travel to cambridge from london

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

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.

How to Travel From London Stansted Airport to London by Bus, Train, and Car

How to Travel From London to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From London to Birmingham by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Travel From London to Brighton by Car, Train, and Bus

How to Travel From London to Glasgow by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From London to Chester by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Travel From London to Cardiff by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Travel From Seville to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

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

How to Travel From Seville to Cadiz by Train, Bus, and Car

Stay Cheaper By Staying Close to - Not in - London

How to Travel From Madrid to Bilbao by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Kuala Lumpur to Singapore by Plane, Bus, and Car

How to Travel from Barcelona to Morocco by Plane, Ferry, and Train

How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car

How to Travel from New York to Boston by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

From London to Cambridge: 3 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023

Getting from London to Cambridge is pretty easy, no matter how you choose to make the journey. Located just 64 miles due north of the English capital, Cambridge makes for a wonderful day trip from London – or perhaps an even longer stay if you have the time in your UK travel itinerary for a family getaway or a romantic couples' getaway .

With a train journey of less than an hour (and not much longer by car), little wonder, then, that you'll be among the other eight million travelers who visit the capital of Cambridgeshire every year. As popular with international visitors as with those traveling domestically, the top attractions in Cambridge can get a little busy. Therefore, a little advance planning, as well as flexibility in the time of year you can visit, can make all the difference in the world.

To help you plan your UK adventure in Cambridgeshire, be sure to use our handy guide to the best ways to get from London to Cambridge.

On This Page:

• From London to Cambridge by Train
• From London to Cambridge by Car
• From London to Cambridge by Bus

1. From London to Cambridge by Train

Highlights: Swift and convenient ride with numerous service options

Given just how easy it is to get from London to Cambridge by train – and how easy it is to get around the city when you arrive – this method of transport is our number one means of getting from London to Cambridge.

While train journey times may vary a little depending on the station you depart from and the rail service provider you opt for, a general rule of thumb is to allow at least an hour (give or take a few minutes) once you're aboard. Regularly scheduled services depart from three of London's major trains stations: King's Cross; Liverpool Street; and a recent addition, St. Pancras International.

While you may be tempted to choose what looks like the closest station to where you're staying in London, remember that this world-class city has a superb public transportation system that includes buses, the Underground (subway), as well as a light rail (overground) network. So for example, while you may be staying within walking distance of Liverpool Street Station, you might find, as you research train schedules, that a little extra effort getting to King's Cross will provide more scheduling options and a speedier travel time.

Two companies provide regular services from London to Cambridge: Greater Anglia , departing from Liverpool Street; and Great Northern , operating out of King's Cross. Both offer clean, reliable, and efficient rail services direct to Cambridge Station. That said, if you're planning on traveling to other destinations within the East Anglia region, such as the lovely city of Norwich , purchasing tickets through the Greater Anglia website might offer the best pricing.

Likewise, if you're planning on heading beyond Cambridge as part of a journey from London to York – or using Cambridge as a spot to pick up a rental car to drive around England before heading back to London – Great Northern might be a better choice.

Just a precautionary word about Cambridge Station: Unlike most English towns and cities, it's a little farther from the city center than you may be used to walking; it's exactly one mile from the station to the city's main attractions . If a 25-minute walk is fine, go for it. If not, the station is well served by buses and taxis that can deposit you in the heart of all the action.

Finally, when doing your research, be sure to check out these two resources: National Rail and BritRail Pass . You may find some good deals through National Rail, especially if you're comfortable planning ahead a few months or more. And for tourists intending to do a lot of rail travel, the BritRail Pass offers lots of flexibility and unlimited travel over a pre-specified period of days or weeks.

2. From London to Cambridge by Car

Highlights: Self-directed itinerary with easy park and ride options to Cambridge attractions

While traveling from London to Cambridge by car is doable, and does have some benefits, it's definitely not something to tackle if you're a nervous driver. London has some of the worst congestion in the British Isles during peak traffic times, so if you do intend on making this journey by car, try to leave early (especially Fridays, when everyone seems to want to leave the city).

While heading in the opposite direction can be a plus, there are a few spots you'll hit before arriving at the M11 northbound near Woodford that'll make you wonder why you didn't take the train. But once on the M11, it's usually plain sailing. Best possible journey times? If you can manage to get from London to Cambridge by car in under 1.5 hours, you've done remarkably well .

Once in Cambridge, head for one of the city's park and ride locations . There are five all told, each far enough out that you can avoid Cambridge traffic, and yet close enough to require only a few minutes bus ride into town.

3. From London to Cambridge by Bus

Highlights: Relaxed, budget-friendly travel with ample sightseeing opportunities

Taking a bus (more commonly referred to in the UK as a "coach") is certainly the cheapest way of getting from London to Cambridge . However, what you gain in cash savings, you'll likely lose in time, as like car travel, there are numerous outside factors that can impact the journey, such as rush hour traffic.

As with making this journey by car, travel during off peak, non-rush hour times can speed the journey up, and getting an early start can make the difference between a full day out in Cambridge, or just a few hours. Lasting anywhere from two to close to 2.5 hours depending on the above factors, it certainly is convenient in that someone else has to de0al with traffic while you sit back and enjoy the sights (you'll see parts of London you may have missed, as well as that pretty Cambridgeshire countryside).

Coaches do depart frequently from London's centrally located Victoria Coach Station. For details of pricing and schedules, check out the National Express website .

More on England

Related Content

How take a rail journey from London to Cambridge

Share this journey with a friend..., london to cambridge by train.

There are three options available for taking the train from London to beautiful Cambridge:

• There are non-stop trains from Kings Cross station operated by Great Northern, which complete the journey in under 50 minutes.
• Thameslink operates trains which cross central London and call at multiple stations; London Bridge, Blackfriars, City Thameslink, Farringdon and St Pancras International.
• Greater Anglia operates trains from Liverpool Street station.

Routes you can take to go from London to Cambridge

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:

Looking for connections, route information, option 1: travelling with great northern, station guides.

Travel Time (approx)

50 min (approx)

Travel Info

Monday -Saturday: 2 x fast trains per hour Sunday: 1 x fast train per hour

Purchase Tickets

ShowMeTheJourney earns a small commission on Trainline ticket sales. On longer-distance journeys within the UK it automatically offers a split ticket option if it will be cheaper. Plus it sells tickets for all train operators on each route.

Trainline (UK) Guide

Other Ticket Providers

Great Northern Guide

Great Northern does not offer discounted Advance tickets for travel by its train, instead travelling at a cheaper price depends on the times at which you will be travelling. Off Peak tickets are typically cheaper than Anytime tickets, but at weekends and on national holidays, Super-Off Peak tickets are cheapest of all; and Day Return tickets at a Super-Off Peak rate can also be available at those times.

National Rail Guide

In Great Britain each Train Operating Company provides its own booking service for journeys by its trains, but many of their websites also sell tickets for nationwide journeys, regardless of which company operates the trains on the routes you wish to travel by.

The National Rail website is plugged into all of the train operator's booking services, so when more than one of these companies offers tickets for a route, it in effect offers a price comparison service. It isn't a ticket agent, so you will be connected to the website of your choice in order to make a booking.

Travel Information

Final Destination: Ely or King's Lynn

At King's Cross station take care that you will boarding the trains which make their first station call in Cambridge; these are the trains which will be usually heading beyond Cambridge to terminate in Ely or King's Lynn. (Thameslink also operates 1 or 2 slower trains per hour, which complete the journey in around 1hr 25mins, so they are best avoided. But those slower trains usually terminate at Cambridge, so they will stand out on the departure screens).

Note that this route is (was) is very popular with commuters, and as seats can't be reserved on these trains, try to avoid departing from London between 16:30 and 19:00.

This is a direct journey

You will be travelling on one of these trains....

Good to Know

Direct trains to Cambridge also depart from Blackfriars , City Thameslink , Farringdon , Liverpool Street and London Bridge stations.

All of those stations are also located on the eastern side of central London, but if you will be setting off from that area, be wary of journey planning apps, which show making connections into these Great Northern trains at King's Cross as the fastest end-to-end option. Look twice to see if a slightly slower direct train will save you the bother of having to make a connection.

However, if the starting point of your end-to-end journey has convenient access to King's Cross station, which is likely if you'll be heading off from the West End of London , these Great Northern services can become the logical choice for a London to Cambridge train journey.

They're the only trains which are non-stop from London Cambridge, so they're the fastest option, once you head off from London.

But there are two alternative train services from central London to Cambridge:

(1) Thameslink trains cross central London on route to Cambridge. Those trains call at, from south to north; London Bridge and  Blackfriars  and  City Thameslink  and  Farringdon  so if those stations suit you, you'll have an easier journey if you take that option.

Though those Thameslink trains also call at St Pancras station, which is across the street from King's Cross, so from the area around those stations, taking these Great Northern trains will be faster. Between St Pancras and Cambridge the Thameslink trains make six station calls.

(2) Other slower trains operated by Greater Anglia depart from Liverpool Street station for Cambridge, so if setting on from that station would suit you, those services can be a better option.

If you can book tickets online a week or more ahead of your travel date and don't mind being committed to taking specific trains, you can also save money by taking that route. If you will be making a day trip on a Monday to Friday and book 'Advance' tickets, you can save more than £8; with single tickets being cheaper by more than £12!

Book early and save: No, you will pay the same price if you book tickets last-minute at the station.

On this London to Cambridge route operated by Great Northern you won't save money by booking in advance online, but the price you pay will depend on when you will be travelling You will save money if you make a day trip by train from London to Cambridge on this route at a weekend, or on a national holiday.

The £17.50 is the 'Off-Peak' price for a single ticket, but Great Northern doesn't seemingly offer Off-Peak single tickets on Mondays to Fridays (except for national holidays). So if you want to book a single ticket and travel on Mondays to Fridays, when they are working days, you will have to book the more expensive 'Anytime' tickets, no matter which departure you wish to travel by.

But if you will making a day trip to Cambridge by train, you can save money by booking Off-Peak Day Return tickets. On weekends and national holidays, the price of a day return ticket is only around a £1 more expensive than an Off-Peak single ticket. Similarly an Off-Peak day return ticket on Mondays to Fridays is only around £1 more expensive than an Anytime single ticket.

However, if you can book ahead and don't mind being committed to taking specific trains, you can travel each way for £8,. if you purchase the cheapest advance tickets on the alternative Greater Anglia services. So on Mondays to Fridays you can save around £8 when making a day trip between London and Cambridge if you take that route.

Option 2: travelling with Thameslink

1hr 29 min (from London Bridge)

The journey time from St Pancras International to Cambridge is usually around 1hr 9 mins.

Monday -Saturday: 2 x trains per hour Sunday: 1 x train per hour

Thameslink Guide

Thameslink does not offer discounted Advance tickets for travel by its trains, instead travelling at a cheaper price depends on the times at which you will be travelling. Off Peak tickets are typically cheaper than Anytime tickets, but at weekends and on national holidays, Super-Off Peak tickets are cheapest of all; and Day Return tickets at a Super-Off Peak rate can also be available at those times.

Final Destination: Cambridge

**These trains also call at: Blackfriars and City Thameslink and Farringdon and St Pancras International

If your train journey to Cambridge will be commencing near London Bridge, Blackfriars*, City Thameslink or Farringdon stations than taking these direct Thameslink trains will save you the bother of heading to King's Cross and making connections there. *Blackfriars station now has an entrance on the south bank of the River Thames, conveniently located for the Tate Modern and the South Bank arts complex.

Note that this route is route is (was) very popular with commuters, and as seats can't be reserved on these trains, try to avoid departing from London between 16:30 and 19:00.

If the starting point of your end-to-end journey has convenient access to King's Cross station , then a faster option for a London to Cambridge train journey is to take the alternative Great Northern services, which leave from there.

So if your journey will be commencing in the area around Kings Cross and St Pancras stations , the better option is to take those Great Northern services. They depart across the street from St Pancras International, will cost the same price and will get you to Cambridge around 20 minutes faster.

Other trains operated by Greater Anglia depart from Liverpool Street station for Cambridge, so if setting on from that station would suit you, those services can be a better option (and they can be cheaper too).

Book early and save: No - you will pay the same price if you book tickets last-minute at the station.

The £17.70 price applies if you board at St Pancras, tickets cost around £1-2 more if you board at London Bridge, Blackfriars, City Thameslink or Farringdon Note that booking a direct train ticket from those four stations will be cheaper than taking the Underground to King's Cross station and then booking tickets there for the alternative, faster London to Cambridge trains.

On this London to Cambridge route operated by Thameslink you won't save money by booking in advance online, but the price you pay will depend on when you will be travelling You will save money if you make a day trip by train from a station in central London to Cambridge at a weekend, or on a national holiday. On weekends and national holidays, the price of a day return ticket is only around a £1 more expensive than an Off-Peak single ticket.

Similarly an Off-Peak day return ticket on Mondays to Fridays is only around £1 more expensive than an Anytime single ticket.

Option 3: travelling with Greater Anglia

1 hr 11min - 1hr 24min

2 x trains per hour

Greater Anglia Guide

Greater Anglia offers a price promise for journeys by the trains it operates, so booking Advance tickets online (along with other tickets) on its website, ensures that you will find the cheapest possible price.

Final Destination: Cambridge or Cambridge North

All trains also call at: Audley End

Aside from at evening business hours on Mon-Friday, in each hour one train makes fewer station calls than the other, so is around 12 minutes faster.

Not every departure will be by the newer Electrostar trains. Some older trains which don't have Wi-fi and wheelchair facilities are also used on this route.

Aside from the price*, taking these Greater Anglia services are the best option for a train journey from London to Cambridge, if Liverpool Street station is convenient for the starting point of your end-2-end journey. *if you want to purchase single tickets in particular

If the starting point of your end-to-end journey has convenient access to King's Cross station , then a faster option for a London to Cambridge train journey is to take the alternative Great Northern services , which leave from there.

Though if the starting point of your journey is in the Liverpool Street area AND the one of the faster services from that station will be the next train to leave; you won't save time by heading to King's Cross in order to connect into the fast trains that leave from there.

Thameslink trains cross central London on route to Cambridge. Those trains call at London Bridge and  Blackfriars and City Thameslink and Farringdon  so if those stations suit you, you'll have an easier journey if you take that option.

Book early and save:  Yes

Tickets are usually placed on sale:  From 12 weeks ahead of the travel date.

Greater Anglia operates these trains from Liverpool Street to Cambridge and it offers discounted 'Advance' tickets on this route. They are available in limited numbers on most departures, but you need to book them online at least a day before you'll be travelling. However, to obtain the £8 price, you will usually need to book at least a couple of days in advance and avoid departures at the busiest times.

The two disadvantages of booking an 'Advance' ticket is that they can only be used on the specific departure you select when making a booking - and then if you don't take that train, because you change your travel plans or don't get to the station on time, they can't be refunded.

If you can track down those most heavily discounted tickets then they're the cheapest option for a London to Cambridge train journey, neither Great Northern or Thameslink offer Advance tickets on the routes which they operate.

Please support ShowMeTheJourney

Help keep us advertising and paywall free!

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help.

We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

Instead of advertising or paywalls, your financial support will make a positive difference to delivering an enhanced service, as there’s a lot of ideas which we want to make happen.

So if you have found the info provided here to be useful, please consider saying thank you.

See if there’s a unique journey guide for your trip, featuring info on the trains, tickets & stations.

• Austria by train
• Wien / Vienna
• Belgium by train
• Bruxelles / Brussels
• Czechia by train
• Praha / Prague / Prag
• Denmark by train
• København / Copenhagen
• France by train
• Germany by train
• Frankfurt (Main)
• Köln / Cologne / Koeln
• München / Munich
• Great Britain by train
• Hungary by train
• Italy by train
• Firenze / Florence
• Milano / Milan / Mailand
• Roma / Rome
• Torino / Turin
• Venezia / Venice / Venedig
• Netherlands by train
• Norway by train
• Poland by train
• Warszawa / Warsaw
• Spain by train
• Sweden by train
• Switzerland by train
• Basel / Bâle
• Genève / Geneva
• Zürich / Zurich
• No Matching Cities
• List is empty.

This is one of more than 100 train travel guides available on ShowMeTheJourney , which will make it easier to take the train journeys you want or need to make. As always, all images were captured on trips taken by ShowMeTheJourney.

• Europe by Train
• Journey Guides
• Rail Stations
• Trip Planning
• Travel Articles
• Tips from 100s of journeys
• How to take a night train
• Good to know about daytime trains
• Travelling with Children
• Taking Bikes on Trains
• Travelling with Luggage
• Taking dogs on trains
• Common benefits of first class travel
• Journeys with multiple connections
• Money saving advice
• The best permanent deals and offers
• Intro to seat reservations
• Step-by-step booking guides
• InterRail/Eurail
• Access over 500 rail holidays
• Save 5% on more than 30 Swiss rail holidays
• Book a range of Swiss rail passes
• Buy Half Fare Cards for Switzerland
• Book train tickets with Trainline
• Book rail holidays worldwide with Bookmundi

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

Related Posts:

The Best Shoes for London Winter or Summer

The Perfect Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk from London

9 Best Towns to Stay in Cornwall

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 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Loading service updates...

• Buy tickets
• Live train times
• Delay Repay
• Assisted Travel

London Kings Cross to Cambridge

Making your way out of central London on your commute back from work or a busy day of sightseeing? Whatever your reason for travelling, you can rely on regular trains from London King's Cross to Cambridge to get you where you need to be as comfortably as possible.

Ready to go? You can book your train ticket from London King's Cross to Cambridge using our journey planner today! For upcoming train times for London King's Cross to Cambridge, you can check our live departure board below.

Journey information from London Kings Cross to Cambridge

• How long is the average journey duration from London Kings Cross to Cambridge? 1 hour 7 minutes
• How long is the fastest journey duration from London Kings Cross to Cambridge? 0 hours 48 minutes
• When is the first train from London Kings Cross to Cambridge? 00:02
• When is the last train from London Kings Cross to Cambridge? 23:10
• How many services run for London Kings Cross to Cambridge today? 35

The above information is intended as a guide. It may not include timetable alterations because of engineering work, unplanned disruption etc. Please use the journey planner to plan your journey before you travel. Some tickets are subject to restrictions. Please check these before you travel.

The information above refers to direct journeys only. Other journeys may be available by changing train or by using a different London Terminal. At certain times buses may operate some of the journeys shown. Services of all operators on the route shown are included in the figures. Not all tickets may be used on all services.

On many routes, the last journey before services finish for the day departs after midnight. Where this is the case, it is this service (in the early hours of the following morning), and not the last one before midnight that is shown.

Similar routes

• London St Pancras to Peterborough
• Finsbury Park to Hatfield Herts
• Stevenage to London St Pancras
• Hitchin to Stevenage
• Stevenage to Welwyn Garden City
• Finsbury Park to Potters Bar
• Finsbury Park to Welwyn Garden City

Tips on finding cheaper train tickets

Travel together.

Are you travelling in a group of 3-9 adults? You could save 34% on train tickets from London King's Cross to Cambridge when you book together online using GroupSave. This discount is automatically applied at checkout on most Off-Peak fares.

Travel with your railcard

Fancy 1/3 off your train fare? With a Railcard, you can enjoy a discount on many train journeys so make sure you've got it with you when you travel. They usually cost £30, last for a year, and are available online or from your local station.

Travel outside of rush hour

Getting out of central London during rush hour can be a nightmare so why not travel on an Off-Peak train from London King's Cross to Cambridge? You can enjoy quieter carriages and avoid commuter queues!

No booking fees and collect at the station in the UK

Buy online and get the best deals

Stay up-to-date

Subscribe to email updates. Get travel inspiration, journey updates and exclusive offers delivered straight to your inbox.

We will not pass on your personal information to any organisation outside of Great Northern.

Should we no longer operate the Great Northern franchise, please be aware that we will pass your details to the Successor franchise or Secretary of State for Transport to allow you to continue receiving service and/or marketing emails if you have consented to them.

Subscription confirmed

Thank you for subscribing to receive relevant updates from Great Northern.

Subscription Failed

Something went wrong with your submission, please try again later.

Join The London Crew: Grab this checklist with 110 things to do in london from a local.

Hues Of Delahaye

Perfect Cambridge Day Trip From London Itinerary [2024]

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.

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.

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.

 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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.

Sharing is caring!

• Pinterest 486

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

London travel news LIVE: Major traffic jam on M25 amid Easter getaway chaos

LIVE – Updated at 20:30

Holidaymakers heading off for the Easter weekend had to contend with 20-mile traffic jams, two-hour delays at Dover, and rail chaos on Friday.

Traffic was queueing on the M25 clockwise in Surrey in the afternoon after an earlier crash just after junction 8.

All lanes are understood to have re-opened, but the congestion was backing up between junction 8 at the A217 Brighton Road (Reigate) and junction 9 A243 (Leatherhead), as of around 4.40pm.

There was also significant congestion elsewhere on the M25, with traffic especially bad on the western side and reports of 40-minute queues.

Elsewhere holiday traffic caused "pretty horrendous" 20-mile long queues on the M4 and M5 interchange near Bristol, adding 45 minutes to journey times, as around 2.6 million car journeys were expected to be made on Good Friday.

Meanwhile drivers approaching the Channel crossing were facing two-hour waits to be processed , warned the Port of Dover.

With 175,000 people due to jet off from Stansted this weekend, Stansted Express train services from London were disrupted for a large proportion of Friday.

The disruption - which affected trains between Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport, and Cambridge North, and was caused by damage from Storm Nelson on Thursday night - finally ended shortly before 4pm.

On the railway, there are no trains running to or from London Euston – excluding  London Overground  - over the Easter weekend due to engineering works.

The Elizabeth Line, London Overground and DLR are all partially closed from Friday to Monday due to maintenance work. There are also severe delays on the Central Line.

South Western Railway, Southern, Thameslink and Southeastern routes will also be disrupted this weekend.

Network Rail has advised travellers to avoid the West Coast main line during the bank holiday, adding that engineering works will also impact southern routes to and from London.

For more details and the latest travel updates scroll down.

London Overground affected

Transport for London is warning between Good Friday and Easter Monday, there will be no service between Highbury & Islington and New Cross / New Cross Gate / Clapham Junction due to planned works.

Elizabeth line disruption

TfL have said between Good Friday and Saturday, a reduced service will operate between Paddington and Maidenhead / Heathrow. All trains will start and terminate at Paddington National Rail station. Heathrow Terminal 4, West Drayton, Langley, Slough, Burnham and Maidenhead will be served by two trains an hour. West Ealing will be served by four trains an hour. Ealing Broadway, Southall and Hayes & Harlington will be served by six trains per hour.From Good Friday until Easter Monday, no service will operate between Abbey Wood / Stratford and Paddington. Trains will operate between Shenfield and Liverpool Street National Rail station (not serving Whitechapel) and between Paddington National Rail station and Heathrow / Reading.

DLR part-closed all weekend

The DLR is partlyshut from Good Friday to Easter Monday, with no service between Tower Gateway and Shadwell.

There will also be no service running between Westferry/Canary Wharf and Stratford/Canning Town.

Only trains towards Bank will serve West India Quay. Replacement buses operate between Westferry and Canning Town.

Major disruption to Liverpool Street trains including Stansted Express expected until 10.30am

No trains are running between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport and Cambridge due to problems with overhead wires, says National Rail.

A ‘do not travel’ warning has been issued to customers planning to use these services.

The disruption is expected to last until 10.30am.Services affected:

• Greater Anglia between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport / Cambridge North
• Stansted Express between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport

“Due to overhead wire problems at Stansted Mountfitchet some lines are blocked,” says the National Rail website.

“Train services running through this station may be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised.

“Major disruption is expected until 10.30am.

“Customers are asked NOT TO TRAVEL between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport and Cambridge.

“Because of overhead wire problems between Harlow Town and Stansted Mountfichet, there are currently no trains running between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport and Cambridge.”

Storm damage cancels major train services to and from Liverpool Street

No northbound trains calling at kensington olympia after signalling fault.

A fault with the signalling system means northbound services are unable to call at Kensington Olympia.

Northbound Overground and Southern rail services will run non-stop between West Brompton and Shepherds Bush, says National Rail.

This disruption is expected until midday.

Severe delays on Central Line

TfL says there are severe delays between Epping and Loughton on the Central Line while it fixes a signal failure at Debden.

There are also minor delays on the rest of the line due to train cancellations.

Photos show crowds of passengers at King's Cross St Pancras as Easter getaway continues

Lines now reopen after storm damage but delays still expected.

National Rail has said that overhead wire problems at Stanstead Mountfitchet have now been resolved.

The line north from London into Essex has now reopened but a knock on effect is causing disruption.

Latest reports suggest this will be the case until 2pm.

Kensington Olympia disruption now expected until the end of the day

Disruption is expected to continue until the end of the day on the Overground to Kensington Olympia.

The signalling fault reported this morning has not been resolved on the route andthe issue will remain, National Rail has said.

Traffic as a stalled truck blocks A1261 in Blackwall

Traffic in one lane of the A1261 has ground to a halt after a lorry stalled in Blackwall.

There are currently queues of around 8km on the northbound section.

'Pretty horrendous' 20-mile queues on major motorways

Holiday traffic has caused "pretty horrendous" 20-mile long queues on major motorways, adding 45 minutes to journey times.

Around 2.6 million car journeys were expected to be made today, with "significant" congestion around the M25 and roads in the South West and South East by lunchtime.

The RAC said holidaymakers heading south were behind much of the congestion after forecasters predicted sunnier spells there over the next few days.

Queues of 15 to 20 miles were seen on the M4 and M5 interchange near Bristol, which is adding 45 minutes on to journey times.

Meanwhile, the western side of the M25 was described as "pretty bad" and a "lot worse than normal", with 40-minute queues.

It was also busy on the top-end of the M20, with congestion heading into Folkestone.

Traffic queuing on M25 in Surrey following earlier crash

Traffic is queueing on the M25 clockwise in Surrey after an earlier crash just after junction 8.

The congestion is backing up from junction 8 at the A217 Brighton Road (Reigate) to junction 9 A243 (Leatherhead).

All lanes are understood to have been re-opened, according to traffic monitoring website Inrix.

Stansted Mountfitchet disruption ends

Disruption to and from Liverpool Street via Stansted Mountfitchet - due to damage to overhead wires caused by Storm Nelson last night - is finally over.

Stansted Express and Greater Anglia services are understood to be running normally again.

No trains between Redhill and Tonbridge until 8pm

National Rail said there will be no service between Redhill and Tonbridge until 8pm.

They said a safety inspection found “a track defect”.

Port of Dover boss says worst is over after storm

Port of Dover chief executive Doug Bannister they were “back on top of it” after chaos caused by Storm Nelson.

He told Sky News: “We suffered a bit of a backlog overnight because of the weather impacting on sailings but we've got back on top of it".

Signalling problems hit Greenwich trains

Train lines via Greenwich are blocked because of a fault with the signalling system between Charlton and London Bridge.

Thameslink said trains running to and from these stations will be diverted via Lewisham with disruption expected to last to 10pm.

Coverage ends tonight

Thank you for reading.

Cambridge continues Boat Race dominance with double victory over Oxford

The Associated Press

March 30, 2024, 1:40 PM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

LONDON (AP) — Cambridge extended its dominant run in the annual Boat Race with victories in the men’s and women’s events on a polluted River Thames on Saturday.

The men claimed a fifth trophy in six years — to lead 87-81 overall in the race between storied universities Oxford and Cambridge which dates to 1829 — while the women cruised to a seventh straight triumph for a 48-30 overall lead.

Crews had sunny conditions with just a light breeze ahead of launch time for the women’s race. Those pleasant conditions were in contrast to the news this week that high levels of E.coli, which can cause a range of serious infections and other side effects, was found along the course in southwest London.

All crews were issued safety guidance on a range of preventative measures, from covering up scrapes with waterproof plasters to ensuring rowers avoided swallowing any water that splashed up from the Thames.

Oxford won both coin tosses but opted for different starting points.

Both dark blue Oxford shells were seen as favorites for the 78th women’s and 169th men’s races.

The men’s race saw Cambridge take an early lead, Oxford draw level, and Cambridge lead by half a length and 1.52 seconds at Hammersmith Bridge. Cambridge settled into a smooth rhythm and left Oxford even further behind.

Then Cambridge stroke Matt Edge started flailing, his oar only just dipping in the water. Their 10-second lead was enough to hold off Oxford comfortably.

Testing by a campaign group found high levels of E.coli along the 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) course. The rowers were advised to use a “cleansing station” at the finish area as well as avoid the post-race tradition of throwing the winning cox into the water.

AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

In setback to Turkey’s Erdogan, opposition makes huge gains in local election

A car bomb in a Syrian opposition-held town kills at least 3 people, including 2 children

Pope overcomes health concerns to preside over Easter Mass and appeal for peace in Gaza and Ukraine

Recommended.

Decadeslong tradition draws thousands to Lincoln Memorial for Easter sunrise

Gas prices have climbed nearly 14% this year. Here's why.

WATCH LIVE: Key Bridge removal, cleanup begins in Baltimore

Related categories:.