Are you looking to get out of the city and explore a vibrant town for a weekend? Cambridge, a historic town, is located just over one hour away from London by train. We’ve put together a list of things to do and places to eat, making your travel itinerary seamless.
From a luxury punting experience to visiting the University of Cambridge botanic garden, plenty of opportunities are on offer to make your weekend away unforgettable.
Things to do
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Free-to-enter, and the lead partner of the University of Canterbury museums, it houses world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning centuries and civilisations.
Rutherford’s Punting
This luxury experience includes champagne and comfortable padded seating for those looking to relax as they explore.
Grounds Cycle Centres
Visitors can explore the city like locals, bikes can be hired from locations around the city including Milton Country Park.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Visitors can immerse themselves in nature with a visit to the Botanic Garden which is home to over 8,000 plant species from all over the world.
A spot of lunch
Giggling Squid
Drawing inspiration from the delectable flavours of Thai cuisine, Giggling Squid’s mixologists have curated a collection of four distinct cocktails that are just as mouth-watering as the dishes on the menu. We loved trying the Paloma, it’s a real treat with it’s tantalising Tequila and sweet and sour pink grapefruit.
The menu is fab at Giggling Squid and although it is a little extensive, there is something for everyone. For starters, the golden money bags, giggling wings and pork dumplings are all a fantastic shout.
When it comes to mains, Thai food lovers can’t go wrong. The lamb shank massaman is a must-try. We loved the flavours in this dish and the accompaniment of potatoes, carrots and crunchy cashew nuts is the perfect combination to the lamb. Another highlight of this menu is the Thai red curry, perfect for the Autumn nights. Whether you’re opting for sticky rice or Tom Yum fried rice, you simply can’t go wrong. One to add to your list next time you’re in and around Cambridge.
Giggling Squid – Thai food with personality
For Something Sweet
Fitzbillies
With three bakeries and cafes housed in the heart of Cambridge, Fitzbillies has been putting its famously-sticky and delicious Chelsea Buns on the map since 1920 and hand makes over 200,000 a year! Alongside the signature Chelsea Buns, its delectable cakes, brownies and macarons are also a popular go-to for locals and tourists alike, whilst each of its cafes (in Trumpington Street, Bridge Stree and King’s Parada) offers cream teas and takeaway picnics so you can take a little bit of Fitzbillies with you on your travels. The perfect sweet treat to enjoy on your next visit to Cambridge.
Crosstown Cambridge
Located at 8 Bridge Street in the city centre and open seven days a week, Crosstown Cambridge was the brand’s first branch to open outside of London and the store has been serving up its full range of delicious artisan doughnuts, small batch ice cream and specialty coffee since opening its doors in March 2021.
With indoor seating and a menu ranging from the iconic Cinnamon Scroll and Tongan Vanilla Bean Glaze to Chocolate Truffle, Peanut Butter & Blackcurrant and Homemade Raspberry Jam, it’s sure to please the foodies of the city.
The menu includes a great vegan selection, made with alternative ingredients such as chia seeds, coconut butter and silken tofu, and they’re conscious of their environmental impact too. From sustainably sourced packaging, using seasonal ingredients and offering compostable recycling solutions in-store, to introducing an electric fleet of vans to fulfil deliveries, the company is always looking to make lasting positive contributions to the community and the environment.
Stay At A Luxury Hotel & Spa
The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the City? Then look no further than The Varsity Hotel & Spa. This stunning spa is located in in the charming City of Cambridge, England, and offers a unique experience.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by friendly staff – who instantly made us feel comfortable. The senior fellows superking rooms at this property are stunning – they come equipped with super king-size beds and some rooms feature four-poster beds.
For those looking for a wellness retreat, the restored bonded warehouse with a Whirlpool hot tub overlooking the river is a wonderful spot to de-stress, relax and perfect for those social media shots. If you’re in the mood for some treatments, then we’d highly recommend trying the Elemis facial and massage treatment. The massage is a great experience, the therapist uses her uses her expertise and knowledge to understand where the body needs the most work and constantly works with the client to achieve the best results.
If you’re a gym enthusiast then you’re in for a real treat as you will have access to the gym, daily fitness classes, Elemis Spa treatments, SPA Pool, Sauna and Steam Room.
For dinner, look no further than the River bar Steakhouse and Grill which boasts beautiful views of river Cam & Magdalene College. We’d highly recommend trying the whole grilled lobster & hand cut chips. If you’re in the mood for cocktails, well, you’re in for a treat as this spot boasts an extensive list and undoubtedly there will be something there to tickle your fancy.
This spa and hotel escape is wonderful, the staff go over and beyond to accommodate guests, we loved the location of this hotel for visiting some of Cambridge’s main sites. It’s a thumbs up from the team at City Matters.
Boutique, Luxury Spa Hotel in Cambridge City Centre – The Varsity
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