Where to visit on a walking tour of Cambridge
Historical sites around Cambridge
Great St Mary’s
This central church is a stunner. Known to locals as GSM, its origins stretch back over 1,000 years. Climb the 123 steps up the tower for spectacular views out across the city – it costs a few pounds but is well worth it.The Round Church
Another church drenched in history, this is one of the oldest buildings in Cambridge. It dates back to the 12th century and is home to an interesting exhibition that gives you a glimpse back into the city’s medieval past.King’s College Chapel
Although Boat Race fans may disagree, Cambridge is best known around the world for its iconic university. King’s is arguably its most famous college, not least because of the majestic English Gothic chapel that sets it apart from the rest. It’s a must-see on any walking tour of Cambridge.
More colleges
Queens’ College
This college is just the other side of the Cam from King’s. You’ll pass the bustling Anchor pub at one end of Silver Street Bridge, from which you can see the unique Mathematical Bridge. The picturesque riverside setting only makes Queens’ College all the more attractive, along with its tranquil courtyards and gardens.Trinity College
Founded by none other than Henry VIII, this is the largest college in Cambridge. It’s also the richest. The immaculately manicured lawns are testament to that, along with grand buildings like the Great Court and the library designed by Sir Christopher Wren.Gonville and Caius College
Lying across the street from Great St Mary’s, this is one of Cambridge’s oldest and largest colleges. Founded all the way back in 1348, don’t miss the three gates that make Gonville and Caius such a worthy stop on your walking tour - the Gate of Honour, Gate of Humility and Gate of Virtue.
Cultural attractions
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Right in the heart of town, Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology looks back over more than two million years of human history. Although it contains more than a million artefacts, it’s not a huge museum so it’s easy to include in Cambridge walking tours.Fitzwilliam Museum
Right around the corner is the Fitzwilliam Museum, another treasure trove of art and antiquities. This university-owned museum’s collection encompasses an array of cultures and periods, while the early 19th-century building is the perfect backdrop for a couple of pictures.Kettle’s Yard
A contemporary art gallery in the north of the city centre, this is the place to go if you love to gaze at modern masterpieces. Also owned by the university, keep an eye out for different exhibitions, workshops and events at Kettle’s Yard.
Green spaces
Midsummer Common
As well as being a lovely spot to go for a stroll along the south bank of the River Cam, Midsummer Common is also a hive of activity throughout the year. It hosts the city’s annual bonfire night celebrations, as well as a funfair and a herd of cattle from the start of April to the end of November.Coe Fen
Another of Cambridge’s many peaceful green spaces, Coe Fen also offers riverside scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. Cross Sheep’s Green to get to Mill Pond, which is overlooked by the Granta where you can sit down for a bite to eat with a beautiful view.Parker’s Piece
This 25-acre common is widely known as the place where the rules of football were ironed out. Whether you’re going for a gentle stroll or a bit of a kickabout, head to the Grain & Hop Store afterwards. This pub overlooks Parker’s Piece and is great for a bite and a drink.
Hidden gems
Bridge of Sighs
The elegant St John’s College straddles the River Cam, and the photogenic Bridge of Sighs is how you cross the water. Named after a bridge in Venice, you can get a great view of it from the nearby Kitchen Bridge.Corpus Clock
One of the more modern sights to visit on your walking tour in Cambridge, the Corpus Clock only dates back to 2008. It pays homage to the Big Bang and has quickly become a key tourist attraction in the city that’s well worth your time. Pun intended.Abbey House
If you want to get a little spooky in Cambridge, don’t miss the city’s most haunted house. Built in the 17th century, it’s said to be the home of a ghost called the Grey Lady.
Where to eat and drink in Cambridge
The EagleA historic pub where scientists Francis Crick and James Watson announced they’d figured out the structure of DNA, the Eagle has a fascinating story to tell. You can read messages written by RAF pilots during the Second World War while you sit down for a meal, which have been preserved on the walls.
Where to eat and drink in Cambridge
The Pickerel InnAs the oldest pub in Cambridge, the Pickerel Inn traces its roots back to 1608. Serving up classic pub food and an array of beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks, it should be high on your list of places to fuel up on your walking tour of the city.
Hopefully you can use some of our recommendations to put together your own route for a free walking tour in Cambridge. You can of course choose to pay for a guided tour if you like, although you may prefer to save your money and put that towards a meal and a couple of drinks. To decide where to do that, use the button below and enter your postcode to find the nearest pubs in Cambridge to you.
Pubs near me in Cambridge