Cambridge Must-Sees: Senate House. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Senate House

The Senate House is an iconic building located in the heart of the University of Cambridge and built between 1722 and 1730.

The Senate House serves as a significant landmark and an integral part of university life. Built between 1722 and 1730, it was originally designed by architect James Gibbs in the neoclassical style. It stands next to King’s College and is situated near the Old Schools and Gonville and Caius College, forming part of the university’s historic core.

Situated in the centre of Cambridge, just off King’s Parade, the Senate House is a popular tourist spot. Visitors can admire its exterior or catch a glimpse of graduation events that take place throughout the year. The building’s elegant exterior contrasts with the older medieval colleges nearby, offering a more refined 18th-century architectural style. 

The Senate House is most famously used for degree ceremonies. University students don their academic robes and gather here for graduation, making it a significant ceremonial space for students and their families. It has also been a focal point for significant university announcements and gatherings, adding to its importance in the institution’s governance and traditions.

What to See In The Senate House

When visiting The Senate House in Cambridge, there are several key elements to see and appreciate:

  1. Neoclassical Architecture: Admire the elegant neoclassical design of the Senate House, featuring a grand facade with large windows, Corinthian columns, and a beautifully symmetrical structure. The design, created by architect James Gibbs, stands out with its classical influence amidst the medieval surroundings of Cambridge.

  2. Historic Significance: The Senate House has been the location of numerous important university events for centuries. It is primarily used for graduation ceremonies, making it a vital part of Cambridge’s academic life. During graduation season, you might catch students gathering in traditional gowns for their degree conferrals.

  3. The Interior: While the Senate House is not always open to the public, the interior is just as impressive, with an elegant hall that is used for ceremonies. The hall is adorned with classical architectural details, and the space is steeped in academic history.

  4. The Steps of Senate House: The front steps of the Senate House have historic importance as the location where university exam results were once announced, particularly for the prestigious Mathematical Tripos. In the past, the Senior Wrangler, or top mathematics student, was proclaimed here.

  5. Views of Other University Buildings: As the Senate House is located in the heart of the university’s historic district, it offers great views of other famous buildings, such as King’s College Chapel and Gonville and Caius College. The surrounding area is full of picturesque scenes that capture the essence of Cambridge’s rich academic tradition.

How to Get There

The Senate House is located just off King’s Parade, a prominent street in central Cambridge. If you’re already in the city centre, it’s a short walk from key landmarks like King’s College and Trinity College. Walk along St Mary’s Street or Trinity Street, and you’ll find the Senate House situated between King’s College Chapel and Gonville and Caius College.

Several local buses stop near Market Square, which is just a few minutes walk from the Senate House. Look for buses that stop at St Andrew’s Street or Drummer Street, both central locations. Driving into central Cambridge is not always easy due to limited parking, so it’s recommended to park in one of the city’s Park and Ride facilities and take a bus into the centre.

More Interesting Places in Cambridge

Cambridge is home to historic and fascinating sites that showcase its deep academic, cultural, and architectural legacy. A prime example is King’s College Chapel, a stunning feat of late Gothic architecture constructed in the 15th century, famous for its remarkable fan-vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows. Nearby, visitors can also find a unique 12th-century Norman church, one of the few round churches in the country, celebrated for its distinctive circular structure.

Cambridge Must-Sees: Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is one of the city’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks. It’s located within the grounds of St John’s College.

Cambridge Must-Sees: Cambridge Castle Mound

Cambridge Castle Mound

While the Cambridge castle (built by William the Conqueror in 1068) no longer stands, the mound offers excellent views over the city.

Cambridge Must-Sees: Senate House. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Senate House

The Senate House is an iconic building located in the heart of the University of Cambridge and built between 1722 and 1730.