Category: Visiting Cambridge

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

Historical & Interesting Places

The Round Church

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

Cambridge Must-Sees: The Round Church.

The Round Church, formally known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is one of Cambridge’s oldest and most distinctive landmarks. Built around 1130, it is one of only four surviving Norman round churches in England, modelled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre 🔗 in Jerusalem. Its unique circular structure was inspired by the Crusader churches of the Holy Land, symbolising the religious fervour of the time and the importance of pilgrimage.

The church was originally built by the “Fraternity of the Holy Sepulchre (an Eastern Orthodox fraternity that guarded holy places in the Holy Land) to serve as a wayfarers’ chapel for pilgrims and travellers passing through Cambridge. Its strategic location at the junction of two ancient roads made it a natural meeting place. Over the centuries, the Round Church has witnessed significant changes, both architecturally and historically.

In the 19th century, it underwent substantial restoration under architect Anthony Salvin to preserve its Norman features. Today, it serves as a visitor centre, exploring the history of Christianity in Cambridge and the architectural development of the city. It is a must-see for those interested in medieval architecture and the religious history of Cambridge.

The Round Church in Medieval Times

The Round Church or Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the oldest and most distinctive buildings in Cambridge, dating back to the early 12th century. Built around 1130, it was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and is one of only four round churches in England. The design, featuring a circular nave, reflects the influence of the Crusades, as returning knights sought to replicate the sacred architecture they had seen in the Holy Land.

During medieval times, the Round Church served as a vital part of Cambridge’s religious community, mainly catering to travellers and pilgrims due to its location along critical routes leading into the city. As Cambridge grew, both in population and as a centre of learning, the church remained an important place of worship and community gathering.

We're Lucky To Still Have This Church Today!

Did you know that the church was almost demolished in the 19th century? That’s right. Its poor state of repair prompted discussions about taking it down. Thankfully, Anthony Salvin, a well-known architect of the Gothic Revival period, restored it and preserved much of its original medieval character.

What to See In The Round Church

Unique Norman Architecture: The Round Church’s striking circular nave and thick Norman columns are exceptional examples of 12th-century design. The round shape is a rarity in English ecclesiastical architecture.
Exhibitions: Inside the church, there are interactive exhibits about the history of Christianity in Cambridge, including the role of Cambridge scholars in the Reformation and the development of the university.
Stained Glass Windows: Though much of the church is Romanesque, some Victorian additions include beautiful stained glass, depicting religious scenes and figures.
Historic Atmosphere: The quiet and spiritual atmosphere of the church offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Cambridge, allowing visitors to contemplate its nearly 900 years of history.

You can learn more about this fantastic church in the official website 🔗.

Opening Times

Sunday and Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 1:30pm – 5pm
Wednesday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm (4.45pm last entrance)

How to Get There

The Round Church is centrally located at Bridge Street in Cambridge, making it easily accessible:

By Foot: From the city centre or Market Square, it’s just a few minutes’ walk down Bridge Street.
By Bus: Local buses stop at nearby Bridge Street and Jesus Lane, both just a short walk from the church.
By Train: If you’re 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 walk from there.
By Car: Parking in central Cambridge is limited, but the Park and Ride service offers convenient parking outside the city with buses into the centre.

Tags Churches

Historical & Interesting Places

King’s College Chapel

Post author By admin
Post date September 5, 2024

King's College Chapel. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

King’s College Chapel is one of the most famous and iconic buildings in Cambridge, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. Construction of the chapel began in 1446 under the reign of King Henry VI 🔗, who founded King’s College with the intention of creating an institution to rival Eton.

The building took nearly a century to complete, with several English monarchs contributing to its development, including Richard III and Henry VIII. Its architectural beauty, coupled with its cultural significance, has made it a symbol of Cambridge.

The chapel is renowned for its magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling, one of the largest in the world, and its intricate stained glass windows, many of which date from the 16th century. The structure reflects the religious and academic ambitions of the Tudor era and continues to be a place of worship, study, and musical performance to this day. It plays a central role in the university’s choral tradition, housing the world-famous Choir of King’s College, whose annual Christmas Eve service is broadcast worldwide.

What to See In King’s College Chapel

Visitors to King’s College Chapel can marvel at:

The Fan-Vaulted Ceiling: An extraordinary feat of engineering, it is the largest fan vault in the world and showcases the craftsmanship of the Gothic era.
Stained Glass Windows: The 16th-century stained glass, depicting biblical scenes, is among the most significant in Europe, especially renowned for its vivid colours and intricate details.
The Great East Window: Dominating the eastern end of the chapel, this window is a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
The Organ: Dating back to 1605, the organ has been modified over the centuries and is used for choral and instrumental performances.
The Rubens Painting: A large and notable painting, The Adoration of the Magi by Peter Paul Rubens, hangs in the chapel.
The Choir: If you visit during term time, you might be able to hear the world-renowned King’s College Choir at Evensong, a must-see for classical music lovers.

How to Get There

King’s College Chapel is centrally located in Cambridge and easily accessible.

By Foot: The chapel is a short walk from many other key attractions in Cambridge city centre, including Market Square and the River Cam.
By Bus: Local buses stop near King’s Parade, just a short stroll from the chapel.
By Train: If you’re arriving by train, Cambridge Railway Station is about a 20-minute walk from King’s College Chapel. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from the station.
By Car: Driving in Cambridge can be tricky due to limited parking, but there are several park-and-ride services available, allowing visitors to leave their cars outside the city and take a bus into the centre.

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Museums & Art Galleries

Cambridge Artworks

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Established in 1995, the gallery was created as a collective by a group of local artists looking for an affordable and supportive environment to develop their practice. Over the years, Cambridge Artworks has grown into a vibrant hub for both emerging and established artists, fostering creativity and collaboration within the Cambridge art scene.

The gallery provides a platform for artists to exhibit their work, while the studios offer a shared space for creative exchange and production.

Run as a non-profit organisation, Cambridge Artworks places a strong emphasis on community engagement, with regular exhibitions, open studio events, and workshops. The gallery actively encourages dialogue between artists and the public, aiming to make contemporary art accessible to all. It remains a key player in Cambridge’s cultural landscape, providing both artists and visitors with a welcoming and inclusive space to experience and explore art.

What to See In This Museum

At Cambridge Artworks, visitors can expect to find a diverse range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media works. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions showcasing the work of resident artists as well as guest exhibitions by local and national artists. The rotating programme ensures that there is always something fresh and exciting to see.

In addition to exhibitions, Cambridge Artworks holds annual open studio events, allowing the public to meet the artists and gain insights into their creative processes. The gallery also offers workshops, talks, and other events that engage with the wider community, making it a space for both artistic appreciation and learning.

How to Get There

Cambridge Artworks is located on Green’s Road, just a short distance from Cambridge city centre. If you are travelling by train, Cambridge Station is around a 25-minute walk from the gallery, or you can take a bus to the city centre.

Local bus routes, such as the Citi 1 and Citi 8, stop near the area. For those travelling by car, parking can be limited, so using Cambridge’s park-and-ride services is recommended. The gallery is also accessible by bicycle, with bike parking available nearby, making it easy to visit from any part of the city.

Tags Art Galleries

Museums & Art Galleries

Kettle’s Yard

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Originally the home of Jim Ede, a former curator at the Tate Gallery, Kettle’s Yard was established in 1957 when Ede opened his doors to students and visitors, offering them the chance to see his personal collection of artworks in a domestic setting. His vision was to create a space where art, nature, and architecture harmoniously blended, allowing for a relaxed and immersive viewing experience.

The house and gallery underwent a major redevelopment and reopened in 2018 with new exhibition spaces, while retaining the spirit of Ede’s original vision. Today, Kettle’s Yard remains a vibrant centre for modern art, presenting a mix of 20th-century art alongside contemporary exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programmes. The gallery is part of the University of Cambridge and continues to be a hub for artistic discovery and engagement.

What to See In This Museum

At Kettle’s Yard, visitors can explore a rich collection of 20th-century art in an intimate home setting. The house itself is filled with works by renowned artists such as Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and Alfred Wallis. The artworks are displayed alongside carefully curated furniture, natural objects, and other found pieces, creating a unique aesthetic where art and everyday life are intertwined.

The gallery also hosts contemporary art exhibitions, showcasing a wide range of media from painting and sculpture to installation and video art. In addition to its permanent collection, Kettle’s Yard offers temporary exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops that provide new insights into both historical and contemporary art.

How to Get There

Kettle’s Yard is located on Castle Street, just a short walk from the centre of Cambridge. If you’re travelling by train, Cambridge Station is about 30 minutes on foot, or you can take a bus from the station to the city centre. Several local bus routes, including Citi 5 and Citi 6, stop near Castle Street.

For those driving, parking in the city centre can be limited, so using one of Cambridge’s park-and-ride services is recommended. The gallery is also easily accessible by bicycle, with bike parking available nearby.

Tags Art Galleries

Museums & Art Galleries

The Museum of Zoology

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Originally founded in 1865, the museum has grown into a vital resource for researchers, students, and the general public, showcasing an extensive collection of animal specimens from across the globe. Its rich history is closely tied to the development of evolutionary biology and the legacy of Charles Darwin, whose contributions to the study of zoology are reflected in some of the museum’s collections.

Reopened in 2018 after a major refurbishment, the museum now boasts modern, engaging displays that bring the world of animals to life. It is home to hundreds of thousands of specimens, ranging from the smallest insects to giant marine mammals, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of animal life. With its roots in scientific study and discovery, the Museum of Zoology is not only a place of wonder but also a hub for learning about biodiversity and conservation efforts.

What to See In This Museum

Visitors to the Museum of Zoology can expect to encounter a diverse range of animal specimens. One of the museum’s standout features is the enormous fin whale skeleton, which hangs dramatically in the entrance hall. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing the animal kingdom, from tiny insects and preserved birds to large mammals.

The museum also highlights key moments in evolutionary biology, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin during his voyage on the HMS Beagle. Interactive displays make the exhibits engaging for all ages, while the collection of fossils, taxidermy, and skeletons allows visitors to explore the past and present diversity of life on Earth.

Temporary exhibitions, themed around topics such as climate change and conservation, offer fresh perspectives on the importance of protecting the natural world.

How to Get There

The Museum of Zoology is located on Downing Street in central Cambridge, making it easily accessible by foot or public transport. Cambridge Station is approximately a 20-minute walk from the museum, or you can take a bus from the station to the city centre.

Local buses, including the Citi 1, Citi 3, and Citi 7, stop near Downing Street, making it convenient for visitors travelling by bus. For those driving, parking can be limited in the city centre, so it is recommended to use Cambridge’s park-and-ride services. If you’re cycling, Cambridge is a bike-friendly city, and there are places to park your bike nearby.

Tags Museums

Museums & Art Galleries

The Polar Museum

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Established in 1920, the Scott Polar Research Institute was founded in memory of Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his ill-fated Terra Nova expedition to Antarctica. Scott’s tragic death during the race to the South Pole deeply moved the British public, leading to the creation of the institute, which today is a world-leading centre for polar research.

The Polar Museum was developed to showcase the institute’s collections and to share the incredible stories of polar exploration with the public.

The museum focuses on both the Arctic and Antarctic regions, providing insight into the lives of explorers, indigenous peoples, and the science that has developed through polar expeditions. It houses artefacts, documents, and scientific instruments from historic expeditions, while also examining contemporary issues such as climate change. The Polar Museum has become a key destination for those interested in the unique environments and histories of Earth’s most extreme regions.

What to See In This Museum

The Polar Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits related to polar exploration and research. Visitors can explore artefacts from legendary expeditions, including items used by Captain Scott and Sir Ernest Shackleton during their Antarctic journeys. The museum displays letters, photographs, and personal items from explorers, providing a human connection to the harsh and dangerous conditions they faced.

The museum also highlights the scientific aspects of polar research, with exhibits focusing on glaciology, meteorology, and the impact of climate change on the polar regions. In addition, there are fascinating displays about the indigenous peoples of the Arctic, showcasing their traditional tools, clothing, and ways of life. Temporary exhibitions often feature contemporary polar research and artwork inspired by the polar landscapes.

How to Get There

The Polar Museum is located on Lensfield Road in Cambridge, just a short walk from the city centre. It is easily accessible by public transport. Cambridge Station is about a 15-minute walk away, or you can take a bus from the station to the city centre. Several bus routes, including the Citi 1, 3, and 7, stop near Lensfield Road.

If you’re travelling by car, parking in Cambridge can be limited, so it’s advisable to use one of the park-and-ride services. The museum is also conveniently accessible by bicycle, with bike parking available nearby.

Tags Museums

Museums & Art Galleries

The Whipple Museum of the History of Science

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Established in 1944, the museum was founded following a major donation from Robert Stewart Whipple, a Cambridge graduate and avid collector of scientific instruments. His extensive collection formed the basis of the museum, which now includes a fascinating range of objects that illustrate the development of science over centuries.

The museum is part of the University of Cambridge’s Department of History and Philosophy of Science and has since grown into one of the leading collections of scientific instruments and artefacts in the UK. It explores the history of science from the medieval period to the 20th century, with a focus on astronomy, mathematics, natural philosophy, and scientific discovery. The Whipple Museum provides an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and the general public, offering insights into how scientific knowledge and tools have shaped our understanding of the world.

What to See In This Museum

At the Whipple Museum of the History of Science, visitors can explore a wide range of fascinating scientific instruments, models, and artefacts. Highlights include historical telescopes, globes, and mathematical instruments, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The collection also features intricate orreries (models of the solar system), early microscopes, and astrolabes used for astronomical measurements.

The museum offers interactive displays and exhibits that bring the history of scientific discovery to life, from early experiments in physics and chemistry to breakthroughs in astronomy. Visitors can also explore unique teaching instruments from Cambridge’s academic history and models that illustrate various scientific principles.

Temporary exhibitions and special displays often feature rare or newly discovered items from the museum’s vast collection, offering new perspectives on the history of science and innovation.

How to Get There

The Whipple Museum of the History of Science is located on Free School Lane, right in the centre of Cambridge. It is easily accessible by public transport or on foot. Cambridge Station is about a 20-minute walk from the museum, or visitors can take a bus from the station into the city centre.

Several local bus routes, such as the Citi 1 and Citi 3, stop nearby. If driving, parking in central Cambridge can be challenging, so it’s recommended to use one of the city’s park-and-ride services. The museum is also easily reached by bicycle, with parking facilities for bikes available nearby.

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Museums & Art Galleries

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) is one of the University of Cambridge’s most remarkable museums, showcasing an impressive collection of artefacts from across the globe. Established in 1884, the museum was initially created to house and study the University’s anthropological and archaeological collections, which had been steadily growing through donations and fieldwork by Cambridge scholars.

The museum’s founders aimed to offer a space for the public, students, and academics to explore human history and culture through objects.

Today, the MAA boasts an extraordinary collection of over a million artefacts from all inhabited continents, spanning more than two million years of human history. The museum has strong ties to notable figures such as Captain James Cook, whose expeditions brought back important Polynesian artefacts, and pioneering anthropologists like Alfred Haddon. It is renowned not only for its collections from Oceania, Africa, and the Americas but also for its rich archaeological findings from across the UK and Europe. As both a research institution and a public museum, the MAA plays a crucial role in the study and appreciation of human culture and history.

What to See In This Museum

At the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, visitors can explore a diverse array of exhibits covering both archaeology and anthropology. The museum is famous for its ethnographic collections, which include striking objects from Oceania, such as intricately carved wooden masks and canoes from the Pacific Islands. Highlights include artefacts from the voyages of Captain Cook and stunning items from Africa, Asia, and the Americas that reveal the cultural diversity of human societies.

In the archaeology galleries, visitors can discover objects from prehistoric Britain, such as ancient tools, pottery, and Roman artefacts. The museum’s collection of Anglo-Saxon treasures, including jewellery and weaponry, is also a must-see. Temporary exhibitions often showcase new research and collections, bringing fresh perspectives on human history and cultural exchange.

How to Get There

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology is conveniently located in the centre of Cambridge on Downing Street, just a short walk from the city’s main attractions. If travelling by train, Cambridge Station is about 20 minutes on foot or a 10-minute bus ride away.

Local buses, including routes such as Citi 1, 3, and 7, stop close to the museum. Parking in the city centre can be limited, so it is recommended to use one of Cambridge’s park-and-ride services if you are driving. The museum is also easily accessible by bicycle, with cycle parking available nearby, reflecting Cambridge’s reputation as a bike-friendly city.

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Museums & Art Galleries

The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Cambridge Museums: The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences.

Founded in 1904 in honour of Adam Sedgwick 🔗, a renowned geologist and Woodwardian Professor of Geology, the museum houses an extensive collection of rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world. Sedgwick himself played a significant role in the development of geology in the 19th century, and the museum’s collections reflect his life’s work as well as contributions from other leading geologists.

The museum is situated on the Downing Site of the University of Cambridge, in the heart of the city. It was established with the aim of preserving and showcasing geological specimens for both academic study and public interest.

Over the years, the museum has become a valuable educational resource, attracting students, researchers, and visitors from across the globe. Its exhibitions explore the Earth’s 4.5-billion-year history, offering an immersive journey through geological time. Today, the Sedgwick Museum holds over 2 million specimens, making it one of the most significant geological collections in the UK.

What to See In This Museum

The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences offers a rich and diverse collection. Visitors can explore fossils from prehistoric life, including dinosaur bones, ancient sea creatures, and plants. Some of the highlights include specimens from the Jurassic Coast, as well as fossils collected by Charles Darwin during his voyage on HMS Beagle. There are also beautiful displays of minerals and gemstones, illustrating the Earth’s geological processes.

Additionally, the museum has displays focusing on Cambridge’s own geological history, including fossils from the surrounding areas. Visitors can trace the history of the Earth through interactive exhibits and detailed maps, gaining insights into how the planet has changed over billions of years.

How to Get There

The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences is located at the Downing Site, which is easily accessible by public transport or on foot. If you’re travelling by train, Cambridge Station is a 20-minute walk from the museum, or you can catch a bus from the station to the city centre.

For those arriving by bus, there are several routes that stop near the Downing Site, including the Citi 1, Citi 3, and Citi 7. Parking in the city can be limited, so using park-and-ride services is a good option if you’re driving. Bicycles can also be parked nearby, as Cambridge is a very cycle-friendly city.

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Historical & Interesting Places

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Post author By admin
Post date September 4, 2024

Founded in 1846, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a 40-acre haven of natural beauty, scientific research, and educational activities. Established by Professor John Stevens Henslow, Charles Darwin’s mentor, the garden was created as a place for scientific research and teaching, with a collection of diverse plant species from around the world.

Today, it remains a key site for botanical research, supporting the study of plant biodiversity, conservation, and climate change.

While its academic roots are strong, the Botanic Garden is also a much-loved public space where visitors can enjoy its extensive collection of over 8,000 plant species, beautifully landscaped gardens, and tranquil green spaces. The garden provides a peaceful retreat from the busy city, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to relax and explore the wonders of the natural world.

What to See

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a wide variety of landscapes and collections to explore:

Glasshouses: These house a fascinating range of tropical, alpine, and arid plants, including cacti, carnivorous plants, and delicate orchids.
Systematic Beds: An impressive display of plant diversity, where species are grouped based on their botanical relationships, offering insight into plant evolution and taxonomy.
Winter Garden: A vibrant section of the garden designed to showcase plants that provide colour and interest during the colder months.
Bee Borders and Woodland Garden: Providing habitats for wildlife, these areas are filled with pollinator-friendly plants and shady walks.
Lake and Rock Garden: Two of the most peaceful areas in the garden, ideal for a relaxing stroll while enjoying stunning views of the water and alpine plants.
Seasonal highlights, including spring bulbs, summer wildflowers, and autumnal foliage, offer a changing experience throughout the year.

The garden also hosts events, exhibitions, and educational programmes for all ages, making it a dynamic space for learning and exploration.

How to Get There

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the Cambridge railway station and about 20 minutes from the city centre. The main entrance is on Trumpington Road, and it is easily accessible by foot or bicycle, with cycle parking available on-site. Several bus routes, including those from Cambridge Park & Ride, stop nearby, providing an easy option for public transport. There is no on-site parking, but there are public car parks nearby. For visitors travelling by car, using the Trumpington Park & Ride service is a convenient option.

The Round Church in Medieval Times

We're Lucky To Still Have This Church Today!

What to See In The Round Church

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What to See In This Museum

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What to See In This Museum

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What to See In This Museum

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