Pembroke College Cambridge Map
Introduction
Welcome to Pembroke College Cambridge, one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in the University of Cambridge. This travel guide will help you explore the best of Pembroke College Cambridge, including its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a student, a history buff, or a traveler looking for a unique experience, Pembroke College Cambridge has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Pembroke College Chapel
The Pembroke College Chapel is one of the most stunning and historic buildings in the college. It was built in the 17th century and features beautiful Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The chapel is also home to a famous choir that performs regularly during term time.
The Old Library
The Old Library is a must-visit for book lovers. It houses a collection of rare and valuable books, including a first edition of Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species.” Visitors can also admire the beautiful oak bookcases and wooden spiral staircase.
Pembroke College Gardens
The Pembroke College Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of Cambridge. They cover over three acres and feature a pond, a rose garden, and a variety of trees and plants. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Hidden Gems
The Pepys Library
The Pepys Library is a hidden gem within the college. It houses the personal library of Samuel Pepys, a 17th-century diarist and naval administrator. The library contains over 3,000 books and manuscripts, as well as Pepys’ famous diary.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a short walk from Pembroke College and is home to a wide range of art and antiquities. It has collections of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and manuscripts from all over the world. Admission is free, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
Food Scene
The Eagle Pub
The Eagle Pub is a historic pub located near Pembroke College. It is famous for being the place where Francis Crick and James Watson announced their discovery of the structure of DNA in 1953. The pub serves traditional British pub food and has a great selection of beers and ales.
The Cambridge Chop House
The Cambridge Chop House is a popular restaurant that serves modern British cuisine. It sources its ingredients locally and has a focus on sustainability. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a special occasion.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tours
Cambridge offers a variety of free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city on a budget. The tours cover different themes, such as history, architecture, and ghosts. Check the Visit Cambridge website for more information.
The Market Square
The Market Square is a lively area that is home to a daily market. Visitors can find fresh produce, clothes, and souvenirs at reasonable prices. It’s also a great place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere.
Outdoor Adventures
Punting on the River Cam
Punting is a quintessential Cambridge activity. Visitors can hire a punt and glide down the River Cam, taking in the beautiful scenery and passing by famous colleges and landmarks. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
The Cambridge Botanic Garden
The Cambridge Botanic Garden is a peaceful retreat that is home to over 8,000 plant species from all around the world. Visitors can explore the gardens and glasshouses, attend a workshop or event, or simply enjoy a picnic in the sunshine.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Cambridge Science Centre
The Cambridge Science Centre is a hands-on science museum that is perfect for families. It has a variety of interactive exhibits that cover different areas of science, such as physics, biology, and engineering. Visitors can also attend workshops and events.
The Cambridge University Museum of Zoology
The Cambridge University Museum of Zoology is a fascinating museum that showcases the diversity of animal life. It has collections of skeletons, taxidermy, and live animals, as well as exhibits on evolution, ecology, and conservation.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Round Church
The Round Church is a unique and historic church that dates back to the 12th century. It is one of only four round churches in England and is an interesting example of Romanesque architecture. Visitors can attend a service or simply admire the building from the outside.
The Backs
The Backs is a scenic area that runs behind some of the famous colleges in Cambridge. It is home to beautiful gardens, walking paths, and picturesque bridges. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic while admiring the view.
Natural Wonders
The Wandlebury Country Park
The Wandlebury Country Park is a beautiful nature reserve that is located just outside of Cambridge. It covers over 100 acres and features woods, meadows, and chalk grasslands. Visitors can go for a walk, have a picnic, or attend a guided tour.
The Cambridge Bluebell Wood
The Cambridge Bluebell Wood is a magical woodland that is covered in a sea of bluebells in the springtime. It’s a great place to take a walk and admire the beauty of nature.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Cambridge Arts Theatre
The Cambridge Arts Theatre is a popular venue that hosts a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, and comedy. It has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to spend an evening.
The Maypole
The Maypole is a traditional pub that is popular with locals and students. It has a relaxed atmosphere and serves a variety of beers, wines, and spirits. It also has a beer garden that is perfect for a sunny day.
Local Markets
The Cambridge Market
The Cambridge Market is a bustling market that takes place every day in the Market Square. Visitors can find a variety of goods, including fresh produce, clothes, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to explore and soak up the local atmosphere.
The All Saints Garden Art and Craft Market
The All Saints Garden Art and Craft Market is a charming market that takes place on Saturdays. It features local artists and crafters who sell a variety of handmade goods, such as jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
Beaches and Mountains
The Peak District
The Peak District is a stunning national park that is located a few hours away from Cambridge. It features rolling hills, moorland, and valleys, as well as picturesque villages and towns. Visitors can go hiking, cycling, or simply admire the scenery.
The Norfolk Coast
The Norfolk Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline that is located a short drive from Cambridge. It features sandy beaches, dunes, and salt marshes, as well as charming seaside towns and villages. Visitors can go for a walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the view.
Cultural Immersion
The Cambridge International Arts Festival
The Cambridge International Arts Festival is an annual festival that takes place in July. It features a variety of performances, exhibitions, and events that showcase local and international artists. Visitors can attend concerts, shows, and workshops.
The Cambridge Folk Festival
The Cambridge Folk Festival is a popular music festival that takes place in July. It features a variety of folk and acoustic music, as well as workshops, talks, and activities. Visitors can enjoy the music, food, and atmosphere.
Art and Music Scene
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It has collections of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and manuscripts from all over the world. Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Rembrandt.
The Cambridge Corn Exchange
The Cambridge Corn Exchange is a popular music venue that hosts a variety of concerts and shows. It has a capacity of 1,800 and has welcomed famous artists such as David Bowie, Queen, and Radiohead.
Walking Tours
The Cambridge Ghost Tour
The Cambridge Ghost Tour is a spooky and entertaining walking tour that takes place at night. Visitors can discover the dark side of Cambridge and hear stories of ghosts, murders, and mysteries.
The Cambridge University and City Tour
The Cambridge University and City Tour is a comprehensive walking tour that covers the history, architecture, and culture of Cambridge. Visitors can learn about famous alumni, see iconic