10 Reasons to study in… Cambridge

Trying to decide which town or city to study in isn’t easy. With so many options, where do you even begin? To make life easier, we’ve put together 10 reasons why you should choose Cambridge.

1. The rich academic history

Does the idea of walking in the footsteps of one of THE greatest scientists the world has ever known appeal to you? If so, a visit to the grounds of Trinity College Cambridge is a must. Sir Isaac Newton spent his entire academic life at the college, and carried out most of his experiments here. We can’t promise you’ll be as successful as he was, but you never know…

2. You’ll meet loads of friendly people

Cambridge may be a city, but it feels as warm and welcoming as some of the UK’s smallest towns. Getting around is easy-peasy (especially if you have a bicycle), and residents are always quick to offer friendly advice if you’re new and want to know the best places to visit.

3. The world’s best minds studied here

There’s a reason why Cambridge has a reputation for academic excellence. Some of the finest poets, authors, scientists and politicians the world has ever known have studied here.

Notable alumni of Trinity College include the poet Lord Byron, philosopher Francis Bacon, and author AA Milne. Want to explore Trinity College for yourself? Visitors are able to tour the grounds during public opening hours. Just remember, access is off-limits during exams and at certain times of the day.

4. You can pretend you’re the lead in a rom-com

There’s no better way to take in the bridges, colleges and historic highlights of Cambridge than by river. A chauffeured punt tour along the River Cam is the perfect excuse to take it easy and see the sights – not to mention feel like the star of your very own rom-com. If you’re feeling adventurous (or have someone to impress), why not hire out a punt of your own for an hour or two. DON’T. FALL. IN.

5. The shopping!

With its prime position in the centre of Cambridge, Grand Arcade definitely lives up to its name. This popular shopping destination is home to more than 60 luxury and high-street retailers, including John Lewis, Kurt Geiger, and Topshop.

If, like us, shopping makes you hungrier than Hades, you won’t have to search too long before you find something that takes your fancy. Grand Arcade also makes eating out easy, with a range of casual cafes and restaurants to choose from. Our favourites include Krispy Kreme (for those days when only a doughnut-shaped sugar infusion will do) and Ed’s Diner (great for both light bites and cocktails).

6. It’s a haven for culture vultures

Cambridge is home to some of the country’s most weird and wonderful museums. From the iconic Fitzwilliam Museum (where you’ll find art and antiques dating back as far as 2500 BC), to the Centre for Computing History (where you will be actively encouraged to play as many computer games as you can. Get in!), this is one city that knows how to engage its visitors.

If you’re into science, you’ll love the Whipple Museum of the History of Science. A veritable treasure trove of scientific paraphernalia, the museum holds a comprehensive collection of scientific instruments, some of which date all the way back to the 16th century. Mind. Blown.

7. You’ll never get sick of the stunning architecture

It’s easy to see why Cambridge is known as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. With its unique blend of old and new architectural styles, it offers students the incredible opportunity to live, work and study alongside some of the finest examples of Tudor, Victorian and medieval buildings in the country.

For a taste of English Gothic architecture at its finest, visit King’s College Chapel. Built between 1446 and 1515, the chapel is so awe-inspiring and beautiful (especially inside), that it brings many visitors to tears. Make sure you’re well stocked up on Kleenex.

8. Have you SEEN Cambridge?

One look at recent Cambridge posts on Instagram is all you’ll need to fall in love with the beauty of this incredible city. Every post looks like a movie still.

9. The nightlife is legendary

If you think you’ll struggle for things to do in Cambridge when the sun goes down, think again. For the best cocktails you’ve ever had, visit Hidden Rooms – a bar and live music venue famed for its creativity and prestigious spirits. Want to avoid the tourists and enjoy a quality pint of real ale? You could do a lot worse than The Maypole, where you’ll find the winning student pub combo of great beer, great service and great prices.

10. There’s loads of fresh air

Cambridge isn’t short of nature to explore. Our favourites green spaces include Cambridge University Botanical Gardens and Jesus Green – both perfect places to visit when you’re in need of hit of nature’s Valium: fresh air.