Cambridge, with one of the world’s great institutions and all of the history and culture that emanates, naturally overshadows the county around it, as it should. The rest of Cambridgeshire, on the other hand, still has plenty to offer. Many of the settlements in the county’s east were once islands surrounded by flooded marshes, which is difficult to imagine now.
It’s also fascinating to learn how, in the 17th century, a large part of the country was transformed when areas, many of which were below sea level, were drained, resulting in new wealth and industry.
The architectural splendor of Cambridge University’s 31 colleges, each rich in tradition, is unrivaled. The city’s beauty is enhanced by the darling outlook of Fitzwilliam Museum to Kings College, Cambridge Cemetery including Jesus Green and Midsummer Common, Sheep’s Green, Lammas Land, Christ’s Pieces, Parker’s Piece, and the newly developed University Botanic Gardens.
Cambridge, known around the world for its university, boasts one of the highest concentrations of intact historic buildings in England. It has a lot more to offer to its visitors. If you are looking to go there? Without any doubt, book british airways reservations online and save up to 40% instant discount on every flight. Below are some of the best tourist destinations in Cambridge that you shouldn’t miss during your vacation!
Botanic Garden
A visit to Cambridge University Botanic Garden, which spans 40 acres, is a must-do for gardening fans. The park, which opened in 1831, houses an extraordinary collection of over 8,000 plant varieties from throughout the world. Spend some time roaming through the garden’s many glasshouses and pathways, which can be done independently or as part of a guided tour (free on Sundays). After that, pay a visit to the Botanic Garden Shop and the Garden Café.
Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a world-famous and well-known museum in Cambridge that is regarded as a must-see tourist attraction in the area. This museum, designed by River Cam, houses a superb collection of English pottery, as well as Chinese, Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquities. This museum, which is one of the most popular locations to visit in Cambridge, houses illuminated manuscripts, Italian and Spanish artworks, and much more.
Cambridge
The University of Cambridge has a worldwide reputation for quality and is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world, having been founded in 1209. The several colleges of the university, such as Kings’, Queens’, Trinity’, and St Catherine’s, are essential to a visit to the city, with spectacular architecture from various centuries. One of the numerous must-dos is punting along the “Backs,” where several collegiate buildings back onto the River Cam.
King’s College And King’s College Chapel
The first of the royal foundations, King’s College, was founded in 1441 by Henry VI and is worth visiting for the vast expanse of its lawn extending down to the river and King’s Bridge, with its wonderful views of the Backs, various college gardens along the riverfront. Writer Horace Walpole, poet Rupert Brooke, and economist Lord Keynes et al. are among the notable alumni of King’s College.
The Mathematical Bridge
Queens’ College was created in 1448 by Andrew Dockett under the patronage of Margaret of Anjou, Henry VI’s wife, and was refounded in 1465 by Elizabeth Woodville, Edward IV’s wife. All of Cambridge’s colleges have the most complete medieval architecture, notably the majestic gateway leading to the red brick First Court, which dates from the period of foundation.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, founded by Cambridge University in 1884, houses an extensive collection of prehistoric material and artifacts related to social anthropology. Pieces from Africa and the Orient, with a concentration on the visual and classical arts, have been collected from all over the world. The Pacific collection, which includes artifacts primarily from Cook’s voyages and other study initiatives carried out by eminent British anthropologists, is particularly noteworthy.
Trinity College
Trinity College was founded in 1546 by Henry VIII as a result of the merging of many ancient colleges, including Michaelhouse and King’s Hall. Parts of the original King’s Hall structures can still be seen outside King Edward’s Gate (1418). The greatest court in Cambridge, Trinity Great Court, was built around 1600. Nevile’s Court (1614), with its chapel and statues of illustrious scholars, is reached through a tunnel.
National Horse Racing Museum
Since 1174, the market town of Newmarket, just 13 miles east of Cambridge, has been a focus of English horse racing. The National Horse Racing Museum, located on the scenic High Street, is a must-see for horse enthusiasts. Exhibits focus on the history of the “sport of kings,” which is today one of Britain’s most popular sports.
Conclusion
The majority of this architectural grandeur is concentrated in Cambridge University’s 31 colleges, each of which is steeped in tradition. Although the city’s castle was short-lived (Castle Mound can still be seen near Shire Hall and provides wonderful views of the city), it remains an important market town to this day. These above-listed locations are considered to be amongst the best places to visit in Cambridge. Plan your trip with AirlinesMap and add the all the above-listed place to your travel package to Cambridge.
