While touring the UK, you’d certainly want to explore everything that makes Britain unique. While there are many cities to stop by, Cambridge stands out because of its rich academic history.
It’s home to the University of Cambridge, which was founded way back in 1209 and repeatedly ranks among the best higher educational institutions worldwide. Not only that, but the city is also lined with several other college buildings. And away from academics, the city has plenty of other places to visit, things to see, and must-do activities to engage in. Explore below some of the best spots in Cambridge where you can have fun during your summer visit.
River Cam
River Cam runs across the heart of Cambridge, offering many recreational opportunities and sights to see. Punting is particularly popular along this river. This is a traditional boating activity where a flat-bottomed boat, going by the name punt, is moved by pushing a long pole against the riverbed.
Given that many of Cambridge colleges are situated along the banks of the River Cam, you’ll have unobstructed scenic views of their gardens and architecture. Other key sights along the river, apart from The Backs, include King’s College Chapel, Bridge of Sighs, Mathematical Bridge, and Clare Bridge.
For the best river punting in Cambridge experience, consider booking a guided tour with a reputable company. A chauffeur will pilot you downstream while sharing fascinating historical insights and stories about the landmarks dotting the river.
Jesus Green
Jesus Green is a vast area of open parkland grass to the north of the city center, bordered by the River Cam, Victoria Avenue, and Jesus College. It’s an excellent spot for picnicking. The park is very spacious, with large stretches of grassy land, vibrant flower gardens, and gigantic trees shadowing the path that runs through. Because it’s spacious, it’s ideal for big families and big or small groups of friends who desire to have plenty of space for games and other team-building activities.
You can also have a barbecue right at this Cambridge park. There are multiple dedicated areas for this with stones for portable barbecues.
Another main attraction here is the Jesus Green Lido. Spanning 300 feet, this is one of the longest outdoor swimming pools in Europe. Here, you can enjoy longer laps.
Midsummer Common
Just next to Jesus Green is another wonderful picnic spot by the name Midsummer Common. This spot has a rich history, with the Midsummer Fair dating back to 1211. Over the hundreds of years, it has morphed into a place for pleasure with plenty of amusements and attractions, perfect for a summer in the city.
It hosts several community events, including the Strawberry Fair ( a community festival celebrating local culture and art), the May Day Fair, Fireworks Night (where crowds gather to marvel at the displays), and Midsummer Fair (one of the longest-established trade fairs in England. You may want to time your Cambridge City sightseeing tour to coincide with these events.
Novi
Conveniently located on Regent Street, Novi is focused on creating a memorable drinking and dining experience for Cambridge visitors. It’s a perfect spot for signature botanical cocktails, vibrant brunches, and Japanese BBQ.
This cafe-bar features industrial-chic decor, with exposed brick walls, plenty of natural light, and wooden furniture, creating a welcoming ambiance. You’ll particularly love the rooftop terrace, which allows you to soak in the afternoon sun or enjoy picturesque evening views over Cambridge.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Cambridge Botanic Garden lies between Trumpington Road to the west, Hills Road to the east, and Bateman Street to the north. It has over 8,000 plant species from across the globe, making it one of the most impressive picnic spots in Cambridgeshire. It features a series of landscapes that urge visitors to discover the drama of plant diversity.
The mature garden spans 40 acres, giving you plenty of space to explore. And, having been created in 1831, there’s a rich history behind its diverse plant collections, with many rare and exotic species grown for both public enjoyment and research.
The Punter
The Punter is one of the most loved establishments in Cambridge. You can choose from a diverse selection of dishes, from perfectly cooked fish and chops to satisfying burgers and rich lamb stew.
The venue has different dining spots, accommodating both intimate and group gatherings. The outside courtyard is particularly enchanting, especially on sunny afternoons, with its cozy ambiance, string lights, and lush greenery creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to linger over their meals and enjoy good company.
Conclusion
Cambridge has plenty to offer. The above-listed spots are but a little scratch on the surface, but an excellent starting point for new visitors to the city. Evidently, you can’t explore every fascinating spot in one tour. Consider picking just two or three spots per day for maximum enjoyment. Soak in the summer atmosphere without a hurry. Immerse yourself in the environment or recreational activities at hand.