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One of the most prestigious institutions of education and the second oldest university in the English-speaking world, Cambridge University has become synonymous with the city’s name, and is inextricably entwined with its cultural identity and heritage.
The university of Darwin, Milton, and Wordsworth has 31 colleges located across the city, all founded between the 13th and 20th centuries, all exuding rich history and fine architecture. The 31 colleges are divided into the distinctions ‘old’ and ‘new’. The 16 ‘old’ colleges were all founded between 1284 and 1596, while the 15 ‘new’ colleges were built between 1800 and 1977.
Most of the colleges are open to the public, as are the chapels and nine museums and collections.
The unusual-looking Corpus Clock, also known as the Grasshopper clock, is a large sculptural clock on the outside of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College. It was unveiled in 2008, funded by an old member of the college, John Taylor. The clock’s face is a 24-carat gold-plated stainless steel disc, but with no hands or numerals.
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Destination Guide >Cambridge is easy to navigate, and the rail station is located a fifteen-minute walk from the city centre.
Guided tours are recommended to gain an insight into the rich history here. Visit Cambridge (the tourism authority) has 1-hour, 1.5-hour and 2-hour public walking tours of the Colleges, which will cover the main sites in sufficient detail for most.
Private tours are also available. Tours depart from the Tourist Information Centre seven days a week. If you’re going it alone, plan ahead as opening times and admittance policies vary. The University’s website has a listing of the colleges and their respective websites and contact details.
Most of the colleges are open all year round but each have specific opening times for individual areas. If you’re not on a tour, check the college websites for schedules.
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom (UK)
Queen Victoria was said to have loved this elegant, covered bridge more than any other spot in the city. Straddling the Cam between the Third and New Courts at St. John’s College, it dates back to 1831.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Cambridge , Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)
Founded in 1352 – and the only college founded by townspeople, Corpus is most famous for its Old Court, which houses some of the oldest buildings in Cambridge, many with their original features.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom (UK)
Perhaps the most famous of all the university buildings is King’s College Chapel, founded in 1441 by King Henry VI. The 12 large stained-glass windows on each side of the chapel are considered some of the finest in the world.
Best for ages: 18+ | £10
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom (UK)
Dating back to 1347, Pembroke’s buildings include one from almost every century since its inception; the college chapel was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, designer of St Pauls.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Cambridge , Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]
A beautifully converted former university building, serving up Hotel du Vin’s classic brand of hedonistic charm, with a buzzing bistro and predictably excellent wine cellar.
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Cambridge , Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]
A re-imagined Victorian hotel, with one of the city’s best restaurants and elegant rooms with a Modern British design.
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Cambridge , Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]
Elegant rooms, a convenient central location and a warm personal welcome make this lovely Victorian house the best B&B in town.
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Cambridge , Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]
A buzzy riverside bolthole, with two of Cambridge’s most popular restaurants and an Elemis spa in a cleverly-converted warehouse.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cambridgeshire , United Kingdom (UK)
A picturesque, charming city steeped in learning, architecture and history. It’s home to two world-class art museums and one of the world’s oldest and most famous universities.
