Out & About in Cambridge

For a city whose popularity has stemmed from its University, its roots are far deeper than its educational history would have you believe. Its Roman beginnings are still evident on some of the oldest buildings in the city centre, although its name from that era remains a mystery. Now with a population of over 120,000, Cambridge came into existence because of its location on the River Cam (originally the Granta) and was once a busy port on the edge of the Fens. The oldest building - the tower of St Benedict's Church - was erected by the Saxons. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (The Round Church) is one of only four of its kind that was built by the Knights Templar. It's a little known fact (not surprisingly given the historical rivalry!) that Cambridge University was initiated by Oxford University students when they moved there in 1209. Since then the University has been a consistent top five entry in the world's most prominent universities and has boasted several world leaders amongst its former students.

Shopping

Visitors from all over the world flock to Cambridge for the historical sights primarily, but they are just as impressed by the impressive shopping. Home to a thriving hub of main brand shops and stores such as John Lewis, M&S, Next and Debenhams, Cambridge is also brimming with local independents such as Heffers Bookstore, and little alleyways concealing secret doorstep cafes, book, antiques and arts shops. With the newly opened Grand Arcade (2008) boasting top-notch designer shops, the Grafton Centre, and the city's eclectic marketplace featuring artisan stalls and locally-grown produce, there's certainly no need to go home empty-handed.

Food and Drink

The city also boasts some of the area's best eateries, from the highly acclaimed Midsummer House, with views of the river, and Alimentum, and the charming Backstreet Bistro just off Mill Road. You'll also find some of the better chains such as Brown's, Strada and Loch Fyne nestled in amongst many popular local venues. Mill Road offers a wonderful gastronomic choice as you wander along, many of which do not always require pre-booking, especially if you arrive there early enough.

Arts & Entertainment

Richard Attenborough was born in Cambridge, as was one of the most famous UK rock bands - Pink Floyd. The best form of art in the city is the architecture. King's College Chapel, built by Henry VI, has become a landmark sight, as have the intriguing portico and the much-photographed Bridge of Sighs at St John's College, the medieval court at Corpus Christi College and the Backs, the riverside area behind Trinity College. The eerie Grasshopper Clock on Kings Parade will send a chill up your spine, best experienced at night. It is said that the head of Oliver Crowell, who studied at Sidney Sussex College, is interred there in a mystery location! With a massive student population Cambridge is home to a thriving arts community, with an impressive line-up of musicians and comedians at the Corn Exchange and a wide variety of annual entertainment at the Arts Theatre. There's also a wide selection of comedy and live music venues in and around the city centre and there's often one of several annual festivals for wine, beer, food, jazz and folk occupying the city's green spaces. A perfect base for reaching many of the well-known destinations of East Anglia, including Newmarket and Ely, Cambridge is also gateway to several wonderful treats just a short bus ride away, such as Grantchester, retracing Lord Byron's steps with its fabulous Orchard tea room and idyllic riverside strolls, the stunning grounds at Anglesey Abbey, and the impressive Imperial War Museum at Duxford.

Hotels and Travel

Finding a place to stay is easy no matter what the budget; from homely guest houses and B&Bs to highly rated and centrally located hotels with modern facilities such as the University Arms Hotel, Arundel House, the Lensfield and Hotel Felix with its superb restaurant. Cambridge is easily accessed by the M11 and the A14, with several Park and Ride car parks circumventing the city. Stansted Airport is a mere 20 minute drive. The city also has a busy rail intersection with regular services into two mainline London stations - Liverpool Street and Kings Cross - and to East Anglia, the Midlands, Peterborough and Stansted, and a good value wide-ranging bus network too. If you are seeking a more romantic mode of transport that's in keeping with Cambridge traditions, you can hire a punt on Bridge Street or at Granta Place. A chauffeured punt might be more relaxing, but it's more fun to try it yourself - be prepared for a mishap or two! If you're on a deadline, the city's sightseeing bus service is a must.