Free Walking Tours in Cambridge
Cambridge University has stood faithfully in its place for over 800 years and has educated some of history’s greatest minds. You might think the university and town of Cambridge would be a dusty, medieval relic. But with a legacy of nearly a millennium, the campus’s story goes far beyond academia. While its stone buildings make up one of the world’s most highly venerated schools, the hallowed halls have their fair share of quirks. Book a free walking tour in Cambridge to discover the facts and legends behind this ancient establishment.
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Cambridge University has stood faithfully in its place for over 800 years and has educated some of history’s greatest minds. You might think the university and town of Cambridge would be a dusty, medieval relic. But with a legacy of nearly a millennium, the campus’s story goes far beyond academia.
While its stone buildings make up one of the world’s most highly venerated schools, the hallowed halls have their fair share of quirks. Book a free walking tour in Cambridge to discover the facts and legends behind this ancient establishment.
Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most engaging sightseeing tours in Cambridge.
How do free walking tours work?
Free walking tours in Cambridge have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.
These tours differ from walking tours in that they are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.
How much should you tip?
When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.
Most tour participants tend to tip between £10 and £15 per person, but some people tip as much as £50 for outstanding tours.
What are the best free walking tours in Cambridge?
Essential Cambridge free walking tours
Cambridge’s scores of colleges, chapels, greenspaces and bridges over the River Cam make for the perfect setting for a stroll. Add the knowledge of a guide, and a free one, at that, and you’ll fill your eyes, ears and mind with all things Cambridge on a 2-hour essential Cambridge walking tour.
Run by locals, you’ll have an expert leading your free walking tour of the city and campus. The university was founded in 1209, and the city dates back to the Bronze Age. With the passing of time, the area has collected a long list of noteworthy alumni and plenty of stories that your guide is eager to tell.
Most tours start at Market Hill, the town’s Saxon-era commercial center. Glimpse the colorful shop stalls before moving on to the university’s landmarks. You’ll pause in front of some of the most prestigious colleges such as Gonville and Caius, King’s and Pembroke. Admire the stalwart architecture and hear of the famous people who once studied there.
Cambridge is dotted with churches, chapels and abbeys that have brought comfort to the faithful for years. Take in Great Saint Mary’s Church, the venue for Steven Hawking’s funeral, and the aptly named Round Church which dates to the 12th century. Other photo-worthy places of worship are St Edward’s Abbey, St Botolph’s Church and King’s College Chapel.
Pass by Cavendish Laboratories to learn of the nearly 30 Nobel Prize-winning physicists who have made advancements there. Locate the Eagle, a pub where Watson and Crick toasted to the discovery of DNA in 1953. Process the volume of theatrical talent cultivated at Downing College, where Emma Thompson, Rowan Atkinson and more cut their acting teeth.
Let some of Cambridge’s eccentricities lighten the mood as you step onto the Mathematical Bridge, a structure built in 1749. Cross it to witness an optical illusion that has delighted visitors since then. Remind yourself of “carpe diem” at the Corpus Clock. This “chronophage” or “time-eater” features a grasshopper-like creature who advances the clock gears.
As you spy the stately expanses of Trinity College, imagine how Lord Byron once was allowed to keep a pet bear while he lived there. Hear the grizzly story of how Oliver Cromwell’s decapitated head came to rest on the Sidney Sussex College grounds. And chuckle at the cattle who are allowed to graze in Cambridge’s green spaces.
An insider’s look at Cambridge free walking tour
Join a current student of Cambridge University for a tour with a unique perspective. You’ll get all the history and attractions that you would in an essential Cambridge tour, and also get a feel for a student's life at this ancient institution. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of a true expert's knowledge.
Learn about what it’s like to study in a locale where so many brilliant humans have gotten their start. Hear how students in the 21st century carry on traditions while also bringing some that match the changing of the times. Get a chance to ask questions like when and why students wear academic robes and what it’s like to learn in a “supervision".
In which languages is it operated?
You can take a free walking tour in Cambridge in English, Spanish or Italian, making them accessible to a number of tourists.
Where does it start?
Most free walking tours begin at Market Hill. Insider’s look tours meet at the Round Church. All locations are easily accessible and foot.
How long does it last?
You’ll spend about 2 hours touring Cambridge’s highlights on a free walking tour.
Is it wheelchair friendly?
Free walking tours in Cambridge can accommodate wheelchair users. Please indicate your needs at the time of booking so that guides may prepare accordingly.
When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Cambridge?
The best time for a free walking tour in Cambridge is in spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November). During these periods the weather is mild with temperatures ranging between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, and there are fewer tourists than in the peak summer season.
Should you book tickets online?
Booking free walking tours in Cambridge online ensures your spot, as they are popular and get booked up very quickly. These tours also have limited spots available to ensure the quality of the tour— with some maximum capacities being limited to as few as 10 people.
Reserving your spot on a tour is completely free and can be done with a few simple clicks through the online booking platform. Arrive in Cambridge with your tour already booked and make the most out of your time.