How long does it take to walk the Cambridge colleges?

The walk takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The total distance is relatively short (about 1 mile), but you will want extra time to admire the architecture, take photos, and potentially enter sites like King's College Chapel.

Is King's College Chapel worth visiting?

Yes, it is widely considered the most important architectural site in Cambridge. The fan-vaulted ceiling and medieval stained glass are world-class examples of Gothic art and are highly recommended for any visitor.

Can I go inside the colleges on this walking route?

Many colleges allow visitors for a small fee, though they may close during the 'Quiet Period' for exams in May and June. You can always view the magnificent gates and facades from the public streets even if the interiors are closed.

Is this Cambridge walking route accessible for wheelchairs?

The route is mostly flat, but the historic center has many cobblestone streets. While manageable, it can be a bumpy ride; however, the main pavements alongside the colleges are generally smooth and accessible.

When is the best time to do this walk?

Early morning (before 10:00 AM) is best to avoid the largest crowds. Weekdays are also generally quieter than weekends, especially during the peak summer tourist season.

Where can I find toilets along the route?

The most convenient public toilets are located in the Grand Arcade or Lion Yard shopping centers, which are just a few minutes' walk from the Senate House and King's College.

How do I get to the start of the walk from the train station?

You can take the 'Universal' bus (U) or the number 1 or 3 bus from the station to the city center (St Andrew's Street), then walk about 5 minutes to Gonville & Caius College.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a world where centuries of academic excellence meet breathtaking architectural grandeur. This self-guided walking route invites you to explore the historic heart of Cambridge, a city defined by its prestigious university and the scholars who have shaped human history within its walls. As you navigate the winding medieval streets and open plazas, you will encounter the very structures that have inspired thinkers from Sir Isaac Newton to Stephen Hawking. The journey begins at the intersection of tradition and innovation, leading you through a sequence of colleges that represent the pinnacle of English Gothic and Neoclassical design. This neighborhood stroll offers an intimate look at the University of Cambridge's most iconic sites without the constraints of a group schedule. You will see the majestic King’s College Chapel, a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, and the Senate House, where generations of students have celebrated their academic triumphs. The route also highlights the unique traditions of the colleges, such as the symbolic gates of Gonville & Caius and the regal entrance to Trinity College. Beyond the stone facades, you will discover the stories of rivalry, discovery, and royal patronage that have defined this institution since the 13th century. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a first-time visitor, this walking route provides the flexibility to linger at your favorite spots. You can pause to admire the intricate stonework of St John's or take a moment to reflect on the scholarly legacy of The Old Schools. This experience is more than just a walk; it is an invitation to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world's most famous university towns at your own pace. While some visitors might look for a traditional guided tour Cambridge offers, this independent audio walk allows you to truly connect with the city's spirit. By following this path, you gain a deeper understanding of how Cambridge evolved from a medieval trading post into a global center of learning. For anyone planning a walking tour Cambridge is best experienced through its quiet courts and monumental gates, which this route captures perfectly.

Highlights

Marvel at the soaring Gothic ceiling of King's College Chapel

See the 'Gate of Honour' at Gonville & Caius College

View the neoclassical Senate House, the site of university graduations

Admire the Great Gate of Trinity College and its royal history

Explore the Tudor-style architecture of St John's College

Walk the historic streets that hosted Newton, Darwin, and Hawking

Tour Stops (6)

Gonville & Caius College

Welcome to one of the oldest and most influential colleges in Cambridge. Founded in 1348, Gonville & Caius—pronounced 'Keys'—is a place where tradition is literally built into the architecture. Look for the three famous gates: the Gate of Humility, through which students enter; the Gate of Virtue, which they pass through daily; and the Gate of Honour, through which they walk to receive their degrees at the Senate House. This college has a long-standing reputation for excellence in medicine and science, famously serving as the academic home of Stephen Hawking for over 50 years. The blend of medieval and Victorian structures here reflects the college's continuous evolution over seven centuries of academic life.

Senate House

Standing before you is the ceremonial heart of the University. This stunning neoclassical building, designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1730, is where the university’s most important business is conducted, most notably the graduation ceremonies. On graduation days, you might see students in full academic dress queuing outside. The building is constructed from Portland stone and is a prime example of the Palladian style that was popular in the 18th century. In 1958, this site gained local notoriety when a group of engineering students managed to hoist an Austin Seven van onto the roof overnight—a legendary prank that took the authorities nearly a week to dismantle.

The Old Schools

Tucked away behind the Senate House lies The Old Schools, the original site of the university's teaching and administration. Parts of this complex date back to the 14th century, making it some of the oldest university fabric in existence. For centuries, this was the location of the University Library and the Divinity, Law, and Arts schools. Today, it houses the central administrative offices of the University. The courtyard architecture shows a fascinating transition from medieval brickwork to more modern additions. As you stand here, you are at the very spot where the bureaucratic and intellectual foundations of Cambridge were laid down long before the individual colleges became the dominant force they are today.

King's College Chapel

This is perhaps the most iconic image of Cambridge. King's College Chapel is a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, commissioned by Henry VI in 1441. It took five kings and over 70 years to complete. Inside, it features the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling and magnificent 16th-century stained glass windows. The chapel isn't just a museum; it is home to the world-famous Choir of King’s College, whose Christmas Eve services are broadcast to millions. Look for the 'R' and 'A' initials carved in the wooden screen inside, representing Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn—a rare surviving tribute to their ill-fated marriage. The scale and detail of the stonework remain a testament to royal ambition and medieval craftsmanship.

Trinity College Great Gate

You are now at the entrance to the wealthiest college in Cambridge. The Great Gate, completed in 1535, is guarded by a statue of King Henry VIII. Look closely at the scepter in his right hand—you'll notice it's actually a wooden chair leg. Local legend says it was swapped by students as a prank years ago, and the college decided to keep it. Trinity has produced more Nobel Prize winners than many entire countries and was the home of Sir Isaac Newton. Just outside the gate, you can see a descendant of the famous apple tree that allegedly inspired his theory of gravity. The sheer scale of the Great Court beyond the gate is a symbol of the college's immense prestige.

St John's College

The final stop on our walk is St John's College, famous for its magnificent Tudor brickwork and its rivalry with neighboring Trinity. The Great Gate here is adorned with the 'yales'—mythical beasts with elephant tails and goat bodies—and the arms of Lady Margaret Beaufort, the college's foundress and mother of Henry VII. St John's is also home to the Bridge of Sighs, which crosses the River Cam. While named after the famous bridge in Venice, Queen Victoria is said to have found this version even more beautiful. The college's sprawling grounds and historic courts provide a perfect summary of the architectural and academic grandeur that makes Cambridge so unique.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the central colleges is the best way to see the city's history. This route covers the most significant sites including King's College Chapel and Trinity College, allowing you to explore the 800-year-old university history at your own pace.