Cambridge Day Trip – Your Ultimate Guide including 22 Fun Things to do in Cambridge

Undoubtedly, Cambridge should be on everyone’s TOP 10 list of cities to visit in the United Kingdom. It is an incredibly lively and bustling city. Its history and buzz, thanks to the famous Cambridge University and students that come here from all around the world, give this city such a great vibe. Cambridge stole our hearts years ago, and we have written this guide to convince you to come and check it out. There is something special about this city, and we guarantee you’ll feel it when you step into the Cambridge streets. We have gathered a list of 22 fantastic fun things to do in Cambridge making your Cambridge Day Trip a brilliant activity.

History of Cambridge

Nestled on the banks of the River Cam in East Anglia, this picturesque city is not just a city for students. It’s an exciting mix of mediaeval cobblestone streets, majestic architecture, and relaxing green parks. Cambridge has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. The Romans originally inhabited the area during their occupation of Britain. But the city’s roots can be traced back to the Viking Age. The city started to grow in the mediaeval era after the founding of the University of Cambridge in 1209. Cambridge, together with cities like Oxford, stands out as one of the UK’s most enchanting cities. 

How to get to Cambridge

The nearest airport to Cambridge is the London Stansted Airport. There are direct trains to Cambridge every hour, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. Therefore, it’s a brilliant idea to explore Cambridge just after you’ve arrived in the United Kingdom. The Cambridge day trip will make a perfect introduction into the lifestyle, culture and heritage of England. Even if you plan to visit London, you can always take the 30-minute train to Cambridge first. After exploring the city, you can take a direct train back to London. You can find your train connection and buy tickets via the official national railway website.

Travelling by Train

Cambridge is well-connected by rail and accessible from several major cities in the United Kingdom making it an ideal location for a Cambridge day trip.

Cambridge lies on the direct train line from London. With less than 1 hour by train from London Kings Cross, this city is an ideal day trip or weekend trip from London. Direct trains from London to Cambridge run every hour from early morning until midnight from London Liverpool Street and London Kings Cross. Trains from Kings Cross might be a better option as there are non-stop train services on this line.

If you travel from the North, you can get to Cambridge by a direct train from Birmingham New Street, which will take between 2.5 – 3 hours, or Leicester, which typically takes around 1.5 hours. You can find your train connections and buy tickets via the official national railway website.

Cambridge has 2 train stations: Cambridge and Cambridge North. The one that is nearer the city centre is Cambridge. The train station is about 20 minutes walk from the centre. We guarantee that it’s a very enjoyable walk.

Travelling by Car & Parking

Alternatively, you can reach Cambridge by car. It’s only under 2 hours from London or Birmingham and 3.5 hours from Manchester.

Cambridge has many car parks open 24/7, but the ones that are nearest the city centre are:

• Grand Arcade Car Park is right in the city centre. It’s the most expensive one. It costs between £2.70 to 3.60 per hour depending on peak times.

• Queen Anne Terrace Car Park is a great car park only 10 minutes walk from the city centre, significantly cheaper than the above car park, between £1.70 – £2.30 per hour. This is our favourite car park.

• Grafton East Car Park or Grafton West Car Park are a 15-minute walk to the city centre and cost £2.50 – £3.30 per hour.

• Castle Hill Car Park – 15-minute walk to the city centre, located on the west side of the city (across the River Cam). You only pay between 8 am and 6 pm.

If you want to avoid traffic, use the park & ride facility. Cambridge has five of these, located in Trumpington, Milton, Newmarket Road, Madingley Road, and Babraham Road. All are free to park unless leaving your car there for more than 18 hours. You’ll just need to pay £3 for a bus ticket to get you into central Cambridge and back.

Travelling by Coach

You can travel to Cambridge by coach. The best company to use is either National Express or Megabus. The main coach stop is in the city centre on Parkside. 

How to travel around the city

1. Walk – walking is the number one way to navigate around Cambridge. It gives you an incredible opportunity to explore and discover its beauty. The centre of Cambridge is fairly small and flat, so walking around is pretty doable, and you’ll get to see everything you want. Without a doubt, walking is the best way to explore the city.
2. Hire a bike – you will notice this immediately. Everybody uses bikes in Cambridge. Cambridge streets have been built for cycling. Cambridge is known as the UK’s cycling capital. It is definitely one of the top activities in Cambridge. Hire a bike from one of the hiring companies and explore the city as a local. You can hire a bike at City Cycle Hire or Grounds Cycle Centres. Hiring a bike will give your Cambridge day trip a special feel.
3. Cambridge has perfect public bus transport. There are regular buses which take you around the city. You pay inside the bus, and you can pay by card. The key station for bus services is Drummer Street Bus Station – situated in the heart of Cambridge and Cambridge Railway Station.
4. Taxi – this is a little bit expensive way of travelling during your Cambridge day trip. Many taxi companies are operating in Cambridge. We can recommend Panther Taxis.

When to visit Cambridge?

You can visit this city anytime to enjoy all the activities in Cambridge. Cambridge is a city that can be enjoyed even on a rainy or cold day. We suggest visiting between May and early September if you want to try punting. As during other months, it might not be that enjoyable because of the typical British weather. In July & August, Cambridge is always packed with people. Also, Saturdays are always very busy. Try to visit during the weekdays. May or June can be ideal as you might experience a very sunny and warm day.

How long do you need to explore Cambridge?

You need at least one full day to explore the city properly. It might feel rushed if you only plan to spend a few hours in Cambridge. If you give it a full day, you will get a chance to tour a college, do punting, stroll around the city and have a drink and lunch/dinner in one of the city’s best restaurants. A Cambridge day trip or even Cambridge weekend trip is a perfect idea when it comes to exploring this stunning city.

Where to Stay in Cambridge

We can highly recommend:

22 Fun Things to do in Cambridge 

Try one of the best activities in Cambridge – punting

Punting on the river Cam is one of the best ways to see the city. And a very enjoyable one! It’s one of the activities in Cambridge that is not just for tourists; many locals also love spending their free time on punts. Punting is an excellent opportunity to take pictures, as the views are unique. You’ll be able to see Cambridge landmarks like King’s College Chapel, The Wren Library, the Bridge of Sighs and the Backs Cambridge – the famous area with backs of the historical colleges.

There are many punting companies in Cambridge. You can buy a shared punt tour with a guide chauffeur, or if you want to have your adventure, you can book a self-hire punt. Before deciding on your option, we suggest learning more about punting options in Cambridge.

Go for the University of Cambridge’s historic colleges tour 

Another one of the best fun things to do in Cambridge. Each college tells a story of centuries-old traditions and groundbreaking discoveries. Stroll through the courtyards, visit chapels, or wander around the corners. Whether you’re a lover of history or love to explore new things, the colleges of Cambridge are the must-visit of all activities in Cambridge. The following colleges are the most beautiful:

● King’s College
● Queen’s College
● St. John’s College
● Christ’s College
● Trinity College

Visit King’s College

While discussing Colleges, seeing King’s College grounds is a must. Its stunning gothic chapel dominates the centre of Cambridge. You will pass around it, and it will make you speechless. It’s a must-visit, even if history isn’t your thing. For King’s College, booking your tickets in advance is advisable as they sell pretty fast and might not be available on the day. You can find info here. 

Walk around The Backs

The Backs Cambridge is a picturesque area where several of the University of Cambridge’s colleges are situated along the banks of the River Cam. The Backs Cambridge provides some of the most iconic views of the city, with the historic college buildings bridges over the water. It’s definitely one of the activities in Cambridge that shouldn’t be missed.

Visit one of the museums in Cambridge

Cambridge is home to a variety of museums. Strolling through Cambridge streets full of historical buildings while looking for museums is a fantastic way how to explore the city. Below are some of the best museums there are in Cambridge:

• The Polar Museum (Scott Polar Research Institute) focuses on polar exploration and research, displaying artefacts and multimedia exhibits related to life and science in the Arctic and Antarctic.
• The Fitzwilliam Museum has an impressive collection of art and antiquities, including works by famous painters.
• The Centre for Computing History Museum is dedicated to the history of computers and digital technology.
• Kettle’s Yard is partially an art gallery and an artist’s house.
• Other museums: Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, The Whipple Museum of the History of Science, The Museum of Zoology

Have a relaxing time at the Botanic Garden

This is a beautiful Botanic garden owned by Cambridge University. It’s one of the fantastic activities in Cambridge to do if you want to escape crowds and want to enjoy a quiet and relaxing time while visiting this bustling city.

Check out The Corpus Clock

A gem on Cambridge streets – a huge and bizarre clock which is more of an art piece. It’s installed outside the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College. It’s a Chronophage, a large, grasshopper-like creature that appears to be eating time. The clock is a symbol designed to reflect that the time we have is limited.

Have a pint at The Eagle

This historic pub is famous for being where Francis Crick and James Watson announced their discovery of the structure of DNA. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. No Cambridge visit is complete without having a pint in this pub. It’s definitely one of the must fun things to do in Cambridge.

Stroll through Market Square

The heart of Cambridge’s shopping district is great for souvenirs, local products, and street food. From here, you can explore all the most beautiful Cambridge streets full of medieval buildings and historical colleges.

Visit the Wren Library at Trinity College

The library is home to a significant collection of rare books and manuscripts, including the original manuscript of Winnie the Pooh. The Wren Library is usually open to the public between 12 noon and 2 pm on Monday to Friday. And also 10.30 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays. Access is via Garrett Hostel Lane, and it is free. The Wren library can also be seen from the Backs Cambridge area. And it’s a beautiful view, make sure to check it out.

Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels

Cambridge is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure. You can hire a bike using City Cycle Hire or Grounds Cycle Centres. Exploring the Cambridge streets on two wheels is a fantastic activity during your Cambridge day trip.

Chill in one of the city’s parks

Enjoying outdoor activities in Cambridge such as picnicking, jogging, or simply lounging in Cambridge’s parks is a must. There is a very cool buzz in the parks. Seeing all the students from all around the world having fun and enjoying life will make you feel like a student again, too. The best parks to chill in are the Jesus Green, Parker’s Piece, Midsummer Common, Christ’s Pieces, Laundress Green & Sheep’s Green.

See the city from a viewpoint

This is an interesting one. Although Cambridge is an incredibly flat city, there are a few viewpoints where you can enjoy panoramic views of Cambridge streets. It’s definitely one of the activities in Cambridge you shouldn’t miss. Seeing such a beautiful city like Cambridge from the above is a stunning experience. Here are the best viewpoints we can recommend:

• Great St. Mary’s Church Tower – Climbing the tower of Great St. Mary’s Church, located right in the heart of Cambridge, offers a fantastic city view. The church is even older than the university. It was built in 1205. Tip: Don’t forget to take a picture with the famous St Mary’s Church phone boxes.

• Castle Mound is a historic artificial hill located at Castle Hill. It’s the remains of a Norman castle and is one of the highest points in Cambridge. It provides a 360-degree view of the city.
• Rooftop Bars – Some of the rooftop bars and restaurants in Cambridge offer a chance to enjoy the city’s scenery while sipping on a drink. We can recommend the Varsity Hotel’s Roof Terrace

See The Singing Binman 

If you are lucky, you can find the Singing Binman at King’s Parade, next to King’s College. The Singing Binman is around during most of the weekends. It’s a unique experience. We won’t tell you more. Just go and check it out. Without a doubt, this is one of the best fun things to do in Cambridge.

Take a look at the Mathematical Bridge

This bridge is the most photographed scene in Cambridge. The Wooden bridge connects the old and new sites of the Queen’s College. It is a perfect place to see all Cambridge can offer – punting and the old College of the University of Cambridge.

Have a peek at The Round Church 

This is a 12th-century stone-built Parish church found in the centre of Cambridge. This historic round church is one of England’s four mediaeval round churches. It’s a unique architectural gem.

Find Bridge of Sighs 

The Bridge of Sighs is a stunning bridge to see. The bridge was Queen Victoria’s favourite spot in Cambridge, and it’s easy to see why. One of the best ways to see the bridge is whilst you’re punting. You can walk through it if you visit St John’s College.

Have a coffee at Mill Road

Cambridge streets offer a variety of different experiences. Mill Road is one of them. This vibrant street is a bit away from the city centre. Still, it offers a diverse range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, representing the multicultural side of Cambridge. It’s a great place to have lunch or coffee.

Visit David Parr House

This hidden gem is a preserved Victorian worker’s house with decorative art on the interior. It offers a unique perspective on Victorian life. You need to book your tickets for the tour.

Explore St. Bene’t’s Church & The Church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs

St. Bene’t’s Church is the oldest building in Cambridge, dating back over a thousand years. It’s a quiet and historical site to explore. On the other hand, stepping into the Church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs is like travelling back in time, as you find yourself in breathtaking French Gothic architecture.

All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market

This market has been open every Saturday all year long for over thirty years. It’s a friendly market with the motto: we make what we sell. You can buy quality arts and crafts directly from the artists. It’s definitely a place you should check out on your Cambridge day trip.

Visit Cambridge Distillery

If you’re into gins, definitely visit Cambridge Distillery. Taking their gin classes is one of the most interesting activities in Cambridge.

SPECIAL TIP: Check out Dinky Doors 

What to do in Cambridge in the evening?

Cambridge comes alive in the evening with a variety of activities. Cambridge offers something to everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening, cultural experiences, or nighttime fun. All events can be found on the Cambridge Live website.

Music and Gigs:

• Cambridge Junction is a multi-venue space that hosts various events, including live music, club nights, and comedy shows.
• The Corn Exchange is one of Cambridge’s largest venues, hosting big-name bands, solo artists, and orchestral performances.
• The Portland Arms is a pub that features various live music, from local bands to more well-known acts.

Theatre and Plays:

• ADC Theatre: Run by the University of Cambridge, this venue hosts a variety of student and community theatre productions.
• Cambridge Arts Theatre: Offers a mix of drama, dance, music, and comedy.
• The Corpus Playroom: An intimate studio venue hosting a range of plays, comedies, and experimental theatre.

The club scene in Cambridge may not be as extensive as in larger cities like London, but it offers a range of venues. The city’s nightlife tends to be quite student-oriented, but there are options for all ages. Here are a few popular choices:

• Lola Lo is a Tiki-themed nightclub known for its exotic and vibrant decor. Plays a mix of chart hits, R&B, and dance anthems.
• Vinyl: Known for its retro vibe and LED dancefloor. They play a mix of throwback hits and current chart-toppers.
• The Mash plays a wide range of music, catering to various tastes. You can expect everything from chart hits and R&B to classic tunes, ensuring something for everyone.
• Revolution offers a bar area for more relaxed drinks and a club space for dancing.
• Hidden Rooms is more of a cocktail lounge than a traditional nightclub, but it does host DJ nights and live music.

Where to eat & have a drink in Cambridge

If you go anywhere on Mill Road, you’ll find funky restaurants, pubs, bars and cosy cafes there.

Below are also our favourites places you can find on Cambridge streets:

• Fine-style dining restaurants with delicious food: Midsummer House, Restaurant Twenty Two, Vanderlyle, Navadhanya, Trinity

• Other restaurants with excellent food: Little Petra, Tu Casa Tapas Restaurant, The Oak Bistro

• Bistros and cafes: The Venetian, Maison Clement (great bakery), Aromi, Bread & Meat

• Special tips: Dom’s Coffee if you want to be fully ‘offline’ & Jack’s Gelato for ice cream

• Best beer in town: the Eagle, Town & Gown, The Mill or Pint Shop

• Cocktails: 196 cocktail bar, Bar-OH

Day Trips from Cambridge

You can visit plenty of attractions, historical villages, and natural places outside of Cambridge. The ones we can certainly recommend and are within a 30-minute drive, and so they are ideal day trips from Cambridge.

Escape to Wildlife and Nature

• Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve offers a diversity of plant and animal species, including rare birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. It’s also great for walking and cycling. Wild Konik ponies graze in the reserve. The ponies are part of the reserve’s programme to help maintain the fenland habitat. Not far away from here is the pretty Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve. By combining the visit of both reserves, this can become one of the best day trips from Cambridge to nature.

• Wandlebury Country Park is an open space offering walking trails, woodlands, and meadows. The park also contains the remains of an Iron Age Hill Fort.

• Fen Drayton Lakes offers diverse wildlife, particularly waterfowl and birds. The site, transformed from former gravel pits, now contains a series of lakes, ponds, and meadows.

• Milton Country Park is a green oasis offering walking, cycling paths, and play areas.

Museums, Arts Centres & Gardens

• Cambridge is very close to the famous Newmarket Racecourses and National Horseracing Museum. Many races and events happen regularly, so check out if this is the type of entertainment you like. 

• Wysing Arts Centre is a contemporary arts centre that features a range of exhibitions, events, and artist residencies. 

• Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and Lode Mill is a Jacobean-style house surrounded by formal gardens and a working watermill.

• Duxford Imperial War Museum is home to an impressive collection of aircraft and military vehicles. Visiting the museum is considered among the best day trips from Cambridge.

• Audley End House and Gardens is a grand country house with extensive gardens with family-friendly activities and events.

Towns and villages

• Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town 40 minutes by car from Cambridge with its famous Abbey Garden. Bury St Edmunds is a fantastic place to go and should be on your list of day trips from Cambridge.

• Saffron Walden is a charming market town with mediaeval architecture, including the stunning St. Mary’s Church and the ruins of Walden Castle. The town’s vibrant market square has hosted regular markets since the 12th century. There is also a beautiful Bridge End Garden, a Grade II listed Victorian garden.

• Ely is a beautiful town with a mesmerising Ely Cathedral. Ely’s historic centre and waterside area are also worth exploring.

• Grantchester Village and Meadows is a picturesque village on the outskirts of Cambridge, known for its scenic meadows, traditional pubs, and connections to the poet Rupert Brooke.

• Lavenham is a stunning historical village. Although a 1-hour drive from Cambridge, it’s worth the visit. It is perfect for those who love mediaeval England. It has that Harry Potter vibe as it is one of the locations from the movie! This is a well-preserved village and should be on your list if you are in the area. You will love it. It’s tiny so you can see everything in only 1 hour. While you are in Lavenham, also visit the neighbourhood of Long Melford. Combine your visit with exploring Bury St Edmunds to create great day trips from Cambridge.

Kids Friendly

• Shepreth Wildlife Park & Linton Zoo perfect for a day out with kids

• If you are into adventure, then the Thetford Forest it is. About 40 minutes drive from Cambridge. The forest covers a massive area with many different places to visit – walking, trail biking or being alone in the forest, all of this is what Thetford forest can offer. It’s one of the best day trips from Cambridge.

Google map with activities for a Cambridge day trip to your phone

We added all the places and activities mentioned in this article directly into a free Google Map with all fun things to do in Cambridge. You can use the map during your trip without the need of manually creating your own map.

How to access our free map which will be brilliant for your Cambridge day trip? Simply click at the button below to access and download our free Google Map . This will copy the map to your Google account and display it on all devices where you use Google Maps. This Google map can be easily accessed on your phone or printed for convenience. 

Enjoy you Cambridge day trip!