If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Cambridge, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re into exploring the wonders of the natural world at the Museum of Zoology, delving into the literary treasures of a Cambridge University library, or gliding along the picturesque River Cam on a punting adventure, there’s something here for everyone.
And the best part? Admission to all of these fantastic attractions is absolutely free! So you can treat the whole family to a fun-filled day out without breaking the bank. Plus, with so much to see and do, you’re guaranteed to learn something new and exciting along the way.
Trinity College
Trinity College, right in the heart of Cambridge, is a place of timeless charm and intellectual heritage. If you walk up to Garett Hostel Bridge, you can find the gates open to Trinity College, to explore the incredible grounds overlooking the River Cam. The college has an incredibly rich history, spanning back to 1546 when it was founded by Henry VIII. You have options to explore the Wren Library, college gardens, incredible architecture and paintings. You can walk the halls of Trinity College, following in the footsteps of some very famous alumni! From physical scientist, Isaac Newton, to poets like George Herbert and Andrew Marvell and even the famous Byron, you’re in the same halls as some of history’s coolest brains! It’s like stepping back in time and hanging out with the OG intellectuals. Trinity College: where even the ghosts have bragging rights!
Trinity College Fellow’s Garden
If you’re planning a visit during springtime, you’re in for a treat at Trinity College Fellow’s garden. Spanning a vast 36 acres, these grounds are a sight to behold as vibrant blooms paint the landscape with colour. From iconic spots like Great Court and Newton’s lawn—home to the famous “Newton’s Apple tree”—to leisurely areas like the Fellows’ Bowling Green, there’s plenty to explore. And don’t miss the grandeur of the lime tree Avenue, lined with cherry trees and adorned with spring crocus, daffodils, and tulips. Trinity College in spring is a spectacle worth experiencing! You could even bring along a picnic and lounge on the lawn like a true Trinity College student.
Wren Library
No trip to Trinity College would be complete without a peek inside the famous Wren Library. Designed by the legendary Sir Christopher Wren, it is nestled within its historic walls. The grand building is filled with stained glass windows and incredible tall walls – but no windows on the ground floor, supposedly to stop daydreaming students staring out the windows and getting too distracted!
Inside, you’ll find all sorts of fascinating texts, like handwritten notes from Robert Oppenheimer about the “Trinity” atomic bomb test and Isaac Newton’s edited copy of the Principia Mathematica. And, of course, the manuscript of A.A. Milne’s beloved classic, Winnie the Pooh.
For bookworms and architecture buffs alike, the Wren Library is a must-see. It’s got Shakespeare’s old folios, Newton’s letters, and even original drawings of Pooh Bear himself. But make sure you plan your visit, as it is only open to the public during lunchtime hours.
Punting with Let’s Go Punting
Punting along the River Cam with Let’s Go Punting will offer you some relaxation and a chance to bask in the sun and soak up the rich history of Cambridge’s iconic colleges. One of our expert chauffeurs will transport you through 800 years of history, blending history, old tales and some amusing stories along the way. Glide along the river and witness the colleges in all their glory, illuminated by the sun. It’s an incredible photo opportunity to catch picture-postcard sights like Kings College Chapel!
But the fun doesn’t end there! Enhance your family’s experience with our exciting add-ons. Our upcoming Easter Punt and Hunt is perfect for a family outing, featuring scavenger hunts, word searches and puzzles. And for little nature enthusiasts, our Wildlife Activity Book promises endless entertainment, they can spy on river critters and solve puzzles while you kick back and relax. Get your detective hats on and crack the final code to win a sweet treat from Hardy’s Old Sweet Shop!
Of course, no family outing is complete without the perfect picnic. That’s why we offer a range of picnic packages to suit every taste. Indulge in our Afternoon Tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, or opt for our locally made Brunch Box or Deli Style Grazing Board.
Make your family day out in Cambridge truly unforgettable with a perfect blend of punting and picnicking.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
With a vast collection of 1 million pieces of art and artefacts to explore, the Fitzwilliam Museum has something for everyone! But that’s not all—the Fitzwilliam Museum goes above and beyond to cater to families. They’ve got tables set up where the kids can unleash their inner artists with colouring and drawing activities. And for the littlest museum-goers, there are sensory toys available to borrow as they wander through the exhibits. Plus, you can bring your buggy along with you—no need to leave it behind!
With the kids happily entertained, you’ll have the chance to explore the vast collections at your own pace. From the mighty Roman Empire to the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, not to mention captivating collections from China and Japan, there’s a wealth of knowledge and beauty waiting to be discovered.
After all that exploring, take a break in the gorgeous cafe with its huge, tall ceilings with abundant natural light. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge before diving back into your family day out. Or if you prefer, pack a picnic and enjoy it in the school’s lunchroom.
The Polar Museum
The Polar Museum is absolutely fascinating for those little explorers. If you’re just popping in for a casual visit, there’s plenty to see. Explore the free permanent exhibitions featuring Antarctic artefacts and interactive displays. For a bit more info, https://www.spri.cam.ac.uk/museum/consider picking up an audio guide for a small fee, there’s even a tailored version for kids.
But there’s more – throughout the year, the Polar Museum hosts hosts an array of events suitable for everyone. From immersive VR experiences to hands-on crafts sessions during school breaks, there’s always something going on. During half term, the museum opens its doors for activities like puzzles and games.
For families with older kids, don’t miss the chance to experience the thrill of sledging through the Antarctic in their VR events. They also host a ‘touch tour’ for the visually impaired to experience the artefacts.
Alongside their fascinating exhibits, the museum offers a range of engaging activities for all ages. Check out their website for how-to videos on crafting origami penguins, fabric whales, and paper krill—an ideal way to get creative as a family.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Nestled right on Downing Street in a stunning location, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology awaits your exploration. Step inside to discover a world brimming with incredible artefacts from all over the world.
From indigenous artworks to ancient relics, the museum boasts a vast collection spanning over 2 million years of human history. For nearly 140 years, this museum has been enjoyed by visitors with its rich displays of ancient artefacts.
The museum will take you on a journey through time, offering kids and adults alike a chance to delve into the past and unearth fascinating insights into different cultures. With every artefact comes a story waiting to be uncovered, making your visit a cool and eye-opening experience for all!
The Museum of Zoology
Step into the Museum of Zoology and be wowed by the spectacular 21-meter-long fin whale skeleton hanging right at the entrance – now that’s how you make an entrance! Don’t miss the new exhibition for 2024, “Grow a Backbone – Rise of the Vertebrates,” running until September. Explore thousands of specimens, each with its own story to tell and plenty to discover! These specimens aren’t just for show; they’re also used by scientists and researchers for important research. Some were even discovered by famous scholars like Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace.
As you wander through the museum, you’ll embark on a journey through the animal kingdom, encountering everything from spiders to penguins and massive mammals suspended in the lofty rooms with towering ceilings – it’s quite the sight to behold! And if you’ve worked up an appetite, why not grab a bite at the adjacent Whale Cafe?
