ONE TRAIN AWAY: CAMBRIDGE
By Phoebe Ann Brooks
Photo credit: Geoffrey Robinson // Unsplash
Whilst London may have everything you need, sometimes it’s not about what you need, sometimes it’s about what you want. And a weekend away is the perfect opportunity when you are just looking for that vibe - that particular aesthetic and energy.
From London Kings Cross you can embark on a journey which gets you to the charming city of Cambridge in just under an hour. Think of Cambridge when you want to chill. It’s summer shopping in the market, finding cobbled streets which lead to hidden gems. It’s punting on the river, grabbing a cold cider from the floating bar. It’s cow spotting on Midsummer Common. It’s exploring the history of the Cambridge College sites, one of the oldest universities in the world.
Whilst Cambridge isn’t the biggest city, there is plenty to do so get prepared with these five things you must do!
Rent a Bike
Photo credit: Clem Onojeghuo // Unsplash
Now…I know this sounds basic, but Cambridge is sometimes called the Amsterdam of England because travelling by bike is a HUGE thing. The locals love a bike, and it is the easiest way to get around this city. You can find bikes and scooters to rent throughout the city, so take advantage and have fun taking in the sights and sounds like a local! If you have the ride in you, you can also bike out to the villages like Grantchester or Madingley for even more quaint country vibes.
SCUDAMORE'S PUNTING CAMBRIDGE
Photo credit: Chris Boland // Unsplash
Now this is iconic! The River Cam runs through the heart of the city, and a lot of the universities are built around it. You can experience the ‘Backs’, a view of the college's grounds from behind the gates when you punt along the river. Punt in your girlie group on a private punt or share with others for a cheaper price. I would recommend using Scudamore's Punting Cambridge and buying your tickets on the Mill Lane booth. There are some other sites to join but this one gives the best views and you can enjoy a drink from The Mill on the green and watch the world go by afterwards.
Top tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the floating bar! You can purchase drinks on the river itself from the mini bar on a punt.
Mill Ln, Cambridge CB2 1RS
FITZBILLIES
Photo credit: Lies Verhulst // Unsplash
Fitzbillies is an independent coffee shop and bakery which has stood in Cambridge since 1920. Having recently celebrated their 100th anniversary, you can count on them to have tried and tested recipes. Whilst their red velvet cupcakes are to die for, you really need to try an iconic Chelsea Bun from their Trumpington Street shop. The Chelsea Bun is a staple of Cambridge cuisine, having the same sugary-cinnamony recipe for over 100 years. Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie, Cambridge alumni, have even called out the little shop as having the best Chelsea Buns they have ever tasted!
Top tip: You can also grab an afternoon tea to go (Chelsea Buns included…obviously!) if you fancy finding a quiet spot next to the river to relax and enjoy.
51-53 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG
FITZWILLIAMS MUSEUM
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The Fitzwilliam Museum on Trumpington Street is the not so secret gem of Cambridge. Walking Cambridge can take it out of you, so relax at a slower pace and take a wander around the Fitzwilliam Museum. The museum has a collection of over half a million antiques, paintings, and artefacts. It also regularly hosts pieces from other museums and galleries. Currently, it is hosting a Botticelli exhibition which explores sex, love, power and gender. Get the girlies and get cultured!
Good to know: The museum is free entry so if you’re looking for cheap and cheerful then this is a must-do.
Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB
JACK’S GELATOS
Photo credit: Andrea Huls Pareja // Unsplash
Jack’s Gelato is the true meaning of a hidden gem! This independent gelato shop on Bene’t street could be easy to miss with minimal signage but given that there is almost always a queue out the door and down the street, you’ll probably see the crowds before you see the door. Whilst you can enjoy a heavenly chocolate scoop or a classic strawberries and cream in a white chocolate dipped waffle cone, you will also see some pretty wild flavours like bonfire, kewpie, or smoked bacon. Luckily you can try before you buy and ask for a taste.
Bene’t Street is also perfectly situated, so you can grab your gelato to go and take a look at some of the oldest colleges in Cambridge, including Corpus Christi and Kings College, which are right next door.
Must try (if available): Carrot cake gelato
Top tip: Check the website before you get there to unlock the secret flavour of the day. You can also pre-order to skip the queue!
6 Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN