Cambridge is a vibrant city that embraces the old and the new, combining the welcoming feel of a small town with the variety and energy of a larger city.
A city of bustling streets and pavement cafes, Cambridge is interspersed with green spaces and parks, while cows can be found grazing freely at the edges of the city centre. Everything in Cambridge is within walking or cycling distance and there are regular bus services crossing the city every day. With the thriving international student population at postgraduate level, and the science and business parks in the north of the city (which attract employees from around the country and the world), the city feels lively and inclusive.
Getting around Cambridge
Most University buildings are situated in the city centre and it’s easiest to travel between them on foot or by bicycle (one of the most popular modes of transport for our students). See the University Map for details.
The “U” or Universal bus service runs frequently between Madingley Road Park and Ride and Addenbrooke’s Hospital via Cambridge Railway Station. This service connects both the Biomedical Campus and West Cambridge Site to Cambridge city centre. For more information about local bus services visit the Cambridgeshire County Council website.
Well connected
Cambridge is only 60 miles/95 kilometres from London and is well connected to most of the UK from its main station located about a mile from the city centre. There are direct trains to Stansted and Gatwick airports, and Heathrow Airport is easily accessible (via London King’s Cross/London St Pancras).
Entertainment, music and comedy
However you like to spend your time, there’s always something to keep you entertained. Cambridge has theatres, cinemas and entertainment venues offering varied programmes that include comedy, drama, dance, concerts and club nights.
Live music is also a big part of life in both the city and University, from buskers and pub gigs to classical concerts and big-name acts. The city usually hosts a number of music festivals featuring a wide variety of acts and musical styles, including folk, jazz, rock, ska, UK urban and dance.
Pubs, clubs and restaurants
Cambridge has a great range of pubs, bars and cafes, from traditional pubs with open fires to modern bars overlooking the river.
There’s a great selection of places to eat for any mood, taste, occasion, and budget. Better still, various cafés and restaurants offer special discounts for students.
Shopping
Cambridge’s three shopping centres and the city’s central streets house most high-street names alongside independent shops and boutiques. The stalls in Market Square sell handmade jewellery, vintage clothes, books and much more. You can pick up baked goods and local produce as well as a range of street food from around the world.
Just on the edge of the city centre, is an eclectic mix of shops, cafés and restaurants on Mill Road, offering anything from just about anywhere in the world and to suit any budget. The Mill Road Winter Fair is an annual event that happens on the first Saturday of December. There’s a Food Fair, market and craft stalls, live music, and special offers in many of the shops.
Outside the city
When you want to escape, the countryside is very close with pleasant walking and cycle routes from the city centre to the surrounding villages. There’s plenty to discover in the region:
- Walking and cycling routes
- Punting up the river to Grantchester
- Ely and its cathedral
- Historical buildings, gardens and museums
- Nature reserves, wildlife parks and coastline
If you want to explore further afield, Cambridge has direct rail links to London, Brighton and Birmingham.