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.
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 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 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 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.
