Category: Visiting Cambridge

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

Parks, Meadows & The River

Jesus Green

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Cambridge Must-Sees: Jesus Green

Historically, Jesus Green was once part of a much larger area known as Midsummer Common, which was used for grazing cattle. In the 19th century, Cambridge began developing more formal public spaces, and Jesus Green emerged as a separate park in the late 1800s. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy city streets.

With its expansive green lawns, mature trees, and proximity to the river, Jesus Green is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. It is also home to one of the longest outdoor swimming pools in Europe, the Jesus Green Lido, which has been a feature since the 1920s.

What to See In Jesus Green

At Jesus Green, you can enjoy several key features. One of the main attractions is the Jesus Green Lido, an open-air swimming pool that stretches 100 yards, making it perfect for swimmers who enjoy longer laps. There are also numerous tennis courts and a skate park, providing activities for those looking to engage in sports.

The expansive grassy areas are ideal for picnicking, sunbathing, or playing casual sports, while the riverside paths offer beautiful views of the River Cam and the punts gliding by. The park is lined with majestic London plane trees, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife, especially along the riverbanks.

How to Get There

Jesus Green is centrally located in Cambridge and is easily accessible on foot from the city centre. It’s just a short walk from Jesus College, and you can reach the park by heading north along Jesus Lane or following the river from Quayside. For those coming by bus, several routes, including the Citi 1 and Citi 5, stop near Parkside and Victoria Avenue, both of which are close to Jesus Green. If you are travelling by train, it’s about a 25-minute walk from Cambridge Railway Station, or you can take a bus or taxi to the park. There is limited parking in the area, so if you’re driving, it may be more convenient to use one of Cambridge’s Park and Ride services and walk or take a bus to the city centre.

Parks, Meadows & The River

The Backs

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Cambridge What to See: The Backs.

The Backs refer to the stretch of land along the River Cam where the river flows behind several colleges, including King’s College, Clare College, Trinity College, and St John’s College. The name “The Backs” comes from the fact that the river runs along the “back” of these colleges, giving visitors a tranquil and picturesque setting that contrasts with the bustling city centre.

Historically, the colleges along the Backs have maintained expansive gardens and meadows that stretch down to the river, creating a lush and green landscape that is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer. Walking along the Backs allows you to admire some of Cambridge’s most famous architectural landmarks, such as King’s College Chapel and the Bridge of Sighs at St John’s College. The combination of historic architecture and natural beauty makes it one of the most visited and photographed areas of the city.

In addition to walking along the Backs, visitors can also experience the views from the river itself by taking a punting tour along the Cam. This allows you to glide past the colleges and their gardens while listening to stories about Cambridge’s rich history and traditions.

What to See Around The Backs

When exploring The Backs in Cambridge, there are several beautiful and historic sites to see that capture both the architectural grandeur of the University of Cambridge and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Walking along The Backs, or viewing these sites from a punt on the River Cam, provides one of the most serene and picturesque experiences in the city, offering a mix of nature and history.

King’s College Chapel

One of the most iconic views is King’s College Chapel, which dominates the skyline with its towering Gothic architecture. From The Backs, you can admire the chapel’s intricate design, especially its soaring spires and magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling.

Clare College and Bridge

Clare College is another highlight, with its charming Clare Bridge—the oldest surviving bridge over the River Cam. The elegant stone bridge offers picturesque views of the college’s peaceful gardens and the river, making it a perfect photo spot.

Trinity College

Trinity College and its expansive Great Court can be admired from the Backs as well. Trinity is one of Cambridge’s largest and most prestigious colleges, and from the river, you can take in the tranquil college lawns and historic buildings.

St John's College

St John’s College is particularly notable for the Bridge of Sighs, an enclosed bridge that crosses the Cam, named after its resemblance to the famous bridge in Venice. This bridge, coupled with the college’s magnificent architecture, creates one of the most photographed views in Cambridge.

How to Get There

The Backs are centrally located in Cambridge, making them easy to access on foot or by public transport.

If you’re in the city centre, the Backs can be reached by walking through King’s Parade and then entering through various college entrances (depending on accessibility) or following public footpaths. There are several points along Silver Street, Garrett Hostel Lane, and Queen’s Road, where you can access the river and enjoy the Backs’ scenic views.

For visitors arriving by train, the Cambridge Railway Station is about a 20-25 minute walk from the Backs. You can follow Station Road to Trumpington Street and then head towards the city centre.

Historical & Interesting Places

Clare Bridge

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Clare Bridge is located within the grounds of Clare College, the second oldest college at the University of Cambridge, founded in 1326. The bridge was constructed as part of an expansion project for the college and has become one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Its elegant stone structure, complete with graceful arches, has survived unscathed through centuries of history, including the English Civil War.

One of the bridge’s most famous features is the missing section of an ornamental stone ball on one of the corners. Legend has it that this damage was caused either by a mischievous student or as a result of budgetary disagreements during its construction.

Although the true story remains unclear, this small detail has become a charming aspect of Clare Bridge’s history and adds to its unique character. The bridge provides stunning views of the River Cam and is a favourite spot for photographers, tourists, and students alike.

What to See Around Clare Bridge

At Clare Bridge, you can admire the elegant design of this 17th-century stone bridge, with its symmetrical arches and picturesque setting along the River Cam. The missing section of one of the stone balls is a quirky feature that adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the site. From the bridge, you also get beautiful views of the surrounding college gardens and the river, where you can often see punts gliding by, offering a quintessential Cambridge scene.

How to Get There

Clare Bridge is located within the grounds of Clare College, which can be accessed via King’s Parade in the city centre. The bridge is visible from The Backs, and if you’re walking along this scenic path, you can enjoy views of the bridge and the River Cam. Entry to the college itself may require a small fee, and visiting hours are subject to the college’s schedule.

By Foot: Clare Bridge is just a short walk from many other attractions in the city centre, including King’s College and Trinity College.
By Bus: Several buses stop near King’s Parade and St Andrew’s Street, both of which are just a few minutes away from Clare College.
By Train: If arriving at Cambridge Railway Station, you can walk to Clare Bridge in about 20 minutes or take a bus or taxi to the city centre.

Walking Tours

Cambridge Free Self-Guided Walking Tour To Explore the City

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Visiting Cambridge University: St John's College.

Cambridge is a vibrant and historic city in the east of England, most famously known for being home to the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious academic institutions. Founded in 1209, the university is intertwined with the city’s identity, contributing significantly to its cultural, intellectual, and architectural landscape.

Many of the city’s iconic buildings, such as King’s College Chapel and the Wren Library, reflect this academic legacy and draw visitors from all over the world.

Beyond its academic prestige, Cambridge is also renowned for its beautiful architecture and picturesque scenery. The River Cam, which winds through the city and alongside many of the university’s colleges, offers a peaceful setting and is popular for punting—a leisurely boat ride that provides unique views of the city’s historic landmarks. The surrounding green spaces, including The Backs and Jesus Green, add to the city’s charm, making it a wonderful place for walks and outdoor activities.

Cambridge Basic Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

As a relatively small and walkable city, Cambridge is easy to explore on foot or by bike. Cycling is especially popular here, and the city is often referred to as the cycling capital of the UK due to its extensive cycle paths and bike-friendly infrastructure. So, let’s see what’s worth visiting and why!

Basic Cambridge Walking Tour Directions and Stops

This walking tour covers some of Cambridge’s most iconic spots, giving you a well-rounded experience of the city’s history, architecture, and academic legacy in just a few hours. If you prefer, you can also open this map in your own Google Maps application 🔗.

King’s College Chapel: Start at this iconic Gothic masterpiece, known for its fan-vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows. You can either admire the chapel from the outside or take a tour inside to explore its grandeur.
The Backs: From King’s College, walk along the scenic “Backs,” the riverside path that offers picturesque views of the historic colleges and their gardens. This stretch provides a peaceful escape and some of the best photo opportunities in Cambridge.
Mathematical Bridge: Continue to Queens’ College to see the Mathematical Bridge, an engineering marvel that looks like an arch but is constructed entirely from straight wooden beams.
Clare Bridge: Walk a short distance to Clare College to see Cambridge’s oldest bridge, Clare Bridge, which dates back to the 17th century. Its serene setting across the River Cam is a highlight for visitors.
Great St Mary’s Church: Head back towards the city centre to visit Great St Mary’s, the university’s church. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the church tower for panoramic views of the city and its historic spires.
Cambridge Market Square: Just a few steps from Great St Mary’s is Market Square, the bustling heart of Cambridge. The daily market offers everything from fresh produce to unique crafts, and it’s a perfect spot to stop for a snack.
The Round Church: Continue to this rare Norman structure, one of only four round churches in England. Its distinctive circular design dates back to 1130, making it a must-see for history buffs.
Trinity College and Great Court: Finish your tour at Trinity College, home to Cambridge’s largest courtyard, Great Court, and the famous Wren Library, where treasures such as Isaac Newton’s manuscripts are housed (though access may be limited).

What You Shouldn't Miss in This Self-Guided Walking Tour

Cambridge has a lot to offer, so I enthusiastically encourage you to explore at your own pace and get lost in those little passages and parks. However, if you’re in the city for a day, I recommend you visit at least a few of these places:

King’s College Chapel

At this first stop, you can marvel at one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. The chapel is famous for its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, the largest of its kind in the world. The vast stained glass windows, dating from the 16th century, depict biblical scenes and are considered some of the finest in England. The chapel also houses The Adoration of the Magi by Rubens, a masterpiece located behind the altar. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a choir performance, you’ll hear the world-renowned King’s College Choir in action, known for their annual Christmas Eve service, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.

The Backs

The Backs is a scenic area where the River Cam flows behind several of Cambridge’s most famous colleges, including King’s, Clare, Trinity, and St John’s. Walking along this peaceful path offers stunning views of the college gardens and bridges, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries. This area is especially beautiful in the spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom, and it provides a quintessentially Cambridge experience. The walk also gives you a chance to view some of the most photographed spots in the city, particularly as you pass the picturesque Clare Bridge and Bridge of Sighs.

Mathematical Bridge

The Mathematical Bridge, located at Queens’ College, is an engineering marvel. Despite looking like an arch, it is constructed entirely from straight timber beams. The original bridge was built in 1749, and though urban legend claims it was designed by Isaac Newton without bolts or nails, this is a myth. The bridge has been reconstructed a few times, but it retains its original design and is a favourite stop for both its aesthetic beauty and the fascinating engineering behind it. From the bridge, you also get lovely views of the River Cam and surrounding college buildings.

Clare Bridge

Clare Bridge, built in 1640, is the oldest bridge in Cambridge. It spans the River Cam at Clare College and is known for its elegant arches and picturesque setting. One of the most intriguing features of the bridge is the missing section of the ornamental stonework on one of the spheres, which is said to have been removed by an eccentric fellow of Clare College as a prank. This story adds a playful aspect to the bridge’s historical significance. As you cross or view Clare Bridge, take time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the college gardens.

Great St Mary’s Church

Great St Mary’s Church, often referred to as GSM, is the university’s church and a centre of religious and academic life in Cambridge. Dating back to the 12th century, the current structure was largely rebuilt in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. A highlight of visiting GSM is climbing the church tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views over Cambridge, including the King’s College Chapel and the university colleges. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows and the historic Cambridge University Sermon House, where many famous university sermons were delivered.

Cambridge Market Square

Cambridge Market Square is the bustling heart of the city, where a market has been held since the Middle Ages. Open seven days a week, the market is home to a diverse range of stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, street food, crafts, books, and more. It’s a great place to grab a snack or browse for unique gifts. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including The Guildhall and Great St Mary’s Church, making it a lively spot to soak in the city’s atmosphere.

The Round Church

The Round Church, or Church of the Holy Sepulchre, was built in 1130 and is one of only four Norman round churches left in England. Its design was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, making it an important architectural and religious site. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition on the history of Christianity in Cambridge and the church’s role in the development of the university. The unique circular shape of the church is striking, and its well-preserved Norman architecture provides a fascinating glimpse into Cambridge’s early medieval past.

Trinity College and Great Court

Your tour ends at Trinity College, one of the largest and most prestigious colleges of the University of Cambridge. Established in 1546 by Henry VIII, the college is famous for its Great Court, the largest enclosed courtyard in Europe. Here, you can see the Wren Library, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century, which houses many priceless manuscripts, including works by Isaac Newton. The college has produced a long list of notable alumni, including Sir Isaac Newton, Lord Byron, and, more recently, Stephen Hawking. The stunning architecture and historical significance of Trinity College make it a fitting conclusion to your walking tour.

What To Bring On Your Self-Guided Walking Tour

When embarking on your self-guided walking tour of Cambridge, there are a few essential items to bring to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Cambridge’s streets are a mix of cobblestones and paved paths, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to cover a lot of ground.
Map or Guidebook: Whether digital or physical, having a map or guidebook will help you navigate the city and ensure you don’t miss any key landmarks.
Camera or Smartphone: Cambridge is full of picturesque views, historic architecture, and beautiful college gardens, so be sure to bring something to capture the moments.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you’re walking for a few hours. There are cafes along the way, but it’s always good to have water handy.
Light Snacks: If you prefer to keep going without stopping for lunch, pack some snacks to enjoy during the tour or in one of the city’s lovely parks.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Cambridge weather can be unpredictable. In summer, bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat, while an umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable for cooler, rainy days.
Notebook or Journal: If you’re a history buff or interested in the cultural significance of Cambridge’s landmarks, it can be nice to take notes as you explore, especially if you plan to visit museums or read up on sites later.

Sports and Activities

Punting in Cambridge

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

A punt is a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a punt pole pushed against the riverbed, allowing a gentle glide along the River Cam. Punting is especially popular along the “Backs,” the stretch of river that runs behind several of the University of Cambridge’s historic colleges, offering spectacular views of landmarks like King’s College Chapel, Clare College, and Trinity College.

There are two main ways to enjoy punting: self-punting and chauffeured punting. Self-punting offers a fun challenge as you navigate the river yourself, perfect for a leisurely day with friends or family. If you’d prefer a more relaxing experience, many companies offer chauffeured punt tours, where an experienced guide navigates the boat and provides interesting commentary on the history of Cambridge and its colleges.

Punting is especially popular in the warmer months, but it’s available year-round. Whether you choose to try your hand at punting or let someone else do the work, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of Cambridge from a different perspective.

Two Ways to Punt

The tradition of punting dates back to the early 20th century, and it has become a quintessential experience for both visitors and locals. Your options are:

Self-punting: This option is ideal for the adventurous. You hire a punt and navigate the river yourself. It may seem easy, but balancing and steering the punt with the long pole can be a challenge—though that’s part of the fun! Families, friends, or couples often enjoy trying their hand at punting, with many laughs and memorable moments along the way.
Chauffeured punting: For a more relaxing experience, you can hire a professional punter to take you on a guided tour. Chauffeured punting is a wonderful way to sit back and enjoy the views while the guide navigates and shares fascinating stories and historical facts about the city and its colleges. The Backs (the river section that runs behind the university colleges) offers views of King’s College Chapel, Clare Bridge, The Wren Library, and other architectural gems, making this a scenic and informative experience.

Why Punting is Special

Punting offers unparalleled views of Cambridge’s “Backs”, a beautiful area of gardens and college buildings that are not visible from the city streets. The peaceful flow of the river and the proximity to the historic colleges make punting a romantic and serene experience, especially in the spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom. The leisurely pace of the punt also allows for plenty of photo opportunities and quiet moments to take in the impressive architecture.

When to Punt

Punting is available year-round, though the best time to go is during the warmer months (spring to early autumn) when the weather is mild and the river is buzzing with activity. Even in winter, some companies offer chauffeured punts with blankets and hot drinks, creating a cosy way to explore the city’s waterways.

Routes:

The Backs: This is the most popular route, taking you past the rear of several famous colleges, including King’s, Trinity, Clare, and St. John’s. You’ll also pass under the picturesque Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.
Grantchester: For those looking for a longer adventure, you can punt down the river to Grantchester, a charming village a few miles south of Cambridge. This route is more rural, offering a quieter and more pastoral experience.

How to Get There

Several companies along the river offer punt rentals and chauffeured tours. Popular starting points include Quayside near Magdalene College and Silver Street near Queens’ College. Both locations are centrally located and easy to access by foot, bus, or bike.

Whether you opt for a self-punt or a chauffeured tour, punting in Cambridge is a delightful and unforgettable way to see the city from a different perspective. It’s not just a fun activity but also a wonderful way to connect with the rich history and scenic beauty of Cambridge.

Historical & Interesting Places

Cambridge Castle Mound

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Cambridge Castle Mound is one of the few surviving remnants of Cambridge Castle, originally built by William the Conqueror 🔗 in 1068 as part of his efforts to control England after the Norman Conquest. The castle was constructed as a motte-and-bailey fortification 🔗, with the motte (mound) as the central defensive position. The mound is one of the oldest Norman sites in Cambridge and provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s defensive history.

Over the centuries, the wooden and later stone structures on the mound have largely disappeared, but the mound itself remains a significant historical landmark in the city.

While much of the original Cambridge Castle was dismantled in the 17th century, parts of the site were later used for military purposes, including the construction of a prison. Today, only the mound remains, offering visitors a tangible link to Cambridge’s medieval past and a unique vantage point to view the city.

What to See Around The Castle Mound

The Castle Mound: Climb the mound to experience sweeping panoramic views over Cambridge, including landmarks such as St John’s College and Great St Mary’s Church. The site’s height gives visitors a sense of its strategic importance in the Norman period.
Historic Information: At the base of the mound, you’ll find signs detailing the history of Cambridge Castle and the surrounding area, helping to understand its historical significance.
Peaceful Atmosphere: The mound is a quiet spot, offering a peaceful break from the city’s bustling streets and an opportunity to reflect on Cambridge’s ancient history.

How to Get There

Cambridge Castle Mound is located off Castle Street, just a short distance from the city centre:

By Foot: From the city centre, the mound is about a 10-minute walk north, near Shire Hall and close to the River Cam.
By Bus: Several buses stop near Castle Street, including services that run from Drummer Street Bus Station, which is a short walk from the site.
By Train: If arriving at Cambridge Railway Station, it’s about a 30-minute walk or a quick bus or taxi ride to the mound.
By Car: Parking is limited in central Cambridge, so using the Park and Ride services is recommended, allowing you to park outside the city and take a bus to the city centre.

Visitors can enjoy this historic site year-round, offering both historical insights and fantastic views over Cambridge.

Historical & Interesting Places

Cambridge Market Square

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Cambridge Market Square is the bustling heart of the city, located right in the centre near Great St Mary’s Church and the Guildhall. Its origins date back to the medieval period, when it became a key site for trade and commerce. Over the centuries, Cambridge Market Square has served as a vibrant hub for the city’s residents and visitors alike, offering a range of goods from local farmers, artisans, and merchants.

The square has played a crucial role in Cambridge’s economic and social life, acting as a place where the community gathers to exchange goods, ideas, and stories.

Today, the market continues to function seven days a week, showcasing a variety of stalls that sell everything from fresh produce, flowers, and baked goods to handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and books. The Market Square is not only a place to shop but also a perfect spot to experience Cambridge’s vibrant and diverse culture. Its central location makes it a popular destination for both tourists and locals who enjoy its lively atmosphere and historical significance.

What to See Around The Cambridge Market Square

Variety of Market Stalls: Browse a wide range of stalls selling local produce, food, handmade crafts, clothing, books, and more. The market changes daily, offering new things to discover each time you visit.
Street Food: Enjoy freshly prepared food from street vendors offering an international variety of dishes, from traditional British fare to flavours from around the world.
Historic Setting: Surrounding the market are several historic buildings, including Great St Mary’s Church and the Guildhall, making it a perfect location for photography and exploration.
Seasonal Markets: In addition to the daily market, special seasonal markets pop up throughout the year, such as Christmas markets and festivals.

How to Get There

Cambridge Market Square is centrally located and easily accessible:

By Foot: If you’re in the city centre, the market is within walking distance of popular attractions like King’s College and Trinity College. It’s located just off Market Hill and next to Great St Mary’s Church.
By Bus: Several bus routes stop nearby, including those that stop at St Andrew’s Street and Drummer Street, both just a few minutes’ walk from the market.
By Train: Cambridge Railway Station is about a 20-minute walk away, or you can take a bus from the station to the city centre.
By Car: Parking in the city centre is limited, so using Park and Ride services is recommended. These allow you to park outside Cambridge and take a bus directly to the city centre.

Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, sampling local food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Cambridge Market Square is a must-see destination for visitors to the city.

Historical & Interesting Places

The Mathematical Bridge

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

The Mathematical Bridge, officially known as the Wooden Bridge, is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in Cambridge. Located at Queens’ College, the bridge spans the River Cam and connects two parts of the college, the Old Court and the newer buildings on the west bank. The original bridge was built in 1749 by the renowned English architect William Etheridge, and it was rebuilt twice—once in 1866 and again in 1905, following the original design.

What makes the Mathematical Bridge fascinating is its design. Although it appears to be an arch, it is actually composed of straight timbers, ingeniously arranged to create the illusion of a curved structure. Legend has it that the bridge was built without any bolts or nails, using only wooden joints. While this myth is not true—the bridge is indeed fastened with metal bolts—it adds to the allure of the structure. The name “Mathematical Bridge” stems from the precision and geometric principles behind its construction, which make it both a practical and aesthetically pleasing example of engineering. It remains a symbol of Cambridge’s rich academic and scientific heritage.

What to See Around The Mathematical Bridge

The Bridge’s Unique Design: Marvel at the clever use of straight timbers arranged to form what appears to be a curved bridge, demonstrating the genius of early engineering and architectural design.
River Views: From the bridge, you can enjoy picturesque views of the River Cam and the surrounding college buildings, offering one of the most quintessentially Cambridge scenes.
The Myth and History: Learn about the myths surrounding the bridge, including the tale that it was constructed by Sir Isaac Newton without nails or bolts—despite the fact that Newton had died before its construction.

How to Get There

The Mathematical Bridge is located at Queens’ College, on Silver Street in central Cambridge:

By Foot: From the city centre or Market Square, it’s a short walk via Silver Street. You can also stroll along the river to enjoy views of the bridge from various angles.
By Bus: Several city buses stop near Silver Street or Trumpington Street, both just a few minutes’ walk from the bridge.
By Train: If arriving by train, Cambridge Railway Station is about a 25-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to the city centre and then walk to Queens’ College.
By Car: Parking in central Cambridge is limited, so using the Park and Ride services is recommended. These allow you to park outside the city and take a bus directly into the centre.

The Mathematical Bridge is easily viewed from Silver Street, though access to the bridge itself requires entry into Queens’ College, which may have limited visiting hours.

Historical & Interesting Places

St. Bene’t’s Church

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

St. Bene’t’s Church is the oldest building in Cambridge, with its Saxon tower dating back to around 1030 AD. The church’s name is derived from St. Benedict, the patron saint of Europe, and it has been a site of continuous worship for nearly a millennium. Its history is intertwined with the development of Cambridge as both a religious and academic centre, making it an important landmark in the city’s historical fabric.

The tower is the most ancient part of the church, and its architecture provides a rare glimpse into the early medieval period.

During the Norman and medieval periods, the church underwent various modifications, but its core Saxon structure remains intact. St. Bene’t’s has long served the community, including members of Corpus Christi College, located next door. The church is known for its quiet simplicity, a stark contrast to the more elaborate Gothic structures in Cambridge. Despite its modest size, St. Bene’t’s holds a significant place in Cambridge’s religious and architectural history, offering a peaceful retreat in the bustling city.

What to See In St Bene't's Church

Saxon Tower: The most iconic feature of St. Bene’t’s is its well-preserved Saxon tower, which dates back nearly 1,000 years and is one of the oldest examples of Anglo-Saxon architecture in England.
Norman and Medieval Additions: The church also features later Norman and medieval architectural elements, providing a fascinating timeline of English ecclesiastical design.
Stained Glass: Inside, you can find several beautiful stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 19th century, portraying biblical scenes and saints.
Historic Bells: The church’s bells, cast in the 13th century, are some of the oldest in the country that are still regularly rung today, preserving the ancient tradition of bell ringing in Cambridge.
Peaceful Interior: The church’s interior is simple but serene, offering a quiet space for reflection amid Cambridge’s busy city centre.

How to Get There

St. Bene’t’s Church is centrally located at Bene’t Street in Cambridge:

By Foot: St. Bene’t’s is just a short walk from the city centre and near attractions like the Corpus Clock and Market Square.
By Bus: Several local buses stop near Trumpington Street and Market Square, just a few minutes’ walk from the church.
By Train: If arriving by train, Cambridge Railway Station is about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride from St. Bene’t’s.
By Car: Parking in central Cambridge can be challenging, so using one of the Park and Ride services is recommended. These allow you to park outside the city and take a bus directly to the centre.

Tags Churches

Historical & Interesting Places

Great St Mary’s Church

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Great St. Mary's Church.

Great St Mary’s Church, often referred to simply as GSM, is one of the most historically significant landmarks in Cambridge. Located in the heart of the city, this parish and university church dates back to the 12th century, with its current structure mostly built in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Its proximity to the University of Cambridge makes it the university’s official church, and it has played a vital role in both religious and academic life over the centuries.

The church was central to the Protestant Reformation in Cambridge, with key reformers such as Hugh Latimer and Thomas Cranmer preaching here.

In addition to its religious importance, Great St Mary’s has long served as a meeting place for academic discussions and debates. Its famous tower offers stunning views of Cambridge and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular attraction for visitors. Today, the church continues to serve as a place of worship and community gathering, while also welcoming tourists eager to explore its rich history and architectural beauty.

What to See In Great St Mary’s Church

The Tower: Climb the 123 steps of Great St Mary’s Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Cambridge, including a bird’s-eye view of King’s College Chapel and other university landmarks.
The Nave: Admire the Gothic architecture of the church’s interior, which includes an impressive nave and beautifully restored 15th-century woodwork.
The Organ: The church’s historic organ, rebuilt several times, is a highlight for music lovers. The current instrument dates back to the early 18th century and is still used for concerts and services.
University Sermons: Great St Mary’s hosts university sermons, continuing its centuries-old tradition of being the official church of Cambridge University.
Stained Glass Windows: While much of the stained glass is Victorian, it adds a colourful and spiritual dimension to the otherwise stately Gothic architecture.

How to Get There

Great St Mary’s Church is centrally located at the northern end of King’s Parade, making it easily accessible:

By Foot: The church is in the heart of the city centre, just a short walk from other key attractions like King’s College and Market Square.
By Bus: Several city buses stop near the Market Square, which is only a minute’s walk from the church.
By Train: From Cambridge Railway Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the city centre, or you can take a bus or taxi directly to King’s Parade.
By Car: Central parking in Cambridge is limited, but the Park and Ride services allow you to park outside the city and take a bus to the city centre.

Tags Churches

What to See In Jesus Green

How to Get There

What to See Around The Backs

King’s College Chapel

Clare College and Bridge

Trinity College

St John's College

How to Get There

What to See Around Clare Bridge

How to Get There

Cambridge Basic Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

Basic Cambridge Walking Tour Directions and Stops

What You Shouldn't Miss in This Self-Guided Walking Tour

King’s College Chapel

The Backs

Mathematical Bridge

Clare Bridge

Great St Mary’s Church

Cambridge Market Square

The Round Church

Trinity College and Great Court

What To Bring On Your Self-Guided Walking Tour

Two Ways to Punt

Why Punting is Special

When to Punt

How to Get There

What to See Around The Castle Mound

How to Get There

What to See Around The Cambridge Market Square

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What to See Around The Mathematical Bridge

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What to See In St Bene't's Church

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What to See In Great St Mary’s Church

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