A guide to art and architecture in Cambridge, England
Cambridge is exactly what it’s cracked up to be, especially in the autumn: crunching leaves underfoot, students whizzing past on bicycles, and an atmospheric glowing light when the sun comes out. Cambridge is full of charming places, one of the most popular day trips from London, but perhaps less well known as an art destination. It has some wonderful hidden gems which you will discover on my itinerary for seeing the best art and architecture in Cambridge.
Architecture of the Cambridge Colleges
Entry prices vary; many are free
The primary thing to do in Cambridge is to visit the colleges and wander around the university. Each college has its own terms of entry; many are free but some cost to enter. See this helpful overview of the Cambridge Colleges.
Peterhouse is one of my favourite free colleges and I always have a wander around after visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum.
King’s College is the most popular to enter because of its stunning chapel featuring intricate fan vaulting. Every evening at sunset there is an Evensong service, which you can attend for free to get a glimpse inside.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Free
The Fitzwilliam Museum is little-known but is a sort of mini National Gallery with masterpieces spanning from Ancient Egypt to 20th C painting. The architecture of the gallery is stunning, and I especially love the Greek galleries which are airy and bright despite being in the basement. The Fitzwilliam Museum regularly puts on temporary exhibitions that highlight their collection, such as the recent Hockney show, the Painter’s Eye.
Kettle’s Yard
Free — book ahead for house visit
Kettle’s Yard is a house museum that was originally the home of Jim and Helen Ede, who carefully curated the cottage to display a wonderful collection of modern artwork and complementary objects. The house is now attached to a contemporary gallery with rotating exhibitions.
You must book ahead to reserve a space in a timed tour group. Kettle’s Yard is one of the most wonderful house museums I have ever had the pleasure to visit. Each corner is so artfully arranged but so simple and almost spontaneous at the same time. The dialogue this creates between objects is beautiful.
The Women’s Art Collection at Murray Edwards College
Free
The Women’s Art Collection at Murray Edwards College is a very hidden gem. The collection is simply displayed within the college itself, and when you visit the guard at the entrance will explain the layout of the collection. It feels very casual because of this, but has some outstanding artworks from very significant contemporary women artists. The guard was very surprised that I came all the way to the college on my day in Cambridge, but it’s only a ten minute walk from Kettle’s Yard and I’m glad I visited. I do envy the young women who study here and the everyday access they have to such wonderful works of art.
Extra things to do in Cambridge
There’s plenty to see, eat and do in Cambridge. Here are some of my favourite things to add in along the way.
Fitzbillies
Famous for their Chelsea Buns but full of goodies for brunch or afternoon tea.
Rose Crescent
Astonishingly beautiful street lined with shops and an awning of flowers.
Dulcis
Italian small dessert bites. I love trying as many desserts as possible in one sitting—so this is the place for me. It is situated on Rose Crescent.
Views from Great St. Mary’s Church tower
Climb the tower for a stunning view over the architecture of Cambridge university.
Cambridge Market Square
Market stalls are open here every day of the week. Flowers, vintage clothing, street food and more to discover.
Punting on the River Cam
Hire a punt in the river for secret views of the university that you can’t access any other way.
