University of Cambridge

The Basics

Many of the Cambridge University colleges, libraries, and museums are open to the public; the best way to discover the history of the complex is on a walking tour. Tours typically cover Trinity College, home to the Wren Library and the Trinity College Chapel; Queens' College, which lies along the Cam Riverfront and harbors the Mathematical Bridge; and King’s College, where you can admire Rubens’ Adoration of the Magi in the King's College Chapel.

Visit Cambridge on a day trip from London; it’s possible to combine it with a visit to Oxford, home to another one of England’s prestigious universities.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Some of the best views of the university colleges can be found along the waterfront of the Cam River—an area known as The Backs, as the colleges back onto the riverfront.

• The historic center of Cambridge is easy to get around on foot; most of the colleges are within walking distance of each other so ensure you’re wearing sturdy footwear.

• Many of the colleges charge an admission fee or require you to visit as part of a tour.

• Most college buildings are fully wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.

How to Get There

The University of Cambridge is located in the city of Cambridge, 65 miles (105 kilometers) north of London. It’s a 1.5-hour drive along the M11 or a 1.5-hour journey by train, which depart regularly from London King’s Cross station.

When to Get There

Though it’s possible to admire the college exteriors at any time, college visits are limited to certain times of the year, especially during exam periods around Easter. By far the most popular time to visit is in July and August, when the colleges are open daily and huge crowds descend on the city center. If visiting independently, it’s worth timing your visit for early or late in the day to avoid the crowds. Punting is possible along the River Cam from April through October.

Things to Do in Cambridge

In addition to visiting the university colleges, there’s plenty of other things to do while you’re in Cambridge. A quintessential activity is punting along the River Cam, lined with landmarks such as the Bridge of Sighs and The Backs. A visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum should be top of the itinerary for art and history enthusiasts, while other landmarks include St. Mary’s Church and the Corpus Clock at Corpus Christi College. For the most impressive views, head to the Magdalene Bridge or take a stroll through Cambridge Botanical Gardens.

What is included in the Cambridge University tour ticket?

Cambridge University tours include a guide to give you the lowdown on the university, along with visits to key campus sites. King’s College and King’s College Chapel are usually seen, along with Trinity College and Wren Library. As many colleges are by the River Cam, riverfront views are covered, too.

Are there student discounts available for Cambridge University tours?

Yes, it depends on who you book your Cambridge University tour with, but student discounts are often available. For example, King's College tours or the Cambridge University alumni-led tours both often offer student discounts for school-age students (ages five to 17 years old). Discounts for university students are rarely offered.

Are photography and filming allowed during the Cambridge University tour?

Yes, photography and filming are allowed during Cambridge University tours with a few caveats. Visitors are allowed to take photos in areas of the colleges where tourists are permitted to go, if they’re intended for personal, non-commercial use. Tripods are a no-go, and flash photography isn’t allowed in the chapels.

How long does a typical Cambridge University tour last?

Most Cambridge University tours last around 1.5 hours, although many tours now include extra options, such as walks around the historic city streets or punts down the River Cam. If you have a busy schedule, aim to leave around half a day free to cover calmer logistics and a college tour.

Are there specific times or seasons when it's best to visit Cambridge University for a tour?

Sometimes colleges are closed in May or June when there are exams or end-of-year balls taking place. Aside from this, a good time to go is between July and September when the students are away, and the weather is generally warm and sunny. Aim for a quieter weekday if you can.

Is there parking available for visitors taking the Cambridge University tour?

There aren’t parking lots provided for touring visitors, but there are places to park near the Cambridge University campuses. The closest car park to King’s College is at the Grand Arcade on Corn Exchange Street, while a cheaper option (within a 15-minute walk) is the car park at Queen Anne’s Terrace.

Ways to explore

Many of Cambridge University’s colleges are open to the public, and one of the best ways to explore the institution’s fascinating history is on a self-guided, shared, or private walking tour. These typically include stops at different colleges, such as Trinity College, home to Trinity College Chapel; Queens’ College, set along the Cam River and famous for the Mathematical Bridge; and King’s College, where you can see Rubens’ Adoration of the Magi inside King’s College Chapel. Many travelers visit Cambridge on a day trip from London, often combining it with a visit to Oxford, another of England’s prestigious university cities.

Accessibility

Many colleges have ramp access at the entrance, but visitors should check individual colleges or inform the tour guide if an accessible route is required.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, bottled water, umbrella

What to wear

Comfortable low-heeled shoes, layers

Not allowed

Drones, getting in the way of cyclists, going into college rooms not on tours

Amenities

Most colleges have restrooms, and many food options are nearby at Cambridge Market Square.

Address

The University of Cambridge is located in Cambridge, around 65 miles (105 kilometers) north of London. It’s easy to get to by car and public transport, ot you can visit on day tours from London that include transportation.

Driving

If driving from London, take the M11 northbound and exit at Junction 11 for the A1309 toward Cambridge. Once in the city, head for a central multi-storey car park such as the Grand Arcade.

Public transportation

Regular trains from London King’s Cross reach Cambridge in about 50 minutes. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the University.

Best times to visit

The biggest crowds tend to gather in the afternoon, so plan a visit in the morning for a more peaceful experience.

Best days to visit

Visit Tuesday to Thursday to avoid peak crowds. If not joining a tour, check individual college schedules for possible closures during term time.

Best months to visit

While summer brings more crowds, the colleges are often open, and punting along the college backs is a seasonal highlight.

Special events

The Cambridge Festival takes place in spring, usually March or April, with over 350 talks, films, exhibitions, and events focused on research themes such as health, society, environment, and discovery.