, offering insight into the brewing process, beer styles, and industry trends. It’s a great opportunity for beer aficionados to deepen their knowledge.

  • Charitable Contributions: The festival also has a charitable component, with many proceeds going to local charities. In recent years, it has supported various causes, making it not just a celebration of beer but also a way to give back to the community.

The Midsummer Fair Today

Today, Bonfire Night in Cambridge is a major annual event that draws thousands of people to Midsummer Common for a grand celebration. Held around 5th November, the event features a spectacular fireworks display, a large bonfire, and an array of food and entertainment stalls. It’s one of the largest Guy Fawkes Night events in the region and is entirely free, although donations are encouraged to help cover the costs of the event.

The bonfire is traditionally lit first, followed by a breathtaking fireworks show that lights up the sky, lasting for around 20 minutes. The event also often includes fairground rides, games, and food vendors offering a variety of treats, making it a fun, family-friendly night out. Safety and crowd management are key concerns, so the event is carefully organised, with plenty of space on the common for spectators to spread out and enjoy the show.

How to Get There

The Cambridge Beer Festival is held annually on Jesus Green, a central open space in Cambridge, making it easy to access by various modes of transportation. Here’s how to get there:

By Foot or Bicycle

  • If you’re already in Cambridge city centre, Jesus Green is within easy walking or cycling distance from most major landmarks. It’s located just north of the city centre, near the River Cam and the Jesus College grounds.

  • Cambridge is a very bike-friendly city, and there are plenty of bike racks near Jesus Green.

By Train

  • Cambridge Railway Station is about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from Jesus Green. You can walk to the festival in around 25-30 minutes, or take a bus or taxi from the station.

  • The train station has direct services from London (about an hour) and other major cities like Norwich and Birmingham.

By Bus

  • Several bus routes run through central Cambridge. If you’re coming from outside the city, the Cambridge Park & Ride services are a good option. The Drummer Street Bus Station is around a 10-15 minute walk from Jesus Green.

  • Local bus routes, such as those operated by Stagecoach, also stop nearby.

By Car

  • If you’re driving, it’s best to use one of Cambridge’s Park & Ride services, as parking in the city centre can be limited and expensive. The nearest Park & Ride locations are at Milton or Trumpington, and both have regular buses that will drop you near the city centre, within walking distance of Jesus Green.

  • For those needing central parking, options like the Grafton Centre or Park Street car parks are relatively close, though spaces may be limited during busy periods.

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