king's college visit cambridge

• £5 and Under
• More than £50
• Children's Clothing
• Gloves and Scarves
• Fridge Magnets
• Paperweights
• Photo Frames
• Royal Crown Derby
• Children's Books
• Christmas Cards
• Greeting Cards
• Rulers, Rubbers and Storage
• Canvas Prints
• Framed Prints
• Unframed Prints

Visiting King's College

Buy your official tickets to visit King's College Chapel & Grounds here.

You are encouraged to buy tickets in advance as numbers are limited, we are unable to guarantee that tickets will be available to purchase on the day.

You'll be taken to our external ticket link, managed through TicketTailor.  

For more information on opening days and times, please see our website .

Ticket Prices for Self-Guided Visits

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.
• Use left/right arrows to navigate the slideshow or swipe left/right if using a mobile device

King’s College Cambridge: History, Tickets, Opening Times & More!

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure for more info.

Of the 31 colleges dotted around the English city of Cambridge, King’s College may well be the most popular among visitors, earning a top spot on many tourist bucket lists and itineraries.

Famed for its stunning Gothic chapel (home to the world’s largest fan vaulted ceiling), as well as its picturesque grounds, King’s College is definitely one of the prettiest colleges to visit in Cambridge, especially for those eager to ooh and ahh over some of the most photogenic structures in the city.

So, if you’re keen to see the very place that helped nurture famous minds like Alan Turing, Zu Zhimo, and Salman Rushdie, read on.

In this King’s College Cambridge guide, we’ll be covering all of the following:

• Practical Info for Visiting King’s College in Cambridge

A Brief History of King’s College Cambridge

How to get to king’s college cambridge.

• Things to do at King’s College Cambridge

Additional Tips for Visiting King’s College Cambridge

Practical Info for Visiting King’s College Cambridge

Public entry to King’s College is only possible through paying an admission fee. You can save a bit of money by booking your tickets online in advance here.

Ticket Prices

According to the official King’s College website, here are the ticket prices (as of January 2023):

Opening Hours

For the most accurate and up-to-date opening hours, be sure to check the King’s College calendar here.

Hotels Close to King’s College

Looking for somewhere to stay nearby? Here are some recommendations:

• Budget: Check reviews and availability
• Mid-Range: Check reviews and availability
• Luxury: Check reviews and availability

Originally founded in 1441 as “The King’s College of Our Lady Saint and Nicholas in Cambridge”, King’s College has enjoyed a lengthy history over the centuries, persevering through wars, conflicts, and global pandemics.

The college was originally established by King Henry VI as a finishing school for students from Eton College, of which the top 70 worthiest were recruited each year to join King’s. The college would remain Eton-exclusive for over 400 years until 1861, when a new set of statutes opened up admission to those from other schools.

Today, King’s College is home to over 100 fellows and 400+ undergraduate students, many of which live and work on the college grounds.

Of course, the King’s College we see today looks significantly different to how it would have looked back in the day. While construction on the famous King’s College Chapel began only five years after the founding of the college, its completion would not be reached until almost 100 years later thanks to the War of the Roses.

Besides the chapel, the college would see a great deal of expansion and development over the next few centuries. The now iconic neoclassical facade of the Gibbs Building for example wasn’t completed until 1724, and it took until the early 19th century for the front court to be completed.

But of course, good things come to those who wait. These days, King’s is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful colleges in Cambridge… certainly among visitors, who come by the thousands every year to see the beauty of the college and chapel for themselves.

King’s College is conveniently located in the Cambridge city centre along King’s Parade here .

Arriving by car:

There is no parking on-site, but there are a number of car parks close by that will put you within easy walking distance of the college.

Arriving by train:

King’s College is located about a 25 minute walk from the Cambridge Train Station (which is located outside of Central Cambridge).

Arriving by bus/coach:

King’s College is located about a 15 minute walk from the Drummer Street Bus Station.

Things to Do at King’s College Cambridge

Wondering what there is to do during your visit to King’s College in Cambridge? Here are some fo the must-sees.

Admire King’s College Chapel

Of course, the starring attraction at King’s College is the King’s College Chapel , home to the world’s largest vaulted ceiling, and considered by many to be a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Besides the beauty of the chapel itself, there are also a number of informative displays available for visitors to learn about the history of the college, chapel, and its construction.

Of course another highlight is the Adoration of the Magi painting by Rubens, which was gifted to the college by property millionaire Alfred Ernest Allnatt in the early 1960s. Visitors can now view it in the eastern part of the chapel.

Attend a chapel service

And if simple sightseeing in the chapel doesn’t feel like enough, visitors are also welcome to attend services and choral performances inside the chapel. Click here for more information about attending.

Gawk at the grounds

As the college is a working college, many parts are off-limits to public visitors, such as the Gibb’s Building, Wilkins Building, Old Lodge, and both Bodley’s Court and Chetwynd Court.

That said, some of the building exteriors are still stunning to admire from the outside, especially the Gibb’s Building which has a beautiful classical facade made of Portland stone.

Admire the King’s College Wildflower Meadow

Stretching from the King’s College Chapel to the scenic banks of the River Cam, another highlight for visitors to King’s College is the lush wildflower meadow, where (when the timing’s right) you’ll find a sea of poppies, cornflowers, mayflowers, corn cockles and more.

Stop by the Xu Zhimo Memorial Garden

Officially opened in 2018, another King’s College attraction is the Xu Zhimo Memorial Garden, the first Chinese garden to be installed in any of Cambridge’s colleges, dedicated of course to the famous Chinese poet Xu Zhimo, who once spent 18 months at King’s College.

Populated with a mix of British plants and plants from Xu’s home region of Haining, China, this tranquil piece of King’s College is well worth a visit.

Nearby the garden, you’ll also find a white marble memorial stone dedicated to Xu, which is engraved with lines from his famous poem ‘Second Farewell to Cambridge’, which is now a poem so famous in China that it is studied by millions of students each year as part of many school curriculums.

Last but not least, here are some practical tips to keep in mind before your visit to King’s College.

Buy your tickets online in advance

During our visit, we noticed that ticket purchases were not possible at the entrance gate, and instead you needed to go to the Visitor Centre across the road. Not a huge distance to travel, but you’re better off buying your tickets online because then you can guarantee your entry (they can sell out quickly during peak season!) and you save a tiny amount on the entrance fee as well.

NOTE: We’d recommend keeping your tickets handy, as we were checked at the entrance gate and again upon entry to the chapel.

Do not visit during mid-April to mid-June (Easter Term)

During this period, it’s exam time at Cambridge, so College grounds are closed to visitors (although the Chapel is usually still open).

Use the facilities before visiting the college

At King’s College, you will not find any toilets or bathrooms open to the public, so be sure to take care of business before your visit!

Keep off the grass!

According to some wordy signs, walking on the grass is only possible if you are accompanied by a senior member of the college. You’ve been warned!

We Hope You Enjoyed This Guide to King’s College Cambridge!

Let us know in the comments if you have any more questions, or insider tips to add. We’re always looking to improve our articles for readers!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Private Guided Tours of King’s College and Chapel

Home » Guided Tour of King’s College Cambridge

Make the most of your visit to King's College and Chapel by booking a Private Guided Tour!

• Accredited and qualified tour guides
• Educational and entertaining tours delivered by experts
• Visit just King's College or combine with a longer tour of Cambridge
• Fully bespoke tours - tailored to your specific interests
• Small and large groups catered for

Tours of King’s College are part of our Private Guided Tours service and can be booked as a standalone tour of the college and chapel, or combined with a tour of some of the other Cambridge city-centre sights. A wonderful introduction to the city and an insight into the people who have lived, worked and studied here!

All our private tours are fully customisable and can focus on whatever you wish depending on the requirements of your group – choose the time and the meeting place, and have the itinerary tailored to your specific interests, age group and mobility.

We would recommend a 1-hour tour to fully explore King’s or book a 1.5 or 2-hour tour to include some of the other iconic sights of Cambridge’s historic city-centre.

Guides can take groups of up to 20 people into the college. If you would like a tour for a larger group we can supply several guides.

Please note the tour fee does not include the entrance fee to King’s College and Chapel.

In Association with

King's College and Chapel

King’s College, one of the 31 constituent Colleges that make up the University of Cambridge, is easily recognisable as one of the most famous sights in Cambridge. Lying between King’s Parade and the River Cam, the college was founded in 1441 by Henry VI. The building is regarded as one of the greatest examples of late Gothic English Architecture.

Our expert and passionate guides will take you on an enjoyable and engaging guided tour of King’s – full of interesting historical facts and fascinating stories.

There is plenty to see! Some of the highlights include:

• The chapel that took 100 years, 5 King’s and 4 master masons to complete
• King’s College Chapel – the finest example of Perpendicular Gothic Architecture in Europe
• The magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling, largest of its type in the world
• The most complete set of 16th century stained glass
• Beautiful oak screen with the carved initials of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn
• Ruben’s wonderful altarpiece, The Adoration of the Magi

King's College, King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST

Book a guided tour of king's college and chapel.

If you are interested in booking a tour of King’s College please contact us on [email protected] or tel: 01223 752660 to discuss your requirements.

Alternatively click on the relevant button below to send us an email with your requirements and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

NB King’s College are currently requesting visitors to book an arrival time via their website in advance of their visit, once your entrance time is booked we can book the guide to fit your schedule.

1 Hour Guided Tour including King's College

1.5 hour guided tour including king's college, 2 hour guided tour including king's college.

* Plus college entrance fees.

Why Choose Cantab Tours?

Experienced.

Cantab Tours have a wealth of experience in providing high-quality walking tours of Cambridge. Our team has previously worked with Visit Cambridge for many years as the providers of their official guided tour service. In fact, we have been delivering tours of Cambridge since the 1970s!

We work closely with The Society of Cambridge Tourist Guides and all of our tour guides are accredited and proudly wear the widely-recognised Blue or Green badges awarded by the Institute of Tourist Guiding . The training lasts almost a year and our guides have such a broad knowledge they can answer most questions you will have including questions on the application process for prospective students.

Entertaining.

As well as being fully qualified, our tour guides are all extremely passionate about Cambridge and its history. Many of our guides are Cambridge University Alumni or are associated with the University in some way. They will guarantee that you will have an enjoyable and engaging tour – full of interesting historical facts and fascinating stories. No boring or scripted tours here!

Our Cambridge Highlights Tour is only £20 per person (£12 for children) for a 90-minute tour, and our Private Tours start at just £90 for up to 20 people offering great value for money and the perfect way to see Cambridge.

Our Cambridge Highlights Tour is only £20 per person (£12 for children) for a 90-minute tour, and our private tours start at just £90 for up to 20 people offering great value for money and the perfect way to see Cambridge.

TWG Systems Ltd Beacon House Stokenchurch HP14 3FE

Privacy Overview

Which tour would you like to book.

• Visiting Cambridge Colleges in 2023 – Latest Information

Most visitors to Cambridge would like to take a look inside a College or two. There’s over 800years of history to explore and many of them are free to enter.

We have created an exclusive and helpful table showing Colleges, weblinks, opening information and charges. See here… https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OlNqtNpEPFtrLmnF4n6VCbJWccBZEgP59_tpjdX3WmE/edit?usp=sharing

It should be noted that Colleges are private institutions that have the ability to close at a moment’s notice if a special guest has been invited to look round or something like that. There is no guarantee that a College will be open on the day you might have decided to visit.

If there is a concert or a recording taking place this might also be a reason for a College to close so it’s best to check their websites before you go. Many Colleges keep their social media up to date with any opening restrictions.

We hope some of your questions might be answered below:-

Which are the best Colleges in central Cambridge that are free to look round?

These would be:-

• Christ’s College where Charles Darwin studied (Only open Tuesdays and Thursday)
• Downing College has the Heong Gallery
• Pembroke College with it’s Chapel by Sir Christopher Wren
• Gonville & Caius College with it’s different courts and medical history
• Jesus College with it’s garden sculptures
• Magdelene College right on the river with the Pepys Library
• Peterhouse being the oldest of all the Colleges in Cambridge
• Sidney Sussex where Oliver Cromwell’s head is buried
• St. Catherine’s College in a small intimate College in the heart of Cambridge
• Trinity Hall has an amazing history and a beautiful garden on the river

Which are the Colleges that charge visitors to enter?

These would be:

• Clare College
• Corpus Christi College
• St John’s College
• King’s College
• Queens’ College
• Trinity College

Which are the most famous or popular Colleges to look round?

Trinity college.

Trinity is by far the wealthiest and the largest of all the Colleges in Cambridge. They only charge £3 for an adult to enter the College but access is restricted to the Great Court and the Chapel. To gain admission enter via the Great Gate on Trinity Street.

It is also possible to see the Great Court free of charge by entering through the Queen Elizabeth Gate on Trinity Lane but do not cross the barrier marked PRIVATE! If you do the porters wearing bowler hats will be after you.

Trinity Great Gate seen from the Great Court

KING’S COLLEGE

King’s College is probably the most visited College in Cambridge as the chapel is the finest example of late gothic architecture anywhere in the world. It has the finest example of renaissance stained glass anywhere in the world and the largest fan vaulted ceiling.

To look round the chapel and grounds at King’s you can buy a ticket online here:  https://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/visit/your-visit

It is £1 cheaper online but you can just pop into the Kings Shop on Kings Parade and buy your ticket there. It is £11 for an adult and £8.50 for a child when buying from the shop.

Once you have your ticket you will need to walk round to the north door of the chapel to present your ticket and enter.

Inside King’s College Chapel

After you have seen the chapel and the priceless painting by Rubens you can walk round the College grounds. Many visitors just head off after the chapel but it’s a strong recommendation to enjoy the grounds and walk over the bridge to the west, which has inspired famous Chinese poetry.

It is worth noting that with many guided walking tours entry to the chapel is included. Many people walk around the chapel but have no idea what they are looking at so having a guide is a strong recommendation. These can be arranged through Cambridge Walking Tours http://www.cambridgewalkingtours.co.uk/

It is possible to attend a Choir Services known as Evensong at King’s College chapel free of charge. These take place in term time and you will need to book online as they are restricting the number of people attending due to Covid-19. You can see all the information you need and book online here:- https://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/chapel/attending-chapel-services

Once you’ve booked you need to come to the front of King’s College on King’s Parade at 4:55pm. If you are after 5:05pm you will be at the back of the queue. At 5pm you will be allowed into the College and permitted to queue up at the south door to the chapel (follow the crowd). At 5:15pm you will be allowed into the chapel. At 5:30pm Evensong will start. You will not need to pray or sing. Just stand up when everyone else stands up and sit down when everyone else sits down. The service lasts around 45mins. Dress appropriately for a religious service and do not take photographs. It’s important to be respectful of the College allowing visitors to participate in an ancient and beautiful tradition.

King’s College taken from Queen’s Road

QUEENS’ COLLEGE

Queens’ College is special because of the wooden bridge over the cam often incorrectly referred to as the Mathematical Bridge. It also has a historic sun dial and some of the oldest courts in Cambridge.

It is only £5 to look around this College and much of it is open to the public.

Access is gained via Queens’ Lane.

St. JOHN’S COLLEGE

St. John’s College is very famous as William Wordsworth studied here and it’s one of the most beautiful. It is also the only College to have two bridges over the river one being the famous Bridge of Sighs.

The movie about Steven Hawking’s life called The Theory of Everything was filmed here although Mr. Hawking went to Trinity Hall.

Entry to this College is £11 for an adult and they charge for children over 12yrs. This is the most expensive of all the Colleges to visit.

With the entry to the College you can wonder around most of the buildings. It’s possible to go into the chapel but often this is restricted just to the entrance and not the stalls.

Make the most of your time at St. John’s College and make sure you walk over the Bridge of Sighs and into New Court and the gardens.

New Court at St. John’s College

What Colleges are off the beaten track but worth a visit?

Selwyn College is a short walk to the west and has some pretty buildings.

Churchill College is a bit of a trek but it has a lot of grounds and some amazing sculptures.

When is the worst time of year to visit the Colleges?

That would be April and May whilst the exams are taking place. Colleges are often closed around this time to allow students to study and prepare for exams.

When is the best time of year to visit?

July and August are good because Colleges are open and there are no student’s around but King’s College Chapel Evensong is not on as it is out of term time.

June can be a great time with Evensong on, students still around and the crowds have not arrived.

If you want to see some nervous new students and get a feel for life as a student October can be fun.

Our favourite time in September when things are quietening down but the evenings are still long and mild.

Here are some other bits of information about visiting Colleges that you might wish to know:-

Cambridge Alumni can gain entrance to Colleges with their CamCard. It allows them to bring one guest with them into St. John’s or Queens’ or up to three guests in other Colleges. It even allows access with two guests into King’s College Chapel.

Cambridge residents can apply for a resident’s card at Kings Shop to gain access to Colleges for free.

Social distancing is still important to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19. There are various measures in place within Colleges that must be adhered to. There is a new booking system for the chapel at Kings for example to keep numbers in confined spaces to a minimum.

Colleges are centres for academic study and life within them are for students, staff and fellows. It is a privilege to be allowed in as a visitor so be mindful of people trying to work.

Many people see their College as their home and identify strongly with them. Alumni and staff can choose to get married in their College chapel as example and so often a College might close for the day to allow that to happen.

If you are interested in women-only Colleges there are now only Murry Edwards and Newnham after Lucy Cavendish started to admit men in 2021.

Once you have looked round a College take the time to enjoy their gardens. Make the most of your visit. College gardens are arguably more exclusive and more enjoyable to look round than the buildings.

Fellow’s gardens are closed to the public but each summer they hold plays as a part of the Shakespeare festival. It is a chance to look inside a garden that’s rarely available to the public’s eye. Get to a performance well before the start and enjoy the garden before the play begins. Don’t forget to bring your picnic! For more information visit https://cambridgeshakespeare.com/

When walking around Colleges it’s easy to forget that the cobbles under your feet are hundreds of years old and may not be perfectly flat so do mind your step.

Fellows are often trying to educate young minds just the other side of a window as you walk around a College so do be mindful not to shout. Many areas are marked PRIVATE for good reason.

Be aware of emergency procedures in the event of an alarm. This information is usually quite clear but might be worth noting as you go in.

We hope this article has proved interesting and useful.

Plan your visit and take as much time as you can to enjoy this wonderful City.

Article by Anthony Dean www.cambridgetouristinformation.co.uk

Sources:- https://www.economist.com/britain/2019/03/14/another-women-only-cambridge-college-goes-mixed https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/cambridge-news/cambridge-university-colleges-free-visit-13810784 College individual websites as listed in the spreadsheet above

• Coronation of King Charles III
• The Varsity Rugby Match 2023 – 151st Anniversary Match
• 168th Cambridge vs. Oxford Boat Race – 5pm Sunday 26th March 2023
• 167th Cambridge vs. Oxford Boat Race – Sunday 3rd April 2022

april, 2024

Privacy Overview

Inspiration

• Unique Cambridge

From making your own gin with one of the world’s most innovative distilleries, to trying the best of the Cambridge food scene – here are some uniquely Cambridge experiences to seek out during your stay

• Art & Exhibitions
• Comedy & Entertainment
• Family Friendly
• List Your Event
• Museums & Galleries
• Universities & Colleges
• Theatres & Cinemas
• Parks & Open Spaces
• Walking & Cycling Routes
• Food & Drink
• Key Sites to Visit
• List Your Business
• Explore Cambridge's Colleges
• Accommodation
• Travelling into Cambridge
• Driving into Cambridge
• City Ambassadors
• Venue Finding Service
• Cambridge for Couples
• Dog-friendly Cambridge
• Family Fun in Cambridge

Welcome to our new website! If you are a local business and would like to add an event or business, please follow this link

• Things to See & Do

Cambridge is the country’s most beautiful historic city. Its elegant centre is framed by architectural triumphs, surrounded by green spaces and home to the University of Cambridge’s world-famous colleges.

Cambridge lives and breathes its past in its present; wander through the winding streets and follow in the steps of the city’s luminaries including Charles Darwin, Alfred Tennyson and Sylvia Plath to name but a few. Poets, philosophers, scientists, medics, engineers, prime ministers and Nobel Peace Prize winners have all left their mark here.

Pay a visit to King’s College Chapel – a truly inspirational experience. It is the largest and most spectacular of the college chapels in Cambridge.

Admire the picturesque waters of the River Cam and gaze in wonder at the Bridge of Sighs at St John’s and the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’.

• Corpus Christi college is famous for the Chronophage, the amazing £1m golden clock invented by one of its former students, John Taylor.
• Trinity College has a famous statue of Henry VIII holding the orb of state, and a sceptre, which in fact is a chair leg mischievously put there by an irreverent student in the 19th century.

All Universities & Colleges ( 32 )

• Leisure Activities
• Local Nature Reserve
• House & Park
• Dog Friendly
• Gluten Free Options
• Vegetarian Friendly

Cambridge Festival (University of Cambridge)

The interdisciplinary Cambridge Festival will take place from 14-28 March 2024 with a mixture of on online, on-demand and in-person events covering all aspects of the world-leading research happening at Cambridge.

Cambridge Literary Festival

Two festivals and events throughout the year, hosting literary greats, debut writers, scientists, artists, politicians, comedians and children's authors, all "For the Love of Books".

Cambridge Sculpture Trails

Find illustrated trails of 20th & 21st C public sculpture on our CST website. Download our free app to guide you around the works sited in city streets and tranquil college gardens.

Cambridge University Italian Society

The CUIS is a student-run society that promotes Italian culture in Cambridge. Our aim, on the one hand, is to create a platform for exchange between different cultures, with the purpose of allowing people from all over the world to get to know Italy, its reality, traditions, and culture a bit better. On the other hand, our objective is to provide a place of exchange and a forum for discussion for Italian students and people in Cambridge who have an interest in Italy. The Society is open to everyone who is interested in our activities, including people from outside the University and non-Italian speakers. We run weekly activities throughout term time. Activities range from cultural and informational talks, roundtables, and panel discussions on issues of common interest relating to Italy. Famous Italian journalists, scholars, and directors have been invited to give talks in the past. We are committed to creating a friendly, welcoming environment where Italians and non-Italians alike can feel at home.

Cambridge Women Tours

Sex and the City - a walking tour This guided tour, led by Cambridge Green Badge guides, reveals the parts played by women in shaping the university, the town and the world beyond.

Christ’s College

Christ's is distinctive amongst the Cambridge Colleges. It offers strong tutorial support to its students as they pursue their academic work.

Churchill College

With the largest college campus in Cambridge, a diverse student population and a track record of excellence, Churchill College is one of the most forward-thinking academic institutions in the world.

Clare College

The College was founded in 1326 and was the first of the Oxford and Cambridge foundations to provide for a Master, Fellows and Scholars in a single community.

Clare Hall is a college for advanced study at the University of Cambridge. We have beautiful grounds and gardens to explore. A British architect and long-time resident of Sweden, Ralph Erskine, was enlisted to build a resolutely modern community within Cambridge’s history-rich landscape.

Corpus Christi College

Corpus Christi College was founded in 1352. The College provides a stimulating academic and residential environment.

Darwin College

Darwin College is founded for the advancement of education, learning and research.

Downing College

Downing College in the University of Cambridge was founded in 1800 by the bequest of Sir George Downing.

Emmanuel College

Emmanuel College occupies extensive grounds, sited in the centre of Cambridge and providing an environment for learning and living that is both beautiful and peaceful.

Exhibition: Murder by the Book at Cambridge University Library

Cambridge University Library runs a programme of free, public exhibitions throughout the year. Murder by the Book: A Celebration of 20th Century British Crime Fiction illuminates and celebrates the stories of the UK’s most popular fiction writing, examining crime’s place in our literary history, looking at the Library’s remarkable collection items, and stylish dust jackets, that represent more than a century of British book design. Featuring star items including Agatha Christie's 1937 typewriter. Pre-booking essential.

Fitz Events, Fitzwilliam College Cambridge

A distinct and modern Cambridge College, Fitzwilliam College offers an outstanding venue for events, B&B breaks, celebrations, and much more.

Gonville and Caius College

Gonville & Caius – we’re usually known simply as 'Keys' – is home to nearly 1,000 undergraduates, graduates and academics.

Did you know?

Part of Queen’s College, The Mathematical Bridge is something of an architectural feat, using exclusively straight pieces of timber to create an elegant arched appearance.

King's College

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

KING'S COLLEGE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Shared | Alumni-Led Cambridge Uni Tour w/opt King's College Entry (From ₱1,831.91)
• Shared | Cambridge Alumni-Led Walking & Punting Tour W/ Opt King's College Entry (From ₱4,396.47)
• Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour (From ₱345.28)
• Cambridge Day Tour from London (From ₱5,788.56)
• Shared | Cambridge University Punting Tour (From ₱2,637.77)
• (0.33 km) Hilton Cambridge City Centre
• (0.63 km) Duke House
• (0.44 km) Graduate Cambridge
• (0.33 km) Christ s College Cambridge
• (0.66 km) The Varsity Hotel & Spa
• (0.04 km) Ittou Noodle Bar
• (0.04 km) Mo' Pho: Far East Street Food
• (0.04 km) The Copper Kettle
• (0.16 km) Africfood
• (0.08 km) Bread & Meat

College Calendar

King's members, please login for internal events.

Public Visiting Hours

Festal evensong - philip & james, in conversation with david craig, co-chair of the taskforce on nature-related financial disclosures (tnfd), alan turing lecture event 2024, llms in law: opportunities, risks, implications, king's golf day 2024.

Breadcrumbs

King's college, cambridge, king's college architecture and design  .

King’s College, affiliated with the University of Cambridge, is a prestigious college that first opened its doors in 1441. At the time of its inception, the school’s formal name was the King’s College of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas in Cambridge.

The college was the pet project of Henry VI. Henry had already successfully formed a college in Eton. While he had grand plans for what would come to be known as King’s College, the project got off to a rocky start. The Wars of the Roses began, and there was not much money to devote to the institution.

The Wars of the Roses involved the houses of Lancaster and York fighting viciously for power. The struggle became so intense that the Duke of York was eventually killed, and Henry VI was deposed. Henry, who was said to struggle throughout his life with dark periods of mental illness, was imprisoned, and it wasn’t until 1508 that further progress would be made on the college.

King's College and Henry VII

New ruler, Henry VII, decided to resume work on Henry VI’s project. Most people believe that his sudden interest in the college was an attempt to showcase himself as a capable and powerful leader.

Regardless of Henry VII’s reasons for contributing to the college, it was under his watchful eye that construction on the college’s chapel, now considered one of the world’s most renowned architectural structures, was finally resumed. Henry VII would not see the chapel through to its completion, however. The building, which was started in 1446, was not fully finished until 1544. By that time, a new leader, Henry VIII, was in power.

Who Designed the Chapel at King's College?

Despite the prestige of King College’s chapel, no one is entirely sure who designed the building. The disputes surrounding whom the original architect was are likely due to the long lapse between the building’s start and end dates.

Though Henry VI decided upon the chapel’s dimensions, it is not clear who took over from there. Some believe that Reginald Ely, head press mason of the project in 1444, was the original architect. Others, however, argue that surveyor Nichols Close was responsible.

While there are some architectural researchers who will argue the case of one of the above men being the architect, most accept that the true architect’s name is likely lost to history.

Even though the name of the original architect is unknown, there are still clear records surrounding who built certain features of the chapel. The chapel, for example, features 12 large side windows, and four of those windows were completed by Barnard Flower, the appointed King’s Glazier. Gaylon Hone, along with three unknown workers, created four windows as well, and together, Francis Williamson and Symon Symondes created four windows.

In addition to the impressive windows, King’s College chapel is home to the largest fan vault in the world. The vault took three years to build and was completed in 1515. The architect behind that project was John Wastell, Master Mason at the time.

King's College Architecture and Design

King's College in Cambridge is not just famous for its academic excellence but also for its stunning architecture and design. Let's explore what makes it so special.

The most iconic part of King's College is its Chapel. It's a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture. The Chapel has large stained glass windows, a beautifully detailed fan vault ceiling, which is one of the largest in the world, and an impressive altar. The design details and the size of the chapel make it a must-see for anyone interested in architecture.

The Courtyards and Gardens

King's College is also known for its beautiful courtyards and gardens. These outdoor spaces provide peaceful areas for students and visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The college's design integrates these green spaces seamlessly, emphasizing the importance of nature in academic environments.

The Buildings

The college buildings themselves are a mix of old and new. While some buildings, like the chapel, are centuries old and show the historical architectural styles, others are more modern. This mix gives King's College a unique look, combining tradition and innovation.

The Interiors

Inside the buildings, you'll find impressive dining halls, cozy libraries, and student common rooms. The interiors often feature traditional wood paneling, high ceilings, and historic details. These elements create a sense of continuity with the past, even as the college continues to evolve.

The River Cam Setting

Finally, the location of King's College along the River Cam adds to its architectural beauty. Many of the college's buildings have stunning views of the river, making it a picturesque place to study and live.

King's College Cambridge is a place where architecture and design play a crucial role in creating an inspiring and beautiful environment for learning. From the majestic Chapel to the tranquil gardens and historic dining halls, every part of the college contributes to its charm and character. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or just an architecture enthusiast, there's no denying the aesthetic and cultural significance of King's College's architecture and design.

Design and Dimensions

Though construction on the King’s College chapel was continually halted and took a hundred years to complete, it stands today as a breathtaking example of Gothic English Architecture.

Back of King's College

The long building is 289 feet in length and has an interior height of 80 feet and an exterior height of 94 feet.

Its above-mentioned windows and fan vault are some of its most distinctive and celebrated features, as is the medieval stained glass. Also in the chapel is Peter Paul Rubens’ 1634 painting, “The Adoration of the Magi,” which has been hung above the chapel’s altar since 1968.

Other noted features include the wooden chancel or “rood” screen, and the glorious front court.

King’s Chapel Today

The chapel, which has been subjected to minor restorations, still stands strong today, inspiring architectural students and all who visit it. Despite its historic status, the chapel is oft-used and makes up a regular part of the King’s College experience for students. Worship services are held there to this day, as are the concerts of the celebrated “Chapel Choir” and “King’s Voices” choir.

King's College Chapel

The gorgeous chapel has come to represent not only King’s College but Cambridge as a whole. It is even featured in the logo of the Cambridge City Council. And, in addition to the chapel’s impact on Cambridge, it will forever have an impact upon the world’s understanding of architecture.

Questions and Answers FAQs

What is king's college cambridge famous for.

King's College in Cambridge is known all around the world for many cool things. Let's talk about some of them in simple words.

King's College is famous because it's very old and has a beautiful church called King's College Chapel. Many people come to visit it. The college is also known for its choir, which sings beautifully and is famous worldwide. They even sing on TV every Christmas! Plus, King's College is part of a big university called the University of Cambridge, which is one of the best in the world. Lots of smart and famous people studied there.

What is King's College Cambridge ranked in the world?

People often want to know how good King's College Cambridge is compared to other colleges and universities around the world. Let's find out.

King's College Cambridge is part of the University of Cambridge, which is usually ranked really high, often in the top five universities worldwide! Even though these rankings can change a bit every year, Cambridge is always up there with the best. So, when you hear about King's College, remember it's part of a super good university.

Is King's College hard to get into?

Many people dream about studying at King's College, but they wonder if it's tough to get accepted. Let's talk about that.

Yes, King's College is pretty hard to get into. Because it's so famous and offers great education, lots of people want to go there. You need to have excellent grades and do really well in your interviews and exams to get a spot. But remember, even if it's tough, it's not impossible! With hard work and passion, many students achieve their dream of studying there.

Is King's College the same as Cambridge?

Sometimes it's confusing when people talk about King's College and Cambridge. Are they the same thing? Let's clear that up.

King's College is a part of the University of Cambridge, not the whole thing. Think of Cambridge as a big family of many colleges, and King's College is one member of that family. They all work together to teach students and do research, but each college is also a bit different and special in its own way.

What kind of subjects can you study at King's College Cambridge?

King's College Cambridge offers lots of different subjects you can learn about, like science, arts, math, and many more. Whatever you're interested in, there's a good chance you can study it at King's!

How old is King's College Cambridge?

King's College Cambridge is really old! It was founded way back in 1441, which means it has been around for more than 500 years. Imagine how many students have walked through its doors since then!

What are the traditions at King's College Cambridge?

King's College has lots of cool traditions. For example, every year at Christmas, they have a famous service with carols (Christmas songs) that people from all over the world listen to. They also have fancy dinners in a big hall, wear special gowns, and follow many other traditions that have been around for centuries.

Do students at King's College Cambridge live on campus?

Yes, most students at King's College live right there on the campus in student rooms. This is great because they can be close to their classes, the library, and their friends. Plus, the college buildings are beautiful, so it's a nice place to live.

Can anyone visit King's College Cambridge?

Yes, people can visit King's College to see the beautiful chapel and other parts of the college. There are certain times when tourists are allowed to come and look around. It's a popular place for visitors, so if you're ever in Cambridge, you should definitely check it out!

Recent Courses

• Types of Houses and Home Styles 21 hours ago
• Traditional Home Styles 22 hours 3 minutes ago
• Home Styles 22 hours 4 minutes ago
• Construction Project Management 1 day 17 hours ago
• Manager of Construction 1 day 17 hours ago
• Be Your Own General Contractor 1 day 19 hours ago
• Construction Management 1 day 19 hours ago
• Building Construction Process 1 day 19 hours ago
• An Introduction to Architecture and Building Construction 1 day 19 hours ago
• Construction Management Fundamentals 1 day 19 hours ago
• Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) 1 day 20 hours ago
• Gothic Architecture in Germany 3 days 13 hours ago

H E Durham Fund 2024

Small grants made for the purpose of advancing, improving, or disseminating knowledge of human or animal life in health or in disease.

Renowned conductor Sir Andrew Davis CBE (KC 1963) dies

Sir Andrew Davis, Organ Scholar at King’s under the tutelage of Sir David Willcocks, passed away on 20th April 2024, aged 80.

King’s to welcome 12 Gates Cambridge Scholars in 2024

75 Scholars have been selected to form the Gates Cambridge Class of 2024, and we are delighted to announce that 12 of them will be joining us at King’s next Michaelmas Term.

The Telephone Fundraising Campaign begins today

From today and until 22 April, a team of 13 student callers will be reaching out to alumni across the world and asking them to support our Supplementary Exhibition Fund and other College initiatives.

Gibbs Building marks 300th anniversary

The iconic building has been the venue for countless student supervisions and nerve-wracking admissions interviews, and continues to be where many King’s Fellows research and teach.

E-Lab College Research Associates receive #21toWatch awards

Nadia Mohd-Radzman and Ismail Sami were crowned in the “People” and “Thing” categories, respectively, and were selected from a shortlist of 40 out of 301 applications.

HERA study of women’s reproductive health receives Wellcome award

Recent research co-led by Professor John Perry has identified genetic risk factors for a range of conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian ageing and fertility. 

Ashley Moffett to receive honorary doctorate at Karolinska Institutet

Professor Moffett is to be honoured with a doctorate by the Karolinska Institutet for a lifetime of research. The formal ceremony will take place in Stockholm on 26 April.

Quasar, with keyboardist James Wang (KC 2020), wins University’s band competition

Quasar was crowned the winner of this year’s Take it to the Bridge band competition at the Cambridge Junction on Friday 1 March.

New Entrepreneurship Lab blog welcomes submissions

The King's E-Lab launches ‘Mindsets’, a new blog series that hopes to create a space for reflection and to spark new ideas.

Study at King's

• Undergraduate Study
• Graduate Study
• Life at King's
• Access and Outreach

Visit King's

• Opening Times
• The Shop at King's
• Conference & Dining
• Events Calendar
• Chapel Services
• Choir Concerts
• Concerts at King's

King's Alumni

• Events for Members
• Donate to King's
• Keep in Touch
• Useful Information

About King's

• Archive Centre
• Accessibility Guide

Information

• Accounts and Legal
• Job Vacancies
• Filming & Photography