In and around Cambridge
Cambridge is a small city about 50 minutes north of London on the train. Students account for about a fifth of the city's population (there are around 28,500 here) and are a significant and important part of the community. As a result Cambridge is a great place to be a student.
Cambridge is a beautiful city, one that combines and embraces the old and the new. You're surrounded by historic architecture as well as ultra-modern buildings. It has the charm and welcoming feel of a small town as well as the variety and energy of a larger city.
However you like to spend your time, there's always something to keep you entertained - whether that's having coffee with friends, going punting, catching a film, having a night out, or getting involved in clubs and societies.
Further information about Cambridge and guides to what's on in the city can be found at: www.visitcambridge.org.
Entertainment
Cambridge certainly likes to keep its residents and students entertained. There are four theatres, three cinemas, and two major entertainment venues - The Junction and The Corn Exchange (offering varied programmes which include comedy, drama, dance, concerts and club nights) - plus numerous other events, fairs and festivals throughout the year.
Music
Live music is a big part of life in the city, as well as in the University. There's something on offer for every musical taste - from buskers in the street and gigs in pubs, to classical concerts and big name acts.
Amongst many others, Alt-J, Rizzle Kicks, Professor Green, Wretch 32, Paloma Faith, Kaiser Chiefs, Marina and the Diamonds, McFly and The Maccabees have all performed in Cambridge during the last year.
Cambridge also plays host to a world famous Folk Festival and an up-and-coming Rock Festival.
Pubs, clubs and restaurants
Cambridge is well known for its great range of pubs - there are more than 100 to choose from before you even start to count the dozens of College and University bars! There are also several clubs in the city, offering the various music nights you'd expect, as well as cheap entry and offers for students.
There's a great selection of places to eat too; something for any mood, palate, occasion and price range. Better still, your Cambridge student card (which you'll receive when you start at the University) will get you discounts and special deals at numerous restaurants and cafés.
Shopping
Within Cambridge's four shopping centres and the city centre streets, most high street names are represented, as well as many independent shops and boutiques.
The daily market on Market Square sells everything from jewellery and vintage clothes to bread and fruit; and at the weekend there are also farmers', and arts and crafts markets.
In addition, in the vibrant and eclectic range of shops, cafés and restaurantson Mill Road, you can find just about anything from just about anywhere in the world and to suit any budget, all on one street!
Outside the city
If you want to explore further afield, there's plenty more to discover and activities outside the city include:
- numerous walking and cycling routes from the city centre to nearby villages
- Ely Cathedral and various local National Trust properties, such as Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve
- karting, a high-wire obstacle course, a real snow slope, and skydiving in a wind tunnel