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England > Cambridge

Five ideas for guided tours in Cambridge

• Best colleges to visit in Cambridge

  If you’re planning a visit to Cambridge, be sure to check out the university city’s iconic colleges. They are gems of British architecture.
  – King’s College is probably the most famous of all. Founded in 1441, it is famous for its Gothic chapel, which houses one of the country’s most famous choirs. Guided tours will tell you more about the history of the chapel and its famous stained glass windows.
  – Trinity College is another Cambridge must-see. Founded in 1546, it is the largest college in the university. Here you can admire the magnificent 16th century buildings and the famous Bridge of Sighs, a bridge over the River Cam reminiscent of the bridge of the same name in Venice.
  – Pembroke College, founded in 1347, is the third oldest college at Cambridge University. It is renowned for its historic buildings and peaceful atmosphere. Guided tours will take you into the chapel, the library, and give you an insight into the daily life of the students.
  – Jesus College, founded in 1496, is known for its chapel, which houses some remarkable works of art. The gardens of Jesus College are also not to be missed, with their harmonious blend of architecture and nature.

• The Round Church

  The Round Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is a unique church. It was built in the 12th century and has a distinctly round architecture that sets it apart from other churches in the city.
  Construction of the church began in 1130 under the direction of Henry I, King of England, and was completed around 1150. It was built on the site of an earlier Saxon church and was originally dedicated to St Mary.
  The round church at Cambridge is built of stone and is 24 metres in diameter. It has a single nave and a small vestry to the east. The entrance to the church is marked by a richly decorated portal dating from the Norman period. Once inside, one can admire the magnificent Romanesque columns, carved capitals and murals that decorate the church.
  Over the centuries, The Round Church has seen many historical events. It was used as a meeting place for soldiers during the English Civil War in the 17th century and was the scene of a major religious controversy in the 1830s. Today it is still used as a place of worship, but it is also a gathering place for the local community, with many concerts and events held there throughout the year.

• Punting on the Cam River

  Punting is an ancient tradition that goes back centuries. It originated in the canals of Venice in Italy, but was later adopted in England, particularly in the city of Cambridge. Initially the boats were used to transport goods, but over time the activity became a popular tourist attraction. Today, Punting is a must-do activity for visitors.
  There are several companies that offer Punting tours in Cambridge, each with their own advantages and features. Some offer guided tours, while others allow visitors to paddle their own boat. There are also smaller, more intimate boat options, as well as larger options for groups. The length of the tours also varies depending on the option chosen, ranging from one hour to over two hours.
  On your tour you will pass under the famous camel-back bridges, including the famous Queen’s Bridge, and see unique views of the city’s historic buildings, such as King’s College and Trinity College. You will also see the famous Jesus Green Watermill and Midsummer Common. Your tour guide will share fascinating stories and facts about the sights as you float leisurely down the river.

• Botanical Gardens

  The University of Cambridge Botanic Garden is a place for nature and beauty lovers to stroll. Discover the wealth of botanical species, rare plants and themed gardens as you stroll through the garden’s paths.
  Established in 1846, the garden covers over 16 hectares and houses an impressive collection of over 8,000 botanical species. Visitors can discover greenhouses, ponds, streams, bridges and shady paths.
  The garden is home to rare plants, majestic trees, colourful flowers and intoxicating scents. The gardens are an invitation to travel, with areas devoted to the flora of the Mediterranean, the Himalayas, South Africa and many others.

• Fitzwilliam Museum

  Located on Trumpington Street, the museum houses an amazing collection of art and historical objects, ranging from ancient to modern times.
  The museum was founded in 1816 through the generosity of Richard, Viscount Fitzwilliam, who bequeathed his art and book collection to Cambridge University. Since then, the museum has grown to become one of the largest and most impressive museums of art and antiquities in the UK.
  The building itself is a work of art, with its impressive neoclassical architecture and spacious, light-filled rooms. The museum’s galleries are organised thematically, with sections devoted to ancient art, European painting, contemporary art, ceramics, sculpture, graphic arts and much more.
  Among the most notable pieces in the collection are works by great masters such as Rubens, Gainsborough, Constable and Turner, as well as outstanding art from ancient Greece, ancient Egypt and Asia. Music lovers can also enjoy an extensive collection of historical musical instruments, ranging from harpsichords to pianos.