Cambridge is one of those captivating places that everyone has heard of –imagine a picture-perfect county in the East of England, a world-famous university city with ancient traditions and old cobbled streets, just a day trip away from trendy London. Whether you live in the megacity capital, elsewhere in the UK, or are coming from overseas on a visit, read on to discover what makes Cambridge truly unique, which sites you really should see, what to do while you’re here for 2 days, and where to go for something good to eat!
Enjoy our 2 days in Cambridge ‘insider guide’ by local author Melanie Varey.
2 Days in Cambridge – The Perfect Trip
Cambridge is a wonderfully diverse city and perfect for a weekend away. If you are visiting Cambridge for a couple of days, here are the must do and see attractions in the city and surrounding countryside.
Day One in Cambridge
Getting to Cambridge
The quickest way to arrive in Cambridge from London is to travel by train which takes as little as 40 minutes from Liverpool Street or Kings Cross stations. Travelling by car is also easy, taking about 1 hr 30 minutes in good traffic along the M11. Use one of the four ‘Park and Ride’ options into the city as parking in Cambridge can be expensive.
Breakfast in Cambridge
Start the day with breakfast or brunch at one of the many excellent places baking their own pastries and bread in the city.
We recommend a visit to one of the Hot Numbers shops where you can enjoy great food alongside a coffee made from their own roasted beans.
Getting Around Cambridge
There are a few ways in which you can see the historic city sites. Firstly, just wander and find them. The town centre is compact and accessible on foot. You may choose to take an organised guided walking tour to be sure not to miss a thing and soak up some information. Alternatively, how about hiring a bike or electric scooter? Fun and great exercise too! For a less strenuous option, many tourists (and indeed locals) love to use the Hop On Hop Off Bus which tours the main sights of Cambridge, including the famous university buildings and history museums.
Fascinated by historical cities in Europe? You might like to see our 2 day Venice itinerary (Italy) or this 3 day guide to Granada (Spain).
See the Sights of Cambridge
Cambridge University Buildings
Those interested in the history of the city will be keen to see the buildings owned by the famous Cambridge University which have been home to minds such as Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, Rosalind Franklin, and Sir David Attenborough. Founded in 1209, Cambridge University has been ranked in the top two universities in the UK for years.
Be sure to see the oldest and most prestigious college of the University, Trinity College, which is not only architecturally stunning but has educated some 34 Nobel Prize winners. Founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII, this is home to the actual apple tree that inspired Sir Isaac Newton to create the law of gravitation.
King’s College and Chapel is another must see. Initially founded in 1441 by Henry VI, it is thought to one of the greatest examples of late Gothic English Architecture. It boasts the largest span of fan vaulting in the world. This is the favourite choice of colleges to see for locals due to its fascinating history and amazing architecture. It is also located in central Cambridge. Other colleges to see are Pembroke, St John’s, Corpus Christi and Newnham. Details of the university buildings and how to organise a visit to Cambridge University can be found on their official website.
See the Mathematical Bridge
The Mathematical Bridge was designed is 1748 and built in 1749 by James Essex. Bridging the river Cam in central Cambridge, it has been rebuilt twice since its original build, but to the same design and always from wood. Its sophisticated geometrical engineered design gives its status and name.
Stroll to the Corpus Clock
The Corpus Clock made its first appearance in 2008 at the junction of Bene’t Street and Trumpington Street. The priceless gold clock was invented, designed and given to Corpus Christi College by Dr John C Taylor OBE FREng. The intricate design is a reminder that life is constantly passing by as we move towards death. On top of this unusual clock sits a ‘Chronophage’, or ‘time-eater’. Not surprisingly, it’s also known as the grasshopper clock due to the creature‘s grasshopper like appearance.
Climb St Mary’s Church Tower
Following the 123-step steep climb up St Mary’s tower, you will be rewarded with a fabulous panorama over the city, including views over Kings College and the university buildings. The gothic church dates back to 1205 and is itself a notable landmark. Pop in to the Church’s Michael House café for a coffee while you’re here (they also serve delicious food).
Round Church Cambridge
The Holy Sepulchre Church is the last stop on this morning’s stroll around Cambridge old town. A rare medieval rotunda, this 12th century ‘round church’ is one of the few remaining in Europe (St George Rotonda in Sofia Bulgaria is another good example). Easy to find on Round Church Street, you could time your visit to coincide with a concert or recital to experience the pure historical atmosphere.
Break for Lunch
The Cambridge food scene is ever growing and the city is home to some wonderful eateries. It really does have something for everyone. Whether you like a sandwich, burger or pizza, find a great quality place to take a break. Cambridge has two plant based burger restaurants which serve fabulous vegan food so non-meat eaters are well catered for too. Fitzbillies has been serving the city since 1920 and their Chelsea buns really are amazing! Grab some lunch here and be sure to leave space for the sweet treats. You can get these buns to take home. Make sure that you also stop for a gelato at Jack’s Gelato. The fabulous flavours are delicious and not to be missed whatever the weather.
Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum
There are excellent museums in Cambridge, most of which are free to enter. We recommend a visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum which has collections of unique works of art, paintings and historical artefacts. There are also a number of original exhibitions on display throughout the year. Or perhaps you would prefer to choose one of the other interesting museums which feature Technology, Polar Exploration, War or Zoology, to name a few.
See the Sedgwick Museum
Internationally renowned, the Sedgwick Museum houses collections of 2 million rocks, minerals and fossils spanning an amazing period of 4.5 billion years. Dinosaur fans will love it here and marvel at the complete replica Iguanodon skeleton and T-Rex skull. Entrance to the museum is free of charge.
It’s incredible to think that these primeval beasts ruled the planet millions of years ago! If you ever get the chance to visit Alberta in Canada, you’ll find Dinosaur trails there too.
Go Shopping
You may wish to hit the shops and enjoy the mix of independent and chain retailers, markets and shopping centres in Cambridge. Head to the city centre and wander the pretty cobbled streets to find an eclectic mix of independent shops, you will not be disappointed. The Market Square market is open daily and full of traders with diverse display of foods and crafts. The Grand Arcade shopping centre is where you will find the High Street stores.
Dining in Cambridge
Foodies will love the choice of excellent Restaurants in Cambridge. Take in a Tasting Menu at the fabulous Restaurant 22. This must be booked well in advance as they are extremely popular. For a more casual bite, how about Smokeworks? Kings of the slow cooked fast food trend, dining here is casual and fun but always top quality. Michelin star followers will love a visit to 2-star Midsummer House for the ultimate decadence.
Day 2 in Cambridge
After a busy first day in Cambridge, perhaps a leisurely walk and rest out of the city is in order? You have choices to make if you fancy walking out in Cambridgeshire.
Walking to Grantchester Meadows
We recommend a visit to Grantchester, an ‘olde worlde’ English village listed in the legendary Doomsday Book. Home to literature’s 1900s Bloomsbury Group and former local resident, poet Rupert Brooke, it’s the most photogenic little place with a stately manor house and sprinkling of thatched cottages with flowering gardens.
Take the footpath from the city, starting at Lammas Land by the river Cam, and walk about a mile to Grantchester Meadows. The meadows are a favourite venue for riverside picnics and make the idyllic walk. The village pubs serve excellent food so are perfect for a stop off. Perhaps take an afternoon tea at the Orchard Tea Gardens. Here, you can sit back in the retro deck chairs and enjoy the breathtaking views of the meadows.
Go Punting on River Cam
A great idea is to get a punt to Granchester Meadows from Cambridge. The riverside city is famous for punting so you really must try it. It is a super way to see the backs of the University colleges as you quietly slide past. The cheapest way is to take the shared punt option which costs around £8-10 per person. In a group, why not hire a whole punt which will cost you around £40 but can accommodate 5-12 people. Punting is a wonderful way to celebrate, whether it is a family outing, special birthday, hen party or a romantic date. There are even trips that include food. You can be in charge of your own punt, or go for the chauffeured option and just lay back to enjoy the views.
Admire the Bridge of Sighs
Isn’t Bridge of Sighs in Venice? Well yes, but Cambridge has its very own version too! You may not be on a Gondola, but it’s rather romantic to punt along the slow moving waters and glide gently under this Victorian era bridge. The ornate white construction arches across River Cam as it flows past St. John’s campus.
Walk the Gog Magog Hills
Another popular local walk is across to the beautiful Gog Magogs. The Gogs are ridges of low chalk hills to the southeast of Cambridge, 163 acres of beautiful landscape this is a popular choice for walkers seeking space and tranquillity. The downs can be accessed from various starting points, for example from nearby Stapleford or Great Shelford. Check the Gog Magog Hills Walking Routes site for routes and information on parking.
See the Botanical Gardens
Meander through the grounds to see the exotic array of trees, flowers and rare plants Cambridge Botanical Gardens have to share with you. One of the highlights is the Titam Arum (known as the corpse flower), which smell is said to resemble rotting flesh when in bloom. Luckily Titam Arum only rarely flowers so the wafting smell is rare!
The Botanical Gardens are open to the public with pre-booking only. Tickets will cost you £6-7 and children are free.
Further Afield in Cambridgeshire
If you have a car and want to go further afield, a visit to the pretty cathedral city of Ely makes for a lovely day out. Ely Cathedral has a history that reaches as far back as AD 672 and the present building dates to 1083. Wander down to the river where you can enjoy a tasty lunch or afternoon tea at Peacocks Tearooms and take a stroll around the antiques centre.
Melanie Varey is a teacher, reflexologist and proud local of Cambridgeshire.
Best Things To Do In Cambridge is her UK based blog celebrating all things Cambridge and Cambridgeshire, a useful point of reference if you’re planning to visit this part of England.
“We hope that you have a fabulous trip to Cambridge and even stay a little longer to discover more of the treasures in Cambridgeshire!“
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