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Supporting independent and local businesses in the run up to Christmas.

Our vibrant city has long been a home for the most extraordinary independent and local businesses. These have shaped the soul of our city ever since. Unfortunately, the year 2020 has been unprecedented and presented many local independent businesses with challenges and hardship.

Unfortunately, many of our local businesses have had to close their doors. Some permanently and some temporarily – in line with government guidelines for lockdown 2.0. In the spirit of preserving this industry that makes our city thrive, it seems more important than ever to support them. Especially throughout the upcoming festive season.

Make this Christmas special by surprising your loved ones whilst supporting your local community at the same time. Consider this run up to Christmas your greatest deed! Shop local, order online, buy handmade goodies or gift vouchers for local shops/experiences. Consider this your cup of kindnesses to all those passion-driven businesses. They are counting on our support to survive this current crisis.

Support Local

For this lockdown, many businesses have had to close their doors, but remember many are still allowed to operate, whether for take-away, delivery or click and collect.

If your favourite shops and restaurants are closed, remember to look them up online to see if they are offering anything. Whether in-store or through the web, the most important thing, especially this year, is to support our local independent community, so we can have them back once this pandemic goes away for good.

Independent and local businesses:

1. Shop local and independent on-line

Click-It local has come to Cambridge and is showcasing a fantastic array of local independents. Not only can you order amazing local food and drink but also great gifts, our favourites include Small and Green (beautiful houseplants and pots) and lighthouse toys (ideal for the kids this Christmas).

Check out Etsy – Support independent creators. Cambridge has some fantastic artists/creators selling on Etsy, support someone local this Christmas.

One of our favourites is: Frankie and the Sewing Machine. Check out her fab personalised cushions and Christmas stockings. There was a Cambridge Etsy fair in 2018, obviously, there can’t be one this year but here’s a list of some other fantastic local sellers with the most amazing and unique local products that might make a very special gift this Christmas.

Histon Handmade marketplace, is new for 2020. In the last couple of years, Histon Handmade had become the place to go for local artisan gifts. Unable to go ahead this year the organiser, Claire, has developed an online marketplace where you can shop local for Christmas gifts for others (or yourself).

Books are a popular Christmas gift and with all the bookshops closed it would be so easy to head to Amazon for all your literary needs. Not this year!! Independent bookshops have joined forces to rival the likes of Amazon and other multinational sellers. Bookshop.org is a great place to go for books this Christmas. Or, alternatively, you could opt for a walk through our city to collect your favourite books at the door of our local bookshops – check online to see which are offering a Click and Collect service.

2. Shop local gift vouchers

With the uncertainty of current events, in many cases, the local community is opting for a wider validity of their gift vouchers. Moreover, guaranteeing to extend it if required (as we are here at Let’s Go Punting). In our opinion experience, gift vouchers are a great way to give a special gift experience this Christmas while supporting a local business.

Love Cambridge is offering a generic Love Cambridge Gift Card which can be accepted in a huge range of local businesses such as shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and salons.

For extra fun, you can always opt for an experience gift voucher such as our popular: gift voucher for a relaxing punting tour! Select your favourite tour, add individual picnic boxes and have an amazing time punting with Let’s Go Punting!

You can contact us to add a personalised message on your voucher! All vouchers are valid for 12 months from date of purchase. However, this validity can be extended upon request due to the current situation. Please ensure that the gift voucher recipient contacts us to confirm availability and pre-book a specific date and time. Our most popular gift vouchers are displayed but if you want something different just let us know!

Other local experience gift vouchers include: Lockhouse Escape Rooms, The Varsity Hotel (for their SPA, Afternoon Tea or Dinner Experiences) and Cocktail Making at the Hidden Rooms. All gifts I’d love to receive this Christmas.

Support local and independent businesses!

Even though the run up to Christmas calls out for gifts and treats remember to try and shop local wherever possible. It may take more time but rest assured you will be making someone’s day.

Whether utilising the click and collect services or using local delivery companies such as Click it Local, your shopping will support small businesses through these tough and unpredictable times. So if you can, shop local and spread kindness; empowering our city’s passion-driven local and independent businesses.

More news

Welcome to the New Let’s Go Punting Website!

October 16, 2026

We’ve had a little refresh!

We’re excited to introduce the brand-new Let’s Go Punting website, designed to make planning your Cambridge punting experience easier, quicker and more enjoyable from the moment you visit us online.

Our previous website has served us well over the years, but as Let’s Go Punting has continued to grow, we wanted our website to grow with us. The new site has a fresh look, simpler navigation and makes it much easier to find everything you need before joining us on the River Cam.

And to celebrate the launch, we’ve got a special discount available for a limited time!

Finding the Right Punting Tour

Whether you’re looking for a private punting tour with family and friends or want to join one of our shared tours, our new website makes it easier to explore the different options available.

You’ll find clearer information about each of our tours, what’s included and what to expect on the day, helping you choose the experience that works best for you.

Once you’ve found your perfect tour, you can check availability and book online, with timed departures making it easy to plan punting around the rest of your day in Cambridge.

Everything You Need in One Place

We know there can be lots of questions when planning a day out, especially if it’s your first time punting in Cambridge.

That’s why we’ve made important information easier to find across the new website. From pricing and FAQs to directions, accessibility information and details about your tour, you can find everything you need before you arrive.

Celebrate Our New Website With a Special Discount!

To celebrate the launch of our brand-new website, we’re offering a special 10% discount on our punting tours! Use code LGPNEW10.

It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxing trip along the River Cam, taking in some of Cambridge’s most beautiful sights for a little less.

But be quick! This special offer is only available until 23rd October 2026.

Simply head over to our new website, explore our tours and book your Cambridge punting experience before the offer ends.

A Fresh Look for Let’s Go Punting

Most importantly, we wanted our new website to feel like us.

It’s brighter, fresher and easier to use, while still keeping the friendly and relaxed feel that you’ll experience when you join the Let’s Go Punting team on the river.

Whether you’re visiting Cambridge for the first time, planning a family day out or simply looking to see the city from a different perspective, we hope our new website makes planning your trip that little bit easier.

Take a look around, find your perfect tour and we’ll see you on the River Cam soon!

July 18, 2026

If you’re searching for a Wine & Cheese Tasting in Cambridge, Let’s Go Punting has the perfect evening experience. Our new Wine & Cheese Tastings on the Cam event combines a traditional Cambridge punt tour with a guided tasting of British wines and artisan cheeses. Taking place on Friday 31st July at 7:00pm, this exclusive 90-minute experience offers a unique way to explore the River Cam whilst enjoying exceptional British produce.

Launching on Friday 31st July at 7:00pm, this exclusive 90-minute experience offers a unique way to explore the River Cam. As you glide past Cambridge’s famous College Backs, you’ll sample exceptional British wines and artisan cheeses while enjoying one of the city’s most iconic views.

A Unique Cambridge Evening Experience

At Let’s Go Punting, we’re always looking to create memorable experiences on the River Cam. While our traditional Cambridge punting tours remain one of the city’s most popular attractions, Tastings on the Cam offers visitors and locals the chance to enjoy something a little different.

As you glide through the heart of Cambridge, you’ll enjoy spectacular riverside views, discover exceptional British produce and experience one of the most unique wine tasting experiences in Cambridge.

Guided Wine Tasting with Grape Britannia

We’re delighted to be working with Cambridge wine specialists Grape Britannia, who will guide the tasting throughout the evening.

You’ll sample three carefully selected British wines, each paired with a complementary British cheese and served with crackers. Along the way, you’ll learn about the vineyards behind each wine, the inspiration for every pairing and the growing reputation of English and Welsh winemaking. As a result, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation of Britain’s thriving wine industry.

The Tasting Menu

During the evening, you’ll enjoy three carefully selected British wines, each expertly paired with a complementary British cheese and served with crackers:

Albion English Fizz 2023
Paired with Kidderton Ash Goat’s Cheese
Chilford Hall Vineyard Legacy 2021
Paired with Wensleydale & Apricot Cheese
Three Choirs Vineyards Reserve Rosé 2023
Paired with Somerset Brie

Together, these pairings showcase the quality and character of British wine and artisan cheese. Plus, they perfectly complement your journey along the River Cam.

What’s Included?

Your £45 ticket includes:

A 90-minute chauffeured Cambridge punt tour
Three guided British wine tastings
Three artisan British cheese pairings
Crackers
A bottle of water
Expert guidance from Grape Britannia

Discover One of the Best Things to Do in Cambridge

Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique Cambridge evening activity, Wine & Cheese Tastings on the Cam offers an unforgettable experience.

Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this exclusive wine and cheese tasting on the River Cam and discover some of Britain’s finest wines and cheeses from the best seat in Cambridge.

April 19, 2026

For anyone planning a school trip to the historic city of Cambridge, combining education with an unforgettable experience can sometimes be a little… challenging.

This blog aims to provide you with a simple step-by-step guide to getting the most out of a day trip to Cambridge, with a large group. We will dive into the most unmissable sights, activities, coach drop-off points, and museums that will leave you with a day filled with adventure.

Firstly (and arguably most importantly), the best way to explore the city in a way that’s controlled, fun and informative, is by taking part in a guided punting tour along the college backs.

What are the College Backs?

The area around the River Cam, known as the ‘College Backs’, is a quintessential part of Cambridge. It’s home to seven University of Cambridge colleges, nine iconic bridges, and some of the most beautiful gardens in the city.

A guided punting tour along the college backs allows visitors of any group size to see the most iconic city sites from the river. As the area around the college Backs is privately owned by Cambridge University, there are many restrictions for visitors. Therefore, we always recommend a punting tour, as customers are always guaranteed access from the best seat in the city – the seat of a punt!

Why Choose a Punting Tour for Your School Trip?

A punting tour isn’t just a relaxing ride on the river; it’s also an immersive educational experience. Students gain insight into centuries-old architecture, history and academic excellence.

Our expert chauffeurs bring Cambridge to life through storytelling, historical facts, and fascinating anecdotes, making the experience ideal for:

Educational school trips
Enrichment activities
End-of-term rewards
History and cultural exploration

What Students Will Learn

To support learning, we provide free educational worksheets for all school groups. These include:

Information about historical figures connected to the College Backs
Key historical facts and stories covered during the tour
Engaging questions and trivia to reinforce learning

This combination of on-the-water learning and classroom-style resources ensures students stay engaged before, during, and after the tour.

For more information about how Cambridge University works, click here to read our blog ‘Cambridge University Explained Simply (Without the Confusion)

What you need to know:

Our tours last approximately 50 minutes, with all tours departing at quarter past and quarter to each hour.

Tours begin and end at our central landing stage on the corner of Jesus Green, with regular departures throughout the day, making it easy to fit into your school schedule.

Designed for School Groups

We understand the logistical challenges of organising a school trip, which is why we’ve made our booking process as accessible and flexible as possible.

Group sizes: Our boats hold a maximum of 12 passengers, and can depart up to 4 boats at one time, depending on availability.
Larger groups: Easily split across multiple time slots
Flexible booking: Reserve your slot by paying a 30% deposit, with the 70% balance being due 2 weeks before the departure date
Competitive pricing: Reduced rates available for weekday morning tours during term time

Our experienced team is available 7 days a week to help plan your visit and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Easy Coach Access and Parking Information

We know that transport is a key consideration for school trips, so here’s a rundown of your best options:

Drop-off point: Chesterton Road (near Arundel House Hotel), just a 5-minute walk to our landing stage
Parking options:
- Madingley Road Park & Ride
- Cambridge Golf Driving Range (Cowley Road)

Both options provide affordable, practical solutions for coach parking.

Make a Day of Your Cambridge Visit

A punting tour fits perfectly into a wider Cambridge itinerary. There are plenty of nearby attractions within walking distance that are ideal for school groups, including:

Downing College (20-minute walk from us) – Known for its neoclassical architecture and spacious grounds

Selwyn College (30-minute walk from us) – Attractive gardens with accessible areas near the chapel

Emmanuel College (15-minute walk from us) and Christ’s College (10-minute walk) – Often open to visitors free of charge

Trinity College (Wren Library) (10-minute walk from us) – Free entry Monday to Friday (12:00–14:00) and Saturday mornings during term time

St John’s College (10-minute walk from us) – Free for Cambridge residents with a valid CB postcode ID

Newnham College (30-minute walk from us) – Generally open to visitors

We recommend checking with the Porter’s Lodge at each college on arrival, as opening times can vary. Please also be aware that during exam term (typically late April to mid-June), many colleges restrict visitor access.

An Award-winning Business You Can Trust

We’re proud to be one of the highest-rated punting companies in Cambridge, with thousands of 5-star Google reviews and winners of the VisitEngland Gold Award for two consecutive years.

Our reputation is built on delivering high-quality, engaging experiences that schools can rely on.

Plan Your School Punting Trip to Cambridge Today

So if you’re planning a school trip to Cambridge, our team is happy to help you plan your visit, coordinate timings, and provide all necessary documentation, including risk assessments and safeguarding information.

Get in touch today to secure your booking and give your students a punting experience they won’t forget!

Contact information:

Email: info@letsgopunting.co.uk
Phone Number: 01223 651 659

March 22, 2026

Anyone planning a visit to Cambridge is likely to add the University to their itinerary. Not only is it one of the 4 oldest Universities in the world, but it is also a quintessential part of the city’s charming culture. However, navigating when, where, and how to structure a visit can sometimes be complicated.

The first thing to know is how Cambridge University is structured. In this blog, we will explain exactly that, in the hopes of providing you with a straightforward guide to Cambridge University life.

What Is the University of Cambridge?

Cambridge University was founded in 1209, making it one of the oldest universities in the world. However, unlike most universities, it is not a single campus. Instead, it is a collegiate university made up of 31 individual colleges.

Essentially, the University and its colleges have designated responsibilities.

Cambridge University: sets courses, delivers lectures, and awards degrees.
Cambridge University colleges: provide accommodation, dining, and small-group teaching called supervisions.

Therefore, every student belongs to both a department and a college. This dual structure often causes confusion. Think of it like Harry Potter: all students belong to Hogwarts (the University of Cambridge), but each student is also part of a specific house, such as Gryffindor or Slytherin, much like Cambridge students belong to individual colleges such as King’s or Trinity. Nevertheless, it is central to Cambridge’s identity.

Cambridge Colleges Explained

The Cambridge University Colleges operate independently. Moreover, each one has its own history, staff, and traditions.

All Cambridge University students apply to a specific college; however, all degrees are awarded by the University itself.

You may recognise famous colleges such as:

King’s College
Trinity College
St John’s College
Queen’s College

The colleges are dotted throughout Cambridge city centre, resulting in university culture being woven into everyday life.

What Are the College Backs?

Due to the transportation of goods along the River Cam, a lot of the Collages were positioned along the riverside. Therefore, a trip down the river can provide a magnificent showcase of the colleges for those interested in the full ‘Cambridge’ experience.

Collectively, these views are known as the College Backs.

Unfortunately, you can only see fragments of the buildings from the road; therefore, a guided tour along the College Backs is the perfect way to view sweeping lawns and historic bridges.

Cambridge University Museums and Traditions

As impressive as the collages are, it is important for visitors to also explore beyond them. The university is also home to countless museums and galleries, dedicated to science, art, and archaeology. These museums are collectively utilised to reflect the extraordinary breadth of subjects studied here, alongside the wide-ranging interests of its students. Most museums are free to enter, allowing visitors to engage directly with Cambridge University life.

Additionally, traditions remain an important part of student culture. Formal Hall dinners, academic gowns, and May Balls all continue today. Consequently, Cambridge blends historic ritual with modern academic study.

Why Cambridge Can Feel Confusing

Cambridge often feels complex because its buildings are not grouped in one area. Instead, its colleges, departments, and libraries are scattered across the city. Some areas are open to visitors. Others remain private during term time. Therefore, it can be difficult to understand what belongs to whom.

However, a trip down the college’s back will help any visitor understand the university system and how it operates.

Why Punting Helps You Understand Cambridge

Punting tours along the River Cam provide insight into several of the historical colleges, including King’s, St Johns, and Trinity. As you glide along the water, the relationship between the buildings becomes clearer.

Moreover, you see the College Backs exactly as they were designed to be viewed. Instead of navigating narrow streets, visitors can experience the architecture in one uninterrupted stretch. This makes the University’s structure feel logical rather than confusing.

Punting tours are as informative as they are relaxing, but why take our word for it? Here are some reviews left by visitors:

‘Ryan was a great guide! We were lucky enough to have a glorious sunny afternoon and a wealth of wildlife to entertain us. With his extensive knowledge of the history of Cambridge (as well as some stories of alumni), we found out so much. The punting itself was smooth, and we managed to avoid amateur punters, enjoying a smooth ride. Would recommend!’ – Vicky

‘Callum was a great tour guide, relaxed, informative and very amusing. Thoroughly enjoyed his guide along the River Cam. Highly recommended.’ – Julie

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cambridge University the same as its colleges?
To put it simply – No. The University sets academic standards and awards degrees, whereas the colleges provide community, accommodation, and supervision.

How many colleges are in Cambridge?
There are a total of 31 colleges that form the University of Cambridge.

What are the College Backs?
The College Backs are the riverside gardens and rear views of several historic colleges.

Can you visit Cambridge colleges?
Many colleges allow visitors at specific times. However, access may be restricted during term times. We recommend looking directly on each college website for opening times and pricing.

Cambridge, Clearly Explained

To summarise: Cambridge is one University made up of 31 independent colleges. They create a system that is historic, layered, and distinctive. However, the easiest way to gain information is from the seat of an expert-guided punting tour. Book your punting tour here today!

March 11, 2026

This summer, we’re excited to introduce a brand new event on the River Cam, in partnership with Cambridge Folk Festival. This year, we’re proud to present ‘Folk on a Boat’, a brand-new, unforgettable, live music event.

Featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter John Bramwell, the event will take place on Thursday, 23rd July from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. This unique event combines the beauty of a summer evening punt with the magic of live folk music. Tickets for the event are limited, so be sure to book well in advance and secure your spot! This intimate performance, submerged in the city’s most iconic settings, is unmissable.

A Perfect Summer Evening on the River Cam

Spend the evening gliding along the River Cam as the evening light settles over Cambridge’s historic colleges. Folk on a Boat Cambridge immerses guests in a 90-minute, serene experience through the heart of the city. Along the way, guests will pass some of Cambridge’s most famous riverside sights while enjoying live acoustic performances from John Bramwell. Bramwell is best known as the frontman of the celebrated band I Am Kloot. His music combines honesty with warmth and storytelling, which provides the perfect soundtrack to a tranquil evening on the River Cam

This experience offers an alternative to the traditional concert venue. This way, guests:

Do not need to worry about big stages
Avoid large crowds
Experience just music, the river, and the atmosphere of Cambridge at sunset

Meet the Artist: John Bramwell

John Bramwell has been regarded as one of the UK’s most compelling and distinctive songwriters. He was the frontman of I Am Kloot and helped in formulating the band’s emotional sound, which earned them widespread critical acclaim.

The band received a Mercury Prize nomination for their ‘The Sky at Night’ album, alongside achieving a UK top 10 album with ‘Let It All In’. To celebrate these achievements, the band performed a farewell orchestral show at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall in 2014.

Bramwell has since developed a distinctive solo career. His album ‘The Light Fantastic’ exemplifies a warm, uplifting sound, decorated with lush arrangements and layered harmonies. This 2023 album marks an exciting new chapter in his musical journey. Bramwell has since spent recent years touring extensively across the UK and beyond.

An Intimate Folk Experience Like No Other

Part of what makes Folk on a Boat Cambridge so special is its unique setting.

Enjoy a close-up acoustic performance this summer in a setting unlike any traditional large venue.

The gentle rhythm of the water and historic colleges lining the banks create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere whilst showcasing the quiet beauty of a Cambridge summer evening.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Folk on a Boat are strictly limited and are on track to sell out quickly.

Prices range from £70 to £300, depending on group size. Plan a memorable evening with friends or a unique date night in Cambridge and enjoy an unforgettable experience on the river.

However, once tickets are gone, they’re gone! Therefore, we strongly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment and secure your place.

What to Know Before You Go

Before joining us on the river, here are some important details to bear in mind:

Date: Thursday, 23rd July
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Departure: Tours leave at 7:30 pm sharp (late arrivals may miss the tour)
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Food and drinks: Guests are welcome to bring their own on board
Picnic options: Available for private tour bookings — please contact us for details. Must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Weather: The event goes ahead in poor weather; however, umbrellas and blankets will be provided on board.
Refunds: Tickets are non-refundable

Further details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.

Book Your Place on Folk on a Boat

Those searching for a truly unique experience in Cambridge this summer simply can’t miss out on Folk on a Boat. This event offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. By bringing together folk music and one of Cambridge’s most iconic traditions, this event creates a truly unforgettable evening.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of John Bramwell, a lover of live folk music, or simply searching for a memorable night on the River Cam, this intimate performance promises an extraordinary atmosphere.

Book your tickets here today — once tickets are gone, they’re gone.

March 7, 2026

If you’re looking for a truly romantic and unforgettable way to pop the question, a punting proposal with Let’s Go Punting offers the perfect setting. Glide along the River Cam surrounded by Cambridge’s most iconic sights, enjoy peaceful moments on the water, and choose a backdrop that makes your engagement story completely unique to you. To make it a truly special and seamless experience, we have created a simple guide for you below.

Choose The Perfect Date & Time

Before anything else, you’ll want to think about your ideal date and time. For a proposal, we strongly recommend booking a Private Tour for 2. This gives you exclusive use of the boat, meaning it’s just the two of you and your chauffeur. You’ll have privacy for the big moment and the flexibility to pause for photos and soak it all in.

For the most romantic atmosphere, we suggest either an early morning or evening tour. These quieter times ensure the river isn’t too busy, creating a relaxed and personal setting for your proposal.

Pick Your Proposal Spot

One of the most exciting parts of planning your punting proposal is choosing where to ask the question.

Some of the most popular and picturesque locations include:

Bridge of Sighs

King’s College Chapel

New Court, St John’s College

Mathematical Bridge

We recommend looking at Google Images from the river perspective to help you visualise the moment. Each location offers a slightly different atmosphere, whether it’s dramatic architecture, iconic Cambridge history, or a secluded romantic feel.

You’ll also want to decide whether to propose on the outward journey or on the way back. Some people love building anticipation before the big moment, while others prefer to ask early and enjoy the rest of the tour celebrating together.

Add Food, Drinks & Flowers

To make the experience even more special, you can enhance your tour with food and drinks add-ons. Find out more here. You’re also welcome to bring your own if you’d prefer something personal.

For an extra romantic touch, we offer a bouquet of red roses at an additional cost, or you can provide your own flowers. We can discreetly hide them in the boat ready for the proposal, or have them waiting for you at the end of your tour.

Capture The Moment

A proposal deserves to be remembered forever.

At no extra charge, your chauffeur will happily take photos and videos on your phone to capture the exact moment you ask the question.

If you’d prefer a professional photographer, you have two options:

Have them join you on your boat
Arrange for them to travel on a separate boat ahead of you, staying out of sight until the big moment

If booking a separate boat for a photographer, this would be charged as an additional Private Tour for 2, alongside your own booking.

Get In Touch And Secure Your Booking

Once you’ve thought through the details, the final step is to get in touch. We recommend either calling to discuss your proposal plans or emailing us with all the details. Some couples prefer to book their boat online first and then contact us, while others reach out beforehand so we can arrange everything and send over an invoice with a secure, clickable payment link.

When the moment arrives, all that’s left to do is take a deep breath, get down on one knee, and enjoy a “yes” you’ll remember forever.