Hello, Beautiful Souls,
Welcome to one of my travel blog posts here in July! If you’re looking for a little escape from the hustle and bustle of London, let me take you on a quick journey, just 50 minutes from King’s Cross Station by fast train, and voilà, you’ll find yourself in the enchanting university city of Cambridge.
Cambridge is one of those places that feels like a breath of fresh air, perfect for a sunny day trip. With its charming blend of historical architecture, lush green parks, and a youthful energy thanks to its buzzing student population, it’s a city that speaks to both the romantic and the curious soul.
Let’s talk vibes: the city is nestled along the River Cam, and yes, this is where the world-renowned University of Cambridge was founded way back in 1209 (imagine the stories those buildings could tell!). The mix of Gothic chapels, old colleges, and quiet courtyards is just a chef’s kiss.
Now, if you’ve never done it before, punting along the river is an absolute must. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like gliding past the ancient colleges while someone in a striped shirt tells you quirky bits of history and university gossip. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments that you’ll remember long after your feet are back on solid ground.
If you’re into charity shop treasure hunts (like me), head to Burleigh Street. It’s lined with secondhand stores that just might hide a gem or two, although full disclosure, I didn’t strike gold this time. But hey, that’s the thrill of the hunt, right?
Don’t miss The Round Church, one of the few round churches in England. Right across from it, there’s a little gelato stall, “Carlo’s” that served me one of the best scoops of rum & raisin gelato I’ve ever had, and I’m not even a big ice cream person!
Wander over to King’s College and the majestic King’s Chapel, and the architecture is absolutely stunning. You’ll likely need a ticket to go inside, but even just walking the perimeter is worth your time. If you’re curious about quirky bridges, catch a glimpse of the Mathematical Bridge (pro tip: it’s best seen from another bridge nearby; Cambridge is like that, always full of sneaky views).
Museum lovers, your stop is the Fitzwilliam Museum, a treasure trove of historical artefacts, art, and quiet contemplation. It’s a gorgeous building in its own right, too.
And before you leave, make sure to check out the Corpus Clock (also called the Grasshopper Clock). It’s on King’s Parade and is made from 24-carat gold, featuring a somewhat terrifying but fascinating grasshopper sculpture that “eats time.” The clock only tells the exact time once every five minutes, but honestly, that’s part of its poetic charm.
Cambridge is a city that whispers stories from every corner of scholars, poets, rebels, and dreamers. It’s got that old soul charm with a sprinkle of youthful spirit. Whether you’re into architecture, riverside strolls, or just looking for a new place to wander, Cambridge has something magical waiting for you.
