Cambridge, UK: A City of Academic Excellence
Explore Ancient Charm & Modern Sophistication
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Discover the charming city of Cambridge, where ancient history meets modern innovation. Founded in 1068, Cambridge is now a world-renowned centre for education and research, home to the prestigious University of Cambridge 🏫. Visit between March and May or September and November for mild weather 🌸🍁, with temperatures from 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F). The local currency is the Pound Sterling (£) 💷, and English is the primary language 🇬🇧.
Explore Cambridge’s rich culture with its museums, galleries, and festivals 🎨🎶📚. Enjoy British cuisine at cosy pubs or upscale restaurants, featuring fish ’n’ chips 🍽️, scones with clotted cream 🍰, and a warm cup of tea ☕. Get around easily on foot 🚶♂️, by bus 🚌, or by taxi 🚖.
Cambridge is a safe city with low crime rates 🚨. Experience its beauty with a walk along the River Cam 🌊, a punt ride 🚣♀️, or a stroll through the college gardens 🌳.
Accommodation Options
As we explore Cambridge, we discover three distinct hotels that cater to various traveller types. At The Varsity Hotel & Spa, luxury seekers indulge in an on-site spa, fitness centre, restaurant, and bar, perfect for couples and solo travellers looking for a sophisticated retreat 🏨. For those seeking mid-range comfort, Hotel du Vin Cambridge offers a fitness centre, restaurant, bar, free WiFi, and parking available, ideal for families and friends exploring the city’s historic sites 🏞️. Meanwhile, budget-conscious travellers can opt for Ibis Cambridge Central, featuring free WiFi, an on-site restaurant, bar, 24-hour reception, and parking available, making it a great choice for solo adventurers and backpackers on a shoestring budget 💸.
Day 1: Fitzwilliam Museum and Cambridge University Botanic Garden in Cambridge, UK
We start our day with breakfast at The Pint Shop 🍴, indulging in delicious Cornish pasties and eggs benedict in a cosy setting that leaves us feeling energized. After fueling up, we head to the Fitzwilliam Museum, located on Trumpington Street, where we immerse ourselves in its impressive collection of art and antiquities.
As lunchtime approaches, we make our way to The River Bar and Kitchen 🍴, savouring crispy fish tacos and grilled chicken salad in an elegant atmosphere that satisfies our cravings. Post-lunch, we visit the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a tranquil oasis on Bateman Street, where we explore its beautiful gardens and glasshouses.
As evening falls, dinner at The Old Vic 🍴 treats us to savoury steak and roasted vegetables in a casual setting that indulges our taste buds. After dinner, we embark on a Nightly river cruise on the River Cam, taking in the city’s stunning views while feeling relaxed and lively.
Day 2: Kettle’s Yard and Cambridge Museum of Technology and Industry in Cambridge, UK
We start our day with a delightful breakfast at The Pint Shop 🍴, indulging in Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and hollandaise sauce in the relaxed atmosphere of this gastropub. Located on Peck Lane, The Pint Shop sets us up for an exciting day ahead. From there, we make our way to Kettle’s Yard, a museum that takes us on a journey through its stunning architecture and rich history.
After working up an appetite, we head to The Cambridge Cookery School 🍴 for lunch, where we savour creamy tomato soup with crusty bread and a side salad in the casual setting of this cookery school. Located on St Andrew’s Street, The Cambridge Cookery School provides us with a satisfying meal that fuels our afternoon adventures. Following lunch, we visit Cambridge Museum of Technology and Industry, a fascinating museum that showcases the city’s industrial and technological heritage.
As evening falls, we enjoy a romantic dinner at The River Bar and Restaurant 🍴, relishing pan-seared salmon with roasted vegetables and quinoa in the indulgent atmosphere of this rooftop restaurant. Located on St Andrew’s Street, The River Bar and Restaurant provides us with a memorable dining experience. To cap off our day, we take an evening stroll along the River Cam, feeling relaxed and content after a lovely dinner and a delightful day exploring Cambridge.
Day 3: Grantchester Meadows and The Fitzwilliam College Gardens in Cambridge, UK
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Pint Shop 🍴, enjoying avocado toast with scrambled eggs and cherry tomatoes in a relaxed setting. Feeling content, head to Grantchester Meadows, just outside Cambridge, for a stroll amidst lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere.
After a delightful lunch at The Cambridge Curry House 🍴, savouring chicken tikka masala with basmati rice and naan bread, visit The Fitzwilliam College Gardens. Wander through the botanical garden, marvelling at the vibrant flora and serene surroundings.
As evening approaches, treat yourself to dinner at Edamame 🍴, enjoying grilled salmon with roasted vegetables and quinoa in a romantic setting. To cap off the day, take a nighttime sightseeing tour of Cambridge, experiencing the city’s historic landmarks and charming atmosphere under the stars.
Day 4: The Cambridge University Library and St. Catharine’s College in Cambridge, UK
We start our day with a delightful breakfast at The Cambridge Brew House 🍴, where we indulge in avocado toast with scrambled eggs and cherry tomatoes in a cosy gastropub setting that fills us with energy for the adventures ahead. After fueling up, we head to Cambridge University Library, an iconic museum located on Trumpington Street, to explore its vast collections and rich history.
In the afternoon, we take a stroll to Edi’ s Table 🍴, where we savour quiche with a side salad and artisanal bread in a casual bistro atmosphere. Following lunch, we visit St. Catharine’s College, a historic site steeped in tradition and beauty, to soak up its unique charm.
As the day draws to a close, we enjoy dinner at The Pint Shop 🍴, where gourmet burgers with sweet potato fries and craft beer delight our taste buds in a romantic, indulgent setting. After dinner, we embark on a nighttime sightseeing tour that excites us with its scenic views of Cambridge’s stunning landmarks.
Day 5: Pembroke College and The River Cam
We start our day with breakfast at The Pint Shop 🍴, indulging in delicious Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and hollandaise sauce in a bistro setting that feels relaxing and content. With full bellies, we head to Pembroke College, a historic site located on Emmanuel Road, where we delve into its rich history.
After lunch at The River Bar and Kitchen 🍴, we take a stroll along the scenic The River Cam, which runs alongside Quayside. The gentle riverbank walk provides a serene atmosphere, allowing us to unwind and rejuvenate.
As evening falls, we savour dinner at The Old Bicycle Shop Cafe 🍴, relishing in pan-seared salmon with quinoa and roasted vegetables in an intimate setting that feels romantic and indulgent. To cap off the night, we take an evening stroll along The River Cam, feeling relaxed and surrounded by nature’s serenity.
Day 6: The Backs and Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge, UK
As we start our day, we head to The Pint Shop 🍴 for a hearty breakfast of full English with eggs, sausages, bacon, toast, and hash browns. The cosy atmosphere and warm lighting make us feel content and ready to take on the day. Afterwards, we stroll over to The Backs (Trumpington Street, Cambridge) 🏞, a historic site that offers breathtaking views of the River Cam and the city’s iconic landmarks.
After breakfast, we grab some lunch at Edamame 🍜, indulging in Japanese-style ramen with pork belly and a soft-boiled egg. The casual vibe and delicious food leave us feeling satisfied and energized for our next adventure. We then make our way to Cavendish Laboratory (J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge) 🔬, a historic site that showcases the pioneering work of physicist James Joseph Thomson.
As the day comes to a close, we head to The River Bar Steakhouse 🍖 for dinner, savouring steak with garlic butter and roasted vegetables in a romantic atmosphere. After dinner, we embark on a Nighttime Sightseeing Tour, taking in the stunning views of Cambridge’s skyline and landmarks at night, leaving us thrilled and eager to explore more of this beautiful city.
Day 7: Churchill College and Gonville and Caius College in Cambridge, UK
We start our day in Cambridge with breakfast at The Pint Shop 🍴. We indulge in delicious bacon sarnies with eggs and toast in a charming bistro setting that fills us with contentment. From there, we head to Churchill College 🏰, exploring the historic site and learning about its rich history.
After lunch, we visit Gonville and Caius College 🏰, another esteemed institution in Cambridge. We take a stroll around the college’s beautiful grounds, admiring the stunning architecture and absorbing the tranquil atmosphere.
As evening falls, we enjoy dinner at Midnight Coffee ☕️. We savour international small plates in a cosy wine bar setting that leaves us delighted. To cap off our day, we take a leisurely stroll along the River Cam, basking in the peaceful ambience of this iconic city.
Best Souvenirs to Buy
🏰 A must-have souvenir is a Cambridge University crest or a replica of King’s College Chapel’s iconic clock tower. You can find these unique items at the Cambridge University Shop on King’s Parade or the Cambridge Visitor Information Centre. Another great option is a handmade, locally crafted wooden sign with your name or initials, available at The Woodshop on Mill Road.
Best Places to Shop
🛍️ For a quintessential British shopping experience, head to the historic Market Square, where you’ll find an array of independent boutiques and specialty stores. The Grafton Centre is another popular destination with a wide range of high-street brands and unique shops. Don’t miss the iconic Blackwell’s bookshop on Broad Street, a Cambridge institution since 1879! 📚
Best Local Markets
🌾 Every Thursday morning, the bustling Cambridge Market takes over Parker’s Piece, offering an incredible selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food. On the first Sunday of each month, the popular Cambridge Flea Market sets up shop on Jesus Green, featuring everything from vintage clothing to antique treasures.
Best Local Products
🌿 Wander through the picturesque streets and discover local wares. Try delicious Cambridge-made jams and preserves at the Cambridge Jam Company, or indulge in decadent treats from the renowned Pump Street Chocolate Co. 🍫
Best Local Brands
👕 To taste Cambridge’s innovative spirit, look out for the Cambridge Satchel Company, known for stylish, high-quality handbags, and Fyshwick & Co., purveyors of exquisite, handcrafted stationery. These unique brands make perfect additions to your souvenir collection!
Conclusion
🗓️ As we wrap up our 7-day adventure in Cambridge, we’re left with unforgettable memories and a treasure trove of souvenirs to cherish. From the University’s iconic crests to the city’s vibrant markets and local brands, there’s something for everyone in this charming destination. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or just looking for a unique experience, Cambridge has it all! 💕
