With spring in the air and the summer months on the horizon, now is the time to get planning how you are going to spend your free time this summer.
Cambridge has so much to offer everyone and 2023 is no exception. The Big Screens are back showing 9 films throughout the summer months and of course Wimbledon, everyone’s favourite summer sporting tournament. Skip to page 4 & 5 for the full line up this year.
Planning on coming to the city with your friends or family, we have you covered. There is a suggested itinerary for 48 hours in Cambridge on pages 20 & 21, hopefully this will give you some inspiration or if you are coming along with your four-legged friend, head to pages 14 & 15 where we give you a round up of pup friendly locations.
Don't forget to enter our competition for your chance to win a £100 Love Cambridge Gift Card each month which can be used to fund your shopping trip or treat yourself to a meal out or treatment in one of the city’s salons.
Becky Burrell, Cambridge BID
We are running a monthly competition to win a £100 Love Cambridge Gift Card. All you need to do is visit our website love-cambridge.com/competitions/ each month for your chance to win. Each winner will be selected on the last working day of the month and notified by email.
The Love Cambridge Gift Card can be spent in over 180 shops, bars, restaurants, cafes, and attractions across Cambridge. Be sure to enter.
Full Terms and Conditions can be found on our website.
The alfresco cinema is making a return this year, with double screenings in May, June, July & August. Films will start at 6pm and 8pm and each evening we will show 2 different films.
The season starts on 19th May, so grab some popcorn and join us. There will be some seats available, but to guarantee a comfy view, it's advised you bring your own.
WHAT'S ON
19th May
Minions; Rise of Gru
Mrs Harris Goes to Paris
30th June Matilda the Musical Elvis
21st July
The Bad Guys
Black Panther
25th August
Puss in Boots
I Wanna Dance with Somebody
For the first time, we are bringing the screen to Station Road on a Wednesday evening for an extra special film night. Join us on Wednesday 28th June next to The Clayton Hotel where we will be joining Tom Cruise back in California to pick up his role as Navy Captain Maverick.
The Copper Tree Gin Bar will also be on hand to serve nice cold refreshments during the film. Seating will be available, on a first come first served basis.
3rd – 16th July 2023
Returning this summer, join us for the live BBC coverage of Wimbledon 2023. Located next to The Clayton Hotel, on Station Road, pop along in your lunch break or after work to enjoy a spot of tennis and a chilled beverage with friends and colleagues.
The Copper Tree Gin Bar will be onsite with all the usual tipples including a variety of gin, beer, Pimms and non-alcoholic spritzes for you to enjoy. Keep an eye on the Love Cambridge socials to stay up to date will all events. Seats will be available on a first come first served basis.
With more than five million works of art, artefacts, and specimens to explore, the University of Cambridge Museums are the perfect place to spend some time with family and friends. For more visiting information, visit www.museums.cam.ac.uk
Polar adventure awaits. From penguins to paintings, Inuit art to explorers’ diaries, find out about science and survival at the extreme ends of the earth.
Encounter two million years of human history through artefacts and countless astonishing stories, from Cambridge’s Roman roots to contemporary Pacific sculptures.
Walk among the gods and heroes in one of the largest surviving collections of plaster casts of Greek and Roman statues in the world.
See everything from Egyptian coffins to suits of shiny armour at the Fitz. There are over half a million objects and works of art in its world renowned collection, which are explored through exhibitions and events all year round.
Step into a house full of light, twentieth-century art, and natural and found objects, right alongside a gallery hosting contemporary art exhibitions and events.
Extraordinary discoveries need extraordinary instruments (and some simple ones too). See the microscopes, telescopes, models and calculators that scientists have used to understand the world around us.
Come face-to-face with dinosaur skeletons and take a 4.5 billion year journey through time. Find meteorites, minerals and rocks alongside thousands of fossils that illustrate the evolution of life.
See one of the largest and most important natural history collections in the UK, including thousands of incredible specimens that showcase the wonders of animal life.
With over 8,000 species spread over 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses in the centre of Cambridge, the Botanic Garden offers year-round joy, interest and inspiration for all ages.
In addition to the University Museums and Botanic Garden, Cambridge is also home to some amazing independent museums with their own, unique collections.
Housed in a timber-framed 17th century former inn, explore the social history of the city and surrounding area at the Museum of Cambridge. museumofcambridge.org.uk/
A former Victorian pumping station is now home to the Museum of Technology. From sewage disposal to the birth of high-tech industries, learn about the local industries and the people who worked in them. museumoftechnology.com
Featuring hands-on exhibitions, educational workshops and a wide range of activities and events, the Centre for Computing History makes computing relevant and fun for all ages. computinghistory.org.uk
CAMBRIDGE SHOPPING IS SOME OF THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY. FROM HIGH STREET STAPLES TO QUIRKY INDEPENDENTS, THIS CITY HAS IT ALL.
Cambridge is spoilt for choice when it comes to unique gifts which can be found in one of the many independent boutiques that you will find spread throughout the city. Head to the historic centre to find those special gifts for your loved ones.
Stroll down Rose Crescent and Trinity Street, Magdalene Street, Bridge Street and King Street to discover some excellent independent shops and chic cafes.
For high street fashion, Cambridge boasts all the names you’d expect to see whilst on a shopping spree. You will find fashion houses such as Next, Marks & Spencer, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Lulu Lemon and River Island alongside Whistles, The White Company, Jigsaw and Fat Face.
With four shopping centres, miles of cobbled streets, Cambridge offers more choice than ever before.
With over 60 premium and high street retailers, the nation’s favourite department store, John Lewis, fashion favourites Levi’s, Ted Baker and the newly opened JD Sports. For more information, visit grandarcade.co.uk
Lion Yard Shopping Centre is located in the heart of Cambridge, hosting over 40 of your favourite retailers and venues including, Cambridge Central Library, Thomas Sabo, Lush, Miniso, New Look, Hotel Chocolat and many more. For more information, visit thelionyard.co.uk
Nestled between Grand Arcade and The Grafton, Christs Lane can be found in the heart of the city offering you some retail therapy which includes H&M and Zara along with a choice of eateries.
Here you will find high street fashion and independent eateries sat alongside the large 8 screen Vue Cinema and Pure Gym. Also located next to the city’s only Primark, make sure you add The Grafton to your list of places to shop. Visit graftoncentre.co.uk for more information.
Don’t forget the Love Cambridge Gift Card! Can be used in over 180 shops, cafes, bars & restaurants in the city centre. Available to buy online fromlove-cambridgegiftcard.com
Returning for the first time since 2019, the Cambridge Beer Festival will take place on Jesus Green in May. The festival features a wide range of local and national beers of all styles, as well as cider, perry, mead, wine, and bottled and draft beers from around the world. The cheese counter showcases a wide range of fine cheeses, together with locally produced bread, pork pies, scotch eggs and other savoury items.
3rd June
A festival for the people, by the people. The Strawberry Fair is very much the start of the summer in the city. Taking place for more than 40 years, always on the first Saturday in June the Strawberry Fair is run entirely by volunteers who devote their time to ensure it's a fun day for all. Jam packed with music, food and fancy dress, the fair takes place on Midsummer Common and can be enjoyed by all the family.
9th - 11th June
A fabulous edition to the Cambridge calendar, The Cambridge Club Festival takes place in June at the beautiful Childerley Orchard site. Across 3 days and 5 stages, the line-up is second to none. Lionel Richie, Alexander O’Neal, Kool & The Gang, and the goddess herself, Grace Jones, will be taking to the stage – along with tons of other artists, plus comedy, family entertainment and after dark DJs too. For more info and how to buy tickets, head to thecambridgeclub.co.uk
17th June
Taking place on Saturday 17th June on Jesus Green, Cambridge Pride is fast becoming the festival to be at. Providing free, family friendly entertainment which includes a parade, stalls, entertainment, food, and drink. Keep in touch with what’s going on at cambridgepride.co.uk
27th - 30th July
Cambridge Folk Festival is one of the longest running folk festivals in the world. Held each year since 1965 it attracts around fourteen thousand people, many of whom return year after year.
This year’s line-up features festival favourites
The Proclaimers, Rufus Wainwright, Arrested Development and many, many more. For more information visit cambridgelive.org.uk/folk-festival
26th - 28th August
Across the August Bank Holiday weekend, the historic streets and spaces of Cambridge’s City Centre will transform into stages for playful outdoor arts. To include work provided by both internationally acclaimed professional artists, national semi-professionals, and local amateur performers to create a sense of fun and a chance to create extraordinary memories.
American fried chicken restaurant Popeyes® has opened the doors to its first restaurant in Cambridge at 3-4 Market Hill, following the success of a string of new openings across the UK. Chicken fans are now able to experience Popeyes® world famous ‘shatter crunch’ for themselves once they get their hands on the mouth-watering menu, including the iconic Popeyes® Chicken Sandwich which contains the brand’s 12-hour marinated chicken, and original Southern biscuits and gravy.
To find out more about Popeyes in Cambridge, visit popeyesuk.com/restaurants/cambridge or follow the brand on Instagram at @PopeyesUK.
Opened just before Christmas 2022, Knoops on Green Street sells luxury Hot Chocolate to either drink now or take away to make at home. The Knoops concept is based around percentages, giving you the chance to carefully curate your drink, your way. For a full list of what they have available, visit their website or pop in to speak to one of their knowledgeable staff knoops.co.uk
Pizza Pilgrims serves slow-proved Neapolitan pizza and traditional Italian bites. All their dough is made fresh, daily with the best ingredients Italy has to offer in order to bring the best possible pizza going.
Born in Naples and bred in London, Pizza Pilgrims is engrained in looking after the team and making great pizza and can now be found on the corner of Sidney Street & Market Street.
To keep up to date, please follow the Love Cambridge social accounts.
Due to open Spring 2023, Stir is fast becoming a Cambridge icon. The Green Street branch will be its fourth café offering delicious cakes, coffee, savoury dishes, and breads baked in their own bakery located in Chesterton.
Market House is a one-of-a-kind dining and meeting space in the heart of Cambridge. Spreading over five floors of the iconic Grade II listed building, Market House comprises a fine dining restaurant, private dining rooms, an atmospheric Wine Bar with a popular casual menu, a stunning Food Lab and flexible meeting spaces. The higher you go, the more impressive the sweeping views of Cambridge’s market square, Great St Mary’s the University Church, Senate House and King’s College Chapel.
Located in Green Street, WEX can supply all your photography needs including rental, used and servicing. If you are after some expert advice, this is the place to go.
Opening Spring 2023 and new to Cambridge, Free People is a speciality women’s clothing brand offering a wide range of products from accessories, outerwear, sportswear, home & beauty. freepeople.com
Underwear understood... The Pantry Underwear stock many different brands to suit all tastes, shapes, and sizes. Find them opposite Cambridge Market.
The skating community has boomed recently, and Concrete Surf located on King Street is on hand to help with all you skating requirements. Selling clothing, apparel and tons of expert advice, it’s a must visit.
CAMBRIDGE IS FAST BECOMING A DESTINATION
THAT OUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS CAN ENJOY JUST AS MUCH AS US. FROM DINING TO PUNTING THERE IS SOMETHING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY.
Accessing the city with your pooch has never been easier, the network of Park & Ride buses will allow you to travel with dogs for free (however, they will need to sit on the floor). Buses run from five sites across the city, and tickets cost as little as £3.50 return with children travelling free when accompanied by an adult.
Take your time to enjoy a trip down the riverbank with man’s best friend by your side. Scudamore’s Punting love nothing more than seeing our furry friends join them on a punting trip.You can choose between a punting tour or hire your own punt with your canine companions.
There are a number of places across the city that allow you to bring your pup in, The Locker Café on King Street and Bould Brothers who have a site on Round Church Street and also Regent Street will welcome you with open paws.
If you wish to plan a longer visit to Cambridge and would like to bring your pooch, there are plenty of choice for overnight accommodation. The Hilton City Centre on Downing Street allows you to bring dogs as does the IBIS in Station Square, The Gonville opposite Parkers Piece and Hotel du Vin on Trumpington Street.
and the Champion of the Thames will give your pup a warm welcome. You can also head to Regent Street where Novi are very happy to accommodate dogs.
The City Pub Company allow dogs in all their establishments including city centre venues
Cambridge Brew House, The Mill, Old Bicycle Shop and The Old Ticket Office. If you’re hankering for a burger then Steak & Honour on Corn Exchange Street will welcome your four legged friends too.
Cambridge is blessed with a number of green spaces that you can walk your pooch on including Parkers Piece, Christ’s Piece and also along by the riverbank. Accessible by all, these are perfect locations to give your pup a chance to stretch their legs.
Shopping with a canine pal in tow can be a bit troublesome, but there are a number of shops in Cambridge which have dog friendly policies. The city’s biggest department store, John Lewis allows well behaved pooches on leads, as does the Apple Store and Oliver Bonas while Waterstones and Heffers are also happy to let Rover have a mooch while you peruse the latest hardbacks. Independent shops including Podarok, Lilac Rose, Sahara & Ark and of course the Market also give the thumbs up to dogs on leads.
Cambridge offers plenty of pre-planned city tours for you to choose from all year round. If you’re feeling more spontaneous, simply grab a map and enjoy an uncharted adventure. Why not plot your journey and explore the city?
The Cambridge Highlight Tour offered by CANTAB Tours is the most popular tour taking in all the important sites including Senate House, Corpus Clock, Cavendish Library and much much more. Delivered by Blue or Green Badge Guides, the tours operate on Fridays-Sunday at various times. Visit their website for more details cantabtours.com
Another way to see the city is by open top bus which operate 7-days a week throughout the summer months.
The 90-minute tour explores all of the wonders that Cambridge has to offer. You'll be able to visit top attractions as well as the city's best hidden gems, all in just one day. Explore the prestigious buildings of the University of Cambridge, jump back in time at the popular Fitzwilliam Museum or take a trip down the River Cam on the iconic punts- there's something for everyone!
The tour is a 24 hour hop on/hop off experience meaning you can travel across the whole city to any of our 18 stops and hop back on again at your convenience to continue your adventure.
One of the best ways to discover Cambridge is from the river. Punting has been a popular Cambridge activity for centuries and continues to be a must for locals and visitors alike. There are a number of punting companies willing to guide you up and down the river, or if you’re feeling up to it Scudamore’s will hire you a punt and you can then go at your own pace, either way make sure you bring some refreshments and enjoy the views.
Slightly outside of the city but very much still part of the Cambridge makeup is Grantchester Meadows. A fantastic route for walking and exploring the fabulous riverways and marshland. Be sure to stop at one of the pubs along the way and a visit to Grantchester is not complete without a quick cake stop at The Orchard Tea Gardens.
If you’re an aviation history enthusiast, the IWM Duxford, Europe’s largest air museum is just outside Cambridge. Duxford has been a witness to worldchanging events over the past 100 years where ordinary people have had extraordinary experiences. Exploring state of the art exhibition halls and historic buildings, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the men and women who served at RAF Duxford. Historic aircraft can regularly be seen taking to the skies from the historic airfield and IWM Duxford also holds annual Air Shows and Flying Days with entertaining ground content and signature flying displays.
There are also two National Trust Properties very close to Cambridge, Anglesey Abbey and Wimpole Hall, both free to enter for National Trust Members.
BUT IF YOU ARE SPENDING TIME IN THIS WONDERFUL CITY YOU MAY FIND TIME TO EXPLORE SLIGHTLY
WONDERING HOW TO SPEND A WEEKEND IN CAMBRIDGE, HERE’S SOME ITINERARY INSPIRATION FOR PACKING THE BEST OF THE CITY INTO YOUR TWO-DAY STAY:
FRIDAY
Friday Afternoon
Upon arrival, why not stop at one of the local cafes and treat yourself to a cuppa (or something stronger!) while you wait for your hotel to be ready. If you arrive by train, you can jump in a cab or hop on a bus if you don’t fancy the 10-minute stroll into the city centre.
After you have checked in, its time to hit the river! Pick up a bottle of something nice from Cambridge Wine Merchants then make your way to either Mill Lane or Quayside punt stations to jump aboard a boat. You can kick back and enjoy a tour of The Backs taking in iconic sights such as Kings College Chapel, Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge to name but a few.
Friday Evening
So much choice, but for a nice bite to eat and watch the world go by, why not try The Senate, located on St Marys Passage, opposite Great St Marys Church and close to the famous Kings Parade, where people mill about enjoying the sights into the evening.
For more inspiration on what to do whilst spending time in Cambridge head to visitcambridge.org
If you fancy a nightcap and the weather permits, head to The Varsity Hotel Roof Top Terrace for one of the best views across the city.
SATURDAY
Saturday Morning
After a leisurely hotel breakfast, its time to get out and enjoy the city. From the medieval Round Church to the Corpus Clock, there’s plenty to see. You can join a guided tour who will expertly take you through the best sites or you can go at your own pace.
Saturday Afternoon
Be sure to make time to visit the museums in between lunch and coffee stops. The Fitzwilliam Museum on Trumpington Street is the largest in the city and offers a vast collection of antiquities. For more information on what you can find in Cambridge museums visit pages 6 & 7.
Saturday Evening
If you still have energy after exploring all day, then head out for dinner and drinks. Depending on what you are looking for the offer is exceptional across the city. Stroll through the city towards the station and you will find all cuisines & budgets catered for. Finish the night at Novi or The Lab for a fancy cocktail or if you are a gin fan, the Cambridge Gin Lab offers various experiences for you to enjoy.
SUNDAY
Sunday Morning
Make the most of your final few hours in the city by starting your day with a wholesome breakfast. Fitzbillies, Bill’s and Hot Numbers are firm favourites but there are tons to choose from.
Once you’ve filled up, you’re ready to hit the shops! Independent shopping is a real treat, from clothes to food to accessories and much more you are very much spoilt for choice. And don’t forget to visit the market which on Sundays is jam packed with local produce.
Sunday Lunch
If it’s a Sunday roast you are looking for then one of the many pubs can help you out. The Pint Shop, Cambridge Brew House and Mill Works offer traditional roasts. If you were after something smaller then why not try Aromi, Signorelli’s or La Raza for some small bites.
Sunday Afternoon
Its time to make your way home, but don’t forget to grab some sweet treats for the journey home. Stop off at Hill’s, Hotel Chocolat or Chocolat Chocolat for those last-minute gifts for loved ones (and yourself!)
Cambridge is very lucky to have an all-year-round 7 day a week market offering a range of products to suit all tastes. Located in the centre of the city, in front of The Guildhall, Cambridge Market really is a shopping destination it its own right.
Market Traders have been trading in the city centre since the middle ages on Market Hill at the rear of Great St Mary’s Church and a stones throw from Kings Parade and the colleges.
The Market and its 99 pitches is open 7 days a week from 10am – 4pm. Monday – Saturday, you can find everything from the traditional Butchers, Bakers, Florists, Cheesemongers, Greengrocers, Sweet Stalls and Fishmongers to vinyl, vintage clothes, fresh ground & freshly made coffee and tea, as well as a selection of souvenirs, gifts and flowers, jewellery, books, recycled goods and an array of food including street food from many different cultures, not to mention two bike stalls to service and repair your cycles while you shop.
Just a short walk from the Market through Rose Crescent and up along Trinity Street; The All Saints Garden, Art & Craft Market is held every Saturday. The perfect opportunity to “meet the maker” and buy that special unique item.
Situated in a beautiful outdoor setting opposite Trinity College, with a unique and ever-changing range of bespoke products from the finest of craftspeople in woodwork, original art from painting to drawing and everything in between; ceramics and hand-blown glasswork to jewellery, hand-turned one-of-a kind pens and specially printed notebooks, zero-waste cosmetics, toiletries and candles and much much more.
Please check the social channels each day to see who is trading.
cambridgemarketuk
cambridgemarket
If Saturday’s trip to All Saints was not enough, on Sundays, the Market Square takes on a different feel, with a focus on Arts, Craft and Local Produce. Between 10am – 4pm every Sunday, the market offers an even wider selection of unique items than any other day of the week including locally grown produce, locally reared meats and fresh fish, baked goods and local crafts people selling a further range of unique products, with many of the daily traders still present, it is a great day to visit.
Cambridge offers an excellent range of street traders located around the historic city centre, along Fitzroy Street near the Grafton, Sydney Street and beyond. Offering both retailers selling jewellery, clothes and Fruit n Veg, and food traders located across the city selling hot dogs, jacket potatoes, savoury and sweet crepes and a vegetarian stall selling delicious falafel wraps, there’s no excuse to stay hungry whilst in the city.
Whether you want to whisk your significant other away for a romantic weekend or enjoy a candlelit dinner for two, Cambridge is the perfect place for a memorable date.
The University Arms is one the largest hotels in the city with a view of Parkers Piece, a beautiful green space in the city with the Terrace Suite offering the ultimate in romantic stays, featuring a roll top bath and balcony, a place you can enjoy evening drinks or breakfast perhaps.
Keen to discover Cambridge off the beaten path?
Join local food blogger Gerla de Boer on one of her award-winning Cambridge Food Tours and explore Cambridge through the eyes of a foodie. Meet the proud people behind these independent businesses, sample their delicious food and drink and discover a Cambridge you probably didn’t know existed.
The Rutherford's Romantic Tour offers a one of a kind experience, exploring the magical history of our beautiful city together. The team are on hand to ensure your experience is second to none, the boat with be dressed with cosy blankets, cushions and decorated with petals with optional chilled Champagne for the perfect romantic touch.
Couples in of search of romantic restaurants will be spoiled for choice in Cambridge, with the city boasting countless eateries with fabulous food. De Luca Cucina is a longstanding favourite for its Italian dishes and romantic atmosphere. New to Cambridge are The Wine Rooms, found on Hills Road, which offers more than 500 carefully selected wines from around the world, and a menu of perfectly paired dishes.
If proposing was on your agenda during your stay, Cambridge is home to many independent jewellers, all on hand to help you choose that all important ring.
Harriet Kelsall on Green Street will help you design your ring, inspired by your own love story. Cellini on Rose Crescent is part of the fabric of Cambridge and have both new and antique jewels to choose from.
Catherine Jones on Bridge Street are also a longstanding jewellers offering that personal service.
IT’S NOT EASY KEEPING THE KIDS ENTERTAINED ALL YEAR ROUND, BUT CAMBRIDGE HAS SOME FANTASTIC, FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS TO EXPLORE, WHATEVER THE WEATHER.
With children in tow, it can be preferential to stay in an apartment or aparthotel, giving your family a bit more space, as well as cooking and washing facilities. Good options in Cambridge include The Regent by CityStay which is a beautiful Georgian building right in the heart of the city offering various self-catering rooms. Slightly further out of the city centre you will find Turing Locke aparthotel, offering a sleek homefrom-home with onsite restaurants and amenities and Fellows House by Hilton which has a variety of rooms to suit your family needs.
When the weather’s good, you can entertain kids on a shoestring by heading for a picnic at one of the city’s parks. Good options include spacious Lammas Land, which has a fantastic play area, tennis courts and a padding pool – as well as opportunities for a dip in the river. Jesus Green one of the largest open-air pools in Europe, is a big hit too. Pack a picnic and you can spend the day there while the children splash about. There is also an indoor pool, Parkside, which offers lane swimming, kids pool and flumes.
If your kids enjoy a challenge, try Lockhouse Escape Games on Regent Street. A fully immersive experience, where teams use their wits to solve puzzles and achieve the goal, be it saving humanity from an asteroid crashing towards earth, finding your way out of an Egyptian tomb, or busting codes as a secret agent. Games need at least two players, and if your kids are under 12 you’ll need to accompany them in the escape challenge.
University Arms is a landmark hotel located in the historic heart of Cambridge, overlooking Parker’s Piece. Since opening in 1834, the University Arms hotel has played an important role in the history of the city. In 1848, in the shadows of the hotel the defining rules of football were invented by locals playing on Parker’s Piece.
Home to 189 beautifully and ‘playfully’ designed suites, its own curated library and a deliciously indulgent restaurant, Parker’s Tavern. The restaurant is inspired by the communal dining halls synonymous with Cambridge Colleges and is an English tavern serving locally sourced, seasonal food, with every dish designed to be a whimsical re-imagining of a British classic, sourced from field, fen and England’s seas.
Stay a minimum of 2 nights over Sunday and receive additional Marriott Bonvoy Points or
Stay 2 nights in a Suite and receive a complimentary walking tour
(Both are subject to availability)
Hilton Cambridge City Centre is perfectly located for touring University of Cambridge, taking a punt down the River Cam and exploring the shops, boutiques, bars, cafes and restaurants. Guests can even walk directly through from the hotel to the Grand Arcade Shopping Centre. A fully accessible, pet friendly hotel that features Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton and multiple family room configurations, as well as upgraded rooms and suites, you’re assured a comfortable stay whether you’re looking to explore by foot with your dog, take a break with the whole family, enjoy a weekend away for two or even have a solo adventure. Book online at cambridge.hilton.com
The Gonville Hotel has a wide range of bedrooms to suit all types of traveller, with all rooms offering a pillow menu, air conditioning and high quality guest amenities as standard.
If you choose to dine with the hotel, you are spoilt for choice with the Terrace Restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner alongside their infamous Afternoon Teas. The Atrium Bar offer a wide range of drinks, meaning you can relax and enjoy the views whilst sipping on your favourite drink.
Be sure to ask about the Bentley Experience, a complimentary journey including pick up and drop offs. Head chauffeur likes nothing more than taking guests on a mini tour of the city. gonvillehotel.co.uk
From the spacious and luxurious bedrooms to the unique and cosy Library area, Clayton Hotel Cambridge is the go to destination for a traditional and quintessential city break. Perfectly located, the hotel is only a 1-minute walk from Cambridge Train Station or 5-minute walk to Cambridge’s historic Botanical Garden.
They are offering an exclusive promotion for Love Summer readers. Enjoy 15% off Bed and Breakfast rates as well as 15% off in the Tamburlaine Bar and Restaurant when you book directly on their website with the code LOVESUM. claytonhotelcambridge.com
A boutique hotel opposite the Fitzwilliam Museum, Hotel Du Vin might be small in size but has bags of charm. Sitting snugly among the Grade II listed buildings, the hotel was lovingly converted from old University buildings. The hotel features 41 distinctive rooms & suites, each with a comfy custom-made bed, soft Egyptian cotton linen large fluffy towels and a monsoon shower or roll top bath. Offering a bistro and bar Hotel Du Vin is the perfect spot for everything from morning coffee to end of the evening night cap. hotelduvin.com/cambridge
A 148-room hotel based on the banks of the River Cam and just steps away from the beautiful colleges of University of Cambridge and the historic city centre. Recently opened in September 2021 following an extensive refurbishment of the interiors, all rooms, leisure centre and dining outlets. Graduate Hotels® are a collection of handcrafted hotels in university communities, known internationally but recently launched in the UK. graduatehotels.com/cambridge
This hotel quite frankly offers it all. From luxurious accommodation to rooftop bars The Varsity Hotel is in central Cambridge close to St Johns, Trinity, Jesus, and Magdalene College. The Riverside Restaurant overlooks the river, and the rooftop bar gives panoramic views across the city. Hotel guests have access to the gym, spa, sauna and steam room, nearby punting and complimentary bicycles. thevarsityhotel.co.uk
Think of a cuisine, and I’m sure Cambridge can provide it. From high street regulars to quirky, independent restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors this city has it all. Here is just a snippet of what you can expect:
Whether you arrive by bus, train, car, or bicycle there’s a strong chance you will see a street food vendor within the first few minutes of your arrival. There is so much choice from this fun, affordable food option. There are tacos, falafel, burgers, hotdogs, crepes, ice cream, traditional Indian food and much much more on offer. The hardest part is deciding which to choose.
Pub food has certainly upped its game over the years and Cambridge pubs are no exception. The Eagle, The Bathhouse, Mitre, The Mill and The Pickerel are all traditional pubs in the city serving tasty food. From a bowl of chips to a traditional Sunday Roast they have all tastes catered for. The Pint Shop on Pea’s Hill is a perfect place to meet friends, have a drink and sample one of their famous Scotch Eggs.
There are plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the best cakes. Fitzbillies is an infamous coffee shop offering a range of sweet and savoury dishes including their sticky Chelsea bun, which is a must when visiting. Espresso Library and Bould Brothers are the place to go if you are a coffee connoisseur and should you wish to sit, relax, and enjoy people watching then Café Foy on the Quayside is a great location opposite the river and punting stations. New to Cambridge is Knoops the hot chocolate specialist, located on Green Street.
restaurant which offers Afternoon Teas as well as great lunch and dinner menus. Some great independent restaurants throughout the city include The Orator, Trinity, The Oak Bistro, The Oliver Grove, Deluca Cucina and Stem & Glory are definitely worth a visit.
If you want something that is familiar but tasty, Cambridge has you covered. You can expect to find most high street restaurants in the city including Pizza Express, Las Iguanas, Zizzi, Honest Burgers, Wagamama, All Bar One, Yo Shushi and many more.
Got a sweet tooth? Mosey down All Saint’s Passage to Hill St – creators of luxury chocolates made with the finest ingredients – and then try Jack’s Gelato just next door. This renowned local ice cream shop also has a branch on Bene’t Street, but the All Saint’s Passage shop is where locals go to beat the queues. Whichever outpost you visit, you’re guaranteed a selection of innovative iced treats, with flavours including burnt sugar and salt gelato.
TAKE A WALK ROUND THE HISTORIC CITY AND DISCOVER PLACES FROM A DIFFERENT VIEW.
THERE ARE 10 SUGGESTED SPOTS, SEE IF YOU CAN GRAB A SELFIE IN EACH AND TAG US ALONG THE WAY.
Located on The Backs of Queens College, the Mathematical Bridge appears to be an arch in shape, but if you look closer and you will notice it is built completely of straight timbers. Although you can’t access the bridge yourself unless you visit Queens College, the best view of the bridge can be found from Silver Street or of course, the river!
Without doubt, one of the most visited places in Cambridge is the wonderful Kings College Chapel. Located on Kings Parade, the chapel dominates the skyline and is the backdrop to thousands of photos each year. Can you get the perfect selfie here?
Has to be seen to be believed! The Corpus Clock located outside The Taylor Library, at Corpus Christi College is one of the most distinctive public monuments in Cambridge and has been admired by visitors and residents since in was unveiled in 2008. On close inspection, you will notice the three rings which depict hours, minutes and seconds. Hard to miss is the giant grasshopper located at the top of the clock, literally ‘eating away time’.
Cambridge Market has been trading since the middle ages and is still a must see when in the city. Open 7-days a week, the market has a huge variety of stalls from fruit and veg and flowers to souvenirs, books and jewellery.
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Located just outside the city centre, the University of Cambridge Botanic Gardens offers a feast for the eyes (and camera). With over 8,000 species of plants and flowers, this peaceful garden offers a beautiful place for everybody to enjoy and benefit from. You can take a picnic or enjoy some refreshments from the onsite café.
Flowing through the city, the River Cam is a major attraction to the city taking in all the sights as you gently cruise your way along. Taking a punt along The Backs is a very popular activity for visitors and residents alike. There are many options, you can join a punt tour, hire a private guide or if you are feeling brave have a go yourself! Don’t fall in…
Can you get a photo with the lions outside? This incredible building has so many fabulous photo opportunities, carve out some time to have a good look around.
Great St Mary’s has been in the heart of the city for over 800 years playing a significant part in the history of the city and University of Cambridge. The Tower of Great St Mary’s Church offers the best views in Cambridge. Grab a photo of yourself high up top.
Belonging to St Johns College, the Bridge of Sighs is a covered bridge linking the Third Court and New Court. The covered bridge, named after the Bridge of Sighs in Venice was built in the 19th Century and can be best viewed from a punt on the river.
Its official name is Church of the Holy Sepulchre, but locally know as The Round Church is located on Bridge Street and is Cambridge’s second oldest building and the place to start your exploration of the city. Within the visitor centre you will find a short film called ‘Saints & Scholars’ that will give you an insight into the University of Cambridge.
Purple Flag celebrates Cambridge for being a safe and vibrant evening and night-time destination, with its diverse array of dining, entertainment, and cultural activities. Cambridge first secured Purple Flag status in 2019 and is one of only 70 towns and cities across the UK and Ireland, which have achieved this national performance standard.
The Purple Flag working group work on a number of initiatives across the nighttime economy, including the following which are designed to keep us all safe on a night out:
Providing professionally trained licensed Taxi Marshals on key dates throughout the year helps to ensure people get home swiftly and safely after enjoying a night out in Cambridge.Operating from the central St Andrew’s Street Taxi Rank, the Marshals manage the busy nighttime queues, providing priority to anyone in distress or vulnerable whilst assisting the wider City requirements of dispersal.They operate on the last weekend of each month and some extra dates such as Bank Holidays, Halloween, each weekend in December and New Years Eve.
Ask for Angela is a nationally recognised scheme that has been adopted in Cambridge, facilitated by Cambridge Business Against Crime (CAMBAC). The scheme arose in response to an increase in online dating with people meeting strangers in venues and supporting people who may feel uneasy when meeting someone for the first time. Individuals can approach bar staff, ‘ask for Angela’ and in doing so discreetly alert them to the fact that they feel vulnerable so staff can take appropriate action.
Working primarily on Friday and Saturday nights the street pastors are trained volunteers from local churches. Their aim is to care for, listen to, and help people who are out on the streets after a night out in the city.
Cambridge has a lot of bars that stay open late including Novi, All Bar One, The Castle, Town & Gown, Ta Bouche and many more. There are a few clubs to choose from, should you wish to extend your evening and make some moves on the dance floor.
With five bars to choose from and an iconic rooftop terrace, it’s the place to go in Cambridge for bottomless brunch and cocktails whenever it strikes your fancy.
Have you missed going out dancing? Relive the 80s, 90s and 00s on the light-up disco dancefloor, on Friday and Saturday nights.
Lola Lo has packed schedule, open most nights offering a different theme and music genre. During the summer months, they open up the roof terrace for day parties and guest DJ's.
MASH is the only independent club and live music venue in the city, with regular nights Tuesday –Saturday. Woo Wednesdays serve up mouth-watering free pizza and donuts every single week.
Don’t forget to check out the Corn Exchange, The Junction and The Arts Theatre to see what they are showing this year. The schedule is varied and can include rock bands, plays, comedians and much more.
Cambridge is a beautiful city at any time of the year but come the summer months there’s something special about the city and the amount of green space to enjoy.
With the natural fen landscape flowing right into the city along the river Cam, at various points you can see cows grazing including along the backs where you will also get to witness the magnificent back drop of Kings College.
Within the city boundary you will also find public parks, play equipment, football pitches and tennis courts. Jesus Green also houses the city’s skate park which can be enjoyed by all ages.
Along the river you will find both Jesus Green and Midsummer Common, home to several river boats and during the summer months a highway for the punting community. You can stroll along, stopping off at several pubs to quench your thirst whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery that Cambridge offers.
In the heart of the city, you have Parkers Piece, an open space used by locals to lounge around, play football and cricket and soak up the atmosphere that oozes through it. The park is also famous as the place where, in 1848 students agreed a set of simple guidelines for football which were then used to influence the development of the Football Association Rules.
So, grab a picnic and venture into one of the many green spaces that Cambridge has to offer.
From June to September there will be music playing in the Parks & Open Spaces across the city on selected dates. Each event is free, so go along, take a picnic, and enjoy the sounds in the cool summer breeze. For more information visit cambridgelive.org.uk/city-events
Park in one of the 5 car parks spread across the main radial routes into Cambridge and catch the bus into the city centre. Parking is free for up to 18 hours. Park & Ride Return tickets are £3.50 and with this ticket up to three children travel for free. The Park & Ride Group Ticket is £10.50 and allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together. A small group ticket (1 x adult and 2 x young people or 3 x young people) is only £6.50. More information: cambridgeparkandride.info
Getting into the heart of the city centre by bus is easy – many of the routes within the city centre operate on a 10-minute frequency and to those places a bit further afield, 20 or 30 minute frequencies are common place. Full details of all bus services and other local routes are available on cambridgeshire.gov.uk/info/20017/buses
The Cambridgeshire Guided Busway provides reliable, fast and frequent connections between Cambridge, St Ives, Huntingdon and beyond with its direct track into the city. More information: stagecoachbus.com/ promos-and-offers/east/the-busway
BY TRAINCambridge Railway Station is about 20-minute walk (1 mile) or 10-minute cycle ride from the City Centre. In addition, there are numerous local buses and taxis available to provide convenient links between the railway station and the city centre.
Cambridge has four centrally located multi-storey car parks and three surface car parks that provide parking. The car parks are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and operate on a pay on foot basis. Parking after 6pm in city centre car parks is free of charge. More information please visit cambridge.gov.uk/parking
BY BIKEIf you fancy taking to two wheels you certainly won’t be alone in Cambridge. Details of cycle park locations and the best routes around the city are available at cambridge.gov.uk/cycling-and-walking
There are a number of pick up and drop off points for the electric Voi Scooters. A great way to get around the city quickly. Please read the T&C’s on the Voi Website and always use responsibly. voiscooters.com
