Cambridge City Guide, Including Cambridge Hotels
by Ms Maria Williams
Cambridge combines the best of traditional and modern life in one city. The towers, quadrangles and gardens of its 31 colleges create the Cambridge's spectacular landscape. At the same time, visitors enjoy the best in theatre, music and live entertainment in Cambridge's many festivals and theatres. A great spot to visit all year round, Cambridge is host to many thousands of visitors, and endures as one of England's most popular places to visit.
Places of Interest
On every corner of the city, there is at least one building or view that is worth visiting and exploring. There are also places off the beaten path that are definitely worth a short excursion.
The University--take a guided tour of Cambridge's 31 famous colleges. You can spend time investigating these colleges for a day or for weeks.
Moggerhanger Park--This Georgian Grade I Historic house is a jewel in the Bedfordshire Countryside. It has undergone a gradual renovation process, and fits the striking and original design of Sir John Soane.
Cromwell Museum--Sir Oliver Cromwell, born in 1599 attended this former school along with Samuel Pepys. Now a museum, this collection features objects once belonging to the former Lord Protector and his family.
Fenner's Field--Have a pint, some crisps and watch a cricket match in the University's cricket field. You can view a match in April, May or June.
ADC Theatre--The oldest theatre in Cambridge, this venue is home to the finest student productions as well as community theatrical projects.
Things To Do
Whatever your interests, you can find a variety of activities in Cambridge. Whether music is your passion or you prefer taking a nature hike, there is always something going on in Cambridge, regardless of the season.
Corn Exchange Festival--In the summertime, Cambridge is home to one of East Anglia's finest events during which you can experience the best in every genre of music, comedy and drama.
Cambridge Folk Festival--described by the Daily Telegraph as Europe's most celebrated folk festival, this frequently sold-out event features folk music from every corner of the world.
Fireworks Display--Cambridge hosts the largest free fireworks display in England, and along with the impressive show, there is also free, live entertainment and a bonfire.
Debenham's--no trip to England is complete without a shopping excursion at one of the most frequently visited department stores in the country. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it here. Roman Road Walk--take a stroll back in time on a circular Roman road that will lead you through local fields and villages.
Food & Drink
In addition to visiting Cambridge superb sites, you will also need to grab a bite to eat now and again. Whether you prefer a formal meal, a light snack or a traditional English tea, you can easily find a place in Cambridge that suits your appetite and your budget. If you fancy a pint, there are many pubs to choose from as well.
Red Lion-16th century country pub in the lovely village of Hinxton serves traditional English fare and drinks.
Bun Shop--if you are looking for a restaurant and pub with a Mediterranean flavour, enjoy the tapas, the continental food and the Flamenco dancing at the Bun Shop. There is also a Quiz Night every Tuesday.
Maharaja Indian Tandoori--This is one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Cambridge, and it serves traditional Indian favourites, including Madras, Tandoori and Bhajis as well as piping hot vindaloo. The Anchor--This classic English pub has a riverfront terrace and serves English breakfasts as well as Sunday roasts.
Tatties--A good place to grab a quick bite to eat, this charming establishment specializes in jacket potatoes, snacks, coffee and tea and has a great selection of vegetarian dishes.
Hotel & Accommodations
Whether you are looking for a five-star hotel or a budget bed and breakfast, it is quite easy to find what you are looking for in Cambridge. There are many medium-priced Bed and Breakfasts or Guest Houses which are family run and provide amenities such as cable TV, quality bathrooms and showers, and hot beverages. Many offer free continental breakfasts or low-cost English breakfasts. For the adventurous, there are many camping grounds located outside of the city centre if you are keen on renting a caravan. For those who prefer self-catering, there are many houses and apartments available to let by the week.
Aylesbray Lodge Brooklands Guest House Sorrento Hotel & Restaurant Cambridge Garden House Moat House Centennial Hotel De Vere University Arms Hotel Royal Cambridge Acorn Guest House Best Western Gonville Hotel Ashtrees Guest House Arundel House Hotel Carolina Guest House Sleep Inn Cambridge The Meadowcroft Hotel Best Western-Connoisseur, Cambridge Quy Mill Hote Kirkwood House Hotel Felix Express by Holiday Inn Cambridge Dresden Villa Guest House The Cambridge Belfry Alpha Milton Guest House Cambridge Apartments Ltd Black Horse Motel
Entertainment
Theatre has a long and well-respected tradition in Cambridge, and it is in this city that many of today's popular entertainers made their foray into the performing arts. The Corn Exchange Theatre is the largest venue in the city, and hosts operas, large-scale professional productions and stand-up comedy. It is also worth investigating student talent as well, and the ABC, the oldest theatre in Cambridge, is worth a visit. The Mumford is the legendary student theatre in Cambridge and is the largest student venue. Drop by the Corpus playroom, which features student productions throughout the year.
If you prefer cinema, visit the Arts Picture House, which features foreign and mainstream films and also sponsors children's programs. The Vue Cinema has an 8 screen selection, with enough choices to suit every film fancier.
There are several notable festivals in Cambridge during the summer. The Cambridge Folk Festival is the finest of its kind in Europe and features an impressive and eclectic mix of traditional music, from Irish favourites to American blue grass. At the Corn Exchange Festival, you can hear any style of music that suites your taste. There are also comedy programs and theatrical productions on the schedule.
Regardless of your interests or the time of year you are planning to visit the city, Cambridge an outstanding array of nightlife, dining, entertainment, and sightseeing options. Even if you stay for months, it is unlikely that you will be able to experience everything Cambridge has to offer, so a return trip to this fantastic city should definitely be in your plans.
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