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London Day Itineraries , Travel , UK Travel · August 16, 2023

How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cambridge from London in 2024 (+ Itinerary)

Cambridge-England

Here’s how to plan the perfect day trip from Cambridge to London. So you can trade the London hustle for a day of wandering cobblestoned streets, lazy punting and perusing one of the best university grounds in the world, enjoy!

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Dripping in ancient pubs, cobblestoned roads and one of the most prestigious universities in the world — Cambridge is one of the best places to escape London for the day.

In this post, I’ll be sharing all the deets on planning the perfect day trip from the Big Smoke to the historic university town including how to get from London to Cambridge, what to pack and the best things to do in Cambridge to make the most of your day. Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents

How to get from London to Cambridge

day trip to cambridge from london by train

The best way to get from London to Cambridge is by train, taking just 1 hour and 16 minutes! Just be sure to book your train ticket in advance .

What to Pack for a Cambridge Day Trip from London

Cambridge-city-centre-england

As it’s only a day trip to London from Cambridge you won’t need to pack much. But here are the essentials:

• Layers: the weather in Cambridge is quite similar to London, so you’ll want to be prepared for random weather changes; i.e bring a light jacket

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: you can’t do a day trip without them!

• Umbrella: because you can’t escape UK weather

• Power Bank: you’ll definitely need your phone to handle bookings and tickets throughout the day so make sure to keep charged up ( here’s the one I use! )

• Camera: to capture all your memories in one of England’s most aesthetically blessed cities

• Snacks and Water: great for snacking on the coach and keeping hydrated with all that exploring you’ll be doing!

Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary: Best Things to do in Cambridge

Riverside-in-Cambridge

Walk along Regent Street

Reality-Checkpoint-Cambridge-England

As soon your coach arrives in Cambridge you’ll be dropped off smack in the city centre.

Take a walk past the famed Reality Checkpoint (the oldest lampost in the city) and peruse down to Regent Street.

Dotted with cafes, pubs, restaurants and cosy shops it’s a great starting place to get a feel for the area and take in Cambridge for the first time.

Visit the Fitzwilliam Musuem

Fitzwilliam-Musueum-UK

After walking through the city centre for a bit we decided to head to a true Cambridge gem — The Fitzwilliam Museum .

The University of Cambridge’s art and antique museum houses millions of paintings, artefacts and statues from around the world, all under one roof.

Museums (for me at least) can tend to mesh into one over time, but this one didn’t disappoint. The stories behind each of the pieces were fascinating, so much so that we almost forgot we had to get moving — more day trip activities await!

Tour the University of Cambridge Colleges

Kings-College-Cambridge-England

Of course, if you’re in Cambridge you’ve got to visit the University of Cambridge’s campuses.

The most renowned are King’s College (home to the beautiful King’s College Chapel) and Trinity College , both of which you’ll need to book to visit.

But as all their campuses are splattered across the city you’re bound to pass by a few whilst you’re out and about exploring either way 🙂

Roam the Cambridge Botanical Garden

Glasshouse-Range-Botancial-Gardens-Cambridge

Once you’ve had a good lay of the Cambridge land you can roam and relax in the Cambridge Botanical Garden .

Associated with the University of Cambridge’s plant science department the garden covers 40 acres of over 8,000 plant species.

Tickets are free for children and £6.30 for adults (100% worth it). We spent around an hour or so walking along the lush green spaces and dripping fountains, wandering through lily pads in the Glasshouse Range and trying to remind ourselves that we were still in Cambridge!

Have a Bite & a Pint at Anchor Cambridge

Anchor-Pub-Cambridge-England

All this exploring is sure to leave you hungry (we were!) so once you leave the Botanical Gardens, walk back to the city centre and have a bite and a pint at the Anchor Pub .

It’s right along the riverside so you can watch the punters go by and soak in the Cambridge sun like a local.

Browse through Cambridge Market Square

Cambridge-Market-Square

It’s not every day you can browse through markets that have been kicking it since the middle ages — which is exactly why you’ll want to visit Cambridge Market Square .

Everything from international foods to second-hand books and vintage clothing is on offer here. So spend some time supporting the lovely independent traders and grabbing a cake or pastry.

See the View from Great St Mary’s Church

St-Great-Marys-Church

One of the best things to do for a day trip from Cambridge to London is take the views — church style. The Great St Mary’s Church holds one of the best views in Cambridge with 360° of the city right at your fingertips.

Tickets are £6 for adults (which goes towards the church) but there’s a catch…it’s 123 steps to get there.

I’ll admit, that climb was not fun . But worth it? Yes. Triple yes.

Go Punting…Cambridge Style

Cambridge-Punting-England

Of course, you can’t end a day in Cambridge without some good ole punting.

Along Silver Street you’ll see tons of punting companies prying for new customers, but I suggest booking your tour in advance.

If you find yourself short on time or not keen for the punt (is that a phrase?) I still suggest saving some minutes to sit along the riverside and watch the punters go by.

Cambridge in a Day Map

Happy Londoning,

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The World Was Here First

The Perfect Cambridge Day Trip from London Itinerary

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

day trip to cambridge from london by train

As one of the most popular destinations in the UK, doing a Cambridge day trip from London is a great option if you’re visiting or living in the British capital.

Over 400,000 tourists visit Cambridge every year and there are plenty of good reasons for it. Cambridge is one of the most well-known universities in the world, with famous alumni including Sir Isaac Newton and Steven Hawking.

The city of Cambridge is built around the university and colleges, creating a buzzing atmosphere filled with students, beautiful architecture, fascinating history and plenty of places to eat and drink!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Cambridge from London

If you’re staying in London and are planning to take this trip in advance, I highly recommend buying train tickets online to save money.

A return ticket from Kings Cross bought at the train station on the day will typically cost more compared to if you buy your ticket in advance online.

Regardless of whether the fares are cheaper or not, it is also more convenient to buy online as the lines can be quite long at Kings Cross particularly during rush hour and on the weekends. Click here to browse train schedules and book online.

The train is undoubtedly the most convenient and fastest way to get from London to Cambridge. The journey time varies depending on which train you end up on how the fastest trains take approximately 50 minutes.

Famous King's College

If you want to save a few more pennies and aren’t concerned with the journey taking a bit longer than you can also choose to get to Cambridge by bus.

Buses to Cambridge leave from London Victoria Coach Station and take approximately 2 hours one way. The bus might, in fact, prove to be more convenient if you are staying in South London or near Victoria Station. Click here to browse bus schedules and book online.

While visiting Cambridge from London as part of a guided tour is certainly not the most budget-friendly way to see the city, it is a popular option for many travellers.

If your London budget allows it, it’s also a great way to combine visiting both Oxford and Cambridge in one day. This guided tour and this day tour includes visits to both cities with a walking tour and free time included in both Oxford & Cambridge.

Alternatively, this guided tour is perfect for travellers that only want to visit Cambridge and also includes a guided walking tour as well as free time to explore yourself. You can also book a private tour.

If you are planning a longer itinerary through England (and possibly Scotland, Wales or Ireland!) , then renting a car is a great option to see the UK!

If you are renting your car from London and heading north it might make sense to head to Cambridge on your way out of London rather than visiting as a day trip.

When renting a car in the UK or anywhere in Europe, we recommend browsing RentalCars.com to compare prices.

Cambridge University Grounds

Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary

Walking tour of cambridge.

Cambridge University has been around since the 13th century and being on a budget shouldn’t be an excuse to not finding out more about its fascinating history during your one day in Cambridge.

There are a number of tours that you can take through Cambridge, however, one of the best ways to save money is to go on a free walking tour with Footprint Tours. 

All their tours are run by knowledgeable local guides who will not only take you around to all the main sites in Cambridge but also share fascinating history and amusing anecdotes about the city and university life. Their tours run daily at 11 AM and 2 PM and go for approximately two hours.

Our guide was a PhD student at Cambridge who brought the city to life through his stories and he clearly had a passion for showing people around the city he has called home for a couple of years. While these tours are technically free, please leave a tip at the end if you enjoy the tour as the guides don’t otherwise get paid.

If the timing of the free walking tour doesn’t work out, then another affordable option is to take this paid walking tour. It is run by Cambridge Alumni Tours and takes you on a similar route of the free walking tour. It runs several times per day and goes for approximately 90 minutes.

Cambridge Market

After touring the city and learning about its history and some interesting anecdotes about Cambridge, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite. And there is no better place to grab a quick and unique bite to eat than at the Cambridge Market.

Located at Cambridge Market Hill in the centre of the city, this area has been home to markets and operating as a market square since the Saxon times and today is no different.

An open-air market runs daily here from 10 AM to 4 PM. On Monday through Saturday, the general market runs where you can get everything from fresh fruits and vegetable, a food truck meal and even things like clothing, jewellery or records.

On Sundays, the market focuses more prominently on local crafts and food, though you do get an assortment of that all week long.

Browsing the market is not only a great idea for everyone in your party to get exactly what they want to eat but it is also a fantastic way to support local farmers, chefs and artisans.

If the weather is fine, it can be an even better idea to pick up some various items from the vendors and make yourself a little picnic to eat along the Backs while watching the punters along the River Cam.

Peaceful Cam River - a great place to enjoy a snack from the Cambridge Market!

Fitzwilliam Museum

If you’re looking for a renowned museum to visit in this historic town, there is no better place to visit on a day trip than the famed Fitzwilliam Museum.

Run by the University of Cambridge, this museum is filled with fascinating antiquities and art ranging from ancient Egyptian artefacts to impressionist paintings.

There are lots of collections to visit in the Fitzwilliam Museum and you likely could spend an entire day in this museum if you’re not careful, so it’s recommended to prioritise what appeals to your interest most.

The Fitzwilliam is home to a collection of Eqyptian artefacts that is rivalled only by the British Museum in London. Or, if you’re more interested in paintings, the museum houses collections from artists ranging from Monet to Picasso to Rembrandt to Cézanne to Degas to Van Gogh.

Like the majority of the wonderful museums in England, entry into the Fitzwilliam is free of charge, however, you do need to book a ticket in advance for some special exhibitions. You can do that online through their website .

Visit the Colleges

There are 31 colleges in Cambridge which are the residential halls of all the students studying in Cambridge. Some of the most famous colleges, including King’s College and Trinity College, are steeped in tradition, making them popular tourist destinations and hence charging admission to visit.

One way to get around this is to just visit the grounds of places like King’s College which lets you get a close look at the colleges without paying admission.

Alternatively, for Trinity College, there is a secret entrance to see the colleges by entering through the small gate on Trinity Lane which doesn’t charge admission.

If you do decide to visit the colleges during your day trip to Cambridge, please be mindful that these are people’s homes and be respectful. Also during exam season, the colleges are closed to visitors so please respect that and don’t sneak into the colleges!

Trinity College in Cambridge

One of the most popular tourist activities is to go punting along the River Cam. The cheapest option to go punting is to share a boat with a number of tourists. You can also rent your own boat if you have the budget

If both these options sound too expensive, follow the lead of local students who sit along the banks of the River Cam and enjoy watching all of the tourists and amateurs who may not be the most adept at this activity.

The River Cam is quite narrow so on a warm sunny day when there are a number of boats in the river, there is plenty of carnage to watch as dumbfounded tourists struggle to navigate.

The highlight is undoubtedly watching some amateurs get their poles stuck in the river and then having to paddle backward to retrieve it.

If you want to go punting on the River Cam but don’t want to do the hard work yourself, then I recommend booking this affordable guided shared punting tour . It’s a 45-minute tour along the River Cam where you will learn more about the history of Cambridge.

punting river cam

Dinner at a Student Favourite or Cosy Pub

There is nothing students like more than cheap food and as Cambridge is predominately made up of students, there are several cheap restaurants where you can get a bite to eat.

In particular, there is some great cheap, tasty and filling Asian food. We can highly recommend Yippee Noodle Bar, for example, which is located in the centre of town and is extremely popular with students.

If you want to experience a traditional British pub during your one day in Cambridge then it’s best to head there during lunchtime if you are visiting England on a budget.

Some pubs that offer significant discounts on meals during the rush hour which while probably won’t be as cheap as a meal deal or Asian food, can be incredibly good value for the price you pay.

Cambridge offers countless pubs to choose from. The Eagle , for instance, has been open since 1667 if you’re looking for a bit of history with your pint. The Cambridge Brew House is also a great option, which serves out local craft beer if you’re after something a bit more trendy.

If you’re in Cambridge on Sunday, you can also choose to indulge in a classic British Roast. For those of you not familiar with this quintessentially British tradition, on Sundays, pubs serve a roast lunch where you choose your roast meat (many pubs will also have a vegetarian option!) and it is served with potatoes, vegetables, gravy and a Yorkshire pudding.

Traditional Sunday Roast

A trip to Cambridge from London is a fascinating day out and certainly doesn’t need to be expensive if you follow these tips!

Have you been to Cambridge? What is your favourite part of the city? Let us know in the comments below!

day trip to cambridge from london by train

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thanks for the detailed post and useful information, Maggie!

Thanks! Happy you found it helpful 🙂

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A Lady in London

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Cambridge Day Trip Guide

I love a good day trip. Whether it’s a jaunt to the seaside or a visit to a famous cathedral city, there are a lot of good options . But one of my favorite day trips from London is a university city. If you love heritage architecture and pretty streets, read on for A Lady in London’s guide to a Cambridge day trip.

Cambridge Day Trip

Cambridge Day Trip

I’ve been to Cambridge many times, and I discover more to love about it on every visit.

A friend who was born and raised in Cambridge is traveling with me today, so I know I’m going to be introduced to some new places on this trip. I can’t wait.

How to Get to Cambridge

There are a lot of ways to get here. The most popular way to travel to Cambridge from London is by train. Trains depart from King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations regularly, and the journey time is less than an hour on faster services.

The train station in Cambridge is a bit of a walk from the city center, but there are buses if you don’t want to make the journey on foot.

Punting in Cambridge

You can also get from London to Cambridge by bus. Services leave from Victoria Coach Station.

The station is not only easy to get to from Victoria station, but also conveniently located on Elizabeth Street , one of the prettiest streets in London. If you arrive early you can photograph some of the pretty floral facades before you go.

The drive from London to Cambridge takes around 2 hours. While it’s a longer journey time than the train, the coach drops passengers off in the center of town on the edge of Parker’s Piece park, which is closer than the train station.

Whatever way you choose to travel, it’s easy to get out and dive right into all Cambridge has to offer.

And it has a lot to offer.

Bookshop in Cambridge

Regent Street in Cambridge

To that end, we start on Regent Street, one of the main streets in Cambridge.

There are shops and restaurants everywhere, one of which belongs to a relative of my friend’s. Cambridge Farmers’ Outlet has all kinds of produce and prepared foods for sale in a sweet historic setting.

Down the street, we snag a table by the window at the Old Bicycle Shop, a restaurant and cafe housed in a space that once claimed to be Britain’s oldest bike store.

Coffee and croissants give us energy for our Cambridge day trip, and soon we’re off to explore.

Coffee at Old Bicycle Shop in Cambridge

Cambridge Market

We head to Cambridge Market, a lively cluster of stalls by Great St Mary’s Church. This daily market has everything from decadent brownies to wicker baskets for sale, and we browse the wares and sample fresh falafel as we go.

We’re tempted to stop for everything from ramen to chocolate cake, but we hold back given we’re on our way to lunch next.

Cambridge Market

Lunch on a Cambridge Day Trip

From the market we head to the Eagle, one of the most famous pubs in Cambridge. Dating back centuries, it’s known for its connections to Watson and Crick of DNA fame, as well as to the Royal Air Force.

The Eagle’s warren of wood-paneled rooms makes it a quintessential British pub, which is just what my friend and I want for our lunch.

The bartenders are friendly and the place buzzing. We settle into a round table by a window and feast on vegan burgers and fries.

Vegan Burger and Fries

Things to Do in Cambridge

After lunch, we continue our Cambridge day trip with a walk around the town center . The historic college buildings and their chapels awe us with their beauty, and little lanes like Portugal Place are perfect spots for photos.

Portugal Place, Cambridge

The 12th-century Round Church is as eye-catching as ever, and the views from Magdalene Bridge are classic Cambridge.

View from Magdalene Bridge in Cambridge

We walk around King’s College, with its stunning chapel and manicured lawns. It’s one of the most famous colleges in Cambridge, and for good reason. The architecture alone makes it worth a visit.

King's College, Cambridge

From King’s College we stroll down Trumpington Street, with its busy shops and cafes.

Turning off, we weave our way through side streets to Queen’s College. Eventually we make our way to Silver Street, where we watch the punts go under the Mathematical Bridge.

Rolls Royce in Cambridge

Pub in Cambridge

And just like that, it’s pub o’clock. We grab a table on the terrace of The Anchor, a famous pub on the River Cam. Rose lemonade goes down a treat as the boats glide by beside us.

Punts on the River Cam

The Backs and The Cam

Leaving The Anchor, our Cambridge day trip continues as we head to The Backs. This green space behind some of the colleges is peaceful and quiet, and it’s a great place for an afternoon walk.

The Backs, Cambridge

From The Backs, we cross the river again and sit on the banks by Scholar’s Lawn at Trinity College. Watching the punts is fun here, as we can hear the tour guides telling their passengers Cambridge legends and lore.

Punting on the River Cam

Cambridge Day Trip from London

As the sun starts to sink, we know our time is coming to an end. We make our way back to London and arrive in the UK capital just before dark.

Historic Building in Cambridge

Our Cambridge day trip has been everything we hoped, and it’s also reminded me how easy it is to get out of London and explore more of the UK for a day.

Now that I’ve remembered, I hope to bring you more day trips from London soon.

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6 Comments on Lady’s Cambridge Day Trip Guide

I spent my 40th birthday in Cambridge and had lunch at the Eagle. The RAF room with all its signatures reminded me of my Grandfather who flew night reconnaisance in the RAF. It was indeed lovely day. Do you have any shots of Kings College Chapel? That ceiling is jaw dropping!

That’s great! I have shots of the chapel in previous blog posts about Cambridge if you’d like to take a look.

Thanks for sharing this amazing post.

You’re welcome!

What a beautiful idea for a day trip! Cambridge looks ideal for that.. it offers enough to keep you interested, but it doesn’t overwhelm either.

Yeah, it’s a great one!

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Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary: What to Do in Cambridge For a Day

  • May 5, 2023

Things to do during a day in Cambridge

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

There are a million reasons why a Cambridge day trip from London is a must-do!

It’s no secret that Cambridge is one of the dreamiest places to visit in the UK. From punting along the River Cam, to exploring Cambridge University’s many sprawling colleges, to getting your knowledge fix in the Fitzwilliam Museum, there are so many interesting things to do.

Luckily, Cambridge is also a fairly small city, so it’s definitely possible to see the highlights in a day.

With hundreds of years of history, over 30 colleges, and countless other attractions to visit in the city, though, narrowing down all the things to do in Cambridge into a one day itinerary can be a challenge!

That’s where I come in.

I visit Cambridge five or six times a year because my boyfriend’s family lives there, so I’ve been spoilt for choice when it comes to opportunities to get out and explore Cambridge. Recently, I had a whole day to spend exploring the city. I decided to take full advantage of it! 

Visiting Cambridge University on a day trip from London

After so many great visits I decided to create the perfect guide to what to do in Cambridge for a day.

In this itinerary, you’ll visit the most beautiful colleges of Cambridge University, check out some fascinating historical landmarks, and even come face to face with a really bizarre clock.

Let’s begin! 

Table of Contents

Day Trip to Cambridge from London – How to Get There

One of the many perks of living in London is the many day trips you can do! A Cambridge trip is one of the easiest day trips from London since you can reach it on a direct train that takes just 54 minutes !

Trains depart multiple times an hour from Blackfriars, Liverpool Street, St Pancras and Kings Cross Stations in London.

The cheapest time to take a London to Cambridge day trip is, surprisingly, at the weekend. This is because on the weekend you can purchase the “ super off-peak day return ” train ticket, which costs just £15 . 

Christ's College, England

During weekdays, you’ll have to catch a peak train in the morning to get to Cambridge at a decent time, which will make your train tickets much more expensive!

Let’s move on to the itinerary. If you’re wondering what to see in Cambridge I’ve got you covered in the next section.

Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary

The earlier you can get to Cambridge on your day trip, the better! Most attractions open at 10am, so I recommend arriving at 9.30am since the train station is about a 15-minute walk away from the centre of Cambridge. 

There’s also another reason I recommend getting to Cambridge early…

Stop 1 – Hot Numbers Coffee 

The best coffee to try on your day trip to Cambridge

This coffee shop is on the way from Cambridge train station into the city, and it’s THE BEST COFFEE EVER! Seriously. Every time I visit Cambridge, I insist on visiting Hot Numbers . They play jazz music, the coffee is awesome and their breakfast offerings are second-to-none. 

What’s not to love?!

If the weather isn’t on your side you can enjoy your coffee inside Hot Numbers, but if it’s lovely, I recommend getting your coffee to go so that you can sip as you stroll.

Since it’ll be so early this is a unique opportunity to get your first glimpses of the city before the tourist madness descends. Make the most of the peace and quiet whilst it lasts!

Stop 2 – Christ’s College

One day itinerary for Cambridge

The first real stop on your Cambridge day trip is just a12-minute walk from Hot Numbers. This is Christ’s College , the perfect introduction to visiting Cambridge colleges – and what’s even better is that it’s free to visit!

The gardens are open from 9am , so even if you arrive super early in Cambridge you’ll be able to spend some time at Christ’s College. It’s hardly the most beautiful college in Cambridge, but it’s certainly not bad to look at!

You won’t find any information here to guide you around, so I recommend just having a stroll before heading over to the meeting point for the next stop on this itinerary, where you’ll learn much more about Cambridge’s colleges.

Stop 3 – Walking Tour of Trinity and Pembroke with a Graduate

Trinity Great Court, Part of Trinity College in England

You can’t visit Cambridge without going on a walking tour ! Trinity and Pembroke colleges are two of the most visited colleges at Cambridge University . That’s because they’re both super impressive, and downright gorgeous! Trinity college has the most Nobel Prize winners of any Cambridge college – 34!

Visiting these colleges independently comes with its challenges. You have to pay to enter both colleges, and once you’re inside there isn’t any information around teaching you about what you’re looking at or the history of the college. 

Some colleges give you a little map with some brief information, but you really are going into the college blind if you visit independently. It’s far better to have some information to bring the colleges to life!

That’s why I recommend joining this guided walking tour , which is run by a Cambridge University graduate . The tour lasts 90 minutes , includes your entry tickets to both colleges (as well as a guided walking tour of the surrounding areas) and a guide who has been there and knows everything there is to know about the colleges! 

You can ask your guide anything , from the history of the colleges, to what life is like as a student, and they will be happy to share their knowledge with you.

The tour costs £20 , and there are three departures per day: 11am, 1pm and 3pm . I recommend booking onto the 11am tour so that it can act as your introduction to Cambridge, and you’ll be equipped with all the information you learnt on the tour to help you explore Cambridge throughout the day.

Click here to book!

Stop 4 – The Corpus Clock

Corpus Clock

Okay, so the Corpus Clock will only take you a few seconds to visit, but it’s just so freaking bizarre that I couldn’t resist including it on this Cambridge day out itinerary. It’s been in its position outside the Taylor Library of Corpus Christi college since 2008 and is basically a huge grasshopper sat on top of a golden ticking clock. 

Weird, right??

The grasshopper’s mouth repeatedly opens and closes in a super grotesque way, which supposedly symbolises our time being eaten away, which is, uh… slightly unnerving.

The clock is also only accurate once every five minutes, which is supposed to be a reminder that time is relative to us all. 

As I said, it’s super weird, but definitely worth checking out during your day trip to Cambridge – even if only to witness its bizarreness.

Stop 5 – Visit Corpus Christi College

Days out in Cambridge

Founded in 1352 , Corpus Christi is one of the oldest colleges in Cambridge, and, unsurprisingly, it’s totally beautiful. It has one of the smallest student populations of all the Cambridge colleges, so the students here are very tight-knit.

The entrance to the college, like many of the Cambridge colleges, is very unassuming, so keep your eyes out for it! 

Corpus Christi is open for the public to visit in summer, although you’ll have to pay £5 to do so. If you don’t want to pay, though, you’re able to walk up to the entrance where you’ll be able to look and take photos of New Court for free.

I paid the £5 to enter, but I personally don’t think it was worth it. New Court is probably the most beautiful spot in the college and you can see it for free .

Since you’ll have already visited Trinity and Pembroke colleges in depth on the tour earlier in the day, I recommend just taking the free visit option for Corpus Christi college and saving yourself some money.

Stop 6 – Lunch at Aromi

An Italian deli may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture lunch in Cambridge, but this place is a Cambridge institution , and it always has queues outside!

Luckily, if you’re happy to take away, the queue moves pretty quickly – and there’s no reason to sit inside a restaurant when you could eat at the park or in front of one of the beautiful colleges!

They serve up pizza by the slice and mouth-watering sandwiches, so I recommend grabbing some lunch on the go to maximise the time you have to spend exploring. Expect to pay around £6-7 for lunch here.

If you have extra time to spare, pick one of the many places to get afternoon tea in Cambridge and enjoy this English tradition.

Stop 7 – Heffers Bookshop

Heffers Bookshop

This huge, independent bookshop is the perfect refuge from the crowded Cambridge streets. Plus, since you’re in Cambridge it’s pretty much a requirement to indulge your inner academic and stock up on reading material during your day trip. 

As a bookworm, I could have spent hours perusing the never-ending shelves at Heffers!

This bookshop has been trading in Cambridge since 1876 , so it has definitely stood the test of time. They have a huge range of titles and genres, multiple floors, and one of the most comprehensive selections of travel guides I have seen in a long time. 

Across the street and to your right, you’ll find the Sir Isaac Newton Apple Tree . This is supposedly the tree that Newton was sitting under when an apple dropped on his head and he discovered gravity. This has been pretty thoroughly debunked by now, but it’s still a Cambridge tourist attraction.

Stop 8 – Punting along the River Cam

Punting in Cambridge

A trip to Cambridge wouldn’t be complete without going punting, and this uniquely Oxbridge (Oxford and Cambridge) experience is the best way to take in the beauty of the city. Keep your eyes peeled for the famous mathematical bridge!

Plus, going punting is super relaxing – all you have to do is sit back and watch as you pass by some of the most iconic landmarks of the city. 

There are a ton of punting providers who will try to convince you to join their punting tour whilst you’re sightseeing in Cambridge, but if you book face-to-face like this, it’ll cost you a small fortune. The best way to go punting in Cambridge on a budget is to book online in advance.

For example, the average on-the-day punting price is £30 per person. However, if you book online in advance here , £30 will get you a punting tour for up to three people. Those are some crazy savings!

Punting tours usually last for around 45 minutes , and your punting guide will be a local who can share the history of punting in Oxbridge, point out the sites you pass, and answer any questions you have about life in Cambridge.

Although punting is infinitely better on sunny days, the punting boats contain cushions and blankets to keep you warm if it’s slightly chilly when you visit, so it’s not *completely* weather dependent. 

Click here for the best deal on punting tours .

Stop 9 – Climb the Tower of Great St. Mary’s

Day trip to Cambridge itinerary

Great St Mary’s is the church of Cambridge University as a whole, and, like most other things in Cambridge, it’s ancient. The foundations of the church itself date back from 1010 , although the original church burnt down in the 13th century and was rebuilt in the 14th century .

Although the church building itself is impressive, it’s the church tower we’re visiting for. After climbing up the tower’s countless stairs you’ll find the very best views over Cambridge. You’ll be stunned by just how many spires the city has!

If you’ve packed your camera, now is the time to get it out, since this is the best opportunity you’ll get to snap photos of Cambridge without people constantly walking in front of your lense.

Entry to the tower costs £6 .

Stop 10 – The Round Church

Things to do and see in Cambridge

This 900-year old church was built by the mysterious Knights Templar in 1130 , and its striking exterior is what makes it an essential stop on this one day in Cambridge itinerary.

I have only ever visited the Round Church from the outside, but inside you’ll find the “ Cambridge Story Exhibition ”, which details the story of the city from Roman times to the present day. It gets great reviews, so I definitely need to make it inside the round church on my next visit! 

Even if you choose not to go inside, though, chances are you won’t have seen a building quite like this in England before, so it’s worth stopping by to snap some photos.

Entry costs £3.50 .

Stop 11 – The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum is easily the best museum in Cambridge! It houses over half a million historical objects and art pieces, so you could even spend half a day here without getting bored. 

If you’re visiting Cambridge when it’s raining, the Fitzwilliam is my top recommendation for the perfect place to shelter from the weather whilst learning at the same time.

Entry to the Fitzwilliam Museum is totally free , making it easily one of the best free things to do in Cambridge!

Stop 12 – Drink at The Eagle Pub

The Eagle Pub, Cambridgeshire

The Eagle is the second-oldest pub in Cambridge (the oldest is the Pickerell Inn), and first opened way back in 1667 . Its astonishing age may be a good reason to visit, but there are plenty more! Let’s skip straight over its charming interior and talk about The Eagle’s history.

Francis Crick walked into this pub at lunchtime on 28 February 1953 to announce that he and his co-worker, James Watson, had “discovered the secret of life” after they had come up with their proposal for the double-helix structure of DNA .

This discovery had staggering consequences in the world of molecular biology and genetics, and the pub prides itself on being the venue for such an important announcement.

As well as the main pub, The Eagle also has an annexed “ RAF Bar ”. It’s called this because, during a refurbishment in the 1990s, graffiti was uncovered on the ceiling.

Further scrutiny revealed the graffiti to be the names, squadron numbers and doodles of allied airmen who were stationed nearby during WW2 and drank here regularly. The graffiti is now preserved for you to see on your visit to the pub!

Although it’s not super cheap, The Eagle has a wide variety of beers on offer and it’s certainly cheaper than London! The average pint will set you back around £5 .

Stop 13 – Evensong at King’s College

Evensong at King's College Chapel

The essential way to round off your day trip to Cambridge is by attending Evensong at the King’s College Chapel . 

Evensong is a tradition that’s been held at King’s College for over 470 years , and it’s still going strong! Whilst attending the ceremony you’ll get to hear the songs of the choir and the haunting music of the Chapel’s famed organ. 

The ceremony only takes place during term time, when it’ll begin at 5:30pm Monday-Saturday and 3:30pm on Sunday . It’s totally free to attend and you won’t need a ticket. Just turn up half an hour before it begins and join the queue of visitors filing into the Chapel.

Getting around Cambridge

Pretty streets in England

You may notice a red Hop-On-Hop-Off tour bus circulating Cambridge, but in my opinion buying a ticket for this bus is a complete waste of money. If you’re spending a day in Cambridge, most of the sights are all in the city centre, which is walkable and totally flat.

For this reason, you won’t need to worry about public transportation during your time in Cambridge at all. Provided you have no mobility issues, it’s very quick and easy to walk from attraction to attraction.

Half the charm of Cambridge is coming across unbelievably pretty buildings and streets completely by accident as you’re on the way to somewhere else, and you wouldn’t get that on the bus!

Best Time to Visit Cambridge on a Day Trip

Day trip to Cambridge

There isn’t really a best time to visit Cambridge – it’s great in autumn, winter, and summer. 

Yes – even in the January cold and rain Cambridge retains its charm. Plus, what’s better than cosying up in a Cambridge café in winter with a good book and pretending that you’re a student?

My favourite time to visit Cambridge is in autumn when all the students have returned to university because there’s such a buzz in the air. Cambridge’s dark academia vibes lend themselves perfectly to the gloomy autumn weather. If you’re in London for Halloween Cambridge is the perfect day trip.

If you’re wanting to take a punting tour or see as many attractions as you possibly can during your Cambridge day trip, summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit. Much like summer in London , summer in Cambridge is lovely but can get HOT!

Not only is summer the best time to go punting (since you won’t freeze on the boat) but the longer daylight hours give you much longer to explore and check more attractions off your Cambridge bucket list. Plus, opening hours are often longer in summer!

The mathematical bridge in Cambridge

Although there’s not a best time to visit Cambridge, there is certainly a worst time to visit, which is spring. 

Between April and June the university students sit their final exams, which means most colleges close to visitors. It would be a real shame to visit Cambridge and not get the chance to wander around a few colleges, so I definitely recommend avoiding this time of year for your day trip.

Is Cambridge Worth Visiting?

Cambridge is definitely worth visiting, even if you only have one day to spare. It’s one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the U.K., full of history and fun things to do!

How Many Days Should I Spend in Cambridge?

One day in Cambridge is the perfect amount of time to spend in the city. Although there are plenty of fun things to see and do here, you can easily cover the highlights in a single day. The city’s attractions are in a compact area making it easy to see them all quickly.

Is Cambridge a Day Trip from London?

Yes – Cambridge is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from London. You can reach Cambridge from London in just 54 minutes on a direct train.

Is Oxford or Cambridge Better for a Day Trip?

Both cities are well worth visiting on day trips. I personally prefer Oxford, because the university’s colleges are less spread out and located right in the city centre, but everybody is different. You’ll have a good time no matter which city you choose!

Is Cambridge University in UK or USA?

Cambridge University is in the city of Cambridge, in the UK. The reason you may be confused is because there is a town called Cambridge in Massachusetts, USA, that’s home to another famous university – Harvard.

What is Cambridge famous for?

Cambridge in the UK is famous for Cambridge University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Cambridge university was founded in the year 1209.

Is Cambridge UK a Safe City?

Yes, Cambridge UK is a safe city, especially in the city centre where you’ll find the university and all the Cambridge tourist attractions. Like many cities, there are a few areas outside of the city centre that are slightly less safe, but as a tourist you won’t need to worry about these.

Is Cambridge in US or UK?

There are towns called Cambridge in both the US and the UK. Cambridge US is near Boston, in Massachusetts, and Cambridge UK is around an hour away from London.

Is Cambridge Walkable?

Yes, Cambridge is very walkable. Unless you have mobility issues, there is no need to use taxis or public transport on your day trip to Cambridge.

What are Some Cities Similar to Cambridge?

If you loved Cambridge, then there are plenty of other UK towns and cities that give off similar vibes that you can visit! These include Oxford, Canterbury , Bath, Windsor & Eton , York, and Stratford-upon-Avon .

Want more UK travel tips and inspiration? Head over to my UK travel page!

How to Spend 1 Day in Cambridge, England - Day Trip Guide

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Thanks so much for this!! I know Cambridge well as a shopper but have never been as a ” tourist”. I’m taking my American friend here in July and figured he rather see the sights than the shops!!!

Thanks Sara! Cambridge is so much more fun with a “tourist” hat on. Enjoy!

Sounds great Ella, we are spending a day there next week so super helpful! We are visiting with two kids (7 and 11), so if we had to skip something to take it a bit easier, which bit would you lose? thank you

Thanks for the kind words Sandi!

If you’re visiting with kids I totally recommend the approach you’re taking and cutting down on this itinerary. I would probably cut out the walking tour with a graduate as it might be a bit hard to follow for your kids! I would also cut the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Round Church and probably Evensong.

If you can only focus on a few attractions, make sure you walk around a few colleges, go on a punting tour (the kids will love it) and see the Corpus Clock, which is also a fun attraction for kids. You can then add a few other things in depending on how you’re doing for time.

Have a lovely trip!

Wonderful tips and advice, we are visiting Cambridge in August for a couple days on our exploration of UK,thanks Ella.

Thanks for stopping by Mark, let me know if you have any questions!

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Perfect Cambridge Day Trip From London Itinerary [2024]

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This Cambridge Day Trip guide provides all the information you need to plan the perfect day trip to Cambridge from London, whether it’s your first time or your fifth.

Cambridge United Kingdom

A charming and pretty city in England , brimming with scholarly achievements Cambridge makes for a pleasant day trip out of London .

Cambridge is a university city and is home to Cambridge University and its long list of colleges. The streets hold stories of past residents who lived and studied here and went on to live in history books.

But the city also boasts some of the most striking architecture in its buildings and bridges, King’s College and alleyways, the River Cam is a popular punting place for locals and visitors alike. So, it’s safe to say that there is plenty to do when visiting Cambridge. But where to start? No worries let me help you with your Cambridge day trip itinerary. 

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Cambridge tour is this Oxford and Cambridge Universities Tour with a near-perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating.

Cambridge Day Trip From London

This Cambridge day trip from London guide provides all the information you need to plan the perfect first day trip in Cambridge, whether it’s your first time or your fifth.

How To Get To Cambridge From London

There are three main options to get from London to Cambridge, on a day trip to Cambridge from London namely train, coach, and car. If you’re wanting a scenic day trip to Cambridge where you control the schedule, then driving yourself is ideal.

The coach is the cheapest, although also the slowest journey. However, the train is, without a doubt, the fastest way to get there, which will allow a little more exploration time.

What To Pack For A Day In Cambridge

 How To From London to Cambridge by Train

I took the train down to Cambridge from London the journey takes around 48 minutes, and cost between £27 and £42 for a return train ticket.

The prices depend mostly whether you’re travelling first-class or not and if you’re travelling in off-peak or peak times. 

You’ll leave from London Kings Cross Station or Liverpool Street Station with around 4 departures per hour and arrive at Cambridge Train Station. From the train station here you can take a bus to the city centre or explore the surroundings first. You can use your contactless card or phone on the bus.

Doing a day trip to Cambridge from London by train is the fastest and most direct way to get to Cambridge.

How To From London to Cambridge by Coach

The cheapest way to get to Cambridge from London is by coach, but it’s also quite slow, which may cut into your time in Cambridge if you plan on getting back to London the same night.

There are several companies that offer coaches from London to Cambridge that you can get from London Victoria Coach Station and arrive at Cambridge Coach Station, but National Express is the best-known and most commonly used.

Bus tickets cost between £5 and £15, and if you’re really looking for a bargain you can book a week or so in advance to get cheaper fares. The ride will take around two hours, and buses are usually available from Victoria Coach Station, leaving hourly.

How To From London to Cambridge by Car

How To From London to Cambridge by Car

Driving to Cambridge for a Cambridge day trip will allow for flexibility of time as you won’t be waiting for transport to arrive and you’ll be able to get around Cambridge on your own.

The route is along the M11 motorway, which is incredibly scenic and enjoyable. The drive will typically take just under two hours.

This road can get quite crowded, however, and so you may find yourself sitting in a bit of traffic. Therefore, you’ll need to account for any delays. The cost of driving will depend on how much petrol your car uses.

C ambridge Day Trip from London – Best Things To Do in Cambridge In One Day

There’s lots to do in Cambridge I have included plenty on this Cambridge day trip itinerary to discover, you probably won’t get to everything on this list with just one day in Cambridge.

But you can pick the Cambridge things to do that most entice you and leave the others for your next Cambridge day trip .   

Note: All opening hours and times are according to usual circumstances, but it’s best to check online before you go.

1. Take A Guided Walking Tour By An Alumni

TAKEAGUIDEDWALKINGTOURBYANALUMNI

This was one of the highlights of Cambridge day trip for me when visiting Cambridge and I learnt so much about the University’s history and deep traditions.

A big part of Cambridge’s attraction is that it’s such a stunning university city, home to the elite University of Cambridge since 1209, and boasting a number of university colleges. One of the best ways to see the city is to take a tour guided by an alumnus .

This tour will allow you an inside look at the city, from the eyes of real life Cambridge students and is lead by a university graduate. You’ll learn about former alumni including Sir Isaac Newton, Sylvia Plath and Charles Darwin.

Your guide will share facts and stories about the city, its history, and what makes it such a fascinating place. You’ll also get to visit a couple of the colleges and see what they’re like on the inside. Things is one of the top things to do in Cambridge and I highly recommend it.

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (780+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 -2.5 hours |  🎟️  BOOK NOW

2. Go Punting On The River Cam Tour

Punting On The River Cam Tour

Another one of the top things to do in Cambridge on your Cambridge day trip is go punting on the river Cam.

Cambridge has so many stunning buildings and bridges, that a punt along the river makes for an almost magical experience.

From your seat in the boat, you’ll look up and across at the beautiful Cambridge colleges and cathedrals along the riverside.  

You can choose from a traditional punting tour, which is a simple yet fantastic chauffeured ride on the river or take part in a tour that combines a food or drink – like a champagne tour! There are also romantic trips which are perfect to end off a Cambridge day trip as a couple. I don’t think anyone can visit Cambridge without going punting, its blasphemy.

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (250+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  45 minutes |  🎟️  BOOK NOW

3. Step Inside King’s College Chapel Cambridge

The King’s College Chapel is quite breathtaking, and you’ll be awe-struck as you step inside. It’s home to the largest fan-vault ceiling in the world, as well as exquisite medieval stained-glass windows. There’s also a rod screen, given to the chapel by Henry VIII.  

The 15th-century building is magnificent inside and out and should be on every Cambridge itinerary. The Perpendicular Gothic-style architecture is fantastic to see up close. You do need to book tickets to enter the building.

The chapel holds concerts and performances at times, so if you’re lucky enough to be visiting Cambridge during one you could enjoy that too. This is one of the top places to visit on day trip to Cambridge from London.

4. Visit A University College

Kings College Cambridge

Of the total 31 colleges in Cambridge, there are many that offer stunning photography angles. The most beautiful college buildings include Trinity College , St John’s College, Queen’s College, Downing College, Pembroke College, Corpus Christi College and Christ’s College (where Charles Darwin studied). This is one one of the must things to do on your Cambridge day trip from London.

These venues can get quite crowded, so try to go in the quieter times, and look out for unique spots that other eager camera-carrying tourists haven’t yet found.

As mentioned above, there’s an extensive list of colleges in Cambridge. You’ll probably need to pick just one or two to visit since a one day trip to the Cambridge university, is too short a time to see them all. I’ve listed three of the top Cambridge must see colleges below to help you pick.

Trinity College

Trinity College Cambridge UK

This is the top-ranked college at the University of Cambridge and one of the richest, so definitely worth a visit.

For most of the year, the Great Court and chapel of the king’s college, is open daily to the public, between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:30 pm. Although you must purchase tickets.

This college is supposedly home to the apple tree that led to Sir Isaac Newton’s great discovery or so the story goes. Others say the original apple tree was grown in the garden of Woolsthorpe Manor, the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton.

However you can still look at the tree and be inspired by the story. It’s located outside his old dorm room’s window. This is where my alumni tour ended so you can miss it.

You can also check out the Wren Library on Saturdays from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm or during the week between noon and 2:00 pm. 

St John’s College

This is a beautiful building, with gorgeous architecture and an abundance of history in its walls.

It’s also a great place to see the Bridge of Sighs (similar to the Bridge of Sighs in Oxford) . It’s open for visits for much of the year, daily between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, but closes at 3:30 pm during off-season times.

King’s College

Cambridge of University To Visit

King’s college is one of the most recognisable in the city (if you have ever watched University Challenge you would have seen their various teams over the years), and it’s simply stunning. It’s open to the public during the week from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm.

On Saturdays, it closes 15 minutes earlier, and Sundays it’s open for just 45 minutes, between 1:15 pm and 2:30 pm.

If you only have a few hours in the city seeing these colleges should be at the top of your London to Cambridge day trip itinerary.

5. Climb The Great St Mary’s Tower

Climb The Great St Marys Tower

As both the university church and the city’s main church, Great St Mary’s is a stately building with centuries of history. It stands tall and proud in the city centre and has done so for more than 800 years.

Standing in the centre of Cambridge city is GSM, or Great Mary, the most magnificent church in the city. Connected to the church is the tower, which offers panoramic views of the historic town and Cambridge University.

From the top of the tower, you’ll see Cambridge market square, Kings College and Trinity College. 

visit GREAT ST MARY’S TOWER.

As you ascend the 123 very narrow stairs, you’ll pass the world-famous bells which have called the tower home since 1303.  

There are many small, intricate parts of the church for budding photographers to find, such as the gilded clock face with sunray hands and the oak roof from 1505. Great St Mary’s Church is one of the best places to visit in Cambridge.

There is a small entrance fee of £6 to the tower, and opening hours are 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesdays to Fridays, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturdays and noon to 4:00 pm on Sundays.

6. Visit Fitzwilliam Museum

Fitzwilliam Museum Cambridge

This museum of the University of Cambridge was founded in 1816. The museum is free to enter, so is great if you are looking for free things to do in Cambridge.

The galleries inside are filled with ancient artworks, antiques and and pieces of human history, showing off a collection of Cambridge culture and history. There is even drawings by Da Vinci, inspiring paintings by Rembrandt and a collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts .

The Fitzwilliam Museum ishome to a compilation of art and antiques, this museum began with a generous donation from Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion, which included his entire art collection.

And while the contents of the museum are amazing, the building itself is impressive in its own right. The entrance hall was designed by Edward Middleton Barry and is worth a minute of marvelling.

You can take photos in the galleries as long as you’re not disturbing other visitors and the images are for personal use only.

And you’ll need to make sure your flash is off. The outside building is also quite an impressive structure to capture.

Visit any day from Tuesday to Saturday between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm, Sundays the museum opens at noon. Entrance to the museum is free, although it’s only open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

7. Check Out Cambridge Market Square

Cambridge Market Square

Since Saxon times this market has held outdoor stalls selling a number of charming products. The market square is one of the iconic landmarks in Cambridge.

Visit anytime between Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and browse at your own pace. You’ll find books, gifts, second-hand treasures, and food.

Sundays are when the market transforms into a fair of food, arts, and crafts, and you’ll find local farm produce from local farmers as well as resident artists, sculptors and potters’ work.

8. Observe The Mathematician Bridge

VISITMATHEMATICIANBRIDGE

Standing strong since 1749, the Mathematician Bridge is somewhat of an optical illusion since it looks arched but is built from straight timbers.

You can see the bridge from a punting tour, or by purchasing an entrance ticket to Queens College. The Wooden bridge as it is officially known as, connects the old and new halves of the college over the River Cam.

And, since this is where the A. A. Milne’s son went to college, you’ll probably hear about the game Pooh Sticks – if you haven’t already. Apparently, the Mathematician Bridge is the best place to play the game, so this is a great time to learn.

For one of the most photographed scenes in Cambridge, you need to visit Queens College and take a walk to the Mathematical Bridge. If you only have 24 hour in Cambridge this bridge should be at the top of your bucket list.

9. Stop and See The Corpus Clock

THECORPUSCLOCK

If you are wondering what to visit in Cambridge? The Corpus Clock is a must see Cambridge attractions. This 1.5-metre wide timepiece or Corpus Clock has a face plated in gold and is a real work of art. The project involved more than 200 people and cost over a million pounds.

It’s no wonder the Corpus Clock was named one of the Time Magazine ‘s best inventions of 2008.  

The clock has an image of a grasshopper sitting on top of it, this insect is known as the Chronophage which is Greek for “time eater”. You’ll find the clock on the corner of Bene’t Street and Trumpington Street and it’s accessible to public viewing for free.

10. Visit The Bridge of Sighs

Do you have time for another special location? It is famous for being Queen Victoria’s most loved spot in the city . This bridge was named after the Bridge of Sighs in Venice and is one of the main tourist attractions in the area.

It’s best viewed by renting a boat trip up the River Cam which will take you under the bridge where you can capture as many photos as you want.

Alternatively, you can pay to enter through St. John’s College and walk to it. It will be pretty busy year-round so you might have to wait a little to get the perfect shot and one of best the places to visit in Cambridge.

11. Explore the Botanic Gardens

Still wondering what to do in Cambridge for a day? Then visit the Botanical Garden . For landscape photographers, the botanical gardens are a green paradise. The park’s tree-lined walkways and lily-covered ponds are a true sight to behold.

This is a great space to wander through, breathing in the smell of the flowers and taking some time to rest on your day out in Cambridge. The garden has a variety of trees, bushes, and flowers, all set in a perfectly manicured park for your enjoyment.

The Botanical Gardens are a 15-minute walk from the city centre and there’s a cafe on the premises so you can enjoy coffee and cake as well.  

Spend some time discovering as many of the 8,000 plant and tree specimens in the garden as possible and take-home beautiful reminders.

And there’s a gift shop for those looking to take home a souvenir to remember your trip by. The gardens are set over 40 acres, and you’ll find a selection of greenhouses to explore as well.

12. Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

The Polar Museum is free to visit and you can discover all things Arctic and Antarctic at this niche museum that focuses on Cambridge University’s world-class polar research.

The Museum is part of the Scott Polar Research Institute , established in 1920 as part of the University of Cambridge with research covering the natural and social sciences and also houses the World’s premier Polar Library.

13. Magdalene Bridge

Named after Magdalene College, this cast-iron bridge has been in place since 1823 and was designed by architect Arthur Browne.

The bridge joins Magdalene Street and Bridge Street and standing on this structure allows for magnificent views on both sides.

Whether you’re taking pictures of the actual bridge or taking advantage of the viewpoint over the river and nearby pubs, colleges, and the crowds, there’s opportunity everywhere you look

14. Wander Through The Streets Of Cambridge

Best Photo Spots in Cambridge

This is one of the best ways to see Cambridge, whether it’s on a Cambridge walking tour or simply a leisurely stroll. You’ll be able to discover local favourites, hidden gems, and well-known landmarks all in one go.

You can take a Cambridge map with you and tick off attractions in Cambridge as you go, or simply see where the road takes you. 

Stop in at pubs and shops along the way, find a quaint bookstore, and admire all of the prettiness as you go along.   Even the streets of Cambridge are stunning you will not be disappointed.

15. The Round Church ( Church of the Holy Sepulchre)

The Round Church Cambridge

Though it is called the ‘ Round Church ‘ , this historic building is composed of several parts. The oldest – the round bit constructed in 1130 by the Fraternity of the Holy Sepulchre.

The design of the church is said to be inspired by the circular Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, built by Constantine the Great, making this striking building a must-see place on this one day in Cambridge itinerary.

Inside of the church there is the Cambridge Story Exhibition which is a 12-panel journey through Roman times to present day Cambridge. The church also offers walking tours that looks at the big ideas that have shaped the university over the centuries.

Entry costs £3.50 and £1 for Teenagers and Students

16. Take A Cambridge Guided Tour

When you only have a day in Cambridge, things can seem rushed – or you may feel like you’re missing out on important parts of the city. So a guided tour can help you feel less stressed and make sure that you reach all the highlights. 

With a skilled guide, you won’t have to try and find your own way around and you’ll receive information, facts, and insights into the city’s fascinating history. There are even free guided walking tours that you can take if you’re on a tight budget.  

Things To See: Cambridge Photo Spots

Cambridge of University

One of the best reasons to visit Cambridge is to take a myriad of photos. The city boasts so many remarkable buildings, and the bridges over the River Cam are just as impressive.

So pack your favourite camera and head to one of these picture-perfect spots to snap a few shots on a one day trip to Cambridge.

📸 Magdalene Bridge

📸 Great St Mary’s Church

📸 Cambridge University Botanical Gardens

📸 The Cambridge Colleges

Best Day Trip To Cambridge Tours From London

If you’d prefer a day trip that’s completely planned out for you, those are available too.

These Cambridge day tour from London offer a full day out to explore, guided by a knowledgeable local who can show you all the ins and outs of the city.

📸 Full-Day Oxford And Cambridge From London

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, this tour is going to call to you. It journeys from London to Oxford, and then finally on to Cambridge. In Oxford, there’s a walking tour of the city as well as a visit to Christ Church college which was a filming location for the Harry Potter movies. 

With this tour , the first half of the day in Oxford, exploring the place where Bill Clinton, Lewis Carroll, J.R.R Tolkien, and C.S Lewis were scholars.

Then on to Cambridge to climb the Church of St. Mary the Great and take in more stunning English city scenes. There’ll be some free time as well, so you can find a snack in a coffee shop or go punting on the River Cam, whatever takes your fancy. This is one of the best Cambridge tour from London.

⭐️  RATING:  4.1 out of 5 Stars (70+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours |  🎟️  BOOK NOW

📸 Classic Cambridge Day Tour From London

This is the perfect balance of a guided tour and self-exploration. The journey is done on a luxury coach from London to Cambridge and back.

It’s a full day of discovery, including a guided walking tour of the university city and entrance to the St. Mary the Great Tower.

After the initial tour, there’s free time to explore whichever part of the city is most appealing. Whether that’s the colleges, the river, or simply wandering through the streets.

⭐️  RATING:  4.0 out of 5 Stars (10+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours |  🎟️  BOOK NOW

Where To Eat On A Cambridge Day Trip

Where To Eat On A Cambridge

When your tummy starts to rumble, it’s time to take a break from Cambridge sightseeing and stop off for a bite to eat. Thankfully, there is no shortage of good places to find coffee, food, pastries, and even a drink, so you’ll never be too far from sustenance. But if you’re looking for the absolute best, here are a few top suggestions.

🍽️ Fitzbillies

If you’re in search of something sweet and sticky, Fitzbillies is well known for their cinnamon buns and brunch. But they also do a range of other scrumptious baked goods and serve up breakfast and lunch. And, of course, a delicious cup of coffee is served alongside all meals and snacks.

🍽️ FoodPark

This is a college city, so student life is the energy throughout. Which is part of what makes FoodPark such a great place to chow down on some of the mouthwatering food available in Cambridge. This large space is rented to a variety of food vendors, for a big, tasty collection of street food.

🍽️ Orchard Tea Gardens

For that quintessential English afternoon tea experience, head to Orchid Tea Gardens. Take your tea here and share a similarity with historic figures such as Virginia Woolf, Ernest Rutherford, and Stephen Hawking, among others.

You must book at least 24 hours in advance, and tea is served between noon and 5:00 pm. After indulging in cakes and tea, you can take one of the garden walks to stretch your legs. 

🍽️ Pint Shop

This is a simple spot to enjoy a pint of beer and a meal, but it’s their scotch eggs that have people talking . But you can order from their full menu if you’re not a fan of scotch eggs, they also have curry, fish & chips, and more. Pair your meal with a gin, beer, or soft drink and you’ve got a winning lunch or dinner.

🍽️ The Eagle Pub

This pub has been in the city for centuries and was the chosen watering hole for many of Cambridge’s masterminds, including Francis Crick and James Watson. It’s a great place to enjoy a quick drink before you head back to London, and perhaps hear stories of past patrons.

Best Time to Visit Cambridge On A Day Trip

The best time to visit Cambridge is year round, yes Cambridge is great to visit in autumn, winter, and summer. 

However if you want to make the most out of your visit to Cambridge, I think the best time to visit Cambridge is in summer. When the days are longer and warmer and you can do walking tours and go punting without freezing. Also a lot of the Cambridge attractions that you’ll want to visit will stay open later in the evenings during summer.

How To Get Around Cambridge On A Day Trip

How To Get Around Cambridge

Cambridge is walkable city that is easy to explore it on foot. However, the main ways of getting around Cambridge if you are tight on time or tired of walking:

  • Cycling : Cambridge is a bike-friendly city, and you’ll see a lot locals and students getting around on their bikes. You’ll find bike rental shops all over the city, and the roads are equipped with great cycle paths and bike lanes.
  • Bus : Cambridge has a pretty good bus network, with regular services covering the city. The buses accepts cash and contactless payments.

Best Things To Do In Cambridge UK | One Day In Cambridge

There you have it, one full Cambridge day trip itinerary packed with history, culture, food, and discovery.

As well as opportunities for your photography portfolio or Instagram feed. Cambridge offers a day full of intellectual wonder, and amazing views wherever you go.

This city works well as a solo trip destination, but can also be extremely romantic for a couple of travellers. And if you have older kids, a family journey out to Cambridge and its famous colleges, is sure to be eye-opening.

Whatever your travel plans are, this list should help build a foundation for the ultimate London to Cambridge day trip, and you can always plan a return trip if you happen to miss a few of the attractions.

If you liked this guide and want real-time London/UK travel information, make sure you follow me on Instagram @huesofdelahaye and subscribe to my Youtube channel for weekly travel videos.

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Why Cambridge is the perfect day trip from London

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Cambridge is perhaps the perfect day trip from London.

A Cambridge day trip is a treasure trove of historical locations, quaint streets and beautiful buildings made famous over the centuries.

And with excellent transport links from central London, you can be punting along the River Cam past the world famous Cambridge University colleges in around an hour.

Cambridge, England

Though Cambridge was an important trading centre from Roman times,  the town rose to prominence in the middle ages when the famous university was founded.

One of the most celebrated seats of learning in the world, Cambridge University was established in 1209 when some scholars from Oxford University fled after a dispute with the townspeople.

The university, its students its many beautiful college buildings are now the heart of the city.

This is a place where scholars weave through cobbled streets on bicycles, lounge by the river and make some of the world’s most profound discoveries.

Former alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Sylvia Plath.

Tour the famous colleges and enjoy punting on the Cam River when you join this popular walking tour led by a former student

Cambridge day trip – what to see and do

Cambridge is a small city and easy to walk around. If you arrive by train it’s a half hour walk into town and the main tourist attractions down Station and Regent Streets.

You could also take the Citi 1 or Citi 3 bus from outside the station.

Tower at Great St Mary’s

Start your tour of Cambridge by climbing the 123 steps of the tower at 800 year old Great St Mary’s church opposite King’s College.

The view over King’s College Chapel is the best in Cambridge and extends over the colleges and the river Cam. The tower is open from 10am Monday to Saturday and from 12.15 on Sundays. Cost – £4 for adults – more information

King’s College Chapel Cambridge

Many people visit Cambridge just to see this extraordinary building – the King’s College Chapel . As you walk inside the huge space, you can’t help but be impressed by the largest fan vaulted ceiling in the world.

The light refracted from the medieval stained glass windows creates incredibly beautiful light inside the chapel.

The chapel is a Tudor masterpiece. Henry VIII ensured the work his father, Henry VII, commissioned at the chapel was completed.

If you look closely you will notice the Tudor roses that adorn the chapel walls and evidence of Henry’s marriage to the ill-fated Anne Boleyn – initials entwined in emblems that were not removed.

The chapel is open to the public at varying times throughout the year. Adult tickets cost £5 or you can join a guided tour for £16 (adults) – check opening times and more information

Cambridge punting tours

Of course when you’re in Cambridge you must go punting. You can try to navigate the River Cam on your own but I strongly recommend doing a punting tour .

Sit back and relax in the punt while your guide does all the hard work with the boat and tells you stories about the city and its famous residents.

A highlight of your punting experience is gliding under the city’s famous bridges including the Bridge of Sighs and Mathematical bridge.

Head to the Quayside Punting Station near Magdalene Bridge and you will find tours leaving regularly from 09:00am to dusk. In winter blankets are provided so you stay cosy on your tour.

The punting boat tour of Cambridge lasts 45 minutes.  The cost for a shared boat tour (around 8-10 people in total) is £19 per person but you can get a decent discount if you book your tour online – click here for prices and more information

Cambridge University colleges

The Cambridge boat tours take you past many of the city’s famous colleges. The 31 colleges at the University of Cambridge were founded over its 800 year history and each have unique histories, architecture and stories.

It is possible to visit and tour many of the colleges year round although restrictions often apply in May when students are sitting their final exams.

Here are some of my favourite Cambridge colleges:

St John’s College

One of the oldest and largest colleges in Cambridge, St John’s was founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of King Henry VII, in 1509. Her crest appears over the main entrance to the college.

Claiming William Wordsworth (and my grandfather!) among its alumni, the college flanks both sides of the River Cam.

The buildings are linked by the impossibly beautiful Bridge of Sighs, named after the bridge of the same name in Venice.

St John’s College Chapel was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott who it is thought took inspiration from Sainte Chappelle in Paris.

You can visit and take tours of the college throughout the year – more information

Trinity College

Trinity College also has residences on both sides of the Cam and is famous for its Great Court (pictured above), Wren Library and illustrious alumni.

No fewer than 32 Nobel Prize winners attended Trinity as undergraduates. The poet Lord Byron and Jawaharlal Nehru  Prime Minister of India were also students at Trinity.

The Wren Library is one of the country’s great library collections and is home to two of Shakespeare’s first folios.

The grounds at Trinity and Wren Library are open to the public with some restrictions throughout year – more information

King’s College

Apart from its Gothic chapel, King’s College is also worth visiting to wander the beautiful grounds. These are the same stones and grass where the first Prime Minister of Great Britain Robert Walpole walked.

Literary greats E. M. Forster and Salman Rushdie, and brilliant mathematician Alan Turing were students at King’s.

Queens’ College

The Mathematical Bridge at the end of most punting tours is part of the Queens’ College buildings. Wrongly attributed as the work of Isaac Newton, the bridge was built after his death but remains one of the iconic landmarks of the city.

Queens’ College is one of the oldest colleges of the university and claims the Dutch Renaissance scholar Erasmus among its alumni.

You can visit the college – do check their website for visitor information .

Cambridge guided tours

Cambridge is a city with so much history and stories lurking behind every wall. It is a place that really should be explored with expert knowledge so you can fully appreciate its beauty and impact on history.

This walking  tour of Cambridge offers visitors highly qualified and experienced guides (often former students at one of the colleges) who can take you behind the scenes of the 800 year old university and the city.

A traditional pub lunch

Stop for lunch in one of the many Cambridge pubs. There are several that lie on the riverbank including local favourite The Anchor.

On our last visit to Cambridge we ate at The Punter as it was recommended by our punting guide and close to the end of our tour. The seasonal menu of British pub classics and a few surprises were enjoyed by all so I double down on that recommendation.

The Punter – 3 Pound Hill, Cambridge, CB3 0AE

Stroll along “the Backs”

After your lunch there is lots more to see. Your tour of Cambridge would not be complete without a stroll along the River Cam in the area known as “the Backs”.

This beautiful spot is where the city’s most picturesque colleges back on to the river stretches from Magdalene Bridge to Silver Street bridge.

On sunny days it is great for people and duck watching. And you can stroll along the path in any weather.

The Round Church

One of only four remaining medieval round churches left in England, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (known as The Round Church) is an important landmark in Cambridge not associated with the university.

It is worth stopping by just to admire the symmetry of the building made of the same chalky limestone used throughout the city.

Fitzwilliam Museum

The museum building is fabulous and worth a visit in its own right.

Address: Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB | Open Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00 Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays: 12:00 – 17:00 | More information

How to get to Cambridge

The London to Cambridge train journey is about hour and even quicker if you take the express train. Trains depart from Kings Cross or Liverpool Street stations with around 4 departures per hour.

Note – most trains leave from Kings Cross. If you book in advance an open return ticket will cost you less than £20 > find train tickets to Cambridge

Driving from London is easy too via the M11 motorway. I recommend parking in the very central Park Street car park on the corner of Round Church Street.

If you prefer, this guided tour of Cambridge with commentary leaves from London Bridge via coach – check prices and information

Exploring the area beyond Cambridge

If you have added Cambridge to your UK road trip itinerary, there is so much to do in the surrounding area I recommend stopping for a few days.

We enjoyed visiting the Imperial War Museum at nearby Duxford – more for its collections of planes including a Concorde which you can walk inside, than for the tanks.

History buffs will enjoy a trip to Sutton Hoo where you can visit one of England’s most important archaeological sites.

For a picture perfect English market town you can’t beat Bury St Edmunds an hour east of Cambridge. You will also find one of the best preserved half timbered towns in England close by at Lavenham.

The perfect day trip from London

I think Cambridge is a perfect day trip from London. After a short train ride you are transported to another place where, over the course of 800 years, some of the world’s greatest minds have experimented and created the most amazing things.

Combined with riverside strolling and a leisurely lunch in a proper English pub, a cultural adventure in Cambridge is bound to be a highlight of any trip in England.

To be honest, I think you could linger much longer than a day in Cambridge and still have stories to uncover.

Have you visited this beautiful English city? And do you have a favourite college in Cambridge?

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

day trip to cambridge from london by train

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A Day Trip to Cambridge from London by Train

  • City Breaks , England , London , Rail Travel
  • Updated: November 15, 2023

A day trip to Cambridge from London by train

Cambridge is world famous for being home to one of the best universities in the world, but that’s all I really knew about it until I decided to visit last week.

I’d been meaning to visit ever since I moved to London six years ago. Realising how easy it is to get to from London, I really don’t have a good excuse why it took me so long. 

However, when I woke up last Friday and noticed the sun seeping through my blinds, something about that morning was screaming Cambridge to me. I got dressed, had breakfast, and jumped on the train.

Once I arrived in the city I made the short walk into the town centre. One of the first things I noticed were the young Chinese people – there were many – and of whom I presumed were students. I couldn’t help but think of my Chinese father. In his voice the words, “You should have studied harder” began reverberating around my head. 

I was pretty naughty in my younger years, and my father had a habit of going on at me to study harder. However, I think he gave up on the idea that I’d have an illustrious academic career the day I was sent home from school because I was caught snogging a boy called Stuart behind a computer in IT class.

How to get to Cambridge from London

There are several ways to get to Cambridge from London, but the easiest is train. It takes just 50 mins from King’s Cross, or 1 hr 10 mins from Liverpool Street. Additionally, if you’d prefer to drive, it takes around 2 hr by car. 

Book train tickets in advance via the trainline.com

The best things to do in Cambridge

Cambridge delights with a smorgasbord of medieval architecture, museums and riverside charm. Here are some of the best way to explore the city.

Climb up St Mary's Tower

To get a sense of the city in all its splendour, I recommend the first thing you do is climb up Great St Mary’s Tower (£5). You need to scramble up a narrow spiral staircase but once you reach the top, you’ll appreciate that the leg ache is worth it

Panoramic view of Cambridge from Great St Mary's Tower.

From atop the tower you have a bird’s-eye view across the market square which harks back to a bygone era, and you can spot many of Cambridge’s well-known landmarks. Taking centre stage, however, is King’s College Chapel with its incredible Gothic architecture and pristine lawn.

Panoramic view across King's College Chapel in Cambridge, UK

Looking out upon the sprawling views of Cambridge with its age-old buildings, you really get an impression of its long and rich history. It looks like a fairy tale so it’s quite extraordinary to think a lot of the buildings are actually student digs!

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Explore the different Cambridge colleges

Okay, time won’t permit you to explore them all, certainly not in a day, so with the help of my friend who went to Cambridge University I’ve narrowed them down to three – King’s College , St John’s College and Trinity College.

However, there’s an entrance for all of these ones so if you’re on a budget, go with King’s. The Chapel is incredible and has the largest fan-vault ceiling in the world. Admire the stained-glass windows, and marvel at the Rood Screen that was a gift from Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn. It is considered some of the best Italian wooden carvings that still survive in the UK.

Inside King's College Chapel in Cambridge

If you don’t mind splashing out another £10 (£5 per child and free for children under 11), head over to nearby St John’s College to see grand architecture and explore its exceptionally stunning grounds. There are three extremely impressive courts and a large beautiful garden, but the pièce de résistance is the stunning views of the Bridge of Sighs towards both directions of the Cam River.

Bridge of Sighs at St John's College in Cambridge, UK

When I was walking from the train station to the city centre I also passed Downing College , which I found very beautiful and quiet since it’s a bit further away from the crowds. As you enter the grounds there’s Heong gallery to your left, unfortunately it was closed at the time I went because they were getting ready for their up-coming exhibition by Yoko Ono. There are also a few sculptures on the grounds of the campus (Henry Moore I think) and a peaceful garden for relaxing.

Downing College | Things to see and do in Cambridge, UK

Alternatively, instead of the ones I’ve suggested, there might be someone who has been to Cambridge that you’re particularly inspired by, so you might want to visit the college where they studied. The university has produced over 100 Nobel prize winners, and the likes of Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking and Isaac Newton have studied here.

Punting in Cambridge | A day trip from London

One of the most popular things to do on a sunny day is punting. Splitting the city in two is the River Cam, which passes by some of the prettiest areas of the city. Highlights include the brilliant Mathematical Bridge which you would ordinarily only be able to see by visiting Queens’ College.

Want to book a punting boat tour of Cambridge in advance? You can  here .

Visit Kettle's Yard

Visiting Kettle's Yard art gallery | A day trip to Cambridge from London by train

Kettle’s Yard was once the residence of Jim and Helen Ede. Thanks to Jim’s job as a curator at the Tate Gallery, the couple filled their home with artworks by famous names like Barbara Hepworth and Joan Mirò. Then, in an act of extreme generosity, the Edes gave it all to Cambridge University.

You can now visit it and see the art lovingly arranged around the house, which still feels like a home. Read more about my trip to Kettle’s Yard here .

The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam is owned by Cambridge University and, like Oxford’s Ashmolean, is a treasure chest of a museum. It’s home to a really well-balanced collection, going from ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece to more modern times. The highlight for me are the beautiful Flemish and Dutch paintings, including works by Bruegel, Rubens and Van Dyck. Plus, it’s free entry.

How to get around Cambridge

Cambridge is a super walkable city, especially if you plan to stick to the main tourist areas. However, if you’re strapped for time and want to cram in as much as possible, then it’s worth purchasing a ticket for the 24-hr Cambridge hop-on/hop-off bus . All you need to do is show the voucher to the driver.

Looking for more London day-trip ideas?

14 london day trips that you will love, london to margate: a delightful day at the seaside, london to painshill park – visiting the crystal grotto, are you planning a trip to cambridge.

A Cambridge day trip from London by train

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day trip to cambridge from london by train

Cambridge day trip from London by train

26th May 2023

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Historic, beautiful and relaxed, Cambridge is a top destination for a day trip, whatever the season. So, if you’re thinking about visiting and want a quick and handy guide on the essentials, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to plan your outing and what to see when you’re there. 

Planning your Cambridge day trip 

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Here’s a short and sweet guide on how to plan your day trip to Cambridge. 

Where to travel from in London 

You’ve got a number of options. You can travel to Cambridge from London Kings Cross, London Liverpool Street or London St Pancras. 

Booking your tickets to and from Cambridge 

We always say that it’s best to book in advance and with a Railcard – that way you can get the best deals (for example, a Railcard will knock up to 1/3 off your train fare) and have one less thing to worry about on the actual day. 

What time to leave London 

If you want to maximise your time in Cambridge, you’ll want to catch an early train, with some of the earliest running from around 5am (sometimes even earlier). 

If that’s perhaps a little too early, and you’re thinking about getting into the city for somewhere between 9am to 10am, you’ve got good options to depart from London around 7.30am and 8am. 

What time to return from Cambridge 

If you’re keen to experience Cambridge at night, you’re in luck – some of the last trains from the city back to the capital leave between 11pm and 12am. 

That said, do remember to factor in your trip from London, whether you’re going back home or to a hotel. That will probably influence what time in the evening you leave Cambridge. 

What to do on your Cambridge day trip 

Plan your day effectively and you can fit in an awful lot without feeling like you’ve had to rush around Cambridge. Here’s our pick of things you can do on your day trip to the iconic city. 

Enjoy a tour of Cambridge 

day trip to cambridge from london by train

If your day trip to Cambridge is going to stretch from the morning until the evening, a short walking tour of the city is a good idea, especially if you haven’t visited before. It will not only introduce you to all the major sights and attractions, but also help you get an understanding of how to get around. 

There are plenty to choose from, so do have a browse, but if you want short and sweet, consider the Cambridge Highlights Tour. It’s only 90 minutes. 

You will need to book and pay for tickets online and in advance. 

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum 

Founded in 1816, the Fitzwilliam Museum has long been one of Cambridge’s best attractions. It’s easy to see why. Its vast collection – we’re talking more than half a million artefacts, art and more – covers the breadth and history of human creativity, from the ancient world to the 20th century. 

So whether you’re interested in historic objects, paintings from the Middle Ages or modernist art, you’ll not only find it here, but discover hidden gems along the way, too.  

Entry is free. 

Enjoy punting down the River Cam 

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Looking for a quintessential Cambridge experience? Then look no further than punting (that’s a boat ride in case you’re wondering). A pleasant way to while away some of the morning, afternoon or evening, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the view as you travel smoothly along the River Cam (which includes the college “backs”). 

Some of the recommended providers include the Traditional Punting Company, Let’s Go Punting and Scudamore’s Punting Company. 

Prices vary. 

Potter about the Botanic Garden 

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Cambridge University Botanic Garden, to give it its full name, is a lush, green heritage-listed wonderland that is home to an astonishing range of flowers, trees and plants. 

You name it, it’s got it. Dry Garden? Check. A hangout for bees? Check. Wild plants from Britain? Check. Scented Garden? You can bet your nose there is! There’s also a Garden Shop. 

Adults will have to pay a small fee to get in, but it’s free for children up to 16. 

Take in some art at Kettle’s Yard 

One of the things that makes Kettle’s Yard such a lovely gallery to visit is the fact that it’s based within a house – and as gallery experiences go, they don’t get as intimate and informal as this gem. 

Highlights include the Tic Tic painting by Joan Miró, the Prometheus sculpture by Constantin Brancusi and the Spiral of Stones display by Jim Ede, who along with his wife Helen, used to live here before gifting their former home to the University of Cambridge. 

While it’s free, the gallery recommends you book a slot in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Save 1/3 off your train tickets to Cambridge when you travel by train with a Railcard . Get yours now and start saving on your rail fares today. 

The Sunrise Dreamers

day trip to cambridge from london by train

The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)

Planning a 1 day Cambridge itinerary in 2024? Cambridge is an incredibly historic city with interesting museums, picturesque streets, charming boat rides and plenty of great restaurants! Spending one day in Cambridge is the perfect day trip from London and an easy getaway to a cosy walkable city. Let’s plan your Cambridge 1 day itinerary!

Cambridge is located just north of London in the United Kingdom and is well-known for it’s reputable University of Cambridge . Browsing around the buildings that date back to 1209 is one of the best things to do in Cambridge on a day trip or more.

The streets of the city are incredibly beautiful with both mainstream and local shops spread out throughout the wandering lanes. The iconic Kings College and River Cam are the most popular spots in the city and definitely worth a visit during any Cambridge itinerary .

Although the city is small, there’s honestly too much to see with 1 day in Cambridge but it’s the perfect day trip from London or nearby cities. One day is also enough time to experience the main highlights!

In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your 1 day Cambridge itinerary with the best things to do, how to get around and a few food recommendations . There’s also some activities that cost money and you can also book in advance.

The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2023)

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Quick Tips for a 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

  • Currency  – Pound Sterling GBP (compare your own currency  here )
  • Cuisine  – British with a variety of cuisines  (Chips, pies, Indian, Chinese & pizza)
  • Apps  – GoogleMaps, Uber,  Booking.com  &,  Hostelworld
  • Where to stay – YHA Cambridge – Book your stay here !
  • Power Voltage  – Plug G, 240V

Visiting more of the UK ? We have itineraries to York , Edinburgh , Brighton , the Scottish Highlands and hiking in Snowdonia !

Activities to book in advance:   Cambridge Punting Tour & Cambridge University Tour !

Best time to visit Cambridge

Cambridge is a year-round destination that experiences all four seasons. However, we recommend visiting Cambridge between April and October when the days are longer and there’s more chance of warmer weather.

July and August are the busiest months to visit Cambridge due to the summer holidays, although it’s usually the best weather. Christmas is also a great time to visit for festive decorations around the city! We visited in September and the UK had a mini 30°C heatwave!

Also check for  bank holiday weekends , as these days can get very busy with most of the country off of work.

How to get to Cambridge

Cambridge is located in Eastern England very close to the capital city, London! There are excellent transport links into the city and we highly recommend getting the train from London.

  • By train:  Trains to Cambridge take you to  Cambridge train station  which is only a 20-minute walk to the city centre.
  • By bus:  Check out Megabus, National Express and FlixBus for journeys around the UK. Although they’re not as fast as trains, they’re usually a lot cheaper!
  • By vehicle:  Cambridge has free parking overnight, but you’ll likely have to pay for parking unless you park somewhere residential. Park at Queen Anne Terrace Car Park or use the Park & Ride .
  • By flight: London Stansted is the best international airport to arrive at for a trip to Cambridge.

The best way to get to Cambridge from London is by train ! Head to London King’s Cross station to get a direct train to Cambridge in less than 1 hour. There are also other trains from around the city, but it’s best to catch the underground or bus to King’s Cross. We have a travel guide on how to spend 4 incredible days in London !

How to get better prices for trains in the UK?   Book your train tickets in advance ! Advance singles save so much money compared to a normal off-peak return. Also if you’re from the UK, check if a Railcard is worth it and you’ll save 1/3 of your fare!

1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Best Things To Do

Now we’re going to share the best things to do in Cambridge during a one day itinerary. Feel free to mix these activities around depending on the weather.

We’re writing this Cambridge itinerary starting from the train station which is only 20-25 minutes from the city centre.

See the Corpus Clock

As you walk into the city from the train station, you’ll pass by a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops before seeing the most unique clock in Cambridge.

The Corpus Clock is a large golden clock with a grasshopper sitting on top . There are no hands or digital numbers, but the time is shown with swirling LED lights. The grasshopper opens its mouth every 30 seconds and it’s also known as the time eater.

The Cambridge physicist Stephen Hawking revealed the fascinating clock to the public in 2008 and now it’s a popular place to take a photo in Cambridge!

The iconic Corpus Clock

Visit the Eagle

Right around the corner from the Corpus Clock is the famous Eagle Pub. We noticed a few Guided Historic Walking Tours around this area of Cambridge, as there’s a lot of history to learn!

As well as being one of the oldest pubs in Cambridge , The Eagle Pub  was the place where Francis Crick and James Watson announced their discovery of DNA (double helix structure DNA).

They were both researchers and scientists at Cambridge University . It’s one of the best scientific discoveries of the 20th century and they won a Nobel Prize in 1962.

Honestly, if you didn’t research what to do on your 1 day Cambridge itinerary, you would easily walk passed this Greene King pub . Although there is a sign to celebrate and remember the day the scientists discovered the ‘ Secret of Life’ .

Go on a Punting Tour

As you’re getting started with learning about Cambridge, it’s time to explore the beautiful River Cam and take a boat trip!

Once you head to the waterfront, you’ll notice lots of companies offering punting tours . You can book online in advance to guarantee a spot or find a boat when you arrive.

A punting tour is one of the best ways to see the famous colleges of Cambridge and your guide will tell you interesting facts as you float past. We recommend joining a shared Punting Tour instead of hiring your own, as it looks so hard! Our guide told us a lot of people fall in.

The boats used for punting are long and wooden with flat bottoms! The punter uses a pole to push the boat along in the river and it’s a work of art! Cambridge is the most popular place in the UK to go punting !

Punting on a Cambridge day trip

Visit Wren Library

Next on your Cambridge 1 day itinerary, visit the Wren Library (part of Trinity College). The Wren Library is notable for its extremely invaluable books such as Isaac Newton’s text and the first manuscript of Winnie the Pooh . It’s also home to the oldest manuscript of Shakespeare’s plays.

The library has very short opening hours usually around lunch from 12 pm to 2 pm. It has been closed for 3 years from 2020 until late 2023, but it’s finally open to visitors as of September 2023.

As a big fan of Winnie the Pooh, it was incredible to see A.A. Milnes’s early work from 1926 and it’s actually the only piece that you’re not allowed to photograph. Milne was also a student at Trinity College (Cambridge University).

The library is also free to enter ! A lot of monuments and buildings cost money to enter in Cambridge.

Visiting the Wren Library during a 1 day Cambridge Itinerary

Grab lunch in Cambridge

There are many great places to eat in Cambridge! We recommend grabbing a bite from the local market in the centre of the city or taking a short walk to Urban Butterfly or The Tipsy Vegan .

At Cambridge Market Square , you can find Africfood , noodles, falafel and juices! This 1 day Cambridge itinerary is pretty packed, so you’ll want to take some time to rest before starting your afternoon!

Climb to Great St Mary’s Tower

Right next to the market is an Anglican church named Great St Mary’s . Visiting the church is a beautiful experience, but the main reason to visit is to see scenic views of Cambridge from the University Church Tower .

There are 123 steps leading to the top with a viewing platform. The church is free to enter and it’s £6 to climb the tower. Check the website for updates.

Explore Cambridge University

Cambridge University is one of the best and oldest universities in the world , ranking amongst well-known schools such as Oxford, Harvard and Stanford. It was established back in 1209 after Oxford University.

There isn’t just one building at Cambridge University , in fact, they’re spread out all over the city. The historic beauty of the buildings and colleges is one of the main reasons visitors come to Cambridge on a day trip from London.

Explore Cambridge University

What are the colleges at Cambridge University?

Cambridge is a ‘ collegiate university ‘ made up of 31 colleges with different subjects, facilities and funding. When applying to the university, a student chooses a college to be accepted and that’s the college they will study with, live and also eat!

Some colleges also have different admittance rules such as Wolfson, Hughes Hall and St.Edmund’s only accept students over the age of 21. Newnham and Murray Edwards only accept female students, and Kings College used to only admit boys from  Eton College  until 1865.

The best way to learn more about the colleges and history of the university is on a Cambridge University Walking Tour ! The most popular colleges to visit are Kings College, Trinity College, Queens College and Pembroke College .

Visit Kings College if you only have 1 day in Cambridge

After your morning punting tour , you will have seen King’s College Chapel and the grounds surrounding it. The chapel is one of the oldest surviving buildings at the university and it has an incredibly unique ceiling.

The fan vault ceiling in the chapel took 3 years to create and it’s the reason why the chapel is so popular along with its well-known choir. Tickets are around £13 to enter.

King's College

King’s College Bridge is also one of the most photogenic spots on your Cambridge 1 day itinerary.

Eat a famous Chelsea bun

Head over to Fitzbilies Cafe during your Cambridge day trip to try one of their famous Chelsea Buns. This lovely artisan bakery creates the most syrupy and soft Chelsea buns we’ve ever tried! Fitzbillies have been going since 1920 and you can find two of them in Cambridge city.

The famous Cambridge Chelsa Bun

We also recommend Jack’s Gelato for their amazing ice creams! They had three vegan flavours when we visited, including dark chocolate!

Wander the beautiful streets of Cambridge

Amongst all of the history during your Cambridge 1 day itinerary, Cambridge is still a city with mainstream shops and beautiful cobbled streets. Our favourite streets in Cambridge are:

  • Rose Crescent
  • Trinity Lane
  • Green Street
  • Portugal Place
  • Orchard Street

Cambridge is full of photogenic streets as the city dates back so far. There’s also cute bunting along some of the streets in the summer months.

Rose Crescent in Cambridge

If you like the sound of Cambridge, check out Edinburgh Itinerary: The Best 3 days in Edinburgh !

Visit the Round Church

Close to Portugal Street is the Round Church built in 1130. There are only four Round Churches in the UK and Cambridge is home to one of them. The architecture inside is remarkable and a great place to visit if you’re a fan of medieval times. There’s a small fee to enter.

The Round Church

See the views at Castle Mound

Located on the west side of River Cam , Castle Mound is another great place in Cambridge to see panoramic views of the city . The best part is, it’s free!

It only takes 1 minute to reach the top of the mound and you can see faint remains of Cambridge Castle that was built around 1068.

The best time to visit is at sunset , but on a 1 day Cambridge itinerary, there may not be a sunset while you are visiting.

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum

There are numerous museums in Cambridge, too many to visit with 1 day in Cambridge! However, if you’d like to visit one, we recommend the Fitzwilliam Museum .

It’s a free museum to enter and it’s filled with Egyptian, Greek and Roman history along with huge oil paintings from all over the world. The building itself is pretty impressive and you can easily get lost in the maze of artefact s!

Fitzwilliam Museum

Find the Old Bicycle Shop

The Old Bicycle Shop is another place to visit on your one day in Cambridge and it’s also on the way back to the train station.

It’s actually now a restaurant serving delicious food, but its name comes from its past. The Old Bicycle Shop used to be named Howes Cycles and it’s been said that Charles Darwin bought a bicycle from here back in the 19th century .

You can really see the transition from the retro bike shop it used to be!

Explore the Botanical Garden

As you get closer to Cambridge train station you’ll notice a huge park called Cambridge University Botanic Garden . If you have time left on your 1 day Cambridge itinerary, visit the gardens for a lovely stroll.

The garden is filled with beautifully unique plant species and you can visit all year round, although summer is when the flowers are most colourful!

We ran out of time during our Cambridge itinerary because there’s so much to cover, but it was on our list! Now it’s on our list for our next Cambridge day trip from London!

Spending one day in Cambridge exploring the streets!

Stem & Glory is a great option if you’re looking for dinner in Cambridge.

Alternative ideas for a Cambridge 1 day itinerary

Although we’ve created a jam-packed Cambridge one day itinerary, there’s always going to be more things to do in the city! Here’s a few more ideas if you have more than one day in Cambridge or some extra time!

  • Polar Museum
  • Walk over the Mathematical Bridge
  • University of Zoology
  • Relax on the Jesus Green – a beautiful park near the river!
  • Visit more colleges at Cambridge University
  • Kettle’s Yard – an art Gallery!

Where to stay in Cambridge

The best area to stay in Cambridge is in the  Cambridge City Centre ! Cambridge is small, so anywhere within a 20-30 minute walk is a good place to stay.

YHA Cambridge £-££ – One of the most budget-friendly places to stay in Cambridge, near the train station – Find YHA on Booking.com here !

Gonville Hotel ££-£££ – This high-quality hotel is in the centre of Cambridge –  Book Gonville Hotel here on Booking.com !

University Arms, Autograph Collection ££-£££ – Another luxury hotel in the heart of Cambridge –  Book here on Booking.com !

Best Restaurants in Cambridge

There are some incredible places to eat around Cambridge, here’s a few of our recommendations:

  • Stem & Glory ££ – are a well-presented plant-based restaurant near the train station in Cambridge!
  • Tipsy Vegan ££ – The perfect place for lunch after Punting or for evening drinks.
  • Fitzbillies £ – Famous Chelsea buns! yes, there’s a vegan option!
  • Urban Butterfly £-££ – A delicious vegan cafe in Cambride!
  • Africfood £ – At the local market in Cambridge!

Finding the best food in Cambridge

How to get around Cambridge

Cambridge is a walkable city , so it’s easy to get around! There are multiple bus routes and even two train stations if you are staying overnight in the city. A Punting Tour is another great way to spend 1 day in Cambridge browsing some of the best sights from the water!

What to do in Cambridge at night

  • Go on a Ghost Punting Tour
  • Visit Cambridge Observatory (October to March)
  • Relax, drink and dine at The Tipsy Vegan restaurant
  • Have a cocktail at the Hidden Rooms
  • Head to a pub!

How many days in Cambridge

Cambridge is a small city and it’s definitely possible to spend 1 day in Cambridge seeing the main highlights and learning about the history of the city. We recommend spending at least one day in the city, as an afternoon or half a day would be too rushed.

It’s also a great idea to spend a weekend in Cambridge as there’s enough activities to keep you busy! Most of the colleges cost money to enter, so bear that in mind when creating your Cambridge day trip.

If you’re staying more than 1 day in Cambridge, consider taking day trips to other cities in the UK such as a visit to Norfolk , Peterborough and Northampton.

What to pack for a 1 day in Cambridge

Here’s a few travel essentials that we bring on our trips, especially in the UK!

  • A reusable water bottle  – a must when travelling anywhere!
  • Wireless earbuds  – the best for long journeys in the UK.
  • Comfortable day backpack  – this one has so many compartments for organising!
  • Portable power bank  – charge your phone on the go.
  • A compact umbrella  – another must-have when visiting the UK.
  • A raincoat  – for the unpredictable UK weather.
  • Packing cubes  – if you’re staying more than one day in Cambridge, these are so helpful.
  • A padlock  – for any lockers.

Cambridge itinerary

Planning a 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary

Here are some helpful links to plan your Cambridge one day itinerary:

  • Check for any  public holidays  on your date of visit ( Find out when the public holidays are )!
  • Book your train tickets in advance  on  Trainline !
  • If you’re taking the train, double-check for train strikes!
  • Get Travel Insurance –  Find out more here !
  • Book your accommodation on  Hostelworld here  or on  Booking.com here !
  • Where to stay in Cambridge:  YHA Cambridge – Book your stay here !

More guides in the  United Kingdom :

  • The Best 1 Day York Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)
  • Edinburgh Itinerary: The Best 3 days in Edinburgh
  • The Best 1 day Highlands Road Trip from Edinburgh
  • How to Climb Yr Wyddfa from Pen-y-Pass: Snowdon
  • Top 20 Best Vegan Restaurants in Edinburgh, Scotland
  • A Weekend in Brighton – 8 Great Things To Do
  • Browse more  English   or  Scottish  posts!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world –  Find out more here!

That’s the end of our  The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2024) ! Enjoy your one day in Cambridge and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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1 day Cambridge itinerary in the United Kingdom - travel guide

Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Cambridge Day Trip: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary

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If you’re planning a Cambridge day trip, you’re in for a treat! I’ll say this time and time again, but Cambridge is one of my favourite cities in the UK. It’s also right around the corner from where I live, so I’ve been able to visit over and over again and really explore the city in depth.

However, many visitors to the historic city do so as a day trip from London or elsewhere in the UK. So, I’ve put together the perfect itinerary so you can see the best of Cambridge in a day. 

Is Cambridge worth a day trip?

100% yes, Cambridge is worth a day trip. I live less than an hour from the city and take a day trip to Cambridge multiple times a year. I love sightseeing in Cambridge. It’s a great place to act like a tourist for a day and explore sights that I’ve seen countless times before but never seem to lose their charm.

Inside King's College Chapel

If you’re a first-time visitor to Cambridge, you can quite easily fall in love with it. It’s much calmer than London and much prettier (in my opinion). I also love how green it is and how stunning the architecture is. It’s pretty easy to spend a day in Cambridge and you’ll most likely end up wishing you had more time!

🡺 I recommend this day tour of Cambridge ! 🡸

How do I spend a day in Cambridge?

I won’t lie to you – there are quite a lot of things to do in Cambridge . Whether you want to visit the historic colleges, explore the river, or go for a walk in one of the many parks and green spaces that surround the city, there are many things that you can do during your stay.

It’s a city rich in history and culture, but with so many things to do it can be hard to know where to start.

Punts along the river in Cambridge

For a day trip to Cambridge, I’d recommend staying in the city’s centre. The colleges are Cambridge’s top attractions and the beautiful River Cam also runs right through the middle of the city.

As well as this, you can explore the market stalls, museums, and much more in the city centre. Plus, it means you don’t need to travel far the get around, as this entire itinerary can be done on foot.

The perfect Cambridge day trip itinerary

So whether you make this trip by car or as a train trip from London ; whether it’s your first time in Cambridge or your fourth, here’s my perfect itinerary for spending a day in Cambridge.

9:00 – Visit King’s College

Cost : £14.50 per adult on weekdays and £15 on weekends

Start your day trip to Cambridge at the city’s most famous attraction. King’s College is easily one of Cambridge’s top attractions. Located in the heart of the city, the beautiful building has hosted many prestigious figures, such as Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.

Kings College Chapel in Cambridge

When you arrive, you’ll first explore the main college and then walk around to the exterior and the grounds. You can see a range of different things including paintings, sculptures and architectural features around the building. It’s great for getting an idea of what Cambridge’s life was like in the past. 

My personal favourite part of visiting King’s College is the chapel and the grounds outside. The view across the river of the collage and the interior of the chapel is stunning.

🡺 Book a Kings College tour with punting here! 🡸

10:00 – See the Corpus Clock

Cost : Free

Located right next to King’s College, the Corpus Clock is a beautiful piece of engineering. Also known as the Grasshopper clock, it was designed by artist John Taylor and given to Corpus Christi College in 2008.

The Corpus clock in Cambridge

It’s a really eye-catching feature of the college and is worth seeing if you’re in Cambridge. It also has an interesting symbolism with the grasshopper representing the passing of time. 

10:15 – Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum 

This is one of my favourite places to visit in Cambridge and a great stop if you love history. 

One of the best things about the Fitzwilliam Museum is that it’s completely free to visit. It’s one of the best free things to do in Cambridge and it honestly shocked me when I first visited because of how interesting it was. I fully expected to be charged to visit a place like this!

The Fitzwilliam Museum on Cambridge

The building itself is also beautiful with towering columns outside and a grand staircase inside the entrance hall. Then, there are lots of interesting exhibits from artistic paintings to artefacts from ancient Egypt. 

All in all, it might take you a couple of hours to properly look around the museum (longer if you want to read all the information). It’s well worth it and one of the best museums in Cambridge.

13:00 – Head to the Market Square for Lunch

Cost : Depends on what you purchase!

The Market Square in Cambridge is one of the best places to stop for food – in my opinion of course! There are so many wonderful places to eat in Cambridge, but if you want a great selection and a range of stalls that are all very close to one another, you can’t go wrong with street food. 

Paella at Cambridge Market

Every time I visit the Market Square in Cambridge, I get something different. You can choose from authentic Spanish paella, Thai noodles, Greek souvlaki, Indian curries, Brazilian stews, and much more. It’s a treat for the tastebuds and a great stop for lunch. 

Fun Fact : Some people actually travel from surrounding towns specifically to try the food here – one lady told me she’s travelled an hour to visit one of the Market stalls!

14:00 – Climb Great St Mary’s Church for Views over the City

Cost : £6 for adults and £4 for children

For the best views in Cambridge, you have to climb this tower. Located right next to Kings Collage and Market Square, this is the next stop on your Cambridge day trip itinerary. The inside of the church is beautiful in itself, but the views from the top are some of the best you’ll see of King’s Collage. 

The view from St Mary's Church is one of the best things to see on a Cambridge day trip

There’s a very tight winding staircase you’ll need to climb to reach the top of the tower. This isn’t too bad as it’s only 123 steps, but can still get you a little out of breath. But the views from the top are well worth it.

Top Tip : The staircase is too narrow to let people up and down at the same time so there is a traffic light system in place here. You have to wait for the light to go greet before you can start climbing down the tower again to let those coming up reach the top. 

15:00 – Explore Trinity College and Wren Library

Cost : £5 per adult for the guided tour

Another of Cambridge’s beautiful colleges (and trust me, there are plenty) Trinity is a stunning building. The architecture is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, but the highlight for me was Wren Library. The college was built in 1546 and was founded by Henry VIII.

Before you leave Trinity, be sure to check out the Chapel with its stained glass windows, which are absolutely stunning. Also, although the college itself requires a guided tour ticket to enter, the Wren Library is completely free and definitely one of the best free things to do in Cambridge . 

This absolutely beautiful library contains many world-famous books such as Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica or Charles Darwin’s Origin Of The Species.

You can also explore exhibitions on display about college life in Cambridge over the last few hundred years to find out more about campus history. Easily one of the best things to do on a Cambridge day trip, the College and the Library are must-sees.

16:00 – Visit St John’s College

Cost : £12 per adult

Just a 1-minute walk from Trinity College, St John’s College is one of the oldest and most famous colleges in Cambridge. Founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, Queen Elizabeth I’s godmother, some of the best academics in the world, such as Stephen Hawking, have studied within its walls.

St John's College is a must see during a Cambridge day trip

The college offers a range of things for visitors including tours around its grounds (I suggest booking ahead), lectures from leading professors, concerts at its chapel, or their free evensong events. It’s another of Cambridge’s prettiest architectural gems and well worth a visit.

17:00 – Go Punting on the River Cam

Cost : Rent a punt from £32, go on a group guided tour from £20, or go on a private tour from £79

Finally, finish your Cambridge day trip with a sunset punting trip on the River Cam. Possibly one of the most iconic things to do in Cambridge you simply cannot visit the historic city without adding this to your itinerary. 

Punting on the River Cam

The river meanders through all sorts of picturesque spots – with both town and university buildings lining its banks. You’ll pass the Mathematical Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, the Backs, Kings College, and many other top sights in Cambridge.

Plus, if you pick the guided tour option , you’ll also learn a few facts about the city on the way!

It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and is available all year round as well, so don’t be put off if you’re visiting Cambridge in the colder months. The punters simply wrap you up in a blanket and provide warm drinks to keep you toasty.

The view of the Bridge of Sighs from a punting tour in Cambridge

Punting is one of my favourite things to do in Cambridge. It’s not only a fun activity but also allows you to explore this stunning city from an entirely different perspective and is the perfect way to end your day in Cambridge.

🡺 I recommend this punting tour in Cambridge ! 🡸

If you have more than a Cambridge day trip

If you’re lucky enough to be spending more than one day in Cambridge, here are some other wonderful ways you could spend your time.

1. Go for Brunch

Cambridge is a city known for good food – brunch being pretty high on the list! Featuring some of the best restaurants in the entire country, including the Michelin-starred Midsummer House, it’s a must to enjoy some of England’s favourite meals.

Avocado on Toast brunch

Known for their delicious and creative avocado toast dishes, speciality coffees, yummy homemade pastries such as the walnut brownie, and pizza weekends,

I recommend Hot Numbers for brunch in Cambridge. You’ll find two venues, one on Trinity Street and the other on Gwydir Street.

Also, be sure to check Fitzbillies as they sell the best and stickiest Chelsea buns in the city!

2. Wander the Streets

One of the top things to do in Cambridge is to simply wander the historic streets. Cambridge has many beautiful, winding alleys, cobbled pathways, and picturesque lanes in the centre of this busy city.

Some of the prettiest streets in Cambridge include Rose Crescent, Orchard Street, Trinity Lane, and Senate House Passage. My personal favourite is Trinity Lane as it’s lined with turrets from the adjoining colleges and has a lovely Tudor feel.

Cambridge streets

As you wander the streets, you’ll pass many of Cambridge’s most iconic sites. For example, if you walk through Trinity Lane towards Trinity College, then make your way to King’s Parade before heading out past Clare College on St John Street (a gorgeous cobbled lane) and onto Gonville Place, there is a beautiful row of Georgian houses overlooking Parker’s Piece.

England doesn’t get more beautiful better than this!

3. View the Mathematical Bridge

One of the most beautiful bridges in Cambridge, the Mathematical Bridge is a photographer’s dream.

You will almost certainly pass by it on a punting tour of Cambridge , but you can also see the bridge on foot by walking to the bridge on Silver Street – that was where the photo above was taken and is one of the best views in the city.

The Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge is a must-see during a Cambridge Day Trip

The bridge was designed in 1748 by William Etheridge and built a year later. It is made entirely out of straight timbers, which is strange considering its arched shape. The clever engineering is what ultimately gave it its name.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there are always lots of tourists here, so it might not be ideal if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.

However, I love this spot because the views are just gorgeous – plus there’s plenty of space to get creative with your photography techniques on both sides.

4. Visit the other museums

Cambridge has a lot of museums . And if you have more than a Cambridge day trip, it’s well worth checking out some of the other museums in the city. These include:

  • Kettle’s Yard – a unique art museum inside former houses, 
  • The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences – a museum of geology located on the University of Cambridge’s Downing Street Site,
  • The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology – Another Cambridge University Museum, you’ll find a fantastic collection of antiques and archaeology here from around the world.
  • The University Museum of Zoology – A museum dedicated to the zoology research of the University of Cambridge.
  • The Museum of Cambridge – A folksy museum dedicated to the history of the city of Cambridge itself.

5. Take a trip to the surrounding villages

I love exploring little villages and the areas surrounding Cambridge are home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in England . I particularly love Grantchester, St Ives, and Fenstanton, but there are lots of places here to see. 

The Red Lion Pub in Grantchester

You can wander through the villages themselves, explore the nearby nature reserves and go for a walk, or head to the pubs for a drink and a bit to eat. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and a wonderful way to see the outskirts of the city.

How to get to Cambridge

Cambridge is an easily accessible city from many places around the UK. Here are some of the easiest ways to get there. 

The city is located around 60 miles north of London and will take about 2 hours to drive there from the capital. However, driving to London can mean a fair bit of traffic. 

It’s also worth mentioning that parking in Cambridge isn’t cheap. I’ve paid over £20 for 4 hours before, so I advise against parking in the main city centre car parks like the Grand Arcade or the Grafton Centre.

If you are planning on driving, either use Queen Anne’s Terrace car park which is a little cheaper, or use the park-and-ride service . 

By Public Transport

Cambridge is well-connected by train. Direct trains run regularly from London King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations. The journey from London King’s Cross takes around 50-60 minutes. 

If you’ve flown into the UK and need to get to Cambridge, there are also plenty of easy ways to do this. The nearest major airports are London Heathrow (LHR) and London Stansted (STN).

From Heathrow, you can take a train to London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street stations and then transfer to a train to Cambridge. From Stansted, there’s a direct train to Cambridge.

You can also easily get to the city by bus. National Express provides long-distance bus services to Cambridge from a range of cities in the UK including Birmingham and Bristol .

🡺 Book your train tickets to Cambridge here! 🡸

Is Oxford or Cambridge better for a day out?

Both Oxford and Cambridge are historic and beautiful cities with rich cultural and academic traditions and there’s usually a lot of competition between the two. 

Oxford is known for its stunning architecture, including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and various colleges. It’s also somewhat more historic, with the Ashmolean Museum and the Oxford Castle. Plus, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love it as so many Harry Potter filming locations are in Oxford. 

Christ Church, Oxford, England

Cambridge also boasts impressive architecture, including King’s College Chapel, the Mathematical Bridge, and various beautiful college buildings. It’s famous for punting on the River Cam which is a popular and picturesque activity, especially in the summer months .

Plus, the market square in the city centre is vibrant, with a variety of shops, cafes, and street performers.

Beautiful university buildings in Cambridge

When trying to choose between the two, I’d consider your interests. If you’re more inclined towards Harry Potter and diverse museums, Oxford might be more appealing. If you’re interested in punting, the great outdoors, and gorgeous architecture, Cambridge might be a better fit.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Cambridge for a Day

Overall, I think Cambridge is the perfect UK day trip. It’s a compact city, meaning you can explore most of it on foot and see many of the popular attractions within a day. Yet, it’s also diverse enough that you could come back time and time again.

It’s also an incredibly interesting city with lots to see and do from history to natural attractions, and also plenty of places surrounding the city for you to explore. Overall, it’s one of the best cities in the UK and a Cambridge day trip will not leave you disappointed.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

  • SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
  • BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
  • SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
  • DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
  • OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
  • GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
  • AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

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How to Travel from London to Cambridge by Train, Bus, and Car

day trip to cambridge from london by train

Grant Faint / Getty Images

After Stonehenge and the Harry Potter Studio Tour , Cambridge is one of the most popular day trips travelers can take from London. Historically, London and Cambridge have always been well-connected neighbors and the route is frequently traveled by Londoners and Cantabrigians (what people from Cambridge call themselves) alike.

Although the two cities are only separated by 64 miles, traveling that distance may take longer than you think, depending on how you go about it. Because the cities are so close, you would be hard-pressed to find direct flights from London to Cambridge and frankly, it would probably take just as long as driving when you factor in the traffic you're likely to hit on your way to the airport.

The only sensible options are to travel by car, bus, or train. The best way for you depends on your travel style and your itinerary. The bus is the cheapest option, but it takes the longest. For most casual travelers, the train is the best option because it will take you from city center to city center in less than an hour and is relatively affordable, although slightly more expensive than the bus.

If you go by car, it will still take you over an hour to get there, but you might consider doing so if there are other cities nearby you hope to visit. Driving will give you the most freedom, but remember that gas, or "petrol" as the British call it , is expensive in the UK and you will need to be comfortable driving on the other side of the road . Traffic is also a factor and really, unless you are staying in northeast London, you'd be better off traveling by train or bus.

How to Get From London to Cambridge

  • Train: 48 minutes, from $34
  • Bus: 1 hour, 45 minutes, from $9
  • Car: 1 hour, 30 minutes, 64 miles (103 kilometers)

There is frequent train service between London and Cambridge from several Central London mainline train stations. The Great Northern/Thames Link Railway runs fast trains to Cambridge Station from London King's Cross every few minutes throughout the day. The journey can take between 48 minutes and one hour, 30 minutes, depending on how many stops are made.

There are also hourly trains from London Liverpool Street Station operated by Abellio Greater Anglia . This route ranges from about 50 minutes to one hour, 25 minutes, and tends to offer the cheapest tickets, which start at $15 for a one-way ticket.

New services on this route are now also being run from Saint Pancras International , which is five minutes from King's Cross and served by the same London Underground station. Many of these services involve changing trains at King's Cross, and the tickets cost quite a bit more. Unless you are arriving in London on Eurostar with heavy luggage and are planning to leave for Cambridge immediately, it makes more sense to take the train from King's Cross.

Finding the right combination of one-way tickets to arrive at the cheapest fare can sometimes be confusing and time-consuming. You can spend a lot of time trying out different combinations, but if you can be flexible about your date and time of travel, it's easier to let National Rail Enquiries do it for you with their cheapest fare finder.

The National Express operates coaches from London to Cambridge. Tickets typically cost between $6 and $22 each way depending on how far in advance you buy them. The more expensive tickets involve changing at Stansted Station, which connects to London Stansted Airport (36 miles outside of Central London) so unless you are planning to fly out immediately, take the direct buses for $6 each way. Early morning coaches and several journeys through the day make a detour to Stansted Airport, adding both time and cost to the trip.

National Express now accepts payment by Paypal, so it's easy to book a bus ticket from anywhere in the world. The trip takes between one hour, 45 minutes and two hours, 20 minutes (with a stop at Stansted), and buses leave hourly between Victoria Coach Station in London and Cambridge City Center.

Cambridge is 64 miles northeast of London via the M11 motorway, which happens to be the scenic route and is very straightforward. Ideally, it should take about one hour, 45 minutes to drive, but the northeast routes out of London are among the most chaotic and traffic-clogged. Keep in mind, too, that gasoline is sold by the liter (a little more than a quart) and the price is usually more than $1.80 a liter .

If you do choose to drive, one stop along the way that may make for an interesting diversion is the Audley End House and Gardens , a Jacobean mansion with sprawling lawns and pretty English gardens.

What to See in Cambridge

Cambridge attracts many travelers eager to explore this university city's history, which makes it one of the most popular and easiest day-trip destinations from London. In addition to the historic architecture, churches, and museums, the city has a lively local scene and many fashionable restaurants and shopping boutiques to explore. There also many pubs and microbreweries, where you can grab a pint and enjoy the atmosphere.

While in town, you'll, of course, want to visit Cambridge University and its major landmarks like King's College Chapel and the library, which is over 300 years old and houses a well-preserved, 500-year-old copy of the English classic "The Canterbury Tales." Another must-see is the Museum of Zoology, where you'll find some incredible specimens on display like the 10,000-year-old, 12-foot skeleton of the long-extinct giant sloth. Other interesting spots in town include the River Cam, which is great for kayaking, and the American Cemetery, a burial ground for fallen American soldiers during World War II.

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Kats Gone Global

The Ultimate Day Trip From London to Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the most well-known cities in England as it’s synonymous with the world-renowned Cambridge University, founded in 1209. The city has some of the most amazing architecture in all of England, which makes it easy to see why Cambridge is a popular day trip destination.

Between the picturesque cobbled streets, the towering ancient walls, the long history of scholars and inventions and the canal running through the city, Cambridge is a special place to visit. Add to that the charm of the students riding their bikes to and from their classes, the university vibe is rich and vibrant.

Cambridge is a nice change of pace from busy London and has such a distinctly scholarly feel to it. Being the fourth oldest university in the entire world, it’s easy to understand why. And especially being home to famous names like Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking and Sir Isaac Newton.

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Due to the large student population within 31 colleges, there is so much to see and do, as well as eat and drink. Whether you decide to partake in a walking tour or rough it on your own, Cambridge is a completely compact, walkable city. This Cambridge day trip will guide you through all the best sights to see and how to best use your time.

Day Trip to Cambridge

How to Get to Cambridge

Cambridge sits about 50 miles north of London in the county of Cambridgeshire. The Cam river flows through the city, with plenty of green space and parks surrounding the university, giving it a leisurely, but stately feel.

With non-stop service leaving from Kings Cross or Liverpool Street station in London, a train ride to Cambridge is quick and easy. You can expect to arrive in Cambridge in somewhere between 50 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on which route you take.

Book your ticket through Trainline and don’t forget to get to add a railcard to save 1/3 off your journey!

If you prefer to drive, depending on which end of London you depart from, it’ll take just one to 1 1/2 hours. If you do decide to make the drive, there’s a great Park and Ride for only 3 quid for up to 18 hours!

So with all that said, a day trip from London to Cambridge is absolutely doable!

Great St Mary’s Church

A visit to Great St Mary’s Church is the perfect way to start your day in Cambridge. St Mary’s has been the University Church since 1209 and is still the spiritual hub of Cambridge today. Not only do you want to visit the church for the history, but for the bell tower!

The bell tower is worth a climb for the phenomenal panoramic views of Cambridge and it’s a good way to orient yourself with a map of your day. There’s only one caveat; you must climb up a very narrow spiral stone staircase, with 123 steps! This is definitely not an activity for the claustrophobic, but I managed to make my way and it was completely worth it for the views.

There is a small entrance fee for Great St Mary’s, but so worth it. I will say the fees I found online were different when I arrived so you may want to contact them beforehand for accuracy, if you’re on a budget.

Cambridge Walking Tour

Cambridge The Backs

I don’t always think it’s necessary to take walking tours, but in Cambridge I highly suggest doing so and I would plan this for right after you visit the bell tower. Because there’s so much to see in Cambridge, a walking tour will ensure you get to visit all the main historical sites, as well as receive the history and sometimes quirky commentary by the guides.

Because of the times we’re currently living in, as of January 2022, do keep in mind that none of the 31 colleges were open for visitors. Unfortunately, this has been the case for nearly two years now, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth seeing from the outside! For inside tours, you’d probably need more than one day.

From ‘free tours’ to paying tours, there are a host of companies to choose from.

Footprints Free Walking Tour runs a great tip-based tour and is always excellent.

Otherwise, I highly recommend the Cambridge: Walking Tour led by Alumni with Kings College which has a set fee, you can find out more on Get Your Guide.

During the two hours, I enjoyed hearing facts about the colleges and surrounding buildings I would’ve missed out on otherwise.

The sights included on this tour for planning purposes are:

  • Corpus Christi College
  • Pembroke College
  • St Catharine’s College
  • Clare College
  • Kings College
  • The Senate House
  • Trinity College

And then you’ll also learn about:

  • Cambridge Five
  • History Of The Town
  • Student Life At Cambridge
  • University Ceremonies
  • Famous Graduates And Their Little Known Stories
  • The Famous Finishing Story

I believe under different circumstances, tours would include access to the colleges, which makes it really worth the price, but as I stated, that’s not possible at the moment. If your heart is set on the entrance to a college, be sure to check the status before your trip to Cambridge.

The Mathematical Bridge

The Mathematical Bridge with people punting underneath

If you’re taking a walking tour, you’ll most likely head over to the famous Mathematical Bridge. But if you’re touring about on your own, this is a stop you don’t want to miss!

The bridge is a part of Queen’s College and is one of the most recognizable features of Cambridge. The ‘Mathematical Bridge’ as we now call it, is built entirely with straight timbers, despite maintaining its arched shape.

Myths grew at one point that Newton had designed the bridge and thus was known as ‘Newton’s Bridge’ for a time, but we know this is not true as it was designed by William Etheridge. The credit, however, largely goes to James King who defied the engineering odds to construct this special little bridge.

While you’re at the Mathematical Bridge, you’ll also have a chance to see all the famous punting on the river. This is a great place to stop and now have some leisurely time.

Punting Down the River Cam

Punting Down the River Cam

If the weather is good, you don’t want to miss a chance to punt down the River Cam. And even if the weather isn’t great, punting is still available with blankets and worth the ride.

A punt is a flat bottomed boat, which is pushed across the water using a quant pole. This is a popular method of seeing some of the colleges within the university from a different angle, as well as the Bridge of Sighs, the second Cambridge bridge you must see.

Punting was first introduced at the start of the 20th century and has since become a popular local activity. It’s very reminiscent of the canals in Amsterdam. Gliding down the river is about as leisurely activity as you can get and is great to fit in your day after you’ve gone on a walking tour.

You can choose from self-punting, although not quite so relaxing, or you can pay for a tour like this  shared tour for up to 4 people.

Chelsea Buns at Fitzbillies

Chelsea Buns at Fitzbillies

A day trip to Cambridge from London is not complete without indulging in some Chelsea Buns.  Fitzbillies  is famous for these gooey buns and they have a mighty history.

Fitzbillies was founded in 1920 by Ernest and Arthur Mason, using ‘demob’ money from the First World War. You can even still see their initials in worn-out gold letters on the shop front!

They were the sons of local bread baker ‘Ticker’ Mason, so naturally, the boys specialised in fancy cakes, Chelsea buns. Fitzbillies quickly became the cake-shop of choice for the university and townspeople.

Fitzbillies amazingly kept baking during and after the Second World War, during the days of rationing, when the Chelsea buns became a real treat.

Then in 1998, a devastating fire tore through the building and it took nearly two years to rebuild. But they kept on going! They began baking offsite and selling Chelsea buns in the shop next door, where their Coffee Shop now stands.

There was even more devastation in 2011 for the famous buns when Fitzbillies went through hard times, like many bakeries, and closed due to bankruptcy. Then thanks to social media, someone posted a lament to the Chelsea Buns on Twitter. And it was that tweet, seen by current owners Alison Wright and Tim Hayward, that kept the Chelsea Buns alive!

Nine years later, they’re thriving with two locations on either side of town; Trumpington St and Bridge St, both serving up the makeshift ooey-gooey cinnamon roll with currants, the Chelsea Bun.

King’s College Chapel

Kings College in Cambridge

Whether you’ve climbed the bell tower, participated in a walking tour, punted down the River Cam or have just been meandering through Cambridge, there is absolutely no way you haven’t seen King’s College Chapel by now. And this is without a doubt, a must-visit location, being the oldest surviving building of the college and most iconic building in Cambridge.

This incredible feat of architecture, founded in 1441 by King Henry VI, has the largest fan-shaped ceiling in the world. The Late Gothic Chapel of King’s College is decorated with “The Adoration of the Magi” by Rubens and has beautiful stained glass windows, more resembling a cathedral than a college chapel.

Luckily, visitors have now been welcomed back to the chapel and you can book your spot for a self-guided tour . Or you can attend an Evensong service in the evenings at 5:30 pm. This is a super unique way to experience the chapel for free and by candlelight.

The Eagle Pub

The Eagle Pub with people standing in front.

Learn all about the history of The Eagle Pub, it’s the oldest pub in Cambridge and right in the heart of the city, mere minutes around the corner from King’s College Chapel.

The Eagle was opened in 1667 as the Eagle and Child. Because of its phenomenal location, it become a favourite for scientists and thinkers alike. 

There’s a story that goes that on February 28, 1953, Francis Crick, who worked at the nearby Cavendish laboratory, made an announcement at the pub during lunch. He said that he and his colleague, James Watson, had discovered “the secret of life.” Turns out the two had actually cracked the double-helix structure of DNA! and it marked a pivotal moment in science.

If you were also wondering how they discovered DNA at lunch?! Well, that’s with the help of Rosalind Franklin. They were looking at the x-ray she sent across when they discovered it. Her contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA were largely unrecognized during her life. After the protest, in 2010 Rosalind’s name was finally added to the DNA statute.

Outside the pub, you’ll see a plaque commemorating this pivotal moment in science, and they even serve an ale called DNA.

But before all that, The Eagle was first a favourite for soldiers and airmen. During World War II, RAF and American airmen frequented the courtyard of the pub, where you can sit outback. Inside they apparently used candles to burn graffiti of their names and nicknames on the pub’s ceiling in the evenings. The graffiti was preserved and you can still catch a glimpse of this wartime art even today.

The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Since most of the day has been spent outside, next head inside to the  Fitzwilliam Museum , the best place to step back in time. The Fitz is known for being the most astonishing museum outside of London in all of the UK.

The museum is home to over half a million pieces of art that date as far back as 2,500 BC. The beautiful building has impressive collections and some stunning pieces of artwork. It’s a big place, but very well laid out with paintings, ancient artefacts, jewellery, textiles, arms, armour and more.

The Fitzwilliam Museum has free entry, but does require pre-booking online and is definitely worth a visit.  

The Round Church

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, or The Round Church as it is known, is located on the corner of Round Church Street and Bridge Street. It is one of only four medieval round churches to survive after the First Crusade of 1097. The four include this one, Temple Church in London, St John’s in Little Maplestead, Essex, and Holy Sepulchre in Northampton.

The chapel is cosy and appealing for visitors and it’s well worth popping in to look at the interesting architecture and wall displays.

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

If you still have time and it’s a lovely day, visit the  Cambridge University Botanic Garden . Stretched over 40 acres, this heritage garden boasts over 8,000 plant species from all around the world. The gardens are divided into different sections, including the Mediterranean Beds, Scented Garden and Stream Garden. There are also several glasshouses full of tropical rainforests, desert flowers and alpine flora.

And don’t forget the wonderful tearoom and cafe, both with lots of vegan options.

Well, I hope you’ve seen what a wonderful day you can have in Cambridge on a day trip from London. You can absolutely see all the sights in one day, even in the winter when the days are short, and leave feeling much more educated and enlivened!

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Day Trip To Cambridge From London: How to Plan Your Day

Are you planning a day trip from London to Cambridge and need an itinerary? Glad you stopped by here. I have got you covered with a perfect one-day Cambridge itinerary.

Cambridge is a charming city known for its prestigious university, stunning architecture, and rich history. Just a short train ride, it’s the perfect day trip from London .

We planned a day trip to Cambridge from London with our four-year-old and a three-month-old and loved that the day was manageable and not super overwhelming. So, if you are also traveling with kids, Cambridge is an ideal day trip for families.

Cambridge has many things to see and do, from picturesque colleges and majestic churches to beautiful gardens and fascinating museums. In this guide, I will help you plan the perfect day trip itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

If you feel like you may not have a full day or this may feel rushed, adjust the itinerary to meet your needs and prioritize attractions that you absolutely cannot miss.

This post may contain affiliate links to tours, hotels and Amazon products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Table of Contents

Day Trip To Cambridge Itinerary

Cambridge, UK, is a popular destination for several compelling reasons, but mostly, it is home to its Famous Cambridge University, from which it takes its name. Another famous university in the UK is Oxford.

The Cambridge city has a stunning architecture. You can explore the rich history and impressive sights, including the picturesque River Cam, historic landmarks, and beautiful old buildings.

Additionally, Cambridge offers a vibrant cultural scene, with opportunities to visit world-class museums and botanical gardens and enjoy punting along the river.

The city also features an array of independent restaurants and a lively atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty outside the London.

How to Get to Cambridge

Getting To Cambridge from London is easy. In this section, we’ll explore three different ways to reach Cambridge: train, coach, and car.

London to Cambridge train

Taking a train is the most convenient and quickest way for a day trip from London to Cambridge. I highly recommend this option. Trains depart multiple times an hour from various London stations.

You can choose from several stations in London that go to Cambridge, but we recommend going from either King’s Cross or Liverpool Street since they are all very well-connected.

The journey can last from 50 to 80 minutes, depending on which train you are on. The fastest trains take approximately 50 minutes.

We took a train from the Liverpool Street Station. While very easy to navigate, ensure you arrive 20-30 minutes early for your train to give yourself enough time to navigate the stations.

Also, listen to any announcements that may affect your train line. Our train from Cambridge Station was switched at the last minute, and we all had to make a quick en route to get to the train before it departed.

The train is pictured inside the Cambridge train station.

Tip : Buying train tickets online in advance is highly recommended, as it can save you money compared to purchasing them at the station.

Trainline is an excellent online platform to book your train tickets. They offer a simple and easy-to-use website where you can search for trains and book tickets in advance. You can also check the train schedule with various time slots and choose the most convenient train for your trip.

London to Cambridge By Bus

If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, consider traveling by Bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and while it might take longer than taking a train, you can enjoy the scenic route as the coach winds its way towards Cambridge.

Tip: Like train tickets, booking your bus tickets online can save you money and ensure you secure a seat on the bus.

London to Cambridge By Car

Driving from London to Cambridge is an excellent option for those who enjoy the freedom of road trips. The distance between the two cities is around 63 miles (101 kilometers), and it takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive, depending on traffic.

Route suggestions: You can opt for the M11 motorway, the most direct route, or venture along the A10 road for a more leisurely and scenic journey.

How to Get around in Cambridge

Upon arrival in Cambridge, you’ll find it’s a very walkable city. Most attractions are within a short distance from each other, so you can easily explore the picturesque streets and beautiful architecture on foot. To help plan your walking route, it’s a good idea to download an offline   map  on your phone or pick up a printed map from the Tourist Information Centre located on Peas Hill.

Man a kid holding hands walking across the pedestrian street in Cambridge UK

Another most convenient way to get around is biking. You will notice a lot of bikes in Cambridge and if you feel like cycling you can rent a bike for you.

Grab Breakfast

As we did, I assume you will leave London early in the morning to ensure you have an entire day to spend in Cambridge. If you did not have time to grab breakfast, you can do so as soon as you get off the Train.

You will reach the Norfolk Street Bakery about five minutes from the Cambridge train station. You can grab a quick coffee and a bite of artisan bread Sandwiches and freshly baked pastries before exploring Cambridge University.

Address: 7 Station Rd, Cambridge CB1 2JB, United Kingdom. Open Daily except Sunday from 8:00 AM.

Norfolk Bakery window shows some pastries and a list of what the cafe offers, such as artisan bread, sandwiches, pastries, fresh cakes, ground coffee, and savories.

Visit the University of Cambridge

After a quick breakfast, start your day with a visit to the prestigious University of Cambridge , which comprises 31 colleges. Here are some of the most popular ones you can check out.

Kings College and King’s College Chapel

Visit King’s College Cambridge to experience its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful grounds. Don’t miss out on the stunningly beautiful King’s College Chapel.

A woman and a kid casually standing inside the Kings College Campus in Cambridge

Established in 1441, this iconic building is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Cambridge’s rich history.

As you explore the chapel, marvel at its  impressive  fan vault ceiling and famous medieval stained glass windows.

Exploring the King’s Chapel was one of my favorites during our day trip to Cambridge from London.

Your visit to the chapel is self-guided. I recommend that you purchase your tickets online in advance.

A woman is standing inside the Kings College Chapel, looking at the interior of the beautiful building and glassed windows.

Trinity College

Another college worth exploring is  Trinity College , one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in Cambridge University.

Founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII, Trinity is known for its  outstanding  alumni, including Sir Isaac Newton and Lord Byron.

As you wander through the Great Court, admire the striking architecture and lush gardens. Don’t forget to visit the  Wren Library , which houses exceptional literary works, such as the original manuscript of  Winnie-the-Pooh .

Exterior of Trinity College in Cambridge, Uk.

Queens’ College

Established in 1448,  Queens College  is also among the most beautiful colleges in Cambridge. The college has a unique blend of medieval and modern architecture, which can be appreciated in buildings like the  Old Hall  and  Cripps Court .

Spend some time strolling along the picturesque River Cam, soak in breathtaking views of the  Mathematical Bridge , and learn about the fascinating history unfolding within Queens College over the centuries.

Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum

After you visit the University of Cambridge, head over to the Fitzwilliam Museum to discover a world-class collection of art and antiquities. Unfortunately the Museum was closed on the day we visited Cambridge but here are some highlights to help plan your visit:

  • Egyptian: Admire ancielnt Egyptian artifacts and learn about fascinating culture
  • European: Explore a diverse range of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts
  • Arms and Armour: Discover the history of warfare through an extensive collection of weapon and armor.

Remember to pick up a map at the entrance and check the museum’s website in advance for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.

Hours: The museum is open daily but CLOSED on Monday.

Day trip to Cambridge to London: Afternoon Activities

Punting on the river cam.

After exploring the University of Cambridge colleges, treat yourself to a relaxing and scenic punting tour on the River Cam.

Punting is a traditional Cambridge activity where you glide along the river on a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a long pole. As you punt past the famous sights like the Bridge of Sighs and King’s College Chapel, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the history of this beautiful city from your knowledgeable guide.

You can join a shared punt tour or hire a private boat for a more personalized experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try punting the boat yourself! But remember, it can take some time to master the technique.

Pictured is a river cam in Cambridge with the punting boats parked inside the water.

Shopping at Cambridge Market

Once you’ve filled the River Cam, head to Market Hill for some shopping and perhaps a bite. The bustling market is open seven days a week and offers various unique items and local goods. Here’s a quick list of what you might find at Market Hill:

  • Fresh produce
  • Handmade crafts and jewelry
  • Antiques and collectibles
  • Vintage clothing
  • Delicious street food

Stroll through the market stalls, chat with friendly vendors, and discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs to commemorate your day trip to Cambridge. And when it’s time to take a break, there’s a wide range of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can refuel before continuing your day.

Where to Eat in Cambridge

Take a break exploring and grab lunch at one of these places below.

  • Aromi: Located inside King’s College, Aromi is a one-stop spot if you would love to indulge in Sicilian sourdough pizza, gelato, and coffee.
  • The Punter : Located near the banks of the River Cam, The Punter offers a cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering menu. Be sure to try their delicious sandwiches, made with  locally sourced ingredients .
  • Fitzbillies : A Cambridge institution since 1921, this famous bakery and café is known for its scrumptious  Chelsea buns . This one is a highly recommended treat but unfortunately we could not make it here and I cannot stop thinking about it since then. If you try, please let me know if It is worth planning another Cambridge trip for it. haha.

Evening Activities

In the evening, you can visit the  Cambridge University Botanic Garden . This 40-acre garden is a haven for plant lovers and a beautiful spot to unwind after a busy day of exploring.

Late in the summer, you’ll be awed by the lush, vibrant landscapes and colorful flowers in full bloom. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll discover themed sections such as the  Mediterranean Garden  and the  Lake and Water Garden .

Lastly, check out the Cambridge University Bookshop for new books and some Cambridge Souvenirs! Here you will find huge selection of Cambridge University Press publications, Cambridge-related gifts, and other special offers.

A man and a kid are passing by the exterior of Cambridge University Bookshop, and many bikes are parked on the street in front of it.

Walk along the Cam River

After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Cam River to enjoy the serene sights and sounds of Cambridge’s waterway. The river has beautiful greenery, historic buildings, and world-famous universities. You might even glimpse some rowers practicing their skills on the river.

To make the most of your riverside stroll, consider stopping at the following points of interest:

  • The Backs – A picturesque area where several of Cambridge’s colleges back onto the river.
  • Mathematical Bridge – A famous wooden bridge at Queens’ College, known for its unique design.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and take your time soaking in the charm and beauty of Cambridge as your day trip comes to a close.

Best Time to Visit Cambridge

Best time to visit Cambridge  is between  June and September  when the weather is warm, and the days are long. However, the month of  July  is an excellent time for those looking to avoid the tourist crowds while still experiencing the charm of this university town.

Where To Stay

Now, while one day is enough in Cambridge to see some of the main attractions, it is definitely not enough to see everything. If you feel like you want to spend a little more time enjoying the city slowly, the best is to stay overnight. Cambridge has a variety of fantastic hotels to suit all budgets. Some of the top options include:

  • University Arms : A classic British hotel perfect for your Cambridge stay. The University Arms boasts 192 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with contemporary and traditional styles. It is centrally located, making exploring the city on foot easy. You’ll be able to find your ideal room on.

Check University Arms Availability

Two blue bikes stand outside with the Cambridge UK hotel sign "University Arms."

  • Gonville Hotel : This stylish luxury hotel is located near the city center, perfect for exploring Cambridge’s attractions. You can enjoy their on-site restaurant and spa facilities after a long day of sightseeing. Check out their availability on.

Check Gonville Hotel Availability

Day Trip to Cambridge Itinerary Tips

To make your Cambridge itinerary more enjoyable, consider these tips:

  • Book your accommodations at least two to three months in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
  • Check the local event calendar for festivals, concerts, or special exhibits that may be happening during your visit.
  • Plan your activities ahead, focusing on the top attractions like King’s College, Kings College Chapel, the Mathematical Bridge, and punting experiences.
  • Remember to set aside time to wander the charming streets, soak up the atmosphere, and try some delicious local food.

By following these suggestions, your one day in Cambridge will be a memorable experience, and you’ll leave with lasting impressions of this beautiful English.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit in cambridge on a day trip.

Cambridge offers many attractions for visitors. Some top things to see include the iconic King’s College Chapel, Fitzwilliam Museum, and the stunning Cambridge University Botanic Garden. Stroll around the historic city center and check out the charming Cambridge Market Square.

What is the most efficient way to travel between London and Cambridge?

The most efficient way to travel between London and Cambridge is by train. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and departs from London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street Station. Buses are also available from London Victoria Station but take around 2 hours.

What are some interesting stops between London and Cambridge?

While the train is the fastest option, if you prefer a more scenic route, consider traveling by car. Along the way, you can stop at picturesque spots such as Wimpole Estate and Audley End House, both offering beautiful grounds, gardens, and historical insights.

How to make the most of a 1-day itinerary in Cambridge?

To make the most of your day trip, start by taking a guided walking tour with an alumni tour guide to learn about the history and architecture of Cambridge. Afterward, visit some of the main attractions mentioned above, such as the King’s College Chapel, Fitzwilliam Museum, and the Botanic Garden. Grab lunch at a local favorite like Aromi, and leave time for punting on the River Cam.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Cambridge tour provides a convenient and flexible way to explore the charming city of Cambridge. The tour typically covers 19 stops, allowing visitors to hop on and off at their leisure to visit major attractions such as renowned colleges, museums, and other points of interest. This type of tour offers informative commentary and the flexibility to create a personalized sightseeing itinerary.

The Red Cambridge tour hop-and-off bus is pictured in the street in Cambridge, UK, and a beautiful building is behind it.

What are the must-see Cambridge University locations on a day trip?

There are many impressive Cambridge University locations worth visiting. Some must-see spots include Trinity College, St John’s College, and King’s College. Additionally, you can explore the Wren Library at Trinity College.

Day Trip to Cambridge From London Summary

There you have it, a perfect historical and family-friendly day trip to Cambridge from London . We loved this day trip. If you have more time in UK, consider few more day trips like visiting Oxford, Bath and Stonehenge! We were quite limited with time and Cambridge seemed most convenient for a day trip with kids which I can agree it was. But we cannot wait to visit other places as well in the future. If you are looking at how to spend more days while in London itself; you may love a guide on how to spend a day in Notting Hill, London .

Mariam is a full-time working mom based in New Jersey who loves adventuring outside office hours with her husband and two little boys. She started this family travel blog to share family-friendly travel guides, itineraries, and tips to help busy families with kids keep exploring outside their 9-5.

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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

From the roman city of bath to the wilds of the new forest, there are so many amazing day trips from london by train to discover.

day trips from london by train

Honestly, when I’m in London, I am 100% not using a car. Whether it’s riding on the Tube, hailing a taxi, or just wandering around the city centre, driving is not something I’m likely to do.

So, when I want to get outside of the city for the day, I rely on the train. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from London by train. Maybe you want to hit the beach? Perhaps you want to dive into history? Or maybe you want to check out a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Within a couple of hours’ ride from London, you can do all of that!

Some of my favourite train trips from London include heading into the picturesque Cotswolds regions, hiking the Seven Sisters near Dover, and even casting a spell or two at the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

london day trips by train

The best part? You can hop on a train, enjoy the scenic journey through the English countryside, and be back in London in time for a West End show or a late-night stroll along the Thames. The accessibility of these day trips is what makes them truly special—it’s like having a variety of mini adventures right at your doorstep.

So, with that in mind, let’s check out the best train trips from London. Hopefully this blog post will help you with planning your next day trip.

Day trips from London by train

Hampton court palace.

hampton court

Looking to check out the palace where King Henry VIII used to reign supreme? This London day trip favourite is always popular with history buffs visiting the capital thanks to the beautiful architecture, art, and knowledgeable guides. It’s also a super easy train ride from the centre of London. 

In fact, it’s just a 45-minute ride from London Waterloo Station directly to Hampton Court Palace train station and from there, it’s only around a five-minute walk to the palace gates. Day trips from London by train don’t come much easier than this!

If you’re heading to Hampton Court, you can pick up your tickets here beforehand.

Harry Potter Studio Tours

harry potter studio tour

Want to experience the magic in front of and behind the camera? Well then, a visit to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford is a must. Filled with memorabilia, props, sets, and costumes from the films, it’s every fan’s dream. 

To get to the studios, you’ll journey for about 20 minutes from London Euston Station to Watford Junction, and then jump on the 15-minute shuttle to the studio. The bonus is that the shuttle is actually designed like the famous Knight Bus, so the experience starts before you even arrive. All aboard!

Roman Baths, Bath

This legendary Roman city is a beautiful train trip from London as it’s only 90 minutes from London Paddington Station. Home to the Roman Baths UNESCO World Heritage Site, stunning architecture, and the home of the iconic author, Jane Austen, there’s certainly a little something for everyone on a day trip to Bath.

You can easily spend a full weekend here, but with the regular train routes back to the capital that run relatively late, you can definitely enjoy a full day running around this historic city.

The Seven Sisters

seven sisters from london

As one of the UK’s most iconic sights, the Seven Sisters white chalky cliffs near Dover are an easy train trip from London. You can travel from London Victoria Station and get off at Eastbourne, allowing you to wander along the coastline and see the Seven Sisters in all their glory. 

Trains to Eastbourne take around an hour and 25 minutes from London, and then you can enjoy a stunning coastal hike to your final destination!

Windsor Castle

day trips from london by train 1 hour

Love royal history or are you just a fan of insanely old castles? Well, Windsor Castle is one of the King’s royal residences and is over 900 years old. This impressive palace has played host to royal weddings, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s.

Windsor Castle is super popular at pretty much any time of the year, so I definitely recommend getting your tickets in advance . This will also let you know when the royal family are in residence, as you might not be able to access the full castle and grounds. Travel-wise, Windsor Castle is around an hour from London Waterloo station. 

day trip to bristol from london

If you’re looking to check out another bustling city, journey between one and a half to two hours from London Paddington Station to Bristol. Home to the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge, a bustling independent food and drink scene, and a fun and thriving waterfront, Bristol is an ideal day trip from London by train. 

Make sure you take time to check out all the street art around the city, after all, the city is the hometown of famous artist, Banksy!

Leeds Castle

visiting leeds castle

This next train trip from London is a little more complicated to get to, but if you’re visiting Kent, you can’t leave without checking out Leeds Castle . Get the 50-minute train from London Bridge to Maidstone and then jump on a short 20-minute bus ride to the gates of Leeds Castle.

With a super cool hedge maze, museum, lake, and more, this Norman Castle is a popular day trip for a good reason. Again, I’d recommend booking your ticket in advance , especially during the school holidays.   

Brighton promenade

Looking for a fun day at the seaside? Well, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a better day trip than Brighton . Located on the south coast around an hour from either London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station, Brighton is always bustling with things to do.

From the opulent and historic Brighton Palace Pier to the popular waterfront and beach to the dozens of independent boutiques and restaurants, you’re really spoiled for choice here!

Warwick Castle

warwick castle

If you’re looking for a train trip from London that’s a little further north, jump on the train to Warwick Castle. You can get a one hour and 45-minute train from London Marylebone to Warwick and then walk to the castle gates.

With the original parts of the castle stemming back to 1068, Warwick Castle has seen a lot of bloody battles, royalty, and history along the way. Nowadays, you can experience archery, falconry shows, renactments of medieval battles, and many more. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip, but again, book way in advance !

day trip to oxford from london

As one of the academic heartlands of England, Oxford is a beautiful and architecturally stunning city to visit. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan who wants to visit the real Great Hall or you’re in love with the His Dark Materials series, Oxford has inspired a lot of writers and academics over the years.

Oxford is actually really easy to get to on a day trip from London by train. Depending on which is closer or more convenient, you can get a train from either from Marylebone Station or Paddington Station, and both routes are around an hour. 

The New Forest

new forest in autumn

Need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to the nature? Well, a day trip to the New Forest is going to be right up your street. You can get a 90-minute train from London Waterloo station to Brockenhurst, in the heart of the New Forest.

With tons of wildlife, walking routes, and museums in the area, you can easily have a fun-filled day surrounded by tranquil greenery.  Keep in mind that the National Park is huge and spreads all the way down to the coastline, so make a plan of the areas you want to visit first!

scenic train rides from london

When you think of quintessential English towns and villages, the image that comes up is probably of the Cotswolds . Located just an hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington Station, the Cotswolds is the perfect quaint escape from the city. With chocolate box cottages, hiking and walking routes and plenty of cosy pubs to warm up in, it’s an amazing day out for the whole family.

In fact, the Cotswolds is actually an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you might want to bring your camera with you! It’s also rumoured that parts of the Cotswolds inspired J.R.R Tolkien when he was writing The Lord of the Rings!

Stratford-Upon-Avon

stratford upon avon

If you’re a literature lover then you have to carve out time in your itinerary to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon. This small town in the Midlands is known for basically one thing and that’s being the home of the iconic playwright, William Shakespeare.

Located around two and a half hours from London Marylebone Station, Stratford-Upon-Avon is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company who perform works of the Bard all year round. It’s a prestigious theatre and has featured actors like Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, and David Tennant to name just a few! Check out the RSC website ahead of time to find out what’s on while you’re in the area!

So, there you have it, the 13 best day trips from London by train. Where are your favourite day trips from London without a car? Let me know in the comments below!

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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

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UK Travel Planning

12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

Are you planning to take some day trips from London by train but unsure where to go? Discover 12 of the very best places to visit by rail including practical tips, logistics, and things to do and see in each destination.

What better way to explore some of the most beautiful cities , towns, landmarks and attractions of England than to hop on a train from London for a day trip? While there are lots of sights and places to keep you busy in London we recommend (if you have time) adding some of these day trips into your itinerary.

With numerous destinations and places to go by train from London, how do you pick the right one/s for you?

In this guide, we have chosen 12 of the very best places to visit on a day trip by train from London. These are our top picks of the best tourist destinations, landmarks and sights you can visit on a one day trip from London.

If you prefer to avoid public transport discover our choice of the best day trips you can take from London on a tour.

To help plan your day we have included logistics and practical information about how to travel to each destination – which London station to depart from, the length of the journey, and the very best things to do and see in one day at each of the places.

You will also find a helpful map showing the location of each destination and route of each of these London day trips by train.

Good to know – if you plan to make multiple train trips from London it may be cost-effective to purchase a BritRail London Plus Pass which is valid on rail services in the South East of England. The BritRail London Plus pass is ideal for short journeys outside of London. Click here for more information about BritRail passes.

If you are pushed for time or nervous about travelling outside of London by train the best option for you may be to take a tour. Tours often visit several places so you can see more and make the most of your time especially if you have a limited number of days.

Find out more in our guide to the best day tours from London which includes the most popular tourist and sightseeing destinations including how to visit Harry Potter Studios from London .

Guide to UK Train Travel

Quick picks – summary of train trips from london.

  • One day in Oxford (Must see Oxford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Oxford by train

  • One day in Cambridge (Must see Cambridge attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Cambridge by train

One day in the cotswolds (must-see cotswold attractions), logistics – how to get from london to moreton-in-marsh by train.

  • One day in Winchester (Must see Winchester attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Winchester by train

  • One day in Windsor (Must see Windsor attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Windsor by train

  • One day in St Albans (Must see St Albans attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to St Albans by train

  • One day in Brighton (Must see Brighton attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Brighton by train

  • One day in Bath (Must see Bath attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bath by train

  • One day in Bristol (Must see Bristol attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bristol by train

  • One day in Salisbury (Must see Salisbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Salisbury by train

  • One day in Canterbury (Must see Canterbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Canterbury by train

  • One day in Stratford-upon-Avon (Must see Stratford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Stratford by train

Guide to uk train travel, how can i save money on train travel in the uk, more train travel suggestions for the uk, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

UK AND LONDON TRAVEL PLANNING

Are you excited but nervous about travelling by train in the UK? We have written a book to help you!

Our guide includes practical tips and information to ensure you make the most of your UK rail adventure (including where and how to buy tickets, information for your day of travel and 12 ‘done for you’ UK rail itineraries.)

You can read more about our ebook here.

UK train travel book cover

Good for – History | Architecture | Harry Potter fans

A journey time of just over an hour makes Oxford the perfect destination for an easy one-day train trip from London.

Once in Oxford, you will find the main attractions all located in the compact and very walkable city centre. Known as the “City of Spires” due to its beautiful skyline enjoy the beautiful architecture and fascinating history on your day trip to Oxford.

Oxford is a lovely city to visit by train from London.

One day in Oxford ( Must see Oxford attractions )

  • Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Alumni include numerous international heads of state including 26 British Prime Ministers,  Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I recommend exploring the colleges on a walking tour to soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

Oxford University is comprised of 38 colleges varying in size from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller colleges such as Corpus Christi and Trinity.

Fans of Harry Potter movies may recognise some of the colleges which were used as film locations for many famous scenes.

  • Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second-largest in the UK. It contains a collection of 12 million items – in fact, every book that has ever been printed in the UK and Ireland is located in the library!

Good to know – Most of Oxford’s walking tours include a visit to this famous library.

  • Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. This neo-classical style building was built between 1737 and 1749 and is beautiful both inside and out. It comprises part of the larger Bodleian Library.

  • The Covered Market 

Opened in 1774 the market houses lots of shops and stalls to browse as well as a great choice of eateries. This is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

  • Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend a little longer in the city (Oxford is popular for weekend trips from London by train) I would highly recommend including a trip to Blenheim Palace in your itinerary. A short ride from Oxford by bus the palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is owned by the Duke of Marlborough.

Read more – Oxford Travel Guide

Collage of photographs of Oxford including the Redcliffe Camera, signposts and an arial view of the city

  • Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour
  • Leave from: London Paddington Station / London Marylebone

Day trips by train from London London to Oxford 1 1

Good for – History | Architecture | A day on the river

The location of another famous university (and Oxford’s rival in the boat race each year) Cambridge is also only an hour by direct trains from London.

Cambridge is a compact city that is perfect for exploring on foot. We recommend taking a historical walking tour of the city with a University graduate where you can visit some of the most famous colleges in Cambridge and learn more about student life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

One day in Cambridge ( Must see Cambridge attractions )

Take a punt along the River Cam. A great way to see the city and even better you can hire someone to do the punting for you so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

  • King’s College Chapel

Home of the largest vault ceiling in the world King’s College Chapel is an absolute must-see in Cambridge.

Of particular note is the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar) which Henry VIII gave his 2nd bride Anne Boleyn.

  • St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University like its main rival Oxford is also comprised of a number of colleges (31 to be exact)

St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges worth exploring.

Read more – Cambridge Travel Guide

4 views of the English city of Cambridge.

  • Distance from London: 49 miles / 79 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins
  • Leave from: London King’s Cross/London Liverpool Street Train Station

Day trips by train from London London to Cambridge 1

The Cotswolds

Cotswolds 1

Good for – Pretty villages | Countryside | Afternoon tea | Thatched cottages

The Cotswolds are not one place but actually an area stretching over 2000 km so if you are planning to visit from London I would recommend hiring a car and taking a road trip.

Tours of the Cotswolds are also available which include visits to most of the most picturesque and quaint towns and villages (plus include other attractions such as Oxford and Windsor on the way)

However, if you prefer to travel to what many consider England’s prettiest towns and villages independently it is possible to see some of the area by train.

The easiest destination to travel to by train from London is the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh which is located in the heart of the Cotswolds.

There are so many things to do and places to see in the Cotswolds it will be difficult to fit them all into one day. However, these are my recommendations if you arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh.

  • Market Day (Tuesday)

Arrive on a Tuesday and the town will be bustling with its weekly market. Enjoy a stroll through the market and purchase a souvenir or gift in one of the many shops before partaking in tea and cake at one of the many quaint cafes and teahouses.

  • Batsford Arboretum

Located 1.5 miles west of the town the arboretum is full of rare and endangered species from around the world. Tip – if you are visiting the area in spring don’t miss the Japanese cherry blossoms.

  • Chipping Campden

Located a short bus ride from Moreton is the pretty medieval Cotswold town of Chipping Campden. If honey-coloured buildings spring to mind when you think of the Cotswolds you will find them in abundance here. The famous Cotswolds Way also stretches for 100 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath but you will need a week to do that!

Read more – Cotswold Travel Guide

The Swan Pub in Moreton-in-Marsh

  • Distance from London: 90 miles / 140 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 40 mins
  • Leave from: London Paddington Train Station

Day trips by train from London London to Moreton in Marsh 2

Good for – Architecture | History | Monuments | Literary connections

Winchester is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Founded in 1079 the structure has been remodelled over the centuries and has Romanesque and Gothic styles throughout.

Winchester Cathedral is also famously the resting place of Jane Austen.

There is a lot to see in the cathedral including the crypt, home to Anthony Gormley’s famous sculpture Sound II, visiting Jane Austen’s grave, and admiring the Winchester Bible an 800- year-old manuscript.

One day in Winchester ( Must see Winchester attractions )

  • Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above there is a lot to see in Winchester cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England William the Conquerer was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s sculpture Sound II in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen , who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave within the cathedral.

  • The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

Read more – Winchester Travel Guide

Winchester is a lovely place visit by train from London.

  • Distance from London: 60 miles / 96 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 14 mins
  • Leave from: London Waterloo

Day trips by train from London London to Winchester 1

  • Windsor Castle

Windsor

Good for – History lovers | Fans of the Royal Family

One of the most popular destinations for visitors to London and the UK is Windsor Castle. It is one of seven magnificent castles near London which are worth a visit.

A visit to Windsor Castle is also included in many organised day tours too. If you are pushed for time and wish to combine other destinations such as Oxford and the Cotswolds we recommend booking a tour such as this one.

One day in Windsor ( Must see Windsor attractions )

Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the Queen and also the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Look for the Royal Standard flying above the castle – it indicates that the Queen is at home.

St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018.

Plan to spend 2 hours to visit the castle.

  • Frogmore House and Gardens

This grand country house is located within the grounds of Home Park in Windsor half a mile from the castle. The house and has belonged to the royal family since the 16th century.

Many members of the Royal family including Queen Victoria are buried in at Frogmore.

The house and grounds are open to the public on certain days of the year.

Frogmore Cottage located on the grounds is the English home of Prince Harry and Meghan and is a private residence and not open to the public.

windsor castle 3

  • Distance from London: 21 miles / 34 km
  • Time taken by train: 55 mins 
  • Leave from: London Waterloo to Eton Riverside Station 

Day trips by train from London London to Windsor 2

Good for – History lovers

The market town of St Albans in Hertfordshire is the closest city to London.

St Albans is only minutes from the capital (a 20-minute train ride from London St Pancras to be exact) which makes it an easy day trip if you want to only spend a few hours out of the capital.

St Albans was the site of the Roman settlement of Verulamium and remains which can be seen today include a Roman wall, theatre and impressive mosaics.

One day in St Albans ( Must see St Albans attractions )

  • St Albans Cathedral

St Albans Cathedral was built in 1077 and is the second largest cathedral in England (after Winchester) It is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in England.

Located in the cathedral is the shrine of St Alban after whom the city is named. Look for the medieval wall paintings that adorn the walls which are amongst the oldest in existence.

  • Verulamium Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history visiting the Verulamium Museum is a must. Filled with an extensive collection of ancient treasures and fine mosaics you can immerse yourself in Roman life as it was in England over 2000 years ago.

St Albans Abbey and Cathedral in the snow.

  • Distance from London: 19 miles / 30 km
  • Time taken by train: 30 mins 
  • Leave from: London St Pancras International

Day trips by train from London London to St Albans 1

Good for – Shopping | History | Architecture | Art | Street art | Foodies | Seaside

Brighton is the closest city to London located on the south coast of the UK . It has buckets of charm and character and is home to the fascinating and ostentatiously beautiful Brighton Pavilion .

This is one of the most popular train rides from London especially during the summer months when city dwellers head to the coast.

Plan a full day – enjoy the sights and take a break in one of the many bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from in Brighton.

A trip to enjoy the Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs National Park is popular for visitors heading to the south coast – take a tour from Brighton to see these beautiful white cliffs.

One day in Brighton ( Must see Brighton attractions )

  • The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at a considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

Packed with plenty of restaurants, tea rooms, pubs, and shops the narrow alleyways that make up The Lanes are a shopper’s paradise.

  • Brighton Palace Pier

Opened in 1899 the famous pier is 525 metres long, Grade II listed, and an iconic symbol of Brighton.

Read more – Brighton Travel Guide

Brighton Pier

  • Distance from London: 47 miles / 75 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 22 mins
  • Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

The Brighton Pavilion can be visited on a day trip by train from London.

Good for – Romantics | Architecture | History lovers

Although a little further away from London than some of the other day-trip destinations suggested in this post (taking on average 2 and a half hours by train) Bath is a n immensely popular destination , World Heritage Site and absolutely worth a day trip (at the very least).

Bath is also a city included in our 14-day train trip itinerary around Great Britain.

One day in Bath ( Must see Bath attractions )

  • Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s most popular tourist attractions. Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring, and museum.

The Grand Pump Room next to the Roman Baths serves refreshments including afternoon tea (book in advance)

  • Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 the houses are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Whilst some of the houses are private residences No.1 Royal Crescent is a museum and No. 16 is the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Afterwards, take a boat ride along the River Avon to admire the shop-lined Poultney Bridge.

Read more – Bath in one day (complete itinerary)

Poultney Bridge in Bath England at night

  • Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km
  • Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
  • Leave from: London Paddington

Top 10 day trips by train from London

Good for – Museums | Art | Street Art | Architecture

Bristol is synonymous with 2 very different famous figures – one is Isambard Kingdom Brunel who was of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history and the other is the street artist and political activist known as Banksy .

One day in Bristol ( Must see Bristol attractions )

  • Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.   

  • Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes, and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

  • Take a walking tour of Banksy’s art 

If you are a fan of Banksy’s work I highly recommend doing one of 3 great free walking tours written by some Bristol locals to guide you around the work. Bristol’s city walls are covered in murals too.

Read more – Bristol Travel Guide

The Waterfront in Bristol.

  • Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 49 mins

Day trips by train from London London to Bristol 1

Salisbury & Stonehenge

Salisbury Cathedral in Wiltshire

Good for – Architecture | Stonehenge | History lovers | Market

If you are planning a London day trip by train to visit the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge your first destination will be beautiful Salisbury.

This cathedral city has a market day every Tuesday held in the city centre. Salisbury Charter Market is held outdoors in all weathers throughout the year.

One day in Salisbury ( Must see Salisbury attractions )

  • Salisbury Cathedral

Not only a beautiful cathedral in its own right but also the home of one of only four Magna Carta documents in the world Salisbury Cathedral is a must-visit if you are in the city. Don’t miss the spire which is the tallest church spire in the UK.

Not far from Salisbury is one of England’s most famous and popular tourist attractions – Stonehenge . The ancient stone circle dates back thousands of years and is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments.

Good to know – There are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge. Once you arrive in Salisbury jump onto the Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station for the transfer to Stonehenge.

Read more – A complete guide to visiting Stonehenge (and Salisbury)

Stonehenge.

  • Distance from London: 79 miles / 126 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 33 mins

Day trips by train from London London to Salisbury 1 2

Good for – History |Museums | Tudor buildings

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canterbury Cathedral was a place of Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages following the murder of Thomas Becket within its walls.

Founded in 597 AD Canterbury Cathedral is the headquarters of the Anglican Church .

Associated with the works of Middle Ages English poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer whose Canterbury Tales are a collection of 24 stories recounted by 30 pilgrims as they make their way to Canterbury.

One day in Canterbury ( Must see Canterbury attractions )

  • Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

The Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Anglican community worldwide and the Archbishop of Canterbury presides at its head.

  • Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls which were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Read more – Canterbury Travel Guide

Beautiful Canterbury Tudor houses overlooking the river.

  • Distance from London: 54 miles / 87 km
  • Time taken by train: 1 hour 47 mins
  • Leave from: London Charing Cross/ London St Pancras International

Day trips by train from London London to Canterbury 1 1

Stratford-upon-Avon

Medieval houses in Stratford upon Avon

Good for – History | Architecture | Theatre | Lovers of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon -Avon is famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 )

Good to know – For those interested to learn more about Shakespeare’s connections with the town we recommend taking the hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon ( Must see Stratford attractions )

  • Shakespeare’s birthplace

Visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised. Located on Henley Street this is the home in which John and Mary Shakespeare raised 8 children!

  • Anne Hathaway’s Cottage 

The beautiful thatched cottage was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway . Located about a mile from Stratford it is included in the hop-on-hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

  • Church of the Holy Trinity

To see Shakespeare final resting place head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide

Shakespeare's garden cottage in Stratford upon Avon.

  • Distance from London: 83 miles / 133 km
  • Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
  • Leave from: London Euston/ London Marylebone

Day trips by train from London London to Stratford upon Avon

FAQs & Tips for train travel in the UK

If this is your first time travelling by train in the UK we recommend that you read our complete guide to rail travel in the UK which contains practical, no-nonsense advice.

In it, you will find the answers to some of the commonly asked questions such as:

  • How and where do I purchase train tickets in the UK?
  • How do I know what platform the train leaves from?
  • How do I find my train carriage and seat?
  • How accessible are trains in the UK?
  • How will I know where to alight the train?

The guide was written by Doug Collins (one of the founders of this website) who worked in the UK rail industry for 25 years and travelled on nearly every line across the network.

Our guides to getting around London on public transport plus an article about the 9 main train stations in London (such as Kings Cross Station, Paddington Station and St Pancras International) and our complete guide to transportation options in the UK are also recommended reading.

Graphic of updated UK Train Guide

Purchase a rail pass

Although train travel in the UK is not cheap there is a range of train passes and railcards and options available to make it more affordable for both visitors and UK residents.

Read more about the various train passes available for overseas visitors to the UK – read more about BritRail Passes here.

Purchase tickets in advance

Buy tickets as far in advance as possible as prices tend to rise near to the date of travel. Always check that there are no last-minute changes (such as train works*) on your day of travel.

I recommend buying train tickets for the UK from the trainline . They s ell tickets for all the rail companies in the UK and Europe (unlike Europe the rail network in the UK is privatised so there are numerous companies who organise trains across the UK.)

* During public holidays essential rail maintenance is completed so check before you book/ travel in case of any delays. Often the rail service is replaced by buses and this could add considerably to your travel time.

You can find more train travel inspiration for the UK in our guide to the top 10 rail journeys to take in Britain!

If you are a history lover you may also wish to visit some of the beautiful castles located near London including Windsor Castle, Warwick Castle , Dover Castle (why not see Dover’s famous white cliffs too?) or Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds .

If you are adventurous it is possible to visit Paris (and see the Eiffel Tower or take a stroll along the Seine) from London for a day trip. This is one of the Eurostar day trips from London to consider (Amsterdam and Brussels are also possible) and while it is tiring I would say DO IT!

You can find out more about organising a trip to Paris from London in our guide here.

We also have more information about travelling on the Eurostar too.

London Travel Guide and itinerary planner.

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Cambridge in a Day: A Scholarly Escape

Author's Profile Picture

by Benjamin

February 20, 2024 · 1 min read

Cambridge 1 Day Itinerary

Embark on a one-day journey through the storied streets of Cambridge, a city renowned for its prestigious University and picturesque River Cam. Begin your day at the heart of academia, the University of Cambridge, where you can immerse yourself in a day-long exploration of its ancient colleges, stunning architecture, and rich history. Wander through the courtyards, visit the chapels, and perhaps catch a glimpse of student life in this venerable institution. After soaking in the scholarly atmosphere, take a leisurely 45-minute stroll to the serene River Cam. Here, you can witness the timeless tradition of punting, admire the elegant bridges, and enjoy the tranquil riverside views. This compact itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Cambridge's quintessential experiences, all within the span of a single, unforgettable day.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Academic Ambiance and Punting on the Cam

University of Cambridge

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Kick off your Cambridge adventure with a visit to the prestigious University of Cambridge, a historic institution that has shaped the minds of scholars for over 800 years. As you wander through the hallowed halls and lush green courtyards, you'll be enveloped in an atmosphere of academic excellence. The university's rich heritage and stunning architecture provide a full day's worth of exploration, ensuring that your intellectual curiosity is as stimulated as your sense of wonder.

Attraction Info

  • The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Carluccio's

After immersing yourself in the scholarly world, it's time to unwind with a serene 45-minute jaunt along the River Cam. Glide under the Bridge of Sighs and past the Backs of the colleges, where the architectural grandeur is mirrored in the tranquil waters. This quintessential Cambridge experience offers a unique perspective of the city and a peaceful interlude to reflect on the day's discoveries.

  • United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 45-60 minutes

Tamburlaine Restaurant and Bar

Where to Stay Tonight

Graduate cambridge, hotel du vin & bistro cambridge, lensfield hotel, your space apartments cambridge place, top things to do in cambridge-2024.

University of Cambridge

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Plan the Perfect Cambridge Day Trip from London

    The journey can last from 50 to 80 minutes. Trainline is a good online platform to book your tickets. A one-way trip costs around $44 (€34), and there are up to 12 trains traveling from London to Cambridge throughout the day. Bus - You can get to Cambridge by bus as well, but this is not the most convenient option.

  2. How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cambridge from London in 2024

    The best way to get from London to Cambridge is by train, taking just 1 hour and 16 minutes! Just be sure to book your train ticket in advance. ⮕ BOOK: London to Cambridge Train Ticket. What to Pack for a Cambridge Day Trip from London. As it's only a day trip to London from Cambridge you won't need to pack much.

  3. A Day Trip to Cambridge From London + TOP Sights & Tours

    Public buses Citi 1 and Citi 3 run between the train station and the city center. It will take 10 minutes to get to the city center with buses departing every 5 minutes. Ticketsare £2 and can be purchased from the bus driver. How much time to spend in Cambridge. Plan on 6 hours for a day trip to Cambridge from London.

  4. The Perfect Cambridge Day Trip from London Itinerary

    How to Get to Cambridge from London By Train. If you're staying in London and are planning to take this trip in advance, I highly recommend buying train tickets online to save money.. A return ticket from Kings Cross bought at the train station on the day will typically cost more compared to if you buy your ticket in advance online.. Regardless of whether the fares are cheaper or not, it is ...

  5. Best Guide to a Day Trip to Cambridge, England

    The most popular way to travel to Cambridge from London is by train. Trains depart from King's Cross and Liverpool Street stations regularly, and the journey time is less than an hour on faster services. ... Cambridge Day Trip from London. As the sun starts to sink, we know our time is coming to an end. ...

  6. Cambridge Day Trip Itinerary: What to Do in Cambridge For a Day

    A Cambridge trip is one of the easiest day trips from London since you can reach it on a direct train that takes just 54 minutes! Trains depart multiple times an hour from Blackfriars, Liverpool Street, St Pancras and Kings Cross Stations in London. The cheapest time to take a London to Cambridge day trip is, surprisingly, at the weekend.

  7. Perfect Cambridge Day Trip From London Itinerary [2024]

    On Saturdays, it closes 15 minutes earlier, and Sundays it's open for just 45 minutes, between 1:15 pm and 2:30 pm. If you only have a few hours in the city seeing these colleges should be at the top of your London to Cambridge day trip itinerary. 5. Climb The Great St Mary's Tower.

  8. The Best Cambridge Day Trip From London Itinerary

    A Day Trip From London to Cambridge. Grab breakfast and a coffee. Walk through the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. See the Grasshopper Clock. Climb the Tower at Great St. Mary's Church. Have lunch at Aromi. Visit King's College. See the Wren Library at Trinity College. Stop by the medieval Round Church.

  9. The perfect Cambridge day trip

    The perfect day trip from London. I think Cambridge is a perfect day trip from London. After a short train ride you are transported to another place where, over the course of 800 years, some of the world's greatest minds have experimented and created the most amazing things.

  10. A Day Trip to Cambridge from London by Train

    There are several ways to get to Cambridge from London, but the easiest is train. It takes just 50 mins from King's Cross, or 1 hr 10 mins from Liverpool Street. Additionally, if you'd prefer to drive, it takes around 2 hr by car. Book train tickets in advance via the trainline.com.

  11. Cambridge day trip from London by train

    If you're keen to experience Cambridge at night, you're in luck - some of the last trains from the city back to the capital leave between 11pm and 12am. That said, do remember to factor in your trip from London, whether you're going back home or to a hotel. That will probably influence what time in the evening you leave Cambridge.

  12. Cambridge Day Trip

    The bus is slower but cheaper. National Express Coaches run from London Victoria Coach Station taking 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Cambridge. You can also catch the bus from London Stratford which takes 1 hour and 35 minutes. There are 2 stops in Cambridge.

  13. Trains London to Cambridge from £8

    London to Cambridge by train. It takes an average of 1h 17m to travel from London to Cambridge by train, over a distance of around 49 miles (79 km). There are normally 347 trains per day travelling from London to Cambridge and tickets for this journey start from £8 when you book in advance. First train. 04:02.

  14. Taking a day trip to Cambridge from London

    Cambridge lies along the River Cam, less than an hour's train ride from London. The city serves as one world's top academic centers and features wonderful old-world architecture. If you're planning a visit to London, this convenient, historic city is a perfect day trip.

  15. The Best 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)

    Planning a 1 day Cambridge itinerary in 2024? Cambridge is an incredibly historic city with interesting museums, picturesque streets, charming boat rides and plenty of great restaurants! Spending one day in Cambridge is the perfect day trip from London and an easy getaway to a cosy walkable city.

  16. Cambridge Day Trip

    The perfect Cambridge day trip itinerary. So whether you make this trip by car or as a train trip from London; whether it's your first time in Cambridge or your fourth, here's my perfect itinerary for spending a day in Cambridge.. 9:00 - Visit King's College. Cost: £14.50 per adult on weekdays and £15 on weekends. Start your day trip to Cambridge at the city's most famous attraction.

  17. Cambridge Day Tour from London (Mar 2024)

    Day Trips in London: Check out 24 reviews and photos of Viator's Cambridge Day Tour from London. a Tripadvisor company Top London activities. Explore by category ... Private Day In Cambridge Tour From London by Train. 1. 10 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $740.15. Likely to Sell Out.

  18. How to Get From London to Cambridge

    The Great Northern/Thames Link Railway runs fast trains to Cambridge Station from London King's Cross every few minutes throughout the day. The journey can take between 48 minutes and one hour, 30 minutes, depending on how many stops are made. There are also hourly trains from London Liverpool Street Station operated by Abellio Greater Anglia.

  19. The Ultimate Day Trip From London to Cambridge

    With non-stop service leaving from Kings Cross or Liverpool Street station in London, a train ride to Cambridge is quick and easy. You can expect to arrive in Cambridge in somewhere between 50 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on which route you take. ... A day trip to Cambridge from London is not complete without indulging in some Chelsea Buns ...

  20. 15 Best Day Trips From London by Train

    8. Hatfield House from London by train. Seeing one of the major stately homes in England is a great idea for a day trip from London by train, and you don't even have to go that far to enjoy it. Parting from King's Cross, head over to Hatfield Station and walk a few minutes until you reach the massive estate.

  21. Day Trip to Cambridge From London

    Just a short train ride, it's the perfect day trip from London. We planned a day trip to Cambridge from London with our four-year-old and a three-month-old and loved that the day was manageable and not super overwhelming. So, if you are also traveling with kids, Cambridge is an ideal day trip for families.

  22. London to Cambridge train tickets from US$10.50

    The cheapest tickets we've found for trains from London to Cambridge are US$10.50. If you book 30 days in advance, tickets will cost around US$20, while the price is around US$19 if you book 7 days in advance. Booking on the day of travel is likely to be more expensive, so it's worth booking ahead of time if you can, or check our special offers ...

  23. 13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train (2024 Guide)

    Warwick Castle. This is one of the best castles in England. If you're looking for a train trip from London that's a little further north, jump on the train to Warwick Castle. You can get a one hour and 45-minute train from London Marylebone to Warwick and then walk to the castle gates.

  24. 12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

    Logistics - how to get from London to Cambridge by train. Distance from London: 49 miles / 79 km. Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins. Leave from: London King's Cross/London Liverpool Street Train Station. -> Click for ticket prices and train times.

  25. Stately buildings and punting on the river: Is it better to visit

    From London King's Cross, there are several trains an hour to Cambridge and one service an hour from London Liverpool Street. These two routes both take between 50 minutes and 1 hour and a half.

  26. 10 Best Day Trips from Cambridge (All Within an Hour)

    If you love shopping, this is definitely one of the best day trips from Cambridge. 10. Take the kids to Shepreth Wildlife Park. Distance: Around 20 minutes by car. Shepreth Wildlife Park is only a short car journey from Cambridge, so it's the perfect day out for kids, as well as curious, animal-loving adults.

  27. Cambridge in a Day: A Scholarly Escape

    Embark on a one-day journey through the storied streets of Cambridge, a city renowned for its prestigious University and picturesque River Cam. Begin your day at the heart of academia, the University of Cambridge, where you can immerse yourself in a day-long exploration of its ancient colleges, stunning architecture, and rich history.