cambridge places to stay and visit

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
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• Cambridge Calendar Highlights
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• Museums & Galleries
• Universities & Colleges
• Theatres & Cinemas
• Parks & Open Spaces
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• Food & Drink
• Key Sites to Visit
• List Your Business
• Explore Cambridge's Colleges

Accommodation

• Travelling into Cambridge
• Driving into Cambridge
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• City Ambassadors
• Venue Finding Service
• Cambridge for Couples
• Dog-friendly Cambridge
• Family Fun in Cambridge

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Staying in Cambridge is every bit as individualistic as you would expect. From cheap and cheerful rooms to quirky boutique-style venues and luxurious hotels and apartments, you’ll never be short of choice when planning your stay in the city.  

Explore by category

City Centre Hotels

University Arms Cambridge

University Arms is a historic hotel set in the heart of Cambridge's City Centre providing the perfect staging point to explore this stunning city.

• Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD

Gonville Hotel

Gonville Hotel is a 4 star hotel in the heart of Cambridge, with recently refurbished public areas, new Feature Bedrooms and Treatment Rooms.

• Gonville Pl, Cambridge CB1 1LY

Clayton Hotel

The 4* Clayton Hotel Cambridge is located next to the Botanic Gardens a short walk from Cambridge Centre.

• 27-29 Station Rd, Cambridge CB1 2FB

The Waterman

A modern-day meeting place and contemporary inn! Open all day and just a short stroll across the beautiful Midsummer Common.

ibis Cambridge Central Station

Ibis Cambridge is located next to the train station and a 10 min walk to the city centre.

• 2 Station Sq, Cambridge CB1 2GA

The Varsity Hotel and Spa

Experience a luxury riverside spa hotel in the centre of Cambridge.

• Thompsons Ln, Cambridge CB5 8AQ

Hotel Du Vin & Bistro

In a Grade II Listed building, Hotel du Vin Cambridge has luxurious boutique rooms with monsoon showers and Egyptian linen.

• 15-19 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1QA

All Accommodation ( 75 )

• B&B's and Guesthouses
• College Rooms
• Camp sites & Caravaning
• Dog Friendly
• Gluten Free Options
• Independent
• Vegan Options
• Vegetarian Friendly

A & B Guest House Cambridge Ltd

Clean and friendly B&B service close to the heart of Cambridge.

• 124 Tenison Rd, Cambridge CB1 2DP

Acorn Guest House B&B

Providing comfortable, affordable, room-only accommodation located in the heart of Cambridge since 1992.

• 154 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1DA

Aromatherapy Associates Treatment Rooms

Discover University Arms quiet, relaxing Aromatherapy Associates treatment rooms, available to both hotel and non-hotel guests. Indulge in treatments for your body and skin that use the highest concentrations of natural ingredients, giving you a truly exceptional sensorial experience.

• Regent Street, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB1 1AD,

Arundel House Hotel

Overlooking the River Cam, Arundel House Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Cambridge's historic centre.

• Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3AN

Ashley Hotel

Traditional bed-and-breakfast made up of two Victorian townhouses.

• 74 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1ER.

Autumn House

Autumn House B&B is an extended modern contemporary house, offering stylish luxurious accommodation.

• 588 Newmarket Rd, Cambridge CB5 8LP

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is nestled in three acres of beautiful manicured lawns and secluded rose gardens offering modern luxury and comfort of an exquisite, independent boutique hotel. The only 4 Red Star hotel in Newmarket, offering 80 stylish boutique hotel rooms and suites offers guests the height of luxury and comfort. Our award-winning 2 AA rosette restaurant and traditional bar offers a la carte, bar menu and scrumptious afternoon teas making it the perfect place to dine. Our seven stylish state-of-the-art dedicated conference and event rooms are some of the most advanced in East Anglia. All our rooms have wireless internet access and air conditioning. Some have high definition plasma display monitors with the very latest presentation technology. Our ‘5 bubble’ rated spa! Sitting adjacent to the hotel, it boasts a rooftop hot tub, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, and experiential showers.

• Bury Road, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7BX,

Bridge Guest House

The Bridge Guest House is a traditional Bed & Breakfast ideally situated on A1309 into Cambridge.

• 151 Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 8RJ

Cambridge Bar Hill Hotel, BW Signature Collection

In beautiful grounds 5 miles from historic Cambridge.

• Bar Hill, Cambridge CB23 8EU

Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa

The Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa has a peaceful setting in Cambourne, 8 miles west of Cambridge.

• Back Ln, Great Cambourne, Cambourne, Cambridge CB23 6BW

Cambridge Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Our Cambridge Club Site is ideally situated to explore the cobbled university city of Cambridge.

• 19 Cabbage Moor, Great Shelford, Cambridge CB22 5NB

Cambridge Narrowboats

Welcome to Cambridge Narrow Boats, we are proud to run an independent, boutique narrowboat holiday hire business set in one of the most stunning locations in the UK. ​Join us to take in the wonderful natural scenery on the rivers & canals of Cambridgeshire and the truly unique beauty of the Fens, coupled with historic, vibrant Cambridge, steeped in history and culture.

• 36 Lovell Rd Lovell rd, Cambridge, County (optional) CB42QR,

Cambridge Water House Apartments

Located in Cambridge, 12 km from University of Cambridge and 10 km from St John's College.

• 31 High St, Waterbeach, Cambridge CB25 9JU

Camstay Longworth Avenue

Very large open-plan apartments with Juliet balconies 10 minutes from The Grafton shopping centre.

• 8 Longworth Ave, Chesterton, Cambridge CB4 1GU

Catharine House Aparthotel by JBStays

Catharine House Aparthotel by JBStays features accommodation with free WiFi and a garden with a terrace and garden views.

• 150a Catharine Street, Cambridge, CB1 3AR

Centennial Hotel

The Centennial Hotel Bar & Restaurant offers an excellent base for a cosy City Centre getaway, set in six heritage townhouses on Cambridge's famous doorstep.

• 63/71 Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1PG

Did you know?

With over 800 years of history, tread in the footsteps of many famous faces, including Charles Darwin, James Watson and France Crick, Rosalind Franklin, Sylvia Plath and Professor Stephen Hawking.

THE 10 BEST Hotels in Cambridge 2024

Cambridge Hotels

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class, popular hotels in cambridge right now.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Gonville Hotel

2. Travelodge Cambridge Orchard Park

3. The Varsity Hotel & Spa

4. Travelodge Cambridge Newmarket Road

5. ibis Cambridge Central Station

6. Graduate Cambridge

7. The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton

8. Travelodge Cambridge Central Hotel

9. Holiday Inn Cambridge, an IHG Hotel

10. Turing Locke

11. Hilton Cambridge City Centre

12. Clayton Hotel Cambridge

13. Hotel du Vin Cambridge

14. Hyatt Centric Cambridge

15. Premier Inn Cambridge (A14, J32) hotel

16. Rectory Farm

17. Centennial Hotel

18. Holiday Inn Express Cambridge, an IHG Hotel

19. Premier Inn Cambridge East (Newmarket Road) hotel

20. Leverton House

21. University Arms Hotel, Autograph Collection

22. Novotel Cambridge North

23. Madingley Hall

24. YHA Cambridge

25. The Waterman

26. The Lensfield

27. Arundel House Hotel

28. The Regent

29. West Court Cambridge

30. Regency Guest House

Cambridge Hotels Information

Hotels near the sights.

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » Cambridge

15 BEST Places to Visit in Cambridge (2024)

Cambridge is a great travel destination for anyone who’s interested in history, architecture, and wants to enjoy them in a modern, vibrant city.

When you travel to Cambridge, you’ll marvel at its medieval, atmospheric streets that still manage to embrace contemporary culture and progress. And you’ll find so many amazing places to visit in Cambridge that you might struggle to choose between them.

Cambridge isn’t on many people’s bucket lists. This means that you might struggle to find interesting places to visit in Cambridge. To help you find the attractions and landmarks that you’re interested in, we’ve created this comprehensive list.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Cambridge:

These are the best places to visit in cambridge, faq on the best places to visit in cambridge, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in cambridge.

Round Church Street

Round Church Street is located just outside the City Centre and is one of the first residential neighbourhoods in Cambridge to be found next to the universities. While staying there, you will be within walking distance from all the main central sights, which makes it an area of choice if you are visiting Cambridge for the first time.

• Visit Saint John College, its chapel and the Bridge of Sighs
• Go for a picnic in Jesus Green Park

There are just too many cute narrow, cottage lined streets in this magical borough. Before scrolling any further down the page, check out where to stay in Cambridge and be sure to grab the best accommodation on one of these lovely lanes before someone else beats you to it.

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#1 – King’s College and King’s College Chapel – A great place to see in Cambridge if you love architecture

• The views from the lawn of this Cambridge must-see are simply stunning.
• If you’re visiting Cambridge during the school term, make sure you take the chance to see the King’s College Choir at Evensong.

Why it’s so awesome: These buildings were founded in 1441 by Henry VI and the grounds are simply stunning. They were once home to famous alumni including Rupert Brooke, Lord Keynes, and Horace Walpole and have become one of the most popular attractions in Cambridge for tourists.

What to do there: This is a still working college, so you might have to share the grounds with students depending on when you visit. The views are simply stunning, with lawns that reach all the way down to the river and provide a scenic and relaxing area to study. Also worth checking out is King’s College Chapel, with spectacular stained glass windows, a 16th-century organ screen, and an altarpiece by Ruben, known as the Adoration of the Magi.

#2 – Fitzwilliam Museum – A great place to visit in Cambridge if you are alone/traveling solo

• Cambridge has been a center of learning and culture for hundreds of years, and this long history is reflected in the Fitzwilliam Museum.
• The building itself is a masterpiece, and what’s inside measures up.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum contains some of the most stunning antiquities, pottery collections, and manuscripts you’ll ever see. It’s a varied mix that includes exhibits from Greek, Roman, and Egyptian times. The art gallery is also amazing, with works by masters like Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Turner, and Rubens.

What to do there: Take a couple of hours out of your schedule when you travel to Cambridge to experience some of its art culture. Check out your favorite artists and perhaps find some new ones as you wander the beautiful halls of this historic and architecturally significant building.

#3 – Cambridge University Botanic Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Cambridge

• This garden stretches across 40 acres and includes more than 8,000 species of plants.
• The gardens were first established in 1831, and the variety of plants they contain have made them a Cambridge must-see.

Why it’s so awesome: Established in 1831, this garden contains plants from across the world. It’s a lovely and peaceful place in the middle of the city, great for plant enthusiasts as well as anyone who needs a break from the city. Maybe you’ll get lucky and find a victorian style Airbnb close by so you can visit this lush green haven more than once.

What to do there: If you visit on a Sunday, there’s a free guided tour you can take through the gardens. Otherwise, you can wander along the many trails or explore the glasshouses. And when you’re done with the gardens, make sure you visit the Garden Café for a snack and browse the Botanic Garden Shop.

#4 – Anglesey Abbey

• A National Trust property that’s become one of the most important landmarks in Cambridge.
• The home contains spectacular tapestries and an amazing art collection.
• 114 acres of parkland surround the house, so make sure you head out to explore them afterwards.

Why it’s so awesome: Anglesey Abbey was refurbished in 1926 and is now one of the best places to visit in Cambridge to see fine art and furnishings. The tapestries in this collection include pieces by Soho, Gobelin, and Anglesey and the art collection includes Constable’s The Opening of Waterloo Bridge. The building’s grounds are also incredible and include lots of attractions to entertain the kids.

What to do there: Check out the artwork and the tapestries before heading out to explore the grounds. If you have the family with you, take them to the Wildlife Discovery Center, where they can watch birds and bugs in their natural habitats. And afterwards, visit the historic water mill, the Lode Mill.

#5 – Queen’s College – One of Cambridge’s coolest historical sites!

• A historical building that contains other important landmarks in Cambridge.
• The building was founded in 1448 and is an incredibly complete example of a medieval building.

Why it’s so awesome: Queen’s College was originally built under the patronage of Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI. However, it was refounded in 1465 by Elizabeth Woodville, wife of Henry IV. The building is remarkably complete, more than any other medieval building found in Cambridge’s colleges. It also contains several other buildings and features that are worth seeing for yourself and make this one of the best points of interest in Cambridge. Maybe you’ll get lucky and find a medieval-style Airbnb close by too.

What to do there: From the moment you walk beneath the magnificent gateway leading to the First Court, you’ll feel as if you’re back in medieval times. Make sure you explore the building before heading down to the Mathematical Bridge, which extends over the Cam to the College Gardens. The bridge was reconstructed in 1902 and is made without using a single nail. You should also spend some time exploring the Cloister Court, The Pump Court which includes the Erasmus Tower, and the Victorian Chapel.

#6 – Cambridge Junction

• An independent arts venue where you’ll see the best music, theater, movies and more.
• This is one of the best UK music venues outside of London, so make sure that you check out what’s on while you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: If you love the arts, then you need to check out this venue when you travel to Cambridge. The Cambridge Junction hosts the best independent art exhibits and shows in the city, including movies, music, comedy, theater, and spoken word.

What to do there: Check out what’s on at this venue while you’re in the city and show up to anything that sounds interesting. Pay particular attention to the music shows, because they will probably be among the best that the UK has to offer.

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#7 – Scott Polar Research Institute Museum – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Cambridge

• Learn more about famous explorers at this niche museum.
• If you’re fascinated by the idea of seeing foreign lands, then learn about the men who did it first.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s something intriguing about the first explorers and that’s exactly what this museum explores. The Polar Museum traces the history of Cambridge University’s world-class polar research teams. So, you’ll be able to picture what it was like to explore uncharted, icy territory from the comfort of a warm room.

What to do there: This museum is free, so it’s a great way to fill a slow afternoon and learn something at the same time. Explore the exhibits and learn about history’s most amazing explorations. You’re sure to walk away from this Cambridge must do with a deeper appreciation for the bravery of those early explorers.

#8 – Heffers book shop – One of the most underrated places to see in Cambridge

• A palace of a bookstore for book geeks and anyone looking for that rare tome.
• You can also buy other items at this shop like maps and unusual souvenirs.

Why it’s so awesome: It might sound strange to say that you need to visit a bookshop when you’re visiting Cambridge, but this isn’t like other bookshops. Plus, you’re in Cambridge, which means that you should indulge your inner book nerd and browse the shelves.

What to do there: This is a bookstore that seemingly has no end, so you’ll need a while to explore. Look for forgotten stories by your favorite author or that hard to find tome that you’ve been looking for forever. Or, if you’re like most bookworms, just enjoy being in an environment that includes so many possibilities for something great to read!

#9 – Lammas Land – Awesome place to visit in Cambridge with kids!

• A popular park and play area for kids in the southwest of the city.
• There are lots of activities for kids of every age in this park.
• Parents will enjoy the green space and the chance to get away from the city as well.

Why it’s so awesome: When you’re visiting Cambridge, you might want to take the chance to enjoy some green space and let the kids run around. And this is the perfect place to do it. Lammas land contains a paddling pool, tennis courts, and a play area. It’s also close to the river so you can go punting once the kids are done with their playtime.

What to do there: Grab a packed lunch and take the kids to the park for the afternoon. There are a range of amenities for kids of all ages including springies for the younger children and climbers and a space net for the older crowd. There’s also a shallow paddling pool for hot days. And when you’re done with your picnic, head over to the river to go punting, which is a Cambridge must do.

#10 – Great St. Mary’s Church

• The tower at this church is one of the most famous places to visit in Cambridge for romantic proposals!
• The views from the tower are spectacular as well, a good way to see an overview of Cambridge.

Why it’s so awesome: St. Mary’s is both a parish and a university church and was built in the 15th century. The exterior is beautiful and imposing, but it’s the interior that really shines, with stunning galleries that were added in 1739. There’s also a smaller church attached known as Little St. Mary’s, with incredible stained-glass windows.

What to do there: Explore the interior of the church before heading up the 123 stairs to the tower. You’ll want to bring your camera with you to take advantage of the amazing views from up there. Afterwards, head down to Little St. Mary’s to check out the stained-glass windows.

#11 – Midsummer House – One of the most romantic places to visit in Cambridge!

• A Michelin starred restaurant surrounded by the banks of the River Cam.
• You’ll need to make a booking to get into this restaurant, as it’s one of the best places to eat in Cambridge.

Why it’s so awesome: Acclaimed chef and owner Daniel Clifford first opened this restaurant in 1998 and it’s considered to be one of the best in Cambridge. It’s also incredibly romantic, with its views over the River Cam on Midsummer Common. The menu is based on seasonal produce and dishes that bring out the natural flavor of the food, which is why it must be a part of your Cambridge itinerary.

What to do there: Make a booking to ensure that you get a table and have a romantic night out with a loved one. Dress up and prepare yourself for a gourmet menu in lovely surroundings.

#12 – The Orchard Tea Garden – Cool place to see in Cambridge with friends!

• This is an atmospheric and historically significant tea garden located in the small village of Grantchester.
• You can walk from Cambridge to Grantchester along the River Cam.

Why it’s so awesome: The walk from Cambridge to Grantchester is a Cambridge must do on its own. When the weather is good, the path along the River Cam is a great way to get some exercise and work off what you’re about to eat. The Orchard Tea room is incredibly famous in the city and has for a long time. Over the years, famous celebrities such as Alan Turing, Rupert Brooke, Stephen Fry, Virginia Woolfe, George Bernard Shaw, Stephen Hawking, and Sir David Attenborough have all eaten there.

What to do there: Take the walk along the river to Grantchester as long as the weather is good. The tea garden is a particularly good place to eat in spring when you can sit amongst the blossoms of the fruit trees. You can even take a punt there and cross off another item on your Cambridge itinerary at the same time. Once you’re in Grantchester, spend the day exploring the tiny, historic town before you head back to Cambridge.

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#13 – Cambridge General Market

• Located in the heart of the city in Market Square, this is the heart of activity during the day.
• The market is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

What to do there: If you’re looking to buy some souvenirs or fresh produce, this is the best place to do it. The quality of the goods at this Market are amazing and includes meat and fish, books, clothing, sweets, crafts, and refreshments.

What to do there: Show up during the day to enjoy the atmosphere and grab some bargains! This historical market includes great food as well as clothing, a tailor, and flowers, so just show up and see what catches your eye.

#14 – Grafton – A great place in Cambridge if you love to shop!

• A large selection of stores in the middle price category.
• This is one of the hotspots in Cambridge if you’re looking for souvenirs that won’t break the bank.

Why it’s so awesome: Grafton is one of the oldest shopping centers in town and it was recently renovated. You can get everything at this complex, from souvenirs to electrical goods and clothes. There are also some shops with clothing and toys for children as well as a large food court where you can get a snack after you’ve had enough browsing.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific when you travel to Cambridge, chances are that you’ll find it at this shopping complex. The prices are good and won’t break the bank and you can head to the food court when you get hungry.

#15 – FoodPark – A must-see for foodies!

• Home to Cambridge’s popular food truck scene and one of the best places to eat in Cambridge.
• No matter what type of food you like, you’ll find something to tantalize your tastebuds at this park.
• This isn’t technically a place, as the food trucks move around constantly.

Why it’s so awesome: Food trucks are a great way to eat because they provide easy, cheap food and access to a range of cuisines. FoodPark prides itself on gathering the best trucks in the business and getting them to night markets or to regular parks where you can enjoy the dishes they offer.

What to do there: Whether you like burgers, ice cream, vegetarian food, pizza, or anything else, you’ll find a food truck that sells it. The trucks move around the city, but they can be found at night markets and train stations. So, find out where they’re located on the day you’re in the city and show up for a cheap, delicious meal.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Cambridge

What places are free to visit in Cambridge?

There are free guided tours of Cambridge University Botanic Gardens every Sunday, or you could visit the Scott Polar Research Institute Museum.

What can you do on a day out in Cambridge?

Cambridge is a old historical town. If you only have a day here, you should check out King’s College and King’s College Chapel, Great St. Mary’s Church and Queen’s College.

What different activities can tourists do in Cambridge?

Lammas land and Heffers book shop are just two different activities you can do in Cambridge.

Is Cambridge worth visiting?

Cambridge is one of the most historical and important cities in the UK. If you have the time to visit, it is definitely worth it.

England is a modern, forward looking country, which is why people often forget that it has a long and sometimes tangled history. But this history is one of the most interesting things to explore when you’re traveling in Cambridge. With this list as your guide, you’ll be able to visit all the top attractions while you’re in the city, and perhaps find a few hidden attractions on your own!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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Where to Stay in Cambridge: The Best Areas + Hotels For Your Trip

Looking for the best places to stay in Cambridge? Discover where to stay in this historic gem in the heart of the UK. 

Harmoniously blending centuries-old heritage and contemporary cool – and of course, that iconic university, Cambridge is an enchanting city. Spend a night or two, and you’ll get an even better understanding of why people fall for its charms. 

But where are the best places to stay in Cambridge? This guide dives into where to stay in Cambridge area by area: the most iconic hotels, budget-friendly stays, and off-the-radar gems you’ll want to know more about before deciding where to bed down in this charming city in the UK . 

Best Places to Stay in Cambridge: At a Glance 

The best places to stay in cambridge .

Looking for the best places to stay on your road trip from London? Here are some of the most popular hotels, budget-friendly rentals, and quirky places to stay in Cambridge.

Cambridge City Centre: The Overall Best Place to Stay Cambridge

Planning to visit one of the university’s 31 colleges or just want to be in the heart of it all, accommodation in the city centre is the best choice. Why? You’ll find a wide range of hotels for every budget right alongside the top landmarks and activities in Cambridge.

City Centre Highlights

Punting down the river cam.

Hopping aboard a punt is a must when visiting Cambridge. Why?  It’s the only way to see many of the historic landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs in their full glory. It’s up to you to decide if you want to row your own boat or hire an expert guide. Want my advice?  Hire a chauffeured punting tour to spare the unexpected swim that’s happened to too many overzealous tourists. 

King’s College Chapel

Whether you’re looking from the outside or inside, King’s College Chapel is one of the most impressive landmarks anywhere in the UK. The massive Perpendicular Gothic chapel is worth an hour or two at the least but is the most special if you happen to catch a choir concert while you’re there. 

Cambridge Market Square

Stop by the Cambridge Market Square any day of the week to peruse the aisles of vendors selling wares and serving up a variety of dishes as it has for hundreds of years

Suggested Best Overall Hotels in Cambridge City Centre

Graduate cambridge.

Graduate Cambridge is just down the road from many of the university’s iconic colleges and is an excellent option for an upscale accommodation with beautiful hardwood furniture and old-school decor in a convenient location.

Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cambridge

Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cambridg e is a favourite choice for places to stay in Cambridge centre with its central location, gorgeous rooms, and excellent breakfast in the stylish restaurant.

Hilton Cambridge City Centre

Hilton Cambridge City Centre is a large four-star hotel in an ideally central location. Dine at the popular Bull & Bass Restaurant for local British cuisine and a wide range of cocktails, beer, and wine.

Petersfield: Where to Stay for Pubs and Cafes 

Walking down Mill Road on any given day paints a lovely picture of what life is like in the quaint town, mostly centred around the iconic colleges and River Cam that make up Cambridge University.

The bustling Petersfield district is where many locals (and visitors) like to go for the city’s best pubs, coffee shops, and boutique stores. There are also some fantastic places to stay in Cambridge in this popular part of town. 

Petersfield Highlights

Parker’s piece.

Stop by the famous park and spend an hour or so walking around and taking in the scenery and history (and reported birthplace of modern football) at this lively park near campus.

Much of Petersfield is on Mill Road, and you’ll want to spend time visiting small businesses like Tom’s Cakes, Spice Gate, and Hot Numbers Coffee while staying here.

The Petersfield

Walking into the winter white brick building on the busy Cambridge corner, you can see why it’s a favourite pub amongst neighbourhood residents and people just passing by. A cleverly chosen list of beers on the hand pump complements the classic British pub fare and vegan food options.

Suggested Boutique Hotels in Petersfield

Gonville hotel.

Gonville Hotel Rooms have a relaxed yet upscale look, each with unique artwork, colour schemes, and design. Located near the famous Parker’s Piece, the hotel is close enough to the city centre, with quick access to many nearby attractions.

A & B Guest House Cambridge Ltd

A & B Guest House Cambridge Ltd is a charming hotel in an old stone house that offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates near many of the best restaurants, cafes, and pubs in Petersfield.

University Arms Hotel, Autograph Collection

Just across the park from Petersfield is University Arms Hotel, Autograph Collection , a four-star property ideal for visitors wanting a luxury hotel with rooms and suites near the iconic Parker’s Piece.

Romsey Town: Best Place to Stay in Cambridge for Dining and Shopping

A bit further down Mill Road is the increasingly popular Romsey Town neighbourhood. Much like Petersfield, the area is known for its young and diverse crowd, excellent dining, and a relaxed vibe that is perfect for a holiday.

Romsey Town Highlights

Blue Sage is the type of dining option that wins over so many locals and tourists in Romsey Town. The menu features Turkish food and coffee at reasonable prices in laid-back environs.

The Brook Cambridge

A welcoming atmosphere with classic pub grub, a reliable drink menu, and live music make this the perfect place to kick back with a couple of pints between shopping and sightseeing in Cambridge.

Relevant Record Cafe

This cafe and music store has a restaurant on the surface level and an underground record shop (yes, for real), making it one of the coolest stops in all of Cambridge.

Suggested Hotels in Romsey Town

Ibis cambridge central station.

ibis Cambridge Central Station doesn’t look like much more than a commuter hotel from the outside. Take a closer look inside, and the clever design and funky youthful decor are a perfect fit for the vibrant Romsey Town neighbourhood. 

Parkview Guesthouse

If you’re looking for nice places to stay in Cambridge on the cheap, Parkview Guesthouse has small but charming rooms that are clean, well-lit, and perfectly located in Romsey Town.

Clayton Hotel Cambridge

Clayton Hotel Cambridge is a stylish, modern, and classy hotel located near many of the top restaurants and bars in Romsey Town. On the property, you can dine at the brasserie-style restaurant that serves an international menu with local ingredients.

Eddington: Best for Eco-Conscious Travel 

Eddington is a relatively new district on the Northwestern side of Cambridge that is a popular place for students and locals to walk around, shop, and enjoy some newer bars and restaurants. 

For travellers looking for a bustling village on the outskirts of campus, Eddington is a good choice for where to stay in Cambridge. There’s an emphasis on sustainability, with projects like Brook Leys – where rain falls into reservoirs that supply homes with water for their bathrooms and laundry. The area also offers plenty of green spaces for exercising and enjoying nature away from the city centre.

Eddington Highlights

A local green space popular with locals as a place for exercising, picnicking, and bird-watching in a quiet setting away from the fast-paced city centre.

Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain

Ever use “Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain” to help remember the colours of the rainbow? Well, even if you haven’t, this art installation is worth a stop. This public landmark pays homage to the famous mnemonic with a series of large discs that gradually change colours.

Suggested Quirky Hotels in Eddington

Hyatt centric cambridge.

Hyatt Centric Cambridge is a nice option if you want a luxury stay in Cambridge with cool perks like complimentary bicycle rentals, parking on-site, and pet-friendly rooms in a neighbourhood that’s filled with fun and funky things to do. Stop by Dutch and enjoy an eclectic menu of cocktails and shareable plates perfect for an evening out.

Turing Locke

Turing Locke is an environmentally friendly choice to stay, as the company focuses on important details like sustainably sourced furniture and using local ingredients in their restaurant. Rooms are modern and have full kitchens and lots of room to relax. The communal space has fun events like yoga classes and “sip and sketch” happy hours, and the on-site bike rentals are a welcome perk.

Rectory Farm

Looking for unusual places to stay in Cambridge? Rectory Farm is a unique cottage hotel on a quiet 50 acres of land a few miles from campus. Dining options on-site are limited to breakfast, but you can drive to nearby pubs for dinner, and it’s one of the best places to stay in Cambridge with parking.

Milton: Where to Stay Near Cambridge 

Just a few miles north of the university is the village of Milton, which is a perfect location for travellers who want to stay in a quieter community when visiting Cambridge. 

Milton is one of the best places to stay near Cambridge, with a few cosy accommodations in a quiet village only a short drive from the university campus.

Milton Highlights

All saints church.

All Saints Church is a historic place of worship with architecture dating back to the 12th Century. The tower and nave are both signatures of the ancient building and are well worth exploring when you visit.

The Brewers Inn

If you’re looking for the quintessential English pub in the countryside, The Brewers Inn is a perfect choice. The menu rotates seasonally and is surprisingly excellent, with choices like monkfish curry, a 28-day aged hamburger, and crispy lamb sweetbreads leading the way.

Suggested Hotels in Milton

Stay in this quaint B&B affiliated with the restaurant in one of the charming rooms that is perfect for a quiet retreat away from the centre of Cambridge.

Novotel Cambridge North

Between Cambridge city centre and Milton is Novotel Cambridge North , which offers discounted room rates and excellent amenities like an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, and bar.

Holiday Inn Cambridge

Also in northern Cambridge near the small village of Milton, Holiday Inn Cambridge is a reliable choice for a quiet accommodation with parking, WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk.

Where to Stay in Cambridge: Frequently Asked Questions 

The best place to stay in Cambridge is the city centre, which allows you to walk to the most famous landmarks in the small university city.

You can walk or bicycle from most Cambridge hotels to the best shopping, dining, and sightseeing around town.  Driving or taking the train is an excellent way to see surrounding areas or reach your hotel if you stay further away from campus.

Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Cambridge Accommodation

• If you’re driving into Cambridge, choosing a hotel in Eddington or Milton will allow you the most choices for parking at a reasonable rate.
• You can see many of the best things to do in Cambridge over 2-3 nights, making a holiday weekend the perfect time to visit.
• Cambridge is stunning any time of year, but booking a holiday in the autumn sees the city at its prettiest and students begin returning to university.
• Visit a local pub for at least one meal. The Eagle is the most famous option, but there are a lot of excellent choices around town.

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

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Places to Stay in Cambridge

Find the places to stay that appeal to you the most, the 10 best places to stay in cambridge, uk, check out our pick of great places to stay in cambridge, review score.

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Cambridge Country Cottages

Cambridge Country Cottages in Cambridge provides adults-only accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a garden. This property offers access to a patio, free private parking and free WiFi. Guests can access the country house via private entrance.

property is absolutely stunning. you can see the high end finish and the amount of time and money spent to make it so beautiful.

Citystay - The Dales

Citystay - The Dales is set in Cambridge, 1.3 km from University of Cambridge. Botanic Garden Cambridge is 500 metres from the property. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property. The accommodation has a flat-screen TV and iPod docking station. All units have a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher and oven. A microwave and kettle are also available. Towels and bed linen are offered.

Quiet location 10min walk from city centre. 900m from the railway station. TESCO and local COOP very close to apartment. Apartment was beautifully appointed.

Crown & Punchbowl

Crown & Punchbowl has a garden, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Cambridge. The property is around 33 km from Audley End House, 43 km from The Apex and 46 km from Ickworth House. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and University of Cambridge is 8.1 km away.

The village location was beautiful, a small village with several restored thatched roof cottages. The village is small and remote from shops or anything commercial, however the walk along the Cam river is beautiful. The refurbishment of the property has been done to retain the character of its age. The food is not just pub food, home made cheese, sauces, pies and everything! The halloumi chips with Chile sauce alone are worth going back for! great staff with a great passion for what they do.

Cambridge Orchard Apartments - 2 double bedrooms

Located 2 miles north of the city centre , it is 8 minutes' walk or 0.6 miles from the Cambridge Science Park and Regional College, with Cambridge Business Park and St John’s Innovation centre also not far.

The apartment is spacious, tastefully decorated and very comfortable. The kitchen is well equipped and useful items like tea, coffee as well as toiletries were provided. It was perfect for relaxing after a busy day sightseeing in Cambridge.

Cambridge Bed & Breakfast 4 stars

The magnificent King’s College is around 20 minutes’ walk from the building, and you can follow the river all the way into the city centre . The market square is a mile away, and the shops of the Grand Arcade shopping centre are a 20-minute walk away.

It was tastefully furnished, and provided all the necessary amenities for a most comfortable stay. Arnel was the perfect host, even making the effort to forward items we left behind to the next stop of our trip. The English breakfast was delicious

Autumn House 4 stars

Nearby attractions include Fitzwilliam Museum and the Grand Arcade shopping centre. Autumn House is located to the east side of the historical City of Cambridge, 1.3 miles from the hub of Cambridge city centre and close to Cambridge Business Park, Cambridge Science Park and St. Johns Innovation Centre, which is 3.2 miles away.

Spacious and new room and bathroom, a lot of items, opportunity to use the kitchen and the washing machine, a great host. Quiet place and good public transport connection to city center and station.

Worth House 4 stars

Just 500 metres from the River Cam, Worth House is 15 minutes’ walk from Cambridge centre. The guesthouse has free WiFi, award-winning cooked breakfasts and free parking. Set in a Victorian villa, the individual bedrooms at Worth Guest House each have a large private bathroom and 26-inch flat-screen TV. Rooms also feature tea/coffee facilities with fresh milk and cookies.

We had an excellent stay and made to feel very welcomed will return.

Central Cambridge Apartments by Tas

A recently renovated property, Central Cambridge Apartments by Tas is located in Cambridge near University of Cambridge, Cambridge Train Station and Botanic Garden Cambridge. Among the facilities at this property are full-day security and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The apartment features family rooms.

Property was complete with everything needed for a stay away, felt like a second home very clean and tidy.

Stunning 1BR - Super Central- Peaceful Area

Set 31 km from Audley End House, 47 km from The Apex and 49 km from Ickworth House, Stunning 1BR - Super Central- Peaceful Area offers accommodation situated in Cambridge. The property is around 50 km from Hedingham Castle, 1.1 km from St John's College and 1.6 km from Cambridge Corn Exchange. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and University of Cambridge is 1.6 km away.

Good that this property has a lift going up. since i have luggage. Good for a short term stay and easy access to train

Trinity, Central Cambridge Flat

Cambridge City Centre, Cambridge

Trinity, Central Cambridge Flat is set in the Cambridge City Centre district of Cambridge, 45 km from The Apex, 47 km from Ickworth House and 47 km from Stansted Mountfitchet Station. It is located 26 km from Audley End House and provides luggage storage space. The property is 1 km from University of Cambridge, and within 300 metres of the city centre .

The flat was perfect for the two of us, we thought it was really lovely. It was so comfortable, warm and quiet, with a large comfy bed, nice decor and everything we needed for a great few days. There was milk and water in the fridge, filter coffee with a machine, teabags, even cereals and pancakes with nutella, to have for breakfast. The hosts kept us well informed, letting us know how we could travel there and around the city and how to check in without any problems. We thought they had definitely gone the extra mile, to make us feel very welcome to the property. We loved the flat's proximity to the centre of Cambridge, great restaurants, sights and shops were all within a short walk. Altogether, it was a great experience and one we would love to have again, at a future date.

Most booked places to stay in Cambridge this month

Holiday Inn Express Cambridge, an IHG Hotel

Popular with guests booking places to stay in Cambridge

ibis Cambridge Central Station

Novotel Cambridge North

Hyatt Centric Cambridge

Clayton Hotel Cambridge

Gonville Hotel

Holiday Inn Cambridge, an IHG Hotel

Graduate Cambridge

Ramada Cambridge

Hilton Cambridge City Centre

Enjoy breakfast in cambridge.

Crown & Punchbowl has a garden, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Cambridge. The property is around 33 km from Audley End House, 43 km from The Apex and 46 km from Ickworth House.

Almost everything staff friendly and very well run

Worth House

Just 500 metres from the River Cam, Worth House is 15 minutes’ walk from Cambridge centre. The guesthouse has free WiFi, award-winning cooked breakfasts and free parking.

Real 4 star quality rooms and a great breakfast. Car parking included.

Holiday Inn Express Cambridge West - Cambourne, an IHG Hotel

Set in Cambridge, 17 km from University of Cambridge, Holiday Inn Express Cambridge West - Cambourne, an IHG Hotel offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a restaurant and a...

Easy access, staff very friendly excellent location

Set in Cambridge, 5.5 km from University of Cambridge, Hyatt Centric Cambridge offers accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a garden and a terrace.

The staff are very friendly and the rooms are clean

Situated 6.6 km from University of Cambridge, Novotel Cambridge North offers 4-star accommodation in Cambridge and features a bar.

Good location, nice staff and excellent experience.

The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection By Hilton

Set in Cambridge, 1.9 km from University of Cambridge, The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection By Hilton offers accommodation with free bikes, private parking, a fitness centre and a garden.

Style Cleanses location just a general good place

Graduate Cambridge has a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge and garden in Cambridge. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace.

Friendly staff and the leisure facilities / bar

Clayton Hotel Cambridge is situated in the vibrant new city quarter of Cambridge, 1-minute walk from the railway station and 1 mile from the city centre.

Fantastic hotel with great room and massive, comfortable bed!

Save money on places to stay in Cambridge – budget options available!

Parkview Guesthouse

In a quiet location, Parkview Guesthouse offers free Wi-Fi, friendly service and free parking.

very convenient, very clean, lovely friendly owner.

The Cambridge Suites - Tas Accommodations

Situated just 4.1 km from University of Cambridge, The Cambridge Suites - Tas Accommodations provides accommodation in Cambridge with access to a garden, a shared lounge, as well as a shared kitchen.

The location to city centre, cleanliness and quiet

Shelford Lodge

Shelford Lodge provides accommodation located in Cambridge, 5 km from University of Cambridge and 4 km from Botanic Garden Cambridge. Complimentary WiFi is provided.

Nice place for me to stay & get to place's

Holiday Inn Express Cambridge Duxford M11 Jct 10, an IHG Hotel

The Holiday Inn Express Cambridge Duxford M11 Jct 10 offers comfortable rooms with power showers and Wi-Fi access. Cambridge centre is a 20-minute drive away.

the room was very clean and had everything we needed .

Just off junction 28 of the A14, Ramada Cambridge is only a 20-minute drive from Cambridge city centre. There is a 24-hour reception, bar, free WiFi and free parking on site.

The location, the staff, the shower and the breakfast

White House Lodge

White House Lodge has garden views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Cambridge, 10 km from University of Cambridge.

Low Price, Free Breakfast, Cleanliness, Free parking

Cambridge Studios and Suites by Tas Accommodations

Comprising a garden and a shared lounge, Cambridge Studios and Suites by Tas Accommodations is a recently renovated accommodation in Cambridge situated close to Cambridge Train Station.

It was lovely to find towels and toiletries included.

Cambridge City Mill

Located in Cambridge and within 1.9 km of University of Cambridge, Cambridge City Mill features a terrace, soundproof rooms, and free WiFi.

Room was nice an comfortable with everything we needed .

Great access to the city centre! Check these places to stay in Cambridge

Beautiful Studio in Cambridge city centre

Beautiful Studio in Cambridge city centre is situated in Cambridge, 25 km from Audley End House, 45 km from The Apex, and 46 km from Stansted Mountfitchet Station.

Luxury City Centre Apartment - Stunning Water View

Offering lake views, Luxury City Centre Apartment - Stunning Water View is an accommodation located in Cambridge, 28 km from Audley End House and 46 km from The Apex.

Luxury Boutique Apartment - Amazing City Location

Ideally situated in the centre of Cambridge, Luxury Boutique Apartment - Amazing City Location is a recently renovated apartment, providing free WiFi and private parking.

Bardzo gustownie urządzony apartament. Zjawiskowa czystość

Cambridge city centre immaculate 2 bed apartment

Cambridge city centre immaculate 2 bed apartment is a recently renovated apartment in the centre of Cambridge, 1.2 km from University of Cambridge and 25 km from Audley End House.

Everything was perfect and of exceptional quality.

2 Bedroom City Centre Townhouse - with Parking

2 Bedroom City Centre Townhouse - with Parking features a balcony and is set in Cambridge, within just 700 metres of University of Cambridge and 300 metres of St John's College.

3 Bedroom Jesus Green Townhouse with Parking

Located less than 1 km from University of Cambridge and 30 km from Audley End House in the centre of Cambridge, 3 Bedroom Jesus Green Townhouse with Parking provides accommodation with free WiFi and...

Very convenient, in the centre of Cambridge. Parking for two cars. Outdoor space, beautiful modern design.

Cambridge Stays Diamond 2BR Apartment-Central-Parking-Walk to city & train station

Set 1.7 km from University of Cambridge and 25 km from Audley End House in the centre of Cambridge, Cambridge Stays Diamond 2BR Apartment-Central-Parking-Walk to city & train station offers...

Great location. Very clean. Comfy beds. Well equipped.

King's Central Cambridge Apartment

Located in the centre of Cambridge, King's Central Cambridge Apartment provides accommodation with free WiFi in a historic building.

Amazing location, very friendly owners … very happy hen’s

Trinity, Central Cambridge Flat is set in the Cambridge City Centre district of Cambridge, 45 km from The Apex, 47 km from Ickworth House and 47 km from Stansted Mountfitchet Station.

Stan je lijep, dobro opremljen, na odličnom mjestu

Citystay - Midsummer Mews

In the Cambridge City Centre district of Cambridge, close to Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Citystay - Midsummer Mews has a garden, free WiFi and a washing machine.

Excellent property! & very clean . Bedding was lovely too

Luxury City Centre Apartment

Offering lake views, Luxury City Centre Apartment is an accommodation situated in Cambridge, 28 km from Audley End House and 46 km from The Apex.

Incredible location. Very comfortable. Incredibly clean.

Cambridge Stays Riverside 1BR Flat-Walk to Centre-Parking

In the Cambridge City Centre district of Cambridge, close to St John's College, Cambridge Stays Riverside 1BR Flat-Walk to Centre-Parking features a garden and a washing machine.

Good parking, great location within walking distance of the city

Cosy Loft Apartment Just Off Vibrant Mill Rd Cb1

Set in Cambridge, within 2.4 km of University of Cambridge and 25 km of Audley End House, Cosy Loft Apartment Just Off Vibrant Mill Rd Cb1 offers free WiFi throughout the property.

Beautiful New Moon Narrowboat

Situated 1.3 km from University of Cambridge and 30 km from Audley End House in the centre of Cambridge, Beautiful New Moon Narrowboat features accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking.

Luxury City Centre Flat with Stunning Water View

Offering lake views, Luxury City Centre Flat with Stunning Water View is an accommodation set in Cambridge, 28 km from Audley End House and 46 km from The Apex.

Sun Guest House Cambridge

Offering a garden and garden view, Sun Guest House Cambridge is set in Cambridge, 4.5 km from University of Cambridge and 28 km from Audley End House.

Sprawne zameldowanie. Spokojna okolica. Wszystko było ok.

Modern, Gr Floor 1 bed, bathroom, garden & private entry.

Set in Cambridge, the recently renovated Modern, Gr Floor 1 bed, bathroom, garden & private entry. Offers accommodation 4.1 km from University of Cambridge and 27 km from Audley End House.

Very clean, beautifully decorated, the owner is lovely.

Turing Locke Cambridge

Located in Cambridge, 5.4 km from University of Cambridge, Turing Locke Cambridge provides accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a garden and a bar.

Loved the atmosphere, fabulous design in the rooms.

Charming 1 bed super central Terraced House

Located in Cambridge, 25 km from Audley End House and 45 km from The Apex, Charming 1 bed super central Terraced House provides accommodation with amenities such as free WiFi and a TV.

Everything was good and very close to city centre.

The Midsummer Common - Modern & Spacious 2BDR House with Garden

The Midsummer Common - Modern & Spacious 2BDR House with Garden is situated in the Cambridge City Centre district of Cambridge, 27 km from Audley End House, 44 km from The Apex and 46 km from Ickworth...

Freundlichkeit und Hilfsbereitschaft des Gastgebers

Central Cambridge Fig Tree House Flat 1

An apartment nestled in the centre of Cambridge, Central Cambridge Fig Tree House Flat 1 has parking on-site, free WiFi, a tennis court and terrace.

It was near by city center about just 5-6 min walking

Two bedroom corporate and family stay with parking in popular location

Boasting inner courtyard views, Two bedroom corporate and family stay with parking in popular location provides accommodation with a garden and a patio, around 5.8 km from University of Cambridge.

Large apartment, very comfortable beds, excellent position

Downing College

Featuring a fitness centre, a garden as well as a tennis court, Downing College is located in the centre of Cambridge, 1.1 km from University of Cambridge.

Right in the heart of Cambridge. Parking provided.

Luxurious City Centre Apartment with Balcony

Boasting lake views, Luxurious City Centre Apartment with Balcony provides accommodation with a patio, around 28 km from Audley End House. It is situated 46 km from The Apex and offers a lift.

The property was clean. The location is very convenient and in a walking distance to all main Cambridge attractions.

Luxury City Centre Apartment Stunning River Views

Offering lake views, Luxury City Centre Apartment Stunning River Views is an accommodation situated in Cambridge, 28 km from Audley End House and 46 km from The Apex.

Overlooking the famous Parker's Piece, this 4-star Gonville Hotel is a 5-minute walk from the historic centre of Cambridge.

Location was ideal for us. Lovely hotel & staff

Cozy 3 Bedrooms Home off Mill Road Sleep up to 6

Offering a shared lounge and garden view, Cozy 3 Bedrooms Home off Mill Road Sleep up to 6 is located in Cambridge, 2.9 km from University of Cambridge and 26 km from Audley End House.

MJPatTheShepherds

Featuring a bar and barbecue facilities, MJPatTheShepherds is located in Fen Ditton. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant and free WiFi.

Location was perfect for us , good size room and very cosy

FAQ about places to stay in Cambridge

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Arundel House Hotel

Madingley Hall

Sorrento Hotel & Restaurant

Pad 1 Emmanuel House prv

Emery Street Lodge

The Tas Suites - Tas Accommodations

Tailored Stays - Central Cambridge Studios, Free Parking

The Cambridge Guest House by Tas

The Lord Byron Inn

Ashley Hotel

Cambridge Stays Riverside 2BR Flat-Walk to Centre-Parking-Balcony

Centennial Hotel

West Court- Jesus College

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Where To Stay In Cambridge: The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide

In the heart of Cambridgeshire, about fifty miles northeast of London, Cambridge is a historic city with stunning architecture and picturesque nature. It is home to one of the world’s best universities, beautiful ancient churches, remarkable museums, and distinctive libraries. As you walk around the city, you’ll immediately notice the significant influence of the university, with its skyline dominated by iconic college buildings. However, despite its growing popularity among visitors worldwide, people still enjoy its quiet, country atmosphere.

Before deciding where to stay in Cambridge, it's essential to determine where you want to go and what you want to do while in town. If you’re here to explore popular places like the Fitzwilliam Museum and King’s College Chapel or go punting on the River Cam, the Hilton Cambridge City Centre may be your best bet. The Royal Cambridge Hotel is another accommodation to consider, as it’s within walking distance from famous colleges, including Corpus Christi College , Queens’ College, and Magdalene College.

Whether it’s a quick visit or an extended vacation, you won’t be short of options when looking for a convenient place to stay in Cambridge. Although it’s a relatively small city, it’s bursting with fantastic homes and hotels throughout its distinct neighborhoods. From affordable cozy rooms to luxury hotels and apartments, there’s always a perfect accommodation that matches every budget, style, and need.

But before you make your way to any neighborhood of your choice, it’s best to leave your bags with a trusted luggage locker in Cambridge . That way, you can search for a room in peace, knowing that your belongings are in safe hands.

Where to stay in Cambridge City Centre

If it’s your first time in Cambridge, you’d want to stay in an area with a central location just a short walk from tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. Cambridge city centre is where most fun happens, with lots of shopping and dining opportunities and many famous university colleges to explore.

Just fifty yards from King’s College Chapel is a haven for meat lovers, The Cambridge Chop House, specializing in different cuts and chops of meat. Also located in the heart of the city, Bills Restaurant is tucked away on a small back street, offering a hearty breakfast, tasty lunch, luscious dinner, and everything in between.

The city is welcoming and small, so it’s easy to navigate and get to places on foot. It’s also where most museums, art galleries, and old churches are located. Go see the world-famous collections of antiquities and art or take a relaxing cruise along the River Cam. You’ll never run out of things to do and places to visit if you stay in Cambridge city no matter your preference and style.

Once you’ve completed your adventure for the day, go to the Gonville Hotel. It's a city centre hotel just a 15-minute walk from the main Cambridge train station and half a kilometer away from the Grande Arcade shopping centre.

But if you want to stay in a room with a lovely terrace, check out the Graduate Cambridge . Surrounded by the River Cam, this hotel provides spectacular views and a good location. It is close to popular points of interest in the historic centre, including the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and St. Catherine’s College. There’s also the Hotel Du Vin for those looking for a city break. It’s a renovated university building, delivering quirky accommodation and mouthwatering food.

Where to stay in Mill Road

Situated southeast of the city centre, the Mill Road area boasts a vibrant community with easy access to Cambridge Railway Station and the central city. It’s a popular area among commuters and families looking for quaint period properties and excellent schools, like St Matthews Primary School, Sancton Wood School, and St Alban’s Primary school. Plus, Anglia Ruskin University, one of the two universities in Cambridge, is within walking distance of Mill Road.

Whether you’re here to study, work, or visit, the Mill Road area has a wealth of affordable accommodation options suitable for travelers, students, and backpackers. The Mill Suites is close to Cambridge University and the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology. It’s only 1.8 km from King’s College and 600 meters from Anglia Ruskin University. You’ll also find economy hotels like ibis Cambridge Central Station, located near the main Cambridge station, and student housing perfect for every budget.

Staying in Mill Road means having access to the eclectic shops, restaurants, pubs for brunch , and cafes just a few minutes' walk from the city centre, giving you a cosmopolitan feel. It even has a microbrewery nearby and a variety of independent family-owned shops that sell everything from vintage clothes to fresh locally-produced vegetables and fruits.

With many international restaurants around the area, it won’t be long until you find the cuisine that will remind you of home. Head to Rocker’s Steak House if you’re craving some American-style steak or want some juicy burger. There are also Bangladeshi and Indian delights at The Golden Curry and luscious North African cuisine at Bedouin.

Where to stay in Chesterton

Chesterton is a quiet neighborhood to the northeast of Cambridge, south of the Arbury and King’s Hedges districts, and east of Castle Hill. It offers a village feel though still very close to the city centre and many of its services. It’s known for its excellent, peaceful location, unmatched transport links, and easy access to the city’s major attractions. It’s such a notable suburb that in 2018, it was even one of The Time’s list of best places to live in the United Kingdom.

The countryside is also within easy reach if you opt to stay in Chesterton. It’s close to the city’s best green open spaces, including Ditton Meadow , Stourbridge Common, and Jesus Green, providing a perfect balance of city and country living. In the middle of a residential area, Bramblefields Local Nature Reserve allows you to escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and be one with nature. It’s a fantastic site for families and kids to discover wildlife.

Chesterton is a brilliant place to consider if you plan to stay in Cambridge for a while. It’s a favorite destination among family renters and buyers, so it’s not surprising to find suburban family homes and riverside apartments around the neighborhood. There are also a few hotels on Chesterton Road, including Ashley Hotel, which occupies two Victorian houses with spacious rooms, and Arundel House Hotel, beautifully located overlooking River Cam.

Where to stay in Newnham

Newnham is a charming suburb hailed for offering country living in the heart of the city. It’s been recognized as one of the best places to live in Cambridge and has been frequently featured among the top ten UK places to live in various lifestyle surveys. That’s why it’s not surprising that Newnham has been attracting tourists and travelers looking for cozy and world-class accommodations in Cambridge.

If you want to step away from the busy city streets, go to the Paradise Nature Reserve, lying alongside the river between the bottom of Owlstone Rd and Lammas Land Car park. Despite its small size, it provides an ideal home for reptiles, mammals, birds, and a range of plant life. The suburb is also a bike ride away from Grantchester, where you can find the famous meadows and tea rooms for ultimate relaxation.

Since several university colleges are situated in the area, including Darwin, Selwyn, and Newnham, you’ll find an array of student accommodations with free wifi access and a private bathroom and budget Cambridge hotels near the university and some museums.

Where to stay in Romsey

Situated outside the central city, Romsey is probably one of the hippest UK neighborhoods. It’s a vibrant area popular among students, known for its hip culture. It even outranked various trendy areas, such as Liverpool, London, and Manchester. It also takes pride in its strong community, making it a pleasant place to work and live in Cambridge. Even if you’re only here for a quick visit, there’s no way you’ll miss the tremendous community spirit in the neighborhood that it seems like a village on its own.

Everything you need in a local place is available here, from shops and restaurants to cafes and bars. There are also record stores, vintage fashion outlets, galleries, and bike shops. Another plus point is that it’s only a short bike ride from Cambridge city centre, featuring rows of gorgeous terraced house streets that connect to Mill Road.

Perhaps, you want to check out Relevant Records for a delicious brunch upstairs and an array of vinyl records in the basement. It also hosts events if you plan to organize a party in this part of the city. Or stop by the Black Cat Café for breakfast or get your daily dose of caffeine and sugar at Urban Larder. And if shopping for all things vintage is your thing, head to the Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre and find some awesome items to take home.

You can find a mix of accommodation in Romsey for any budget. Shared and individual rooms are available, as well as hostels, apartments, and even rental homes. There are also guestrooms to rent, serving a very good breakfast and featuring bathrooms and kitchens with microwaves and refrigerators.

Where to stay in Newmarket Road

If you’re wondering where to stay in Cambridge with your family, De Freville Avenue is a family-friendly neighborhood to consider. It’s one of the most desired addresses in the city, with its convenient location, quiet street, and cozy suburban feel. It’s no wonder many professors from Cambridge University call it home.

De Freville Avenue is close to the central train station, giving you easy access to many areas in and out of Cambridge. It is also near the River Cam and a quick cycle into the central city. What’s more, it’s a short walk from many of the top schools in Cambridge, including the prestigious Chesterton Community College.

If you want to relax or hang out with your friends, you don’t have to go too far because the Midsummer Common is just on the other side of the river. It’s a lovely wide-open space where you can take children to play, walk your dogs, or simply enjoy nature, especially during the summer months. De Freville Avenue is also near Jesus Green, which features a railway-themed play area, tennis courts, a barbecue area, a skate park, and more.

Hotels and family homes are available in the neighborhood for rent. The well-appointed homes often have three bedrooms, a large garden, and a spacious living room for the entire family. You can also stay in a guest house or a traditional hotel in a central location with free parking, a full English breakfast, free wifi, 24-hour room service, and complimentary toiletries.

The Best Place to Stay in Cambridge

You’ve probably already made a list of places to visit and famous sites to explore in this historic town. Still, you’re having difficulty figuring out where to stay in Cambridge, especially since you’re new to the area and don’t know anyone from the city. Visiting such a notable place is a wonderful experience, but your trip can quickly become a nightmare if you don’t plan your accommodation well.

The best hotels are an excellent option if you have the budget. However, if you’re planning an extended holiday, try finding a more cost-friendly room, apartment, or guesthouse if you’re with your family. Don’t just go for popular hotels you find online. Instead, check the guest reviews and ratings to give you an idea of their services and the guest’s overall experience. Once you’ve picked from the best accommodations or hotels in Cambridge, you’ll be on your way to an experience of a lifetime.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambridge, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Famous the world over for its university, Cambridge lays claim to having one of the highest concentrations of preserved historic buildings anywhere in England.

Most of this architectural splendor is centered around Cambridge University's 31 colleges , each rich in tradition. The first of these "schools" was established in the 12th century by immigrant scholars from Paris, and the first college, Peterhouse, was founded in 1284.

Long before the university was founded, Cambridge was already an important Norman fortification. Although its castle was short-lived, Castle Mound can still be seen near Shire Hall and affords great views over the city. The city remains to this day an important market town. Market Hill, originally the center of Cambridge's ancient wool trade, still serves as the location of the city's busy marketplace.

Despite its medieval character, Cambridge is a thoroughly modern town that hosts a variety of top-notch cultural events throughout the year. These include the Midsummer Fair , over 800 years old and held in the same location on Midsummer Common; the famous Cambridge Folk Festival , one of the largest and longest running in Europe; and the world-class Cambridge Film Festival .

It's also popular for its numerous green spaces. These include the 25-acre Parker's Piece , famous as the birthplace of modern football, and the Victorian-era Christ's Pieces , known for its lovely ornamental trees and flowerbeds.

For more sightseeing ideas in one of the most popular places to visit in England, be sure to read our full list of the top tourist attractions in Cambridge.

See also: Where to Stay in Cambridge

1. The Fitzwilliam Museum

2. explore the river cam, 3. king's college and king's college chapel, 4. queens' college and the mathematical bridge, 5. cambridge university botanic garden, 6. great st. mary's church, 7. the round church, 8. trinity college, 9. anglesey abbey, gardens, and lode mill, 10. museum of archaeology and anthropology, 11. peterhouse college, 12. pembroke college, 13. corpus christi college, 14. st. john's college, 15. museums of cambridge, technology, and science, 1`6. the polar museum at the scott polar research institute, 17. the national horse racing museum, where to stay in cambridge for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in cambridge, england.

The most famous museum in Cambridge, The Fitzwilliam should be included on everyone's must-see list of tourist attractions. This masterpiece of architecture contains a magnificent collection of English pottery and china, as well as Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquities. It's also known for its rare illuminated manuscripts.

The exceptionally fine art gallery has works by Hogarth, Gainsborough, and Turner, as well as Impressionists and Dutch Masters of the Baroque including Rembrandt, Van Dyck, and Rubens. There's also a great café on-site, along with a gift shop.

Address: Trumpington Street, Cambridge

Official site: www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

One of the most popular things to do in Cambridge is to spend time exploring the River Cam , which runs through the heart of the city. You can cross the Cam in a number of places that offer great views of the river.

One of the most picturesque spots is the Silver Street Bridge . From here, you'll get some excellent photos of the famous Mathematical Bridge one side and over the docked punting boats, or "punts," toward Landress Green and Sheep's Green .

Follow the riverside path, and you'll also find the Punt Lift Rollers , an interesting spot where you can watch crews and eager tourists portaging their vessels from one body of water to another.

Some of the best views, though, can be had from the water itself, as the Cam passes extremely close to some of the most attractive college buildings. In addition to fun chauffeured tours where a crew member, usually a student, does the punting for you, rentals are also available by the hour for those wanting to go it alone.

Founded in 1441 by Henry VI and the earliest of the royal foundations, King's College is worth visiting for the huge expanse of lawn extending down to the river and King's Bridge . Here, you'll enjoy lovely views of the Backs , the various college grounds along the riverside. Distinguished alumni includes writer Horace Walpole, poet Rupert Brooke, and economist Lord Keynes.

A must-see here is King's College Chapel. Renowned for its 12-bay perpendicular-style interior, as well as its breathtaking fan vaulting by John Wastell (1515), it's a must-see in Cambridge.

Also worth checking out: the lovely tracery on the windows and walls; the spectacular 16th-century stained-glass windows; the lavishly carved 16th-century wooden organ screen and choir stalls; and the altarpiece, Rubens' Adoration of the Magi (1634).

Hot Tip: If visiting during term time, be sure to attend Evensong to hear the world famous King's College Choir in action.

Address: King's Parade, Cambridge

Official site: www.kings.cam.ac.uk

Founded in 1448 by Andrew Dockett under the patronage of Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI, Queens' College was refounded in 1465 by Elizabeth Woodville, wife of Edward IV. It has the most complete medieval buildings of all Cambridge's colleges, including the magnificent gateway leading to the red brick First Court, dating from the period of foundation.

Other Queens' College sites to visit include the wooden Mathematical Bridge. This 1902 reconstruction leads over the Cam to the lovely college gardens, and is so called because it was built without nails, relying for its strength on meticulous calculation.

Also worth seeing are Cloister Court (1460) with the President's Lodge, a handsome half-timbered building, and Pump Court. Here, you'll find the Erasmus Tower above the rooms, occupied by Erasmus when he taught Greek here (1511-1514).

Walnut Tree Court (1618), Friars Court with the Erasmus Building (1961), and the Victorian chapel (1891) are also worth seeing.

Address: Silver Street, Cambridge

Official site: www.queens.cam.ac.uk

Covering an area of some 40 acres, a visit to Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a must-do for gardening enthusiasts. Established in 1831, the garden showcases an impressive collection of more than 8,000 species of plants from across the globe.

Be sure to spend time wandering through the garden's many glasshouses and trails, something that can be done as part of a guided tour, which are free on Sundays. Afterwards, visit the Garden Café and Botanic Garden Shop.

Be sure to check out their website for news of upcoming events and festivals.

Address: 1 Brookside, Cambridge

Official site: www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/Botanic/Home.aspx

Great St. Mary's Church is both a parish and university church. Built in the 15th century, it has a fine interior, its galleries being added in 1739 at a time when university sermons, given by great scholars, attracted huge congregations. The tower, erected in 1608, is famous for its views over Cambridge.

Also worth a visit is Little St. Mary's. Known as St. Mary the Less , this Anglican parish church is famous for its many fine stained-glass windows.

Another important church, the Gothic Revival Church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs, one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in Britain, was built in 1885 and houses a rare statue of the Virgin Mary.

Location: Senate House Hill, Cambridge

Better known as the Round Church, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of only four Norman round churches left in England. Built in 1131, its rectangular chancel was added in the 15th century.

This is one of the prettiest small churches in England. Visitors can get the most from their visit by joining an informative guided walk that includes the church and its surroundings. While best booked in advance, you can also purchase tickets in the Round Church Visitor Centre subject to availability.

Address: Round Church Vestry, Bridge Street, Cambridge

Official site: https://roundchurchcambridge.org

Established in 1546 by Henry VIII, Trinity College was created by the merger of several older colleges, including Michaelhouse and King's Hall. Beyond King Edward's Gate (1418), parts of the old King's Hall buildings are still identifiable.

Trinity Great Court is the largest court in Cambridge and was laid out around 1600. A passage leads into Nevile's Court (1614), with its chapel and statues of distinguished scholars. Wren's Library , designed by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren and added later, is notable for its old oak bookcases and fine lime woodcarvings.

Trinity has more distinguished former members than any other college. These include statesmen Austen Chamberlain, Stanley Baldwin, and Nehru; poets and writers such as George Herbert and Edward Fitzgerald; philosopher Bertrand Russell; and scientist Isaac Newton. Edward VII and George VI also attended Trinity.

From New Court, or King's Court, take the bridge over the Cam for its beautiful view of the Backs. A magnificent avenue of limes leads to the College Grounds .

Location: Trinity College, Cambridge

Official site: www.trin.cam.ac.uk

Although built in the 12th century, Anglesey Abbey was refurbished in 1926 and came to be known as a house of fine art and furnishings. Now a National Trust property, this spectacular home contains numerous tapestries by the likes of Gobelin, Soho, and Anglesey. There's also an art collection featuring Constable's The Opening of Waterloo Bridge .

Be sure to spend time enjoying the surrounding gardens and 114 acres of parkland. These impressive grounds include the Wildlife Discovery Area , where younger visitors can watch birds and bugs in their natural habitats, and the Lime Tree Lookout .

Afterwards, visit the historic water mill, known as the Lode Mill. Here, you can watch the grindstones do their job. Be sure to check the attraction's website for news of special events.

Address: Quy Road, Lode, Cambridge

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey-gardens-and-lode-mill

Developed by Cambridge University in 1884, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology holds an important collection of prehistoric material and artifacts dealing with social anthropology. Collections have been gathered from around the world and include pieces from Africa and the Orient, with a focus on the visual and classical arts.

Of particular note is the Pacific collection, taken mainly from Cook's explorations, and other research projects made by notable British anthropologists. Regular educational programs for kids and adults are held throughout the year (check their website for details).

You'll also want to visit the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences , too. This fascinating museum houses the university's geology collection, including some two million minerals, rocks, and fossils. Highlights include numerous meteorite specimens, as well as the Beagle Collection consisting of fossils and rocks gathered by Charles Darwin between 1831 and 1836. The museum also offers a wide variety of family activities and kids' programs.

Also of interest is the newly refurbished University Museum of Zoology . Highlights of this recently renovated Cambridge attraction include a large collection of scientifically important zoological material.

Address: Downing Street, Cambridge

Official site: https://maa.cam.ac.uk

The oldest, and also one of the smallest, of Cambridge's colleges, Peterhouse was founded in 1284. Its historic hall and storeroom on the south side of Old Court are the earliest of the original 13th-century buildings. Among those who studied here were Cardinal Beaufort, chemist Henry Cavendish, and poet Thomas Gray.

Check out the Peterhouse Chapel, a focal point of the college for more than 700 years. Worth seeing are the stained-glass windows (imported from Munich in the 1850s) and the 17th-century altar window. For a truly memorable experience, enquire about Peterhouse's summer accommodation rentals.

Official site: www.pet.cam.ac.uk/

Pembroke College was founded in 1347 by the Countess of Pembroke but has been greatly altered since. The chapel (1665) is famous as architect Christopher Wren's first work and was later extended in 1881.

Pembroke has produced many bishops and poets, the most celebrated being Edmund Spenser (1552-99). Reformist bishop Nicholas Ridley, burned at the stake in Oxford, and statesman William Pitt also took their degrees here. A visit usually includes seeing the grounds and the chapel.

Official site: www.pem.cam.ac.uk

Corpus Christi College was founded in 1352 "by the townspeople for the townspeople." Its oldest section, Old Court , dates back to 1377, although it has since been restored.Notable features include the library, which contains many valuable manuscripts collected by Matthew Parker, Archbishop of Canterbury (1550).

Also worth noting is the adjoining St. Benet's Church , which was the original college chapel and is notable for its late Saxon tower.

Dramatists Christopher Marlowe (1564-93) and John Fletcher (1579-1625)are among the best-known alumni of the college. The college is available for summer accommodations, and has become popular for events such as weddings.

Official site: www.corpus.cam.ac.uk

St. John's College was founded in 1511 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII. A richly ornamented gateway opens into First Court, a fine example of Tudor architecture. The dining hall of 1519, known simply as " The Hall ," was enlarged with later buildings in 1826 and has an excellent hammer beam roof, beautiful paneling, and some fine portraits.

The Combination Room has a splendid plaster ceiling with festoons of vines. Second Court, built in 1602, is exceptionally attractive with its mellow brickwork, while Third Court includes the Library (1624).

Among the many notable members of St. John's were dramatist Ben Jonson and poet William Wordsworth, who described his college rooms in his famous Prelude . Also visit the college's exquisite chapel, as well as the famous Bridge of Sighs . Built in 1831, this enclosed bridge leads over the Cam into New Court and the College Grounds.

Location: St. John's Street, Cambridge

Official site: www.joh.cam.ac.uk

One of the most popular museums in Cambridge, the Museum of Cambridge has displays and exhibits focusing on the everyday lives of the local people from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Located in the old White Horse Inn , the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, including coinage, costumes, medals, toys, and medicine. It also contains numerous interesting artworks.

Also worth visiting, the Cambridge Museum of Technology focuses on the county's industrial past. Housed in a Victorian pump house, the museum displays a working steam winch once used to haul ashes along a narrow gauge railway, plus a variety of other engines and a collection of antique printing equipment.

The Whipple Museum of the History of Science is also worthy of a visit for its fascinating collections of old scientific artifacts, including instruments and prints dating back as far as the 17th century.

Official site: www.museumofcambridge.org.uk

Located in the historic Scott Polar Research Institute ( SPRI ) building on Lensfield Road, the Polar Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the exploration of the Earth's polar regions. In addition to its collections of photos, documents, and artifacts relating to epic polar expeditions by the likes of Captain Robert Scott, you'll also find maps and other display materials that provide interesting facts about the North and South Poles.

One of the top free things to do in Cambridge , the Polar Museum is also home to an impressive collection of art relating to the exploration of the polar regions.

Address: Lensfield Road, Cambridge

Official site: www.spri.cam.ac.uk/museum/

Just 13 miles east of Cambridge, the market town of Newmarket has been a center of English horse racing since 1174. Horse fans will enjoy visiting the National Horse Racing Museum on the picturesque High Street. Exhibits relate to the history of the "sport of kings," still one of the most popular sports in Britain.

The collection includes paintings of famous horses and jockeys, old saddles, tack, and trophies. There are several stables actually in the town, not to mention the famous racecourse and training "gallops" close by.

Address: 99 High Street, Newmarket, Cambridgeshire

Official site: www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk

With the university's 31 colleges filling the entire center of Cambridge, there isn't much space left for hotels. But you'll find a few amid its historic buildings, with more just outside the ring of streets that encircles the center. Here are some highly-rated hotels in Cambridge:

Luxury Hotels :

• Overlooking a broad park near the River Cam and the colleges, with plenty of restaurants within easy walking distance, the large rooms at The Gonville Hotel are well located for exploring Cambridge.
• Walk along the Cam and to the historic sites from The Varsity Hotel & Spa , a boutique lodging with a rooftop terrace, near Trinity and Magdalene colleges.
• The name Hilton Cambridge City Centre says it all, right in the center surrounded by historic colleges, restaurants, and shops. The modern hotel offers free Wi-Fi.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Regent Hotel rooms overlook a park near the colleges and River Cam or busy Regent Street's shops and restaurants.
• The neighboring boutique-style Lensfield is also about halfway between the train station and the city center.

Budget Hotels:

• You can walk through the park to city center colleges from Travelodge Cambridge Newmarket Road , or there's a bus stop right in front; underground parking is free.
• There's also a bus stop at Ashley Hotel , or you can walk across the river and over Midsummer Common to the center in about 20 minutes. Rooms here have safes, coffee and tea-making, and free Wi-Fi.
• For lodgings with history, choose a student room with a full English breakfast and Wi-Fi included in Christ's College Cambridge , founded by the mother of Henry VII in 1505 and the college of Charles Darwin.

More on England

• Destinations

BEST Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary: Top Sights and Local Secrets

• 19 March 2024

It can be difficult to know where to start if you’re on a day trip to Cambridge .  There’ so much fascinating history in the city. You can’t see all there is to offer in just one day in Cambridge but with a little planning, you can get a great flavour of the place. 

Having lived in Cambridge for over thirty years , I’ve curated the best it has to offer to create a packed itinerary for your Cambridge day trip . 

This one day itinerary for Cambridge provides suggestions for the best local places to eat and drink, the most interesting Cambridge colleges to visit, charming streets and activities that you can’t miss whilst in Cambridge for the day . 

Along with the big hitters I’ve sprinkled in some alternative options based on my local knowledge , so you can pick and choose to create your very own ideal Cambridge day trip itinerary .

Table of Contents Hide

Is cambridge worth a day trip, what’s cambridge famous for , cambridge day trip itinerary, cambridge day trip: start the day punting, cambridge day trip: mid-morning café break, cambridge day trip: late-morning museum visit, cambridge day trip: lunch, cambridge day trip: afternoon itinerary, pre-dinner drinks, evening entertainment, map for your one day cambridge itinerary, best time for visiting cambridge, how to get to cambridge from london, how to get around cambridge on a day trip, where to stay in cambridge.

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links to products or services I’ve found useful. If you make a purchase through these links I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This helps keep the travel blog running, so thank you.

It’s definitely worth a day trip to visit Cambridge, UK.  The city radiates charm with gorgeous architecture, cute little independent shops and quirky museums.  Whilst there’s enough to do in Cambridge to keep you busy for a week, its compact size means you can easily experience plenty of one of the UK’s most beautiful cities with just a one day itinerary. 

Planning a trip to Cambridge? Check out these key services

🚉 How to get to Cambridge without a car?

Let the train do the work with thetrainline.com .

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Check out the best tours and activities in and around Cambridge with Viator .

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Explore Cambridge at your own pace with a rental car from Discover Cars .

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Find a great deal for your accommodation in Cambridge with Booking.com .

🚖 How to get around?

You can use Uber in Cambridge to travel in and around the city.

A whole bunch of incredible stuff has come out of Cambridge, with over 120 Nobel Prize winners hailing from the university.  Theories such as gravity and evolution sprang from great Cambridge minds.  The Venn diagram, jet engine and the first webcam – yes, you guessed it, all the originators were at Cambridge.  

It’s not just a hotbed of clever inventor types who made their mark in Cambridge though, oodles of writers, comedians and actors also cut their teeth in these hallowed streets.  Then there’s Stephen Hawking who created the world-famous ‘A Brief History of Time’ whilst residing in Cambridge. 

For a petite place, Cambridge sure packs a punch on the world stage and you’ll be spoilt for choice for what to do in Cambridge for a day .

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The first item on your Cambridge day trip itinerary has got to be punting on the River Ca m . Visitors and townsfolk alike have been enjoying this iconic Cambridge activity for over a century. 

There’s only one important decision to make when going punting in Cambridge ; will you book a chauffeured punt or be brave and attempt to punt yourself?   

Self-hire is cheaper and although it looks complicated, the flat-bottomed boats are surprisingly hard to capsize and simple (ish) to steer.  If that all feels like too much of a recipe for getting wet then opt for a guided punting tour instead.  Both private and shared tours are available and you’ll need to book in advance for either of these options to get the best price.

Location: Quayside, off Bridge Street, the Mill Pond or Trinity College for self-hire.

For more details on the cheapest punting price and specialist tours check out my article on punting in Cambridge .

Check the price and availability for this excellent value Punting Tour . Glide past the famous Cambridge colleges as your chauffeur tells you all about the history of Cambridge.

Local Secret:

Whilst punting is one of Cambridge’s most well-known activities, if you want to do something a bit different on your trip but still enjoy a glide down the River Cam, you can rent a canoe or even a Stand-Up Paddle Board from Scudamore’s .

After all that activity (or just the excitement of being a passenger), a pit stop at one of Cambridge’s cafés is next up on the itinerary for the day.  There are loads of great places to choose to get your coffee fix from. 

Fitzbillies is a Cambridge classic, order one of their Chelsea buns for a real Cambridge treat.  If hot chocolate is more your cup of tea then head to new kid on the block, Knoops, on Green Street.  This is chocolate heaven with all the different percentages and origins of hot chocolate a person could ever need.  I love it.

For a less well-known but real Cambridge institution, head to the Copper Kettle.  A visit to this wonderful café is a rite of passage if you live or study in Cambridge and it’s got the photo wall of the great and the good to prove it.  It’s also one of the best seats in the house for views of King’s College.

Having re-fuelled for the day, it’s time to get your intellectual on.  Cambridge is a seat of learning after all.  Unsurprisingly, when considering what to see in Cambridge, there’s a wealth of museums and galleries to choose from. 

The most famous of all is the Fitzwilliam Museum , complete with two imposing lion statues next to the entrance.  My favourite parts of the collection include the armoury and, as a counterpoint to all that weaponry, the exquisite and delicate fan room.

Entrance to the museum is free.  It’s closed on Mondays and doesn’t open until 12 on Sundays.

The Fitzwilliam is a wonderful museum but one of my personal best places to visit in Cambridge, and my favourite of all the museums in Cambridge , is the  Polar Museum .  It’s much smaller in size than ‘the Fitz’ but the fascinating exhibits leave an incredible impact. 

Items include original food rations and clothing from polar adventures, along with the heart-wrenching letters home written by Scott and his fellow explorers as they froze only a short distance away from vital supplies.

The Polar Museum is free and is open Wednesday – Saturday.  Check the website for latest opening times.

Find loads of other brilliant free activities in Cambridge with my article on free things to do in Cambridge .

Stopping for lunch in Cambridge means you get to choose from one of many independent restaurants to eat at.  The Olive Grove on Regent Street is one of the best.  This Greek restaurant serves quality dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.  Try their signature moussaka or kleftiko for a taste of the Mediterranean.

For a whole street brimming with international restaurants, take a short walk over to Mill Road.  Here you’ll find Jordanian, Spanish, Indian and North African cuisine, to name but a few.

Explore a Cambridge College

One of the most common questions visitors on a trip to Cambridge ask is ‘where’s Cambridge University?’ The short answer is: all around you. 

Many of the historic buildings in the city centre are owned by the university and, as Cambridge is a collegiate university, there are also 31 colleges that, although independent, also form part of the university experience for the students who live and study in them.  You won’t have time to visit all 31 colleges on a day trip to Cambridge so I’ve narrowed down the list for you.

Check the price and availability of this Cambridge Walking Tour that takes you to the best colleges and gives you an insight into the history of Cambridge. It includes a visit to the world-famous King’s College Chapel and will keep you entertained with plenty of anecdotes about Cambridge past and present.

King’s College

The quintessential Cambridge College.  If you only visit one college, make it this one.  Don’t miss the fan vault roofing in the College Chapel.

St John’s College

For a view of Cambridge’s very own Bridge of Sighs (and one of the biggest of all the colleges).

Trinity College

Former home to Sir Isaac Newton and current location of the Wren Library, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1676.  Here you can see Newton’s tree, which was grafted from the original legendary apple tree.

Queens’ College

To take a look at the mythical Mathematical Bridge.  As the (apocryphal) tale goes, the bridge was built without anything to hold it together, taken apart as a bet, and, of course, was impossible to reconstruct afterwards.  You can decide for yourself whether or not this tall tale could be true.

If you’re looking for a budget friendly tour of the Colleges why not get the self-guided Colleges walking tour from Get Your Guide?

This is one of the smaller colleges but no less beautiful.  It’s also the oldest Cambridge College.  A visit provides the opportunity to stroll down the adjacent Little St Mary’s Lane, with its dinky doorways and picturesque houses and lamps.

Christ’s College

Do as Charles Darwin did and stroll the hallowed ground of Christ’s College.  The famous alumnus studied here and the Darwin garden hosts a statue in his honour.  Whilst here, visit the peaceful Fellows’ garden and the Old Library.

For another fantastic UK city break destination, check out my guide to the top 27 Things to Do in Eastbourne .

Grab a Delicious Gelato

At some point during your day in Cambridge, you’re going to find yourself craving something sweet and the city has got you covered with Jack’s Gelato and Aromi.  These two independent outlets both sell delicious dollops of the cold stuff and they’re conveniently located around the corner from each other, on Bene’t Street and Peas Hill. 

If I absolutely had to choose a favourite I’d go for Aromi, the bitter-sweet taste of the lemon gelato transports me back to the sun-dappled streets of Sicily every time. 

My insider tip is that both gelaterias have second shops which often have shorter queues (Jack’s Gelato is particularly Insta-famous with the snaking line of ice cream-hungry fans to match).  If you want to beat the crowds head to Fitzroy Street for Aromi or All Saints Passage to visit Jack’s Gelato (afternoons only).

If you do go to Bene’t Street, take a one-minute de-tour to view the Corpus clock at the end of the Street.  It’s a highly creative interpretation of a timepiece.  If you want to go and visit Corpus Christi College itself, you’ll need to walk a short distance further along Trumpington Street until you reach the main entrance, on your left. 

Visit an Architecturally Interesting Religious Site

Cambridge has a surprising number of churches for a relatively small area.  One of the biggest draws is the self-explanatory, does what it says on the tin, Round Church.  You can go inside but a walk around to view the outside is enough.

To get a glimpse of an incredible church interior make sure ‘The Painted Church’ (All Saints Church, Jesus Lane) is on your Cambridge day trip itinerary.  The artistry of the Arts and Crafts-movement decor is a sight to behold and is one of Cambridge’s best-kept secrets.  Opening hours are irregular and for specific events only so check before you set off.

If ‘The Painted Church’ isn’t open, visit the Cambridge Central Mosque on Mill Road instead.  The timber building is based on eco-friendly principles and was shortlisted for the prestigious RIBA Sterling Prize for architecture in 2021.

Go Shopping and Wander the Picturesque Streets

If you’ve followed this Cambridge day trip itinerary there should still be time to check out some of the shops before you head off for an evening meal.  As a book lover, I have to give a special mention to two bookshops you must visit even if you’ve only got one day in Cambridge; Heffers (Trinity Street), a huge cavern for book lovers, and, at the opposite end of the scale, the minuscule but marvellous Haunted Bookshop (St Edwards Passage). 

Other streets to head to for independent shopping are:

• Bridge Street
• Trinity Street, All Saints Art and Craft Market
• Green Street
• Rose Crescent

If you’re not into shopping, take this self-guided treasure hunt instead. It’s a really cheap and fun way to find out more about Cambridge.

Alternatively, for picturesque photo opportunities wander along:

• Trinity Lane
• Senate House Passage
• Portugal Place
• Orchard Street

Cambridge Travel Resources

Ready for more Cambridge inspiration and information?  Read and favourite my posts below, so you have them to hand when you’re in Cambridge.

37 Things to Do in Cambridge for Free

Punting in Cambridge: Prices and Local Guide

Museums in Cambridge: 5 of the Best

After an action-packed day visiting some of the best sights in Cambridge, take a moment to relax and enjoy an early evening drink.  The expansive views out across the city make the Varsity Hotel rooftop bar one of the best venues for a sundowner.  Alternatively, for a buzzy atmosphere, head to Cambridge Wine Merchants on Bridge Street.

Finish off your day in Cambridge with a trip to an independent restaurant.  The family-run La Margherita on Bridge Street serves delicious Italian meals and puddings that deserve to be savoured. 

For luxurious surroundings, head to the Orator Brasserie And Bar.  The building is actually part of the Cambridge Union Society, so you can soak up some history whilst you dine.

Not ready to end your day trip yet? Then extend your day in Cambridge with a show at the Arts Theatre or the more intimate Town and Gown.  Time it right and you might even be able to catch the famous Cambridge Footlights at the ADC Theatre.

If there’s nothing that takes your fancy at the theatres, in the summertime, when the evenings are long, finish the day off with a walk along ‘The Backs’ for picture postcard views of the Cambridge Colleges.  At other times of the year, end the day at one of Cambridge’s traditional pubs like The Pickerel Inn or The Eagle.

Discover more about the wonderful traditional Cambridge pubs on a heritage pub guided walking tour .

I’ve created a map showing the places covered in this one-day Cambridge itinerary. Click the arrow icon to the left of the map heading to view the names of each place and to toggle on/off the different map layers.

Summer and spring are gorgeous times of the year to spend a day in Cambridge.  Crocuses line the ground in spring and the river shimmers and shines throughout hazy summer days. However, due to being one of the driest cities in the UK, Cambridge also makes a great winter day trip destination . 

Note that the colleges are closed to visitors during exam periods. 

A Cambridge day out is a great choice, particularly if you’re visiting from London. When travelling by train to Cambridge from London there are two options; the quick and the cheap.  Direct trains from Kings Cross will have you in Cambridge in 50 minutes , with no stops.  The Liverpool Street option is cheaper but stops on route.

Train to Cambridge Duration

• London Kings Cross direct to Cambridge: 50 minutes
• London Liverpool Street to Cambridge: 75 minutes+

Cost of Train from London to Cambridge

• Super off-peak day return, eligible for the direct Kings Cross train – from £19.50
• Super off-peak day return, eligible for Greater Anglia trains (not the direct Kings Cross train) – from £15

It takes 20 minutes to walk from Cambridge train station to the heart of the city or you can take one of the frequent buses (journey time is 10 minutes, £1 per ticket, bus #1, #3, #7 or Park and Ride 4).  Voi e-scooters and e-bikes are also available for hire outside the station.  Use my Voi link to get £5 credit when you sign up.

It’s also possible to get to Cambridge from London by National Express coach but the journey time is usually significantly longer than the train.

If you’re pushed for time and want a hassle-free way to see Cambridge’s highlights, book tickets for the hop-on-hop-off bus tour . The bus stops at the train station along with other key sites, including the Polar Museum, Botanic Garden, Fitzwilliam Museum and central Colleges.

This option also enables you to visit the American Cemetery at Madingley, a moving memorial to those who died in World War Two.

Save time on the day and book your Cambridge hop-on-hop-off bus tour in advance .

A great way to get around is to book on to a historic Cambridge alumni walking tour .

As a compact city, you can walk around all the sights mentioned in this itinerary for what to see in Cambridge in a day.  However, if you want to really blend in with the crowd, you could do as much of the rest of Cambridge does and rent a bike for the day. 

Cycling is a big activity in Cambridge, you’ll see bikes everywhere.  Although many of the quaint old streets might seem like they’re pedestrianised, they’re also bike routes so stick to the pavements rather than wandering down the middle of the road – the residents of Cambridge will love you for it.

There’s so much to see in Cambridge, why not make a weekend of it and check out some of the 37 free things to do in Cambridge whilst you’re here.

I recommend you reserve your hotel in advance, as places book up fast.  I regularly use Booking.com as they offer great prices.

Gonville Hotel  – I love spending a relaxed evening at the fabulous bar here. The hotel is home to a garden terrace and gorgeous boutique rooms, book a feature bedroom for an extra special stay.

This hotel is all about luxury and sumptuous surroundings. You can even be taken for a complimentary spin around Cambridge in a silver Bentley car. This level of luxury does come at a price though. A more budget friendly option is the Ibis.

Ibis Cambridge Central Station – if the Gonville is not in budget, the Ibis offers a great alternative. It’s situated right next to Cambridge train station, so perfect if you want to turn your day trip into an overnight stay. Ibis is a highly rated chain and won’t break the bank.

Christ’s College Cambrid ge  – if you don’t want to go for a chain hotel and want a stay with a difference, book a night at Darwin’s College. The rooms themselves are basic but the central location and unique Cambridge College surroundings more than make up for it.

University Arms  – has a beautiful hotel bar and offers gorgeous aromatherapy experiences. Voted the  smartest place to stay in Cambridge  by Vogue magazine. Located right on Parkers Piece, this landmark hotel knows how to do luxury. It’s also perfect if you want to be right in the city centre.

Varsity Hotel and Spa  – situated close to the river and with amazing views out across Cambridge from the rooftop terrace, the Varsity is a great choice if you want to be in the centre of it all.

Check out my guide to places to stay as part of a spa weekend in Cambridge .

If you’re looking for other great day trips in East Anglia, check out my guide to the best things to do in Cromer , on the Norfolk coast.

More Cambridge Resources

37 Things To Do In Cambridge For Free In 2023

Cambridge At Christmas: A Guide

Cambridge Spa Day: 15 of the Best

Grantchester Village: A Day Out From Cambridge

Hotels In Cambridge With A Pool

Museums In Cambridge: 5 Of The Best

Walks In Cambridge: 5 Of The Best

I'm Katie and although I'm based in the UK I spend my spare time travelling the world. I've visited countless countries, from South America to Australia and many places in between. A meticulous travel researcher and organiser I can often be found working out the best way to get from A to B via public transport.

What an amazing city! We would love to visit for the architecture and to see and learn more about the colleges.

My husband and I visited Cambridge on a rainy day. It wasn’t ideal for doing all that we wanted to do, but it sure did give us a glimpse at the beauty of this city. I like your “local secrets.”

Every time I hear Cambridge I immediately think of the university. But there’s so much more to see as you show in this blog post. 🙂 Really wanna go there one day, thanks for sharing.

What a lovely itinerary – it made me reminisce on my time spent in Cambridge many years ago! I’ll definitely scope out Aromi next time I visit!

With this well-planned itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Cambridge, savoring its history, culture, and delightful ambiance.

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Cambridge Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Cambridge Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most famous university cities in the world. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Cambridge!

Plan your visit to Cambridge

Located 55 miles north of London is the city of Cambridge. Home to one of the world’s most famous and prestigious universities this ancient seat of learning, and historic city, is smaller and more compact than Oxford.

Spend the day exploring some of its 31 architecturally stunning colleges, famous museums, or take to the river for a spot of punting. Read on for Cambridge travel tips and advice to help you plan your visit.

What you will find in this complete Cambridge Travel Guide

Map of Cambridge

When is the best time of year to visit cambridge, how many days do you need in cambridge, what is the best way to explore cambridge, which city should i visit – oxford or cambridge, by train from london, by car from london, take a tour from london to cambridge, attractions and things to do in cambridge, accommodation in cambridge, tickets, tours & attractions in cambridge, books to read before visiting cambridge, enjoy your visit to cambridge.

Cambridge travel guide – Visiting Cambridge FAQ’s

Cambridge is one of England’s most beautiful cities and a wonderful destination whatever time of year you plan to visit. During the summer months, Cambridge is the perfect destination if you would like to try punting. Take to the river and enjoy views of the bridges and University buildings as you meander along.

Cambridge is one of the UK’s driest cities so with luck you should have a pleasant and dry day whatever time of year you choose to visit.

The Cambridge Folk Festival which is the biggest folk festival in Europe is held annually in June-July.

It is possible to see the main sights and attractions of Cambridge in a day which makes it the perfect day trip from London .

The city’s main attractions and sights are within easy walking distance which makes Cambridge a great destination to explore on foot. We recommend joining a guided walking tour to make the most of your visit.

Both cities have their own unique charms and are worth a visit.

Cambridge is a smaller city than Oxford. There is less to do and see but it is a beautiful and easy city to explore in a day.

Oxford is the larger city and has lots of things to see and do so could easily fill 2 days if you wish to explore all its colleges and museums. It is also the perfect destination to visit if you are considering a road trip to the Cotswolds. If you are a Harry Potter fan head to Oxford where you will find several film locations used in a number of the movies. Read more about visiting Oxford in my Oxford Travel Guide .

As I have mentioned both cities are doable day trips from London by train. If you only have one day and want to see both cities take this Oxford & Cambridge Day Tour from London.

What is the best way to travel to Cambridge from London?

For timetables and tickets we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Cambridge for the day or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 55 miles
• Time taken by train: 50 mins to 1 hour 50 depending on route
• Leave from: London St Pancras International to Cambridge is the quickest route

Cambridge is located 55 miles from London and will take over an hour and 30 minutes from London by car. Unless you are planning to visit from London and head to other destinations in the UK we recommend taking the train!

If you do plan to drive to Cambridge you will find that parking is expensive so we recommend using the Park and Ride scheme . There are 5 locations around the city to park your car and catch a bus into the city.

We recommend these day tours to Cambridge from Get Your Guide.

• City and University Tour including King’s College – Visit the iconic landmarks of Cambridge University and enter the famous King’s College Chapel. Enjoy a walking tour with a Cambridge University student and see the world behind the institution’s closed doors.
• Exclusive Chauffeur: London to Cambridge and Woburn Abbey – Enjoy the luxury and comfort of your own private chauffeur whisking you out of London to beautiful Cambridge and Woburn Abbey. Discover the beauty of the English countryside on this exclusive private tour.

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Cambridge and an itinerary for your day including visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum, going for a punt on the River Cam, exploring Cambridge’s Colleges (each an architectural marvel) such as St John’s King’s College and much more!

One day in Cambridge Itinerary

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CAMBRIDGE

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

There are numerous walking tours (and punting tours) of Cambridge available.

• University Punting and Walking Tour – Discover the beauty of Cambridge on a combined 90-minute walking tour and 50-minute punting cruise along the River Cam.
• Guided Walking Tour of Historic Cambridge – Take a two hour guided tour of historic Cambridge with an accredited Cambridge Green Badge guide. The fun and family-friendly tour will show you the city’s stunning buildings and tell you about its many famous names.
• Cambridge University Guided Walking Tour with a Graduate – Get an insight into life at one of the world’s most elite universities on a 1.5-hour historical walking tour of Cambridge University with a graduate guide. Visit some of the most famous colleges, such as Clare College and Trinity College.

Cambridge is proud of its literary heritage and connections with many famous authors who have studied or taught at one of its colleges. To fully appreciate and enjoy your visit to Cambridge we recommend reading some of their works.

These include

• William Wordsworth
• Sylvia Plath
• E.M.Forster
• Zadie Smith
• Sebastian Faulks
• Stephen Fry
• Salman Rushdie
• Margaret Drabble
• Joanne Harris
• Nick Hornby

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Cambridge. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Liverpool Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map)
• York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Must-Visit Attractions in Cambridge, England

An esteemed university city with bags of history and a river running through its heart, Cambridge is England’s finest holiday spot if you’re looking for culture, academia and charm all in one place. With striking university buildings packed with history, a pleasant climate and leisurely lawns, falling for Cambridge is as easy as falling off a punt. Easier, in fact. Read on for Culture Trip’s pick of the 25 must-visit attractions in Cambridge, England.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Cambridge University Buildings

Of course, Cambridge is famed internationally for its world-class university. Attended by some of the country’s top writers, actors, comedians and politicians, the college is set in magnificent grounds. Dating back to the 12th century and including examples of the earliest patterned brickwork in England, the various colleges of this world-renowned establishment are dotted around the city and should be high on your must-do list for fabulous Cambridge.

This attractive body of water flows through Cambridge into the Great Ouse, and is usually dotted with pretty punts and small boats. With Byron’s Pool named after the poet Lord Byron, who is said to have swum there, and its waters the apparent subject of a speech from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, the Cam has clearly made an impression on England’s literary masters. Picnic on its riverbanks, cross King’s College Bridge, go angling or, of course, take a punt.

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The Fitzwilliam Museum

Cambridge University’s art and antiquities museum makes for a fascinating day out. Once declared “one of the greatest art collections of the nation and a monument of the first importance”, the museum was founded when Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion donated his collection of art to the university. The brilliantly diverse collection includes arms, coins, and Cypriot, Greek and Egyptian art by Degas, Reubens and Gainsborough, among countless others. Many consider it the finest small museum in all of Europe.

The Bridge of Sighs

This covered bridge across the swirling River Cam was built in 1831 and connects the Third Court at St John’s College Cambridge with the New Court. Though it doesn’t have much in common with its Venetian namesake aside from the fact it’s covered, there’s still an undeniable romance about its ornate stonework.

Corpus Clock

This enormous embellished metal clock hangs at street level outside Cambridge’s Corpus Christi College. One of the city’s most remarkable monuments, the clock was constructed by John C Taylor (OBE) and inaugurated in 2008. With a face made entirely of gold, a metal grasshopper called the Chronophage or ‘time-eater’ sitting above it and an undulating ripple design – which suggests the expansion of the universe after the Big Bang, the clock is a truly unique asset to Cambridge.

The American Cemetery and Memorial

This cemetery comprises just over 12ha (30 acres) of neat green lawns, dedicated to the memory of those who were killed in the Battle of the Atlantic or in the strategic air bombardment of Northwest Europe. With the remains of some 3,812 people buried at this peaceful spot, the cemetery is a sobering place to remember those who fought and died in past wars. The visitor centre has many compelling personal stories and photographs that paint a vivid picture of those who gave their lives.

Cambridgeshire Wine School

If fine wines are your thing, head along to Cambridgeshire Wine School for a lively evening of wine tasting. Not only will you sample delightful wines from Europe and even further afield, you’re bound to make some fabulous new friends, too. Choose evenings dedicated to Italian tipples, South American or Portuguese recipes. There’s even a cheese and wine event if you’re a fan of fancy fromage.

The Round Church

Officially known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Round Church is a Grade I-listed building dating back to 1130. Its pretty rotunda structure is formed of stone. The church’s upper storey, built above the nave, has a glorious conical spire on top, making this a unique space to explore.

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

If this list has already got you thinking Cambridge rocks, let us dig a little deeper and recommend a geology museum that’s pure gold. The oldest of Cambridge University’s museums, it was founded in 1728 and is now home to around 2 million minerals, fossil and rocks.

The Mathematical Bridge

This pretty wooden footbridge is another gorgeous spot at which to breathe in a little of Cambridge’s chilled-out charm. This Grade II-listed building, designed by William Etheridge and built by James Essex in 1749, takes its name from the arrangement of its timbers at certain tangents to create its arching shape. There is a myth that Sir Isaac Newton built the bridge without the help of any nuts or bolts, which, though untrue, makes a cheeky anecdote to share with your travel buddy as you stroll across.

Ely Cathedral

OK, this one isn’t technically in Cambridge, but it makes for a brilliant day trip during your stay. Dating back to 1083, it is built in the monumental Romanesque style and its central octagonal tower attracts some 250,000 visitors every year. Take a moment to gaze up at the church’s captivating ceilings and dazzling stained glass.

Fitzbillies Cafe

Definitely the highest calorie thing to do in Cambridge is to drop into the delightful Fitzbillies on Trumpington Street and feast on one of their famous Chelsea Buns. These sticky-sweet snacks have been on sale here since 1920 and make for an ideal riverside energy boost when your punting enthusiasm begins to wane. There’s now a second branch of Fitzbillies on Bridge Street – serving coffees, cakes and tasty bacon rolls.

Parker’s Piece

Another beautifully kempt lawn space, the 10-ha (25-acre) common Parker’s Piece is known as the birthplace of association football as it was here that the Cambridge Rules were first put to use in 1848. It also played host to fancy cricket matches between 1817 and 1864. A pleasant place for a walk or your own mini cricket match (top tip: dogs make excellent fielders).

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

This dreamy 16-ha (40-acre) garden is alive with an incredible variety of plant species from all over the world. There are also several glasshouses – home to all kinds of flowers and shrubs – making this park a blooming lovely option for a sunny Cambridge afternoon.

Anglesey Abbey

This absolutely glorious country house and former priory was bought by the aristocratic Broughton siblings, Lord Fairhaven and his brother Henry, in 1926. Located just outside Cambridge, in the idyllic village of Lode, the building is now home to the eccentric lord’s vast collection of clocks, ornaments and silverware. A fabulously nostalgic day out.

Billed as an intimate, family-run zoo, this place offers the chance to get up close and personal with a diverse and colourful collection of exotic animals. Tapirs, zebras, tigers, kangaroos – every animal lover will enjoy visiting this well-kept sanctuary.

For a beautiful walk incorporating the university buildings and their impeccably manicured lawns, and the River Cam and its various bridges, take a stroll along The Backs. With grazing cattle to be spotted all along this picturesque stretch of reclaimed land, this is a cracking angle from which to admire those colleges that touch the water’s edge.

Kettle’s Yard

For a sprinkle of culture, head along to Kettle’s Yard, a gorgeous Cambridge house filled with a collection of 20th-century art, which also has its own contemporary gallery. There are exhibitions on display for much of the year and events including study days, art workshops and music recitals.

Imperial War Museum Duxford

As well as an enormous airfield, this museum also boasts a collection of 200 vintage aircraft (including Concorde and the Spitfire), which have been carefully restored to their hey-day glory and are displayed proudly from floor to ceiling at what is the largest aviation museum in Europe. You have to travel a short distance out of Cambridge to reach it (either by bus or car) but it’s well worth the extra time it takes to get here.

King’s College Chapel

Widely believed to be one of England’s finest examples of perpendicular gothic architecture along with the astounding St George’s Chapel in Windsor, King’s College Cambridge is an unbelievable place to be. With the largest fan-vaulted ceiling in the world and some dazzling examples of medieval stained glass, you’ll find yourself gazing heaven-wards to drink in its daunting beauty.

Heffers Bookshop

There are, of course, numerous bookshops all over Cambridge, but Heffers is very special. For starters, it’s 144 years old, and has been a mainstay in bookselling since it first opened, providing a central place for students across all the colleges to buy books. Though it has been renovated many times, the core architecture is still intact, and it features a huge collection of books of all kinds, as well as one of the largest stocks of board games of any book shop in the country.

If you want to relax with a drink and watch the world go by, NOVI is the bar for you. Facing onto Regent Street – Cambridge’s longest and most central road – it serves arguably the best cocktails anywhere in Cambridge (the espresso martini is a highlight) and serves a diverse menu of interesting food. The open-plan setting means that you can get a clear view of the busy street outside without ever leaving the building.

Wimpole Estate

A National Trust site just outside of the city, Wimpole Estate has been continuously occupied for over 2,000 years, and is now largely open to the public. The explorable grounds include the gardens, parkland and farm. The gardens surround the grounds of the enormous Wimpole Hall. It has been the home of many significant families through the years, and you can learn all about its fascinating heritage while exploring the grounds, as well as meeting the various animals that reside on the farm.

There are a few open-air markets around Cambridge, but FoodPark is special in that it occupies different places depending on the day of the week, as well as playing host to different food vendors. It’s open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, rotating between Eddington, the Science Park and other spots. All the traders are local, independent, and you can try all kinds of interesting twists on established meals.

The Eagle Pub

Higher education has changed a lot since the Cambridge colleges first appeared, but one thing remains true – students like to drink. The Eagle has stood proud in the city since 1667, when it was called The Eagle and Child, and quickly became the favoured watering hole of local scholars. Many famous scientists have visited over the years, and famously it is where James Watson hit upon the double helix idea – now the most well-known representation of DNA strands. The pub is still open, and the walls are covered with pictures of famous former patrons.

Additional reporting by Callum Davies

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Places to Stay

The best hotels to book near wimpole hall.

The Best Hotels to Book near Anglesey Abbey

Where to Book a Stay in Cambridge, England for a Local Experience

The Best Hotels to Book in Cambridge

The Best Bed and Breakfasts in Cambridge, England

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Cambridge, England

The Best Cheap Hotels in Cambridge

The Best Boutique Hotels in Cambridge

See & Do

Lakes in and around cambridge, uk.

Day Trips From Cambridge, United Kingdom

The Most Beautiful Gardens in Cambridge

The Best Things to See and Do in Cambridge, UK, With Kids

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The 21 best things to do in Cambridge right now

Here on a day trip or a weekend, there are endless things to do in Cambridge, from museums to boat rides

Sure, Cambridge might be known for its very, very famous community of very, very clever people, but there’s much more to this gorgeous, compact English city than its globally-renowned uni.

Apt for exploration by punt, bike or foot, Cambridge boasts heaps of fascinating museums,  restaurants and cultural stuff like comedy, theatre and live music. Plus, architectural marvels and lush greenery abound, making this not just a fascinating place but a darn romantic one, too. This is a city to really, properly savour. Here are the best things to do in Cambridge right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝 The best  restaurants in Cambridge 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in Cambridge 🚣 A perfect day in Cambridge

This guide was recently updated by Miriam Balanescu , a writer based in Cambridge.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

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What to do in Cambridge

1.  Punt down the river

What is it?  Cambridge’s most famous pastime (apart from reading loads of books) and  o n e of the best ways to see the city. The good news is you don’t even need to work your own arm muscles.

Why go?  To get within sniffing distance of Cambridge and not go punting is like going to Pisa and not seeing the leaning tower. The brave and the skilled do the stick-bit themselves, but if you’re a first-timer, book a gondolier-like guide to navigate the River Cam for you.

2.  See modern art masterpieces at Kettle’s Yard

What is it? The most homely art gallery you’ll ever come across (because it used to be someone’s home).

Why go? Kettle’s Yard was once the residence of Jim and Helen Ede. Thanks to Jim’s job as a curator at the Tate Gallery, the couple filled their home with artworks by famous names like Barbara Hepworth and Joan Mirò. Then, in an act of extreme generosity, the Edes gave it all to Cambridge University. You can now visit it and see the art lovingly arranged around the house, which still feels like a home.

3.  Find the new Footlights at the ADC

What is it? This student-run theatre isn’t your typical am-dram set up: it’s where Sue Perkins, Emma Corrin and Tom Hiddleston first trod the boards, so you might witness a star in the making.

Why go? With multiple shows on a week in term time, catch dramatic monologues and cutting-edge comedy at a budget price. There are often classics like ‘Grease’ on the programme, but try to get a ticket for one of the Footlights’ original sketch shows for a proper Cambridge night out.

4.  Try unusual ice-cream flavours at Jack’s Gelato

What is it? An ice-cream shop like no other. Since popping up on Bene’t Street in 2010, the tiny dessert shop has become a big draw for locals and tourists alike.

Why go? Jack’s Gelato has all your fave regular flavours, but that’s not why you should visit. Highlights have included marmalade, panettone and rooibos gelato, and white peach sorbet. To dodge the queue, a second much-less-busy branch opened in 2023, five minutes away on All Saints Passage. If you can’t get enough – and we wouldn’t blame you – pint tubs are available via their website to enjoy at home. 

5.  Browse the ever-changing market stalls

What is it? Grab lunch with the locals at the tightly packed street-food stalls in the centre of town.

Why go? There are some great restaurants in the city, but if you want to try something cooked right in front of you, this is your best bet. Think Chinese pancake wraps, posh Scotch eggs, veggie Brazilian fare and unbeatable mac and cheese. 

6.  See art and antiquities at The Fitzwilliam Museum

What is it? Cambridge’s first-rate art and antiquities museum where you can marvel at objects from around the world.

Why go? The Fitzwilliam is owned by Cambridge University and, like Oxford’s Ashmolean, is a treasure chest of a museum. Unlike the supersized British Museum in London, the Fitzwilliam is home to enough diverse trinkets, ornaments and paintings to make you marvel, but not enough to give you brain-overload. Plus, it’s free entry.

7.  Eat a Chelsea bun at Fitzbillies

What is it? A cinnamon-spiced treat somewhere between a cake and a pastry, made by a century-old bakery – which happens to be a Cambridge institution almost as hallowed as the university itself.

Why go? Ignore the London-hailing name – you haven’t really been to Cambridge until you’ve tasted this bakery’s revered, irresistibly sticky raisin-studded bun. (They’ve been making them since 1920 and churn out over 200,000 of them every year.) Even though the buns are all anyone seems to talk about, Fitzbillies’ offerings don’t stop there – they do a pretty darn good brunch and lunch too.  

8.  Immerse yourself in greenery at the Botanic Gardens

What is it? Some 40 acres of gorgeously green (and pink and yellow and red…) botanic gardens owned by Cambridge University, where you can earnestly study horticulture or snooze on the lawn.

Why go? Cambridge’s botanic gardens are an Arcadian paradise hidden behind a fairly nondescript entrance at the station end of town. What sets them apart from other city gardens is the woodland vibe. Lose yourself in a maze of lush foliage and leave all your troubles behind.

9.  Explore King’s College Chapel

What is it? The stunning gothic chapel that dominates the centre of Cambridge. It’s a must-visit, even if church-spotting isn’t your sport.

Why go? Every festive season, the BBC’s Christmas Eve carol service is recorded in King’s College Chapel, giving sherry-filled adults the chance to embarrassingly cry over the first crystalline bars of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’. Relive this tradition with a visit inside the breathtaking chapel itself, which boasts housing the world’s largest fan vaulted ceiling – then head round the corner for drinks at The Eagle . 

10.  Watch a gig at Cambridge Junction

What is it?  An independent arts venue where you can see comedy, music, theatre, spoken word, movies and more. 

Why go?  The Cambridge Junction must be one of the UK’s best music venues. It makes some canny programming choices, is run by a friendly team and offers everything from alternative rock and folk to one-off Edinburgh Fringe previews from top stand-ups.  Don’t miss its incredible monthly queer night Club Urania, which always has a stunning line-up of performers but most of all is just a really nice place to be.

11.  Grab a drink at The Maypole

What is it? Only the best pub in the whole of Cambridge, where you can choose from an unrivalled array of beverages, with separate menus dedicated to Belgian beers, gins and whiskeys.

Why go? The Maypole is a few paces away from the ADC and it’s where most actors, crew and audiences head post-show. It’s also one of a handful of freehouses in the city, meaning it has a seemingly endless selection of real ales on tap and local brews. Take your pick from its impressive range of tipples – from chocolate stouts to cherry blossom gins – and listen in on some thespian gossip.

12.  Unearth vintage treasures along Mill Road

What is it?  A long, street art-splashed road to the west of the city that encompasses quaint terraces and cool independent shops.

Why go?  You’ll find vintage shops galore along Mill Road, so if you’re looking for some ’70s-style homeware or an offbeat addition to your wardrobe, spend an afternoon browsing to your heart’s content. Vinyl nerds should head to  Relevant Records  for secondhand LPs and new releases (and some great coffee). If it’s food you’re after, Italian deli  Limoncello  may well have the best Mediterranean snacks in East Anglia.

13.  Discover the university’s world-class polar research at Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

What is it? A niche museum that’s all about Cambridge University’s world-class polar research. 

Why go? Fancy yourself a bit of an explorer but only ever manage to take day trips around the UK? Well, the Polar Museum at the Scott Polar Research Institute will introduce you to genuinely intrepid (and cold) historic explorations of far-flung corners of the globe, all from the comfort of Cambridge. Free entry.

14.  Tour the city on two wheels

What is it? Cambridge is well known for its sheer barrage of bikes. Because of this, the city is well set up for riders, and locals on foot are used to dodging wayward wheels.

Why go? Given its modest size, Cambridge is best navigated by bike. There are loads of places to hire them from, and you can lock them just about anywhere. There are plenty of cycle lanes – sometimes so well-hidden that a pack of bikes seem to come out of nowhere, so keep an eye out. Cambridge really is a cyclist’s paradise.

15.  Feed your inner bookworm at Heffers

What is it? Sure, it’s a bookshop, but what a bookshop. It's perhaps better described as a palace of literature.

Why go? If there’s a city in the UK where a person shouldn’t have to apologise for being a bit of a geek, it’s Cambridge. Feed your inner bookworm until it bloats and blossoms into a beautiful butterfly at Heffers, the oddly named bookshop where browsing and buying are both a pleasure.

16.  Order cocktails at Bar 196

What is it? The go-to spot to sip a roasted coconut daquiri al fresco while watching the world go by. 

Why go? From its handwritten menus to the unusual (and slightly unsettling) picture collages on the loo walls, this cocktail bar has gained cult status among Cambridge locals. Its extensive drinks list is a mix of familiar favourites and twists on old classics – with the bar staff happy to whip up pretty much any drink on request. In summer, you might have to fight for a prime seat on the pavements of Mill Road, where you can feel Parisian as the sun sets over Mill Road bridge. And, in winter, this bar’s dimly lit interior is a great place to cosy up.

17.  Cross the mathematical bridge

What is it ? A bridge in Queens’ College that looks curved but is made entirely of straight timbers. It’s so clever that Oxford copied it, but you should see the original.

Why go? Perhaps you never realised you wanted to see a great feat in mid-eighteenth-century architecture, but you should. The design for this bridge was dreamed up by engineer James King – though tour guides love to spread the rumour that this bridge was originally designed by Sir Isaac Newton. Legend has it that nothing but the wooden beams held it up, but after the wood rotted and no one could remember what exactly Newton had done, they had to rebuild it with nails. While sadly not true, for definite Newton-related landmarks head down the road to Trinity College to see the fabled tree responsible for the scientist’s theory of gravity. 

18.  Catch a glimpse of The Corpus Clock

What is it?  A very large and bizarre clock designed to make you fear the incessant ticking away of each moment on earth. Just don’t head here if you actually need to know the time.

Why go?  The Corpus Clock is on the front of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College. It’s less a clock (although it is accurate every once in a while) and more of an art piece. The marvellously creepy insect straddling it appears to ‘eat’ time – a reminder that we don’t have as much of it left as we think.

19.  Climb to the top of Great St Mary’s

What is it? A panoramic view of the city, 123 steps up.

Why go? St Mary’s is next to the marketplace, meaning it’s easy to get to, and you’ll have plenty of energy left for the steep but manageable climb to the top. And boy is the view worth it. The church is even older than the university – with the foundations built as early as 1010 (fun fact: King Henry VII donated 100 oak trees to construct its roof). Want to learn more history? Then have a go on the building’s interactive touch screens.

20.  Visit the Centre for Computing History

This venue will be temporary closed for September 2023. 

What is it? A museum full of vintage electronics, including everything from a mammoth microprocessor to Pac-Man. 

Why go? If you came to Cambridge to geek the hell out, you might as well do it properly. Get in a metaphorical time machine and remind yourself of the days before iPhones and Alexas. We bet you’ll love it, because who isn’t obsessed with the ‘90s? Gen Z, prepare to have your minds blown.

21.  Go behind-the-scenes on a university tour

What is it? A student’s eye view of the world-famous university, giving visitors an insider’s introduction to its most beautiful nooks and crannies.

Why go? As a city, Cambridge is pleasingly compact and easy to navigate on foot. The same is true of the university, which dominates the centre. Take a stroll through and around the institution with those who know it best as a guide: real-life Cambridge students.

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The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)

Planning a 1 day Cambridge itinerary in 2024? Cambridge is an incredibly historic city with interesting museums, picturesque streets, charming boat rides and plenty of great restaurants! Spending one day in Cambridge is the perfect day trip from London and an easy getaway to a cosy walkable city. Let’s plan your Cambridge 1 day itinerary!

Cambridge is located just north of London in the United Kingdom and is well-known for it’s reputable University of Cambridge . Browsing around the buildings that date back to 1209 is one of the best things to do in Cambridge on a day trip or more.

The streets of the city are incredibly beautiful with both mainstream and local shops spread out throughout the wandering lanes. The iconic Kings College and River Cam are the most popular spots in the city and definitely worth a visit during any Cambridge itinerary .

Although the city is small, there’s honestly too much to see with 1 day in Cambridge but it’s the perfect day trip from London or nearby cities. One day is also enough time to experience the main highlights!

In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your 1 day Cambridge itinerary with the best things to do, how to get around and a few food recommendations . There’s also some activities that cost money and you can also book in advance.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

Quick Tips for a 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary

• Currency  – Pound Sterling GBP (compare your own currency  here )
• Cuisine  – British with a variety of cuisines  (Chips, pies, Indian, Chinese & pizza)
• Apps  – GoogleMaps, Uber,  Booking.com  &,  Hostelworld
• Where to stay – YHA Cambridge – Book your stay here !
• Power Voltage  – Plug G, 240V

Visiting more of the UK ? We have itineraries to York , Edinburgh , Brighton , the Scottish Highlands and hiking in Snowdonia !

Activities to book in advance:   Cambridge Punting Tour & Cambridge University Tour !

Best time to visit Cambridge

Cambridge is a year-round destination that experiences all four seasons. However, we recommend visiting Cambridge between April and October when the days are longer and there’s more chance of warmer weather.

July and August are the busiest months to visit Cambridge due to the summer holidays, although it’s usually the best weather. Christmas is also a great time to visit for festive decorations around the city! We visited in September and the UK had a mini 30°C heatwave!

Also check for  bank holiday weekends , as these days can get very busy with most of the country off of work.

How to get to Cambridge

Cambridge is located in Eastern England very close to the capital city, London! There are excellent transport links into the city and we highly recommend getting the train from London.

• By train:  Trains to Cambridge take you to  Cambridge train station  which is only a 20-minute walk to the city centre.
• By bus:  Check out Megabus, National Express and FlixBus for journeys around the UK. Although they’re not as fast as trains, they’re usually a lot cheaper!
• By vehicle:  Cambridge has free parking overnight, but you’ll likely have to pay for parking unless you park somewhere residential. Park at Queen Anne Terrace Car Park or use the Park & Ride .
• By flight: London Stansted is the best international airport to arrive at for a trip to Cambridge.

The best way to get to Cambridge from London is by train ! Head to London King’s Cross station to get a direct train to Cambridge in less than 1 hour. There are also other trains from around the city, but it’s best to catch the underground or bus to King’s Cross. We have a travel guide on how to spend 4 incredible days in London !

How to get better prices for trains in the UK?   Book your train tickets in advance ! Advance singles save so much money compared to a normal off-peak return. Also if you’re from the UK, check if a Railcard is worth it and you’ll save 1/3 of your fare!

1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Best Things To Do

Now we’re going to share the best things to do in Cambridge during a one day itinerary. Feel free to mix these activities around depending on the weather.

We’re writing this Cambridge itinerary starting from the train station which is only 20-25 minutes from the city centre.

See the Corpus Clock

As you walk into the city from the train station, you’ll pass by a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops before seeing the most unique clock in Cambridge.

The Corpus Clock is a large golden clock with a grasshopper sitting on top . There are no hands or digital numbers, but the time is shown with swirling LED lights. The grasshopper opens its mouth every 30 seconds and it’s also known as the time eater.

The Cambridge physicist Stephen Hawking revealed the fascinating clock to the public in 2008 and now it’s a popular place to take a photo in Cambridge!

Visit the Eagle

Right around the corner from the Corpus Clock is the famous Eagle Pub. We noticed a few Guided Historic Walking Tours around this area of Cambridge, as there’s a lot of history to learn!

As well as being one of the oldest pubs in Cambridge , The Eagle Pub  was the place where Francis Crick and James Watson announced their discovery of DNA (double helix structure DNA).

They were both researchers and scientists at Cambridge University . It’s one of the best scientific discoveries of the 20th century and they won a Nobel Prize in 1962.

Honestly, if you didn’t research what to do on your 1 day Cambridge itinerary, you would easily walk passed this Greene King pub . Although there is a sign to celebrate and remember the day the scientists discovered the ‘ Secret of Life’ .

Go on a Punting Tour

As you’re getting started with learning about Cambridge, it’s time to explore the beautiful River Cam and take a boat trip!

Once you head to the waterfront, you’ll notice lots of companies offering punting tours . You can book online in advance to guarantee a spot or find a boat when you arrive.

A punting tour is one of the best ways to see the famous colleges of Cambridge and your guide will tell you interesting facts as you float past. We recommend joining a shared Punting Tour instead of hiring your own, as it looks so hard! Our guide told us a lot of people fall in.

The boats used for punting are long and wooden with flat bottoms! The punter uses a pole to push the boat along in the river and it’s a work of art! Cambridge is the most popular place in the UK to go punting !

Visit Wren Library

Next on your Cambridge 1 day itinerary, visit the Wren Library (part of Trinity College). The Wren Library is notable for its extremely invaluable books such as Isaac Newton’s text and the first manuscript of Winnie the Pooh . It’s also home to the oldest manuscript of Shakespeare’s plays.

The library has very short opening hours usually around lunch from 12 pm to 2 pm. It has been closed for 3 years from 2020 until late 2023, but it’s finally open to visitors as of September 2023.

As a big fan of Winnie the Pooh, it was incredible to see A.A. Milnes’s early work from 1926 and it’s actually the only piece that you’re not allowed to photograph. Milne was also a student at Trinity College (Cambridge University).

The library is also free to enter ! A lot of monuments and buildings cost money to enter in Cambridge.

Grab lunch in Cambridge

There are many great places to eat in Cambridge! We recommend grabbing a bite from the local market in the centre of the city or taking a short walk to Urban Butterfly or The Tipsy Vegan .

At Cambridge Market Square , you can find Africfood , noodles, falafel and juices! This 1 day Cambridge itinerary is pretty packed, so you’ll want to take some time to rest before starting your afternoon!

Climb to Great St Mary’s Tower

Right next to the market is an Anglican church named Great St Mary’s . Visiting the church is a beautiful experience, but the main reason to visit is to see scenic views of Cambridge from the University Church Tower .

There are 123 steps leading to the top with a viewing platform. The church is free to enter and it’s £6 to climb the tower. Check the website for updates.

Explore Cambridge University

Cambridge University is one of the best and oldest universities in the world , ranking amongst well-known schools such as Oxford, Harvard and Stanford. It was established back in 1209 after Oxford University.

There isn’t just one building at Cambridge University , in fact, they’re spread out all over the city. The historic beauty of the buildings and colleges is one of the main reasons visitors come to Cambridge on a day trip from London.

What are the colleges at Cambridge University?

Cambridge is a ‘ collegiate university ‘ made up of 31 colleges with different subjects, facilities and funding. When applying to the university, a student chooses a college to be accepted and that’s the college they will study with, live and also eat!

Some colleges also have different admittance rules such as Wolfson, Hughes Hall and St.Edmund’s only accept students over the age of 21. Newnham and Murray Edwards only accept female students, and Kings College used to only admit boys from  Eton College  until 1865.

The best way to learn more about the colleges and history of the university is on a Cambridge University Walking Tour ! The most popular colleges to visit are Kings College, Trinity College, Queens College and Pembroke College .

Visit Kings College if you only have 1 day in Cambridge

After your morning punting tour , you will have seen King’s College Chapel and the grounds surrounding it. The chapel is one of the oldest surviving buildings at the university and it has an incredibly unique ceiling.

The fan vault ceiling in the chapel took 3 years to create and it’s the reason why the chapel is so popular along with its well-known choir. Tickets are around £13 to enter.

King’s College Bridge is also one of the most photogenic spots on your Cambridge 1 day itinerary.

Eat a famous Chelsea bun

Head over to Fitzbilies Cafe during your Cambridge day trip to try one of their famous Chelsea Buns. This lovely artisan bakery creates the most syrupy and soft Chelsea buns we’ve ever tried! Fitzbillies have been going since 1920 and you can find two of them in Cambridge city.

We also recommend Jack’s Gelato for their amazing ice creams! They had three vegan flavours when we visited, including dark chocolate!

Wander the beautiful streets of Cambridge

Amongst all of the history during your Cambridge 1 day itinerary, Cambridge is still a city with mainstream shops and beautiful cobbled streets. Our favourite streets in Cambridge are:

• Rose Crescent
• Trinity Lane
• Green Street
• Portugal Place
• Orchard Street

Cambridge is full of photogenic streets as the city dates back so far. There’s also cute bunting along some of the streets in the summer months.

If you like the sound of Cambridge, check out Edinburgh Itinerary: The Best 3 days in Edinburgh !

Visit the Round Church

Close to Portugal Street is the Round Church built in 1130. There are only four Round Churches in the UK and Cambridge is home to one of them. The architecture inside is remarkable and a great place to visit if you’re a fan of medieval times. There’s a small fee to enter.

See the views at Castle Mound

Located on the west side of River Cam , Castle Mound is another great place in Cambridge to see panoramic views of the city . The best part is, it’s free!

It only takes 1 minute to reach the top of the mound and you can see faint remains of Cambridge Castle that was built around 1068.

The best time to visit is at sunset , but on a 1 day Cambridge itinerary, there may not be a sunset while you are visiting.

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum

There are numerous museums in Cambridge, too many to visit with 1 day in Cambridge! However, if you’d like to visit one, we recommend the Fitzwilliam Museum .

It’s a free museum to enter and it’s filled with Egyptian, Greek and Roman history along with huge oil paintings from all over the world. The building itself is pretty impressive and you can easily get lost in the maze of artefact s!

Find the Old Bicycle Shop

The Old Bicycle Shop is another place to visit on your one day in Cambridge and it’s also on the way back to the train station.

It’s actually now a restaurant serving delicious food, but its name comes from its past. The Old Bicycle Shop used to be named Howes Cycles and it’s been said that Charles Darwin bought a bicycle from here back in the 19th century .

You can really see the transition from the retro bike shop it used to be!

Explore the Botanical Garden

As you get closer to Cambridge train station you’ll notice a huge park called Cambridge University Botanic Garden . If you have time left on your 1 day Cambridge itinerary, visit the gardens for a lovely stroll.

The garden is filled with beautifully unique plant species and you can visit all year round, although summer is when the flowers are most colourful!

We ran out of time during our Cambridge itinerary because there’s so much to cover, but it was on our list! Now it’s on our list for our next Cambridge day trip from London!

Stem & Glory is a great option if you’re looking for dinner in Cambridge.

Alternative ideas for a Cambridge 1 day itinerary

Although we’ve created a jam-packed Cambridge one day itinerary, there’s always going to be more things to do in the city! Here’s a few more ideas if you have more than one day in Cambridge or some extra time!

• Polar Museum
• Walk over the Mathematical Bridge
• University of Zoology
• Relax on the Jesus Green – a beautiful park near the river!
• Visit more colleges at Cambridge University
• Kettle’s Yard – an art Gallery!

Where to stay in Cambridge

The best area to stay in Cambridge is in the  Cambridge City Centre ! Cambridge is small, so anywhere within a 20-30 minute walk is a good place to stay.

YHA Cambridge £-££ – One of the most budget-friendly places to stay in Cambridge, near the train station – Find YHA on Booking.com here !

Gonville Hotel ££-£££ – This high-quality hotel is in the centre of Cambridge –  Book Gonville Hotel here on Booking.com !

University Arms, Autograph Collection ££-£££ – Another luxury hotel in the heart of Cambridge –  Book here on Booking.com !

Best Restaurants in Cambridge

There are some incredible places to eat around Cambridge, here’s a few of our recommendations:

• Stem & Glory ££ – are a well-presented plant-based restaurant near the train station in Cambridge!
• Tipsy Vegan ££ – The perfect place for lunch after Punting or for evening drinks.
• Fitzbillies £ – Famous Chelsea buns! yes, there’s a vegan option!
• Urban Butterfly £-££ – A delicious vegan cafe in Cambride!
• Africfood £ – At the local market in Cambridge!

How to get around Cambridge

Cambridge is a walkable city , so it’s easy to get around! There are multiple bus routes and even two train stations if you are staying overnight in the city. A Punting Tour is another great way to spend 1 day in Cambridge browsing some of the best sights from the water!

What to do in Cambridge at night

• Go on a Ghost Punting Tour
• Visit Cambridge Observatory (October to March)
• Relax, drink and dine at The Tipsy Vegan restaurant
• Have a cocktail at the Hidden Rooms
• Head to a pub!

How many days in Cambridge

Cambridge is a small city and it’s definitely possible to spend 1 day in Cambridge seeing the main highlights and learning about the history of the city. We recommend spending at least one day in the city, as an afternoon or half a day would be too rushed.

It’s also a great idea to spend a weekend in Cambridge as there’s enough activities to keep you busy! Most of the colleges cost money to enter, so bear that in mind when creating your Cambridge day trip.

If you’re staying more than 1 day in Cambridge, consider taking day trips to other cities in the UK such as a visit to Norfolk , Peterborough and Northampton.

What to pack for a 1 day in Cambridge

Here’s a few travel essentials that we bring on our trips, especially in the UK!

• A reusable water bottle  – a must when travelling anywhere!
• Wireless earbuds  – the best for long journeys in the UK.
• Comfortable day backpack  – this one has so many compartments for organising!
• Portable power bank  – charge your phone on the go.
• A compact umbrella  – another must-have when visiting the UK.
• A raincoat  – for the unpredictable UK weather.
• Packing cubes  – if you’re staying more than one day in Cambridge, these are so helpful.
• A padlock  – for any lockers.

Planning a 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary

Here are some helpful links to plan your Cambridge one day itinerary:

• Check for any  public holidays  on your date of visit ( Find out when the public holidays are )!
• Book your train tickets in advance  on  Trainline !
• If you’re taking the train, double-check for train strikes!
• Get Travel Insurance –  Find out more here !
• Book your accommodation on  Hostelworld here  or on  Booking.com here !
• Where to stay in Cambridge:  YHA Cambridge – Book your stay here !

More guides in the  United Kingdom :

• The Best 1 Day York Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)
• Edinburgh Itinerary: The Best 3 days in Edinburgh
• The Best 1 day Highlands Road Trip from Edinburgh
• How to Climb Yr Wyddfa from Pen-y-Pass: Snowdon
• Top 20 Best Vegan Restaurants in Edinburgh, Scotland
• A Weekend in Brighton – 8 Great Things To Do
• Browse more  English   or  Scottish  posts!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world –  Find out more here!

That’s the end of our  The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2024) ! Enjoy your one day in Cambridge and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Adventures of Alice

Cambridge Day Trip: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary

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If you’re planning a Cambridge day trip, you’re in for a treat! I’ll say this time and time again, but Cambridge is one of my favourite cities in the UK. It’s also right around the corner from where I live, so I’ve been able to visit over and over again and really explore the city in depth.

However, many visitors to the historic city do so as a day trip from London or elsewhere in the UK. So, I’ve put together the perfect itinerary so you can see the best of Cambridge in a day. 

Is Cambridge worth a day trip?

100% yes, Cambridge is worth a day trip. I live less than an hour from the city and take a day trip to Cambridge multiple times a year. I love sightseeing in Cambridge. It’s a great place to act like a tourist for a day and explore sights that I’ve seen countless times before but never seem to lose their charm.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Cambridge, you can quite easily fall in love with it. It’s much calmer than London and much prettier (in my opinion). I also love how green it is and how stunning the architecture is. It’s pretty easy to spend a day in Cambridge and you’ll most likely end up wishing you had more time!

🡺 I recommend this day tour of Cambridge ! 🡸

How do I spend a day in Cambridge?

I won’t lie to you – there are quite a lot of things to do in Cambridge . Whether you want to visit the historic colleges, explore the river, or go for a walk in one of the many parks and green spaces that surround the city, there are many things that you can do during your stay.

It’s a city rich in history and culture, but with so many things to do it can be hard to know where to start.

For a day trip to Cambridge, I’d recommend staying in the city’s centre. The colleges are Cambridge’s top attractions and the beautiful River Cam also runs right through the middle of the city.

As well as this, you can explore the market stalls, museums, and much more in the city centre. Plus, it means you don’t need to travel far the get around, as this entire itinerary can be done on foot.

The perfect Cambridge day trip itinerary

So whether you make this trip by car or as a train trip from London ; whether it’s your first time in Cambridge or your fourth, here’s my perfect itinerary for spending a day in Cambridge.

9:00 – Visit King’s College

Cost : £14.50 per adult on weekdays and £15 on weekends

Start your day trip to Cambridge at the city’s most famous attraction. King’s College is easily one of Cambridge’s top attractions. Located in the heart of the city, the beautiful building has hosted many prestigious figures, such as Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.

When you arrive, you’ll first explore the main college and then walk around to the exterior and the grounds. You can see a range of different things including paintings, sculptures and architectural features around the building. It’s great for getting an idea of what Cambridge’s life was like in the past. 

My personal favourite part of visiting King’s College is the chapel and the grounds outside. The view across the river of the collage and the interior of the chapel is stunning.

🡺 Book a Kings College tour with punting here! 🡸

10:00 – See the Corpus Clock

Cost : Free

Located right next to King’s College, the Corpus Clock is a beautiful piece of engineering. Also known as the Grasshopper clock, it was designed by artist John Taylor and given to Corpus Christi College in 2008.

It’s a really eye-catching feature of the college and is worth seeing if you’re in Cambridge. It also has an interesting symbolism with the grasshopper representing the passing of time. 

10:15 – Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum 

This is one of my favourite places to visit in Cambridge and a great stop if you love history. 

One of the best things about the Fitzwilliam Museum is that it’s completely free to visit. It’s one of the best free things to do in Cambridge and it honestly shocked me when I first visited because of how interesting it was. I fully expected to be charged to visit a place like this!

The building itself is also beautiful with towering columns outside and a grand staircase inside the entrance hall. Then, there are lots of interesting exhibits from artistic paintings to artefacts from ancient Egypt. 

All in all, it might take you a couple of hours to properly look around the museum (longer if you want to read all the information). It’s well worth it and one of the best museums in Cambridge.

13:00 – Head to the Market Square for Lunch

Cost : Depends on what you purchase!

The Market Square in Cambridge is one of the best places to stop for food – in my opinion of course! There are so many wonderful places to eat in Cambridge, but if you want a great selection and a range of stalls that are all very close to one another, you can’t go wrong with street food. 

Every time I visit the Market Square in Cambridge, I get something different. You can choose from authentic Spanish paella, Thai noodles, Greek souvlaki, Indian curries, Brazilian stews, and much more. It’s a treat for the tastebuds and a great stop for lunch. 

Fun Fact : Some people actually travel from surrounding towns specifically to try the food here – one lady told me she’s travelled an hour to visit one of the Market stalls!

14:00 – Climb Great St Mary’s Church for Views over the City

Cost : £6 for adults and £4 for children

For the best views in Cambridge, you have to climb this tower. Located right next to Kings Collage and Market Square, this is the next stop on your Cambridge day trip itinerary. The inside of the church is beautiful in itself, but the views from the top are some of the best you’ll see of King’s Collage. 

There’s a very tight winding staircase you’ll need to climb to reach the top of the tower. This isn’t too bad as it’s only 123 steps, but can still get you a little out of breath. But the views from the top are well worth it.

Top Tip : The staircase is too narrow to let people up and down at the same time so there is a traffic light system in place here. You have to wait for the light to go greet before you can start climbing down the tower again to let those coming up reach the top. 

15:00 – Explore Trinity College and Wren Library

Cost : £5 per adult for the guided tour

Another of Cambridge’s beautiful colleges (and trust me, there are plenty) Trinity is a stunning building. The architecture is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, but the highlight for me was Wren Library. The college was built in 1546 and was founded by Henry VIII.

Before you leave Trinity, be sure to check out the Chapel with its stained glass windows, which are absolutely stunning. Also, although the college itself requires a guided tour ticket to enter, the Wren Library is completely free and definitely one of the best free things to do in Cambridge . 

This absolutely beautiful library contains many world-famous books such as Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica or Charles Darwin’s Origin Of The Species.

You can also explore exhibitions on display about college life in Cambridge over the last few hundred years to find out more about campus history. Easily one of the best things to do on a Cambridge day trip, the College and the Library are must-sees.

16:00 – Visit St John’s College

Cost : £12 per adult

Just a 1-minute walk from Trinity College, St John’s College is one of the oldest and most famous colleges in Cambridge. Founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, Queen Elizabeth I’s godmother, some of the best academics in the world, such as Stephen Hawking, have studied within its walls.

The college offers a range of things for visitors including tours around its grounds (I suggest booking ahead), lectures from leading professors, concerts at its chapel, or their free evensong events. It’s another of Cambridge’s prettiest architectural gems and well worth a visit.

17:00 – Go Punting on the River Cam

Cost : Rent a punt from £32, go on a group guided tour from £20, or go on a private tour from £79

Finally, finish your Cambridge day trip with a sunset punting trip on the River Cam. Possibly one of the most iconic things to do in Cambridge you simply cannot visit the historic city without adding this to your itinerary. 

The river meanders through all sorts of picturesque spots – with both town and university buildings lining its banks. You’ll pass the Mathematical Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, the Backs, Kings College, and many other top sights in Cambridge.

Plus, if you pick the guided tour option , you’ll also learn a few facts about the city on the way!

It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and is available all year round as well, so don’t be put off if you’re visiting Cambridge in the colder months. The punters simply wrap you up in a blanket and provide warm drinks to keep you toasty.

Punting is one of my favourite things to do in Cambridge. It’s not only a fun activity but also allows you to explore this stunning city from an entirely different perspective and is the perfect way to end your day in Cambridge.

🡺 I recommend this punting tour in Cambridge ! 🡸

If you have more than a Cambridge day trip

If you’re lucky enough to be spending more than one day in Cambridge, here are some other wonderful ways you could spend your time.

1. Go for Brunch

Cambridge is a city known for good food – brunch being pretty high on the list! Featuring some of the best restaurants in the entire country, including the Michelin-starred Midsummer House, it’s a must to enjoy some of England’s favourite meals.

Known for their delicious and creative avocado toast dishes, speciality coffees, yummy homemade pastries such as the walnut brownie, and pizza weekends,

I recommend Hot Numbers for brunch in Cambridge. You’ll find two venues, one on Trinity Street and the other on Gwydir Street.

Also, be sure to check Fitzbillies as they sell the best and stickiest Chelsea buns in the city!

2. Wander the Streets

One of the top things to do in Cambridge is to simply wander the historic streets. Cambridge has many beautiful, winding alleys, cobbled pathways, and picturesque lanes in the centre of this busy city.

Some of the prettiest streets in Cambridge include Rose Crescent, Orchard Street, Trinity Lane, and Senate House Passage. My personal favourite is Trinity Lane as it’s lined with turrets from the adjoining colleges and has a lovely Tudor feel.

As you wander the streets, you’ll pass many of Cambridge’s most iconic sites. For example, if you walk through Trinity Lane towards Trinity College, then make your way to King’s Parade before heading out past Clare College on St John Street (a gorgeous cobbled lane) and onto Gonville Place, there is a beautiful row of Georgian houses overlooking Parker’s Piece.

England doesn’t get more beautiful better than this!

3. View the Mathematical Bridge

One of the most beautiful bridges in Cambridge, the Mathematical Bridge is a photographer’s dream.

You will almost certainly pass by it on a punting tour of Cambridge , but you can also see the bridge on foot by walking to the bridge on Silver Street – that was where the photo above was taken and is one of the best views in the city.

The bridge was designed in 1748 by William Etheridge and built a year later. It is made entirely out of straight timbers, which is strange considering its arched shape. The clever engineering is what ultimately gave it its name.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there are always lots of tourists here, so it might not be ideal if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.

However, I love this spot because the views are just gorgeous – plus there’s plenty of space to get creative with your photography techniques on both sides.

4. Visit the other museums

Cambridge has a lot of museums . And if you have more than a Cambridge day trip, it’s well worth checking out some of the other museums in the city. These include:

• Kettle’s Yard – a unique art museum inside former houses, 
• The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences – a museum of geology located on the University of Cambridge’s Downing Street Site,
• The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology – Another Cambridge University Museum, you’ll find a fantastic collection of antiques and archaeology here from around the world.
• The University Museum of Zoology – A museum dedicated to the zoology research of the University of Cambridge.
• The Museum of Cambridge – A folksy museum dedicated to the history of the city of Cambridge itself.

5. Take a trip to the surrounding villages

I love exploring little villages and the areas surrounding Cambridge are home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in England . I particularly love Grantchester, St Ives, and Fenstanton, but there are lots of places here to see. 

You can wander through the villages themselves, explore the nearby nature reserves and go for a walk, or head to the pubs for a drink and a bit to eat. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and a wonderful way to see the outskirts of the city.

How to get to Cambridge

Cambridge is an easily accessible city from many places around the UK. Here are some of the easiest ways to get there. 

The city is located around 60 miles north of London and will take about 2 hours to drive there from the capital. However, driving to London can mean a fair bit of traffic. 

It’s also worth mentioning that parking in Cambridge isn’t cheap. I’ve paid over £20 for 4 hours before, so I advise against parking in the main city centre car parks like the Grand Arcade or the Grafton Centre.

If you are planning on driving, either use Queen Anne’s Terrace car park which is a little cheaper, or use the park-and-ride service . 

By Public Transport

Cambridge is well-connected by train. Direct trains run regularly from London King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations. The journey from London King’s Cross takes around 50-60 minutes. 

If you’ve flown into the UK and need to get to Cambridge, there are also plenty of easy ways to do this. The nearest major airports are London Heathrow (LHR) and London Stansted (STN).

From Heathrow, you can take a train to London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street stations and then transfer to a train to Cambridge. From Stansted, there’s a direct train to Cambridge.

You can also easily get to the city by bus. National Express provides long-distance bus services to Cambridge from a range of cities in the UK including Birmingham and Bristol .

🡺 Book your train tickets to Cambridge here! 🡸

Is Oxford or Cambridge better for a day out?

Both Oxford and Cambridge are historic and beautiful cities with rich cultural and academic traditions and there’s usually a lot of competition between the two. 

Oxford is known for its stunning architecture, including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and various colleges. It’s also somewhat more historic, with the Ashmolean Museum and the Oxford Castle. Plus, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love it as so many Harry Potter filming locations are in Oxford. 

Cambridge also boasts impressive architecture, including King’s College Chapel, the Mathematical Bridge, and various beautiful college buildings. It’s famous for punting on the River Cam which is a popular and picturesque activity, especially in the summer months .

Plus, the market square in the city centre is vibrant, with a variety of shops, cafes, and street performers.

When trying to choose between the two, I’d consider your interests. If you’re more inclined towards Harry Potter and diverse museums, Oxford might be more appealing. If you’re interested in punting, the great outdoors, and gorgeous architecture, Cambridge might be a better fit.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Cambridge for a Day

Overall, I think Cambridge is the perfect UK day trip. It’s a compact city, meaning you can explore most of it on foot and see many of the popular attractions within a day. Yet, it’s also diverse enough that you could come back time and time again.

It’s also an incredibly interesting city with lots to see and do from history to natural attractions, and also plenty of places surrounding the city for you to explore. Overall, it’s one of the best cities in the UK and a Cambridge day trip will not leave you disappointed.

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Watch live! The total solar eclipse has begun over North America.

The long-awaited total solar eclipse of 2024 has begun — and you can watch NASA's unparalleled view of totality right now in this free live stream.

The total solar eclipse in North America is finally underway. Over the next several hours, day will turn into night for nearly 44 million people across Mexico, the U.S. and Canada as the moon crosses in front of the sun, blocking all sunlight for a precious few minutes.

If you can't make the event in person — or want to see a zoomed-in view of the partial and total phases of the eclipse — you can tune in to NASA's live webcast of the rare celestial event right here on Live Science,  starting at 1 p.m. ET.

At 9:51 a.m. local time (12:51 p.m. ET) on Mexico's western coast, skywatchers in Mazatlán will be the first to plunge into darkness as the moon fully masks the sun, marking the beginning of totality . The path of the eclipse will then cross three other Mexican cities before moving into the U.S., starting in Texas and moving on to cross or touch 14 other states. It will exit North America from Canada's Newfoundland at 5:16 p.m. local time (3:46 p.m. ET).

Those lucky enough to be within or near the 115-mile-wide (185 kilometers) path of totality will be able to witness a series of rare phenomena, including a few unique to the total solar eclipse . Here's what to expect.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

The diamond ring

Of all the eclipse-related phenomena, the most breathtaking may be the dazzling ring of light that appears seconds before the sun's bright disk is masked by the moon. Known as the "diamond-ring effect," this event repeats as totality ends when the sun starts becoming visible once again.

Baily's beads

As you watch the moon's silhouette during the eclipse, you may notice a sliver of sunlight appearing to form a string of beads. Known as "Baily's beads," the bright spots are caused by sunlight shining through the mountains and valleys on the moon's uneven surface.

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Shadow bands

Meanwhile, on Earth, thin, wavy light and dark stripes will dance on the ground just before and after totality. These eerie shadow bands are unique to a total solar eclipse and occur due to the same phenomenon that makes stars twinkle: rippling distortions in Earth's upper atmosphere filters bits and pieces of already-choked sunlight, which forms a visible pattern on solid-colored surfaces. As totality approaches, the brightening pattern shifts from being jumbled to organized, and it returns to a dimming chaotic design after totality ends.

Stars, planets and a 'Mother of Dragons' comet

NASA estimates that every location within the path of totality will experience darkness for up to four minutes. Thanks to the drop in sunlight, you may be able to see bright stars and planets in the daytime sky. Venus will appear about 15 degrees west-southwest of the sun while Jupiter will make an appearance about 30 degrees east-northeast of the sun.

In Jupiter's vicinity, the well-known green comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — also called the "Mother of Dragons comet" — may be visible. The icy, city-size space rock, which is on a 71-year orbit around the sun and began erupting last July, may be seen moving in front of stars during the eclipse. However, you will likely need a pair of stargazing binoculars to view this one, as its diffused light will be too faint to pick up with the naked eye.

Other planets including Saturn, Mars and Mercury may be visible depending on local weather conditions. Some of the brightest stars in our sky, such as Sirius, Capella and Rigel, may also be seen among a scattering of other stars.

Rings of light

— How and where to watch the April 8 solar eclipse online for free

— These eclipse-themed places will experience totality on April 8, 2024

— Total solar eclipse April 2024: The 10 biggest cities within the path of totality

While those outside the path of totality will miss out on these spectacles, skywatchers in all 48 contiguous U.S. states will see at least a partial eclipse for up to 1 hour and 20 minutes, according to NASA . During a partial eclipse, people near trees may see countless crescent-like light features appear on the ground. These "rings of light" form because sunlight shines through tiny spaces between leaves, causing them to behave like pinhole projectors and cast the sun's crescent shape onto the ground.

Sharmila Kuthunur is a Seattle-based science journalist covering astronomy, astrophysics and space exploration. Follow her on X @skuthunur

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Solar eclipse: What we know about the Ohio eclipse path, forecast, viewing tips

Today's solar eclipse across Ohio will be one of the celestial highlights of the century.

A large portion of the state will be plunged into darkness in the middle of the day as the moon passes between the earth and sun. Ohio's eclipse path just got a bit narrower , but the event still promises to be essential viewing.

The last total solar eclipse in Ohio happened in 1806, and the next one won't happen until 2099. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many Ohioans.

We've got you covered with everything you need to know as you finalize your eclipse-viewing plans:

• The best eclipse viewing spots in Ohio
• Advanced weather forecast
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• What schools will be closed or dismissing students early

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What is the weather forecast on April 8, the day of the eclipse?

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Having the proper eyewear is essential for safely viewing the eclipse. Otherwise, you risk suffering immediate and permanent eye damage. Here's what to know about eclipse-viewing options, including how to construct your own eclipse-viewing contraption at home.

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Some schools will be closed on the day of the solar eclipse

Some school districts in Ohio will keep students' safety (and given them a great opportunity to experience a once-in-a-lifetime event) by keeping kids home the day of the eclipse.

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Ohio is preparing for an onslaught of crowds, traffic

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Unique events happening in Ohio during the solar eclipse

The sky will grow dark, animals will go quiet and some couples will tie the knot during the April 8 solar eclipse in Ohio.

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Where to See the Solar Eclipse: The 15 Best Cities to Watch the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

If you’re a fan of astronomy or otherwise interested in unique natural phenomenons, you may be wondering where to see the solar eclipse today—or if the big event will be visible from your home. Today, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. Officially described as a total solar eclipse, the occurrence happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face.

Because it’s not something that happens everyday, the marvel has been prompting locals and travelers alike to scope out the best viewing locations, but fear not if you don’t have your spot figured out yet. Todays’s eclipse will travel along a wide, densely populated path. NASA estimated that 31.6 million people live in an area that will see the total solar eclipse and another 150 million are within 200 miles of it. What’s more, there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, according to NASA , making it all the more important to catch this one.

For most of the United States, the eclipse won’t happen until the afternoon, meaning there’s still time to figure out how you’ll watch it. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to see the eclipse.

What is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do you safely watch the total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the 2024 solar eclipse last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the 2024 solar eclipse

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where to see the solar eclipse

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Mazatlán, Mexico

By Katie Schultz

By Sydney Wingfield

By Gabriela Ulloa

Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

Torreón, Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

Texas Hill Country

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

Dallas, Texas

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is among the most densely populated places from which the eclipse will be visible. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 51 seconds and begin at 1:40 p.m. The city has put together a list of ideal places within the city to watch the event, including the Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, and White Rock Lake Park.

Russellville, Arkansas

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience 4 minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

Carbondale, Illinois

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience 4 minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

Bloomington, Indiana

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m.

Indianapolis, Indiana

They don’t call Indianapolis the crossroads of America for no reason: The state capital is at the intersection of four major US highways, Interstate 65, Interstate 69, Interstate 70, and Interstate 74. This means it’s a relatively accessible location for those in surrounding areas and among the best places to travel to for the solar eclipse. Here, totality will last for about 3 minutes and 47 seconds and start at 3:06 p.m. NASA is hosting an event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and will have experts on-hand to answer all questions about the eclipse. The city has also suggested White River State Park as an ideal solar eclipse viewing location, where a number of food trucks, local vendors, and other activations will be set up.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m., which will last for just under 4 minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

Erie, Pennsylvania

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, will see 3 minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

Niagara Region, Ontario

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington, Vermont

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience 3 minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

Houlton, Maine

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 20 seconds.

How will weather impact visibility?

Geographically, the cities listed above represent the best places to see the 2024 solar. However, weather will play a major role in just how well those on the ground will be able to see the phenomenon. It goes without saying that cloudy conditions or rain will impact visibility and make it harder to see the eclipse. Currently, meteorologist are forecasting worse conditions in the south-central United States, which could affect those in Texas and Arkansas. Those in the Midwest and northeast have better odds, where conditions are presently forecasted to be sunny and with clear skies.

What will I see during the solar eclipse if my city isn’t along the path of totality?

Though not every city will see a total solar eclipse, most of the United States will see at least a partial eclipse. For example, as NASA’s map shows, Seattle, which is one of the furthest metropolises from the eclipse’s path will still see about 20% of the sun covered by the moon. Here, peak coverage will happen around 11:29 a.m. On the south side of the country, Miami, which is also quite far from the eclipse’s path, will see 46.2% of the sun covered around 3:01 p.m.

On the other hand, cities which are not along the path of totality but are very close will see a greater percentage of the sun covered. St. Louis, for example, which is just outside the path of totality, will see the moon covering 99.1% of the sun during peak totality, which will happen at 2 p.m. For detailed information about your city, see NASA’s interactive eclipse map .

Can I watch the 2024 solar eclipse virtually?

If you won’t be within the path of totality, a number of organizations are live streaming the monumental event (This may also come in handy if a city experiences cloudy weather or rain on eclipse day). To start, NASA is offering live broadcasts in both English and Spanish and live streams from telescopes that will capture the eclipse as it moves across the country. Scientific American will capture the event with jets that have been converted into flying telescopes to chase the eclipse, offering a view that one simply can’t find on the ground.

ABC News and National Geographic are also teaming up to produce “Eclipse Across America,” a live special hosted by David Muir and Linsey Davis. Coverage starts at 2:00 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+, Hulu and Network Social Media Platforms and will broadcast from 10 cities along the path of totality, including Mazatlán, Mexico; Russelville, Arkansas; and Houlton, Maine.

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Boston's Morning Newsletter

Here's what the 93% partial solar eclipse will look (and feel) like in boston.

• Nik DeCosta-Klipa

Editor's Note:  This is an excerpt from WBUR's daily morning newsletter, WBUR Today. If you like what you read and want it in your inbox,  sign up here . 

We’re actually excited it’s Monday. A once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse will pass through New England today — and the weather is looking  pretty perfect for the rare celestial event .

Hundreds of thousands of people are chasing  the “path of totality” to places like northern New England  for the experience of seeing the moon 100% block out the sun. But what if you couldn’t — or didn’t care enough to — take the day off? Massachusetts is still getting a partial eclipse, which experts say will be pretty cool (if not quite as otherworldly as totality).

Here’s what to expect:

So close, but so far:  The Boston area will see around 93% totality — and some parts of Massachusetts will reach 95% the further north and west you go. It means “just the tiniest sliver of the sun” will be visible, according to Caity Sullivan, a planetarium educator at the Museum of Science. That makes a big difference compared to 100% totality; people in Massachusetts won’t get night-like darkness of a total eclipse or be able to  see the sun’s atmospheric flares . But Sullivan says it’s still an “incredible thing to witness.” “It’s definitely still worth looking up from Boston or Massachusetts, even if you can’t travel,” she said.

• When to look: The moon will start to slowly move in front of the sun just after 2 p.m. and reach peak coverage around 3:30 p.m. (The eclipse will end a little after 4:30 p.m.)
• What to expect: While not nearly as dramatic as totality, the sky still will get noticeably darker. Sullivan compares the change in light to “somewhere between a very cloudy day and dusk.” The temperature might also drop by a few degrees.
• What to look for: You’ll want to get a good view of the sun — but only through the proper eclipse glasses  to avoid damage to your eyes. At peak 93% coverage, Sullivan says locals should also be able to see some brighter planets. “Venus will be very visible in the western part of the sky, and then Jupiter should be visible as well,” she said.
• Where to watch: There are a number of free viewing parties in the Boston area and around Massachusetts, some of which will have eclipse glasses for those who didn’t bring their own. Browse through all the events  in our complete eclipse guide. (That said, if you’re busy, the main advice is to just get outside.)
• Snap a pic: Click here for simple tips on how to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone , whether you’re seeing a partial or total eclipse.
• Want a party trick? Bring out a colander or strainer . During the eclipse, you can hold it up and the holes will project the image of the partially covered sun on the ground. “You’ll have all these little crescent shadows,” Sullivan said.

Making an eclipse day trip? Beware:  If you’ve decided the path of totality is worth the drive (and  scientists generally endorse that decision ), be prepared for traffic in places you wouldn’t usually expect. Vermont is  bracing for as many as 160,000 visitors to take to its highways . (“Think of this as peak foliage weekend on steroids,” Gov. Phil Scott said.)

• The official advice: Leave early, stay late and make sure you have a full tank of gas (or full charge, for the EV drivers). Click here for a full primer  on eclipse day trip tips.

In other news:  The Steamship Authority has canceled all high-speed ferry trips between Hyannis and Nantucket through at least this afternoon, after  a four-inch crack was discovered yesterday  in the hull of the authority’s M/V Iyanough. (That’s the authority’s only high-speed ferry vessel.) The ship is out of service and the timeline for repairs is unclear.

• Until then: You can still reserve tickets on the authority’s car ferry to Nantucket, but all booking on the high-speed, passenger-only route is temporarily suspended.

P.S.— You don’t need special glasses for this. Even if you can’t make it north,  there are ways to stream the 100% total eclipse online , thanks to NASA and Vermont Public. Then again, New England won’t see another total solar eclipse  until 2079 . So, maybe it’s worth the traffic.

• WBUR Today: Boston’s Morning Newsletter
• A New Englanders' guide to catching the April solar eclipse
• Vermont braces for a massive influx of visitors as totality approaches
• One teen's mission to bring images of the eclipse back to Greater Boston
• Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse? Here's what to know

Nik DeCosta-Klipa Newsletter Editor Nik DeCosta-Klipa is the newsletter editor for WBUR.

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Watch CBS News

Why is looking at a solar eclipse dangerous without special glasses? Eye doctors explain.

By Sara Moniuszko

Edited By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:54 AM EDT / CBS News

The solar eclipse will be visible for millions of Americans on April 8, 2024, making many excited to see it — but how you watch it matters, since it can be dangerous for your eyes. 

A  solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking the sun's light . When the moon blocks some of the sun, it's a partial solar eclipse, but when moon lines up with the sun, blocking all of its light, a total solar eclipse occurs,  NASA explains . Either way, you need eye protection when viewing.

"The solar eclipse will be beautiful, so I hope that everyone experiences it — but they need to experience it in the right way," said Dr. Jason P. Brinton, an ophthalmologist and medical director at Brinton Vision in St. Louis.

Here's what to know to stay safe.

Why is looking at a solar eclipse dangerous?

Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during an eclipse — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, said  Dr. Yehia Hashad , an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

"A very small dose could cause harm to some people," he said. "That's why we say the partial eclipse could also be damaging. And that's why we protect our eyes with the partial as well as with the full sun."

Some say that during a total eclipse, it's safe to view the brief period time when the moon completely blocks the sun without eye protection. But experts warn against it. 

"Totality of the eclipse lasts only about 1 to 3 minutes based on geographic location, and bright sunlight suddenly can appear as the moon continues to move," notes an eclipse viewing guide published in JAMA , adding, "even a few seconds of viewing the sun during an eclipse" can temporarily or permanently damage your vision. 

Do I need special glasses for eclipse viewing?

Yes.  Eclipse glasses are needed to protect your eyes if you want to look at the eclipse.

Regular sunglasses aren't protective enough for eclipse viewing — even if you stack more than one. 

"There's no amount of sunglasses that people can put on that will make up for the filtering that the ISO standard filters and the eclipse glasses provide," Brinton said.

You also shouldn't look at the eclipse through a camera lens, phone, binoculars or telescope, according to NASA, even while wearing eclipse glasses. The solar rays can burn through the lens and cause serious eye injury.

Eclipse glasses must comply with the  ISO 12312-2 international safety standard , according to NASA, and should have an "ISO" label printed on them to show they comply. The American Astronomical Society  has a list  of approved solar viewers.

Can't find these, or they're sold out near you? You can also  make homemade viewers ,   which allow you to observe the eclipse indirectly — just don't accidentally look at the sun while using one.

How to keep kids safe during the solar eclipse

Since this eclipse is expected to occur around the time of dismissal for many schools across the country, it may be tempting for students to view it without the proper safety precautions while getting to and from their buses. That's why some school districts are  canceling classes early so kids can enjoy the event safely with their families.

Dr. Avnish Deobhakta, vitreoretinal surgeon at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary at Mount Sinai, said parents should also be careful because it can be difficult for children to listen or keep solar eclipse glasses on. 

"You want to actually, in my opinion, kind of avoid them even looking at the eclipse, if possible," he said. "Never look directly at the sun, always wear the right eclipse sunglasses if you are going to look at the sun and make sure that those are coming from a reliable source."

Brinton recommends everyone starts their eclipse "viewing" early, by looking at professional photos and videos of an eclipse online or visiting a local planetarium. 

That way, you "have an idea of what to expect," he said. 

He also recommends the foundation  Prevent Blindness , which has resources for families about eclipse safety.

What happens if you look at a solar eclipse without eclipse glasses?

While your eyes likely won't hurt in the moment if you look at the eclipse without protection, due to lowered brightness and where damage occurs in the eye, beware: The rays can still cause damage .

The harm may not be apparent immediately. Sometimes trouble starts to appear one to a few days following the event. It could affect just one or both eyes.

And while some will regain normal visual function, sometimes the damage is permanent. 

"Often there will be some recovery of the vision in the first few months after it, but sometimes there is no recovery and sometimes there's a degree to which it is permanent," Brinton said. 

How long do you have to look at the eclipse to damage your eyes?

Any amount of time looking at the eclipse without protection is too long, experts say. 

"If someone briefly looks at the eclipse, if it's extremely brief, in some cases there won't be damage. But damage can happen even within a fraction of a second in some cases," Brinton said. He said he's had patients who have suffered from solar retinopathy, the official name for the condition.

Deobhakta treated a patient who watched the 2017 solar eclipse for 20 seconds without proper eye protection. She now has permanent damage in the shape of a crescent that interferes with her vision. 

"The crescent that is burned into the retina, the patient sees as black in her visual field," he said. "The visual deficit that she has will never go away."

How to know if you've damaged your eyes from looking at the eclipse

Signs and symptoms of eye damage following an eclipse viewing include headaches, blurred vision, dark spots, changes to how you see color, lines and shapes. 

Unfortunately, there isn't a treatment for solar retinopathy.

"Seeing an eye care professional to solidify the diagnosis and for education I think is reasonable," Brinton said, but added, "right now there is nothing that we do for this. Just wait and give it time and the body does tend to heal up a measure of it."

Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.com. Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper's wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News' HealthWatch.

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The best viewing conditions for the 2024 total solar eclipse will be in New England

Sky enthusiasts in northern vermont, new hampshire, and maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse, by danielle noyes • published april 5, 2024 • updated on april 6, 2024 at 11:44 pm.

The buzz is deafening: a total solar eclipse will grace the continental US for the first time since 2017; this is a rare chance to witness a celestial marvel. Your plans are likely set, but fingers are crossed for great viewing conditions. And the fantastic news is that the forecast for New England’s clear skies is unchanged, putting us literally in the best spot for viewing across the country.

Sky enthusiasts in northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse. For a stunning two to three minutes, the moon will devour the sun, plunging the day into an eerie twilight. This brief moment of totality will reveal the sun's corona, its wispy outer layer, in all its glory.

In the path of totality:

• How dark is it going to be?  The sky will darken dramatically, similar to twilight. This can last several minutes, so get ready for an otherworldly experience!
• Will it get colder?  As the moon hides the sun, there might be a slight dip in temperature, by a few degrees. Pack a light jacket in case!
• Will I see stars?  For a brief moment, you might be able to! The darkness will be similar to dusk, allowing a peek at some brighter stars.
• What's up with my dog?  Animals may become confused by the sudden darkness and act strangely for a short time. Don't worry, it's usually temporary.

Get Boston local news, weather forecasts, lifestyle and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Boston’s newsletters.

Safety first!

Never attempt to look directly at the sun. The sun's intense rays can permanently damage your eyesight. To safely observe the eclipse, use certified eclipse glasses specifically designed for this purpose. These glasses filter out harmful solar radiation.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience under the eclipsed sun & don’t forget to share your pictures & experiences with us here.

More on the total solar eclipse

NH officials urge patience, tell visitors to arrive early and stay late for Monday's eclipse

New England prepares for Monday's solar eclipse

Solar eclipse in New England: Traffic, lodging, events and what else to know

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