Cambridge A City of Happenings

Early historians claim that the city Cambridge inherited its name from the river cam and the bridge of sigh constructed over it. Thus bridging the cam is Cambridge. Quite justified is thy name.

On the way travelling by train the running eye-catching county sights, lush green panorama from the windowpane, trust me; it is simply unforgettable. And once you reach Cambridge metro station, the best way to see everything is to put on some walking shoes and take a tour.

There’s something for everyone when it comes to entertainment in Cambridge. Beside the most visited university, a choice of galleries showcase impressive range of art, from the contemporary to the classic, a buzzing theatre and performance scene presents drama, dance and family shows and you can enjoy all kinds of live music from internationally acclaimed orchestras and ensembles to touring pop stars, pub gigs, the world-famous Folk Festival, ever-popular Beer Festival, family-friendly Big Weekend and magical Secret Garden Party festivals. The list is endless.
Visit the university

The University of Cambridge is made up of 31 colleges imparting a world of several educational lineages. As one of the most acclaimed universities in the world today, the fascinating visit to the university lawns should never be missed.

While on the university campus, never leave the unforgettable experience of having a bed and breakfast accommodation in the colleges. Everyone is welcome and you don't have to be a student to book a stay.

These centrally-located bed and breakfast (B&B) or self-catering rooms are a cost effective alternative to staying in Cambridge hotels. Join in retracing the footsteps of acclaimed graduates from the university such as Newton, Darwin, Wordsworth, John Cheese, and Prince Charles, to name a few; eat in the college hall, wander through the college's gardens or take a punt along the river followed by a drink in the college bar.

Go on a punting tour
This is quintessentially Cambridge. Of course, this is also done in Oxford but not even half as well. Punting is a traditional Cambridge pastime. When you take a punting tour you’ll get to see famous landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs, all while relaxing and floating down the River Cam.

Enjoy a city bike tour
This is a great way to see as much of the city as possible in a short space of time. Bikes are available on meagre rent. Truly, it is the best way to explore this beautiful and fascinating city, which is famous for cycling. Get off the beaten track and discover hidden gems in the city.

Visit the churches and chapels
Cambridge is home to some of England’s most beautiful churches and chapels. St Peter’s Chapel is the smallest church in Cambridge and dates back to the 12th century. St Mary the Great is known as the university church and all distances in Cambridge are measured from its location as a mark of respect.

And of course don’t miss King’s College Chapel, a true masterpiece of English craftsmanship, which is celebrated for its choral services including the famous ‘A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols’ broadcast live by the BBC to the nation and across the globe on Christmas Eve. If you have a chance to hear the sublime Choir of King’s College, you will be enchanted.

Have a park picnic
The city is very well known for its vast green spaces. There are so many different parks that you can choose from and none of them will disappoint on a sunny day. So pack up a lunch, take your pick, and soak up some rays amidst greenery in abundance.

Spend the day at a museum
Cambridge is home to many diverse museums of the world. Head to the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum, where you can see more than half a million works of world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning centuries and civilisations, or check out the Museum of Cambridge, set in a 17th-century building, where you can learn all about the city. Or spend some time at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, where you can see world-class art and artefacts from all over the world.

Visit University Botanic Garden
More than 8,000 different plant species are displayed in 40 acres of beautiful landscape in the city centre. The attraction includes a lake, glasshouses, chronological bed, rock gardens and a collection of mature trees. It's only a short walk from the station and the city centre.

The round church
The unique circular building is one to visit without a second thought. Cambridge's second oldest building is architecturally stunning. The historic landmark has been visited by the likes of Bill Gates, the Dalai Lama and Queen Victoria.

Wandlebury County Park
If you fancy getting little out of the city centre then head a few miles south of Cambridge to Wandlebury Country Park; this space is perfect for a tranquil walk. And Gog Magog Hills Farm shop isn't far away if you want some quality meat to warm your journey.

The food tour
Want to head straight to some of Cambridge’s best places for all things food? Then Fitzbillies could be your possible destination. It’s Chelsea Buns are world famous. If you haven't tried these sticky treats then you're missing out. Fitzbillies also offer dinner service, a full menu of tasty dishes and other amazing cakes. It is best to book in advance as it gets very busy. It's not always easy to get around the city centre when it's packed with crowds.

Enjoy buskers and street performers festival
Buskers are a bunch of funny entertainers and an integral part of English cultural ethos. Over a three-day period in September, spreading throughout the city, buskers worldwide are invited to participate in a competition for the best performer as voted by the public.

And if you are a theatre lover, you definitely have your share of entertainment in this arena too. Take a stroll through the city streets and enjoy the Shakespearian classical theatres as well as modern ones and musical concerts in abundance.

By: Prof. Pranab K Bhattacharya
The writer is a professor and teaches Management in Indian and foreign universities