Ultimate Family Day Out in Cambridge: Top Activities for Kids & Parents Alike

Planning a family day out in Cambridge this summer? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re local or visiting for the day, Cambridge is packed with activities for all ages. From peaceful punting and playful parks, to exciting escape rooms and ice cream that will leave the whole family wanting more.

In this guide, we’ve gathered some of the best family-friendly things to do in Cambridge, including new additions and timeless favourites. So grab your picnic basket, your walking shoes (and maybe your sunhat!) — here’s how to make the most of your family day out in this beautiful city.

Start with a Classic: Family Punting on the River Cam

No visit to Cambridge is complete without a punt on the River Cam. It’s a fantastic experience suitable for all ages. At Let’s Go Punting, we offer a range of family tickets for up to six people, making it a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy the city from the water.

You’ll glide past iconic sights like King’s College Chapel, the Bridge of Sighs, and St John’s College Backs, all while enjoying the gentle rhythm of the river.

To make it extra fun, we offer:

• A Nature Activity Booklet for children

• A Scavenger Hunt with river-themed clues
• Picnic punting options — bring your own food, or if you’ve booked a private tour, order something special from our picnic add-ons menu.

Babies, toddlers, and dogs are welcome too! Our chauffeurs are friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to answer any questions along the journey. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for creating lasting family memories.

Book your Family Punting Tour here!

Outdoor Adventures & Green Spaces

Cambridge is full of beautiful open spaces where kids can run, play, and explore. Here are some great spots for active families:

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a hidden gem. With over 8,000 plant species, glasshouses, and winding paths, it’s a lovely place for little explorers. Keep an eye out for seasonal family-friendly events and discovery trails.

Cool off at one of the UK’s longest outdoor pools. The 1920s-inspired Jesus Green Lido is perfect on warm summer days, with space to swim or relax on the grass while the kids splash about.

Short on time? Head up Castle Hill for panoramic views over the city. It’s a fun little climb and completely free, as well as the perfect spot for a family picnic!

For a perfect kick-about on the grounds where the modern rules for football were invented, have a stroll around Parker’s Piece. This vast open space is located right in the heart of Cambridge and is host to a range of seasonal events throughout the year.

Treat Time: Best Ice Cream in Cambridge

No family day out in Cambridge is complete without an indulgent ice cream stop, and the city is home to some irresistible favourites. For adventurous taste buds, Jack’s Gelato serves small-batch creations in an ever-changing array of imaginative flavours. All scoops are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, with plenty of vegan and sorbet options to keep everyone happy. If you’re craving something more exotic, Aromi offers a slice of Sicily with its rich, velvety gelato in flavours the kids will adore. Alongside this, they provide hearty Sicilian pizzas and golden, crispy arancini for a more filling treat. And of course, no summer stroll is complete without the cheerful sight of ice cream vans dotted across the city. In particular, Parker’s Piece and Jesus Green offer a sweet, cooling reward after a long walk or a lazy afternoon by the river.

Rainy Day? Try These Indoor Activities

Even if the weather turns, there’s still loads to do indoors in Cambridge:

The Tivoli riverside venue is full of surprises — think mini golf, shuffleboard, and delicious sharing pizzas. Great for older kids and teens, but younger ones will enjoy it too. Alternatively, team up and solve puzzles together in the LockHouse themed escape rooms. It’s great for tweens and teens, additionally, it’s a fun way to build teamwork.

Museums & Galleries

Planning a family day out in Cambridge when the weather is gloomy is never a difficult task. The city’s museums offer the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Start with the Fitzwilliam Museum, a stunning historical building packed with art, ancient artefacts, and medieval armour. It’s a great way to introduce children to Cambridge’s rich cultural heritage in a visually engaging setting.

Next, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts. With its incredible collection of fossils, dinosaur bones, and prehistoric displays, it’s ideal for sparking young imaginations and encouraging a love of natural history.

If you’re after a more peaceful, artistic atmosphere, Kettle’s Yard is a hidden gem. This beautifully preserved home-turned-gallery features modern art in a relaxed and homely setting. Children can enjoy free art trails, while parents appreciate the calm, creative space.

Best of all, all of these museums are free to enter, making them perfect for budget-friendly family outings in Cambridge. Whether your children are budding scientists, curious historians, or aspiring artists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Simple, Cost-Effective Fun

Family days out in Cambridge don’t have to come with a big price tag. The city is full of simple pleasures that are both memorable and budget-friendly. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or just looking for an easy afternoon adventure, here are some fantastic low-cost activities the whole family will enjoy:

• Feed the ducks by the River Cam. Head to spots like Jesus Green or Mill Pond, where little ones can watch the ducks and boats drift by. It’s a relaxing way to slow down and enjoy the city’s riverside charm.
• Have a picnic in one of Cambridge’s green spaces. Pack a blanket and some sandwiches and settle into scenic spots like Parker’s Piece, Jesus Green, or the Botanic Garden (free for under-16s with a paying adult). It’s a great way to enjoy nature without spending a fortune.
• Take a riverside walk. Stroll along the River Cam, where you’ll spot college boathouses, rowers in training, and graceful swans gliding by. It’s perfect for a slow-paced, screen-free afternoon.
• Climb Castle Mound. Give your kids a sense of adventure as they climb the ancient Castle Mound, once the site of a Norman fort. The short hike rewards you with panoramic views over the city, and plenty of opportunities for imagination-fuelled play.

From riverside moments to panoramic views, these simple activities prove that family days out in Cambridge can be just as magical without a hefty price tag.

Tips for Planning Your Family Day in Cambridge

To make the most of your family days out in Cambridge, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help your day run smoothly and stress-free:

• Book punting tours in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays. Punting is one of Cambridge’s most iconic activities, and slots can fill up quickly in peak season.
• Pack essentials for the weather — bring sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles, particularly if you’ll be walking, punting, or exploring outdoor spaces. There’s plenty of sunshine in the warmer months, but shade can be limited.
• Check the museum and venue opening times before your visit. While many attractions are free, hours can vary, especially during school holidays or special events.
• Cambridge is very walkable and buggy-friendly, making it ideal for families with young children. Many of the main sights are within a short stroll of each other.
• Use Park & Ride services if you’re driving into the city. Parking in central Cambridge is limited and expensive, but Park & Ride offers a simple and affordable alternative.

With just a bit of planning, your family day out in Cambridge can be full of fun, relaxation, and memory-making — all with minimal hassle.

Final Thought: A Day to Remember

Cambridge is a magical place for a family day out. It’s full of charm, culture, and kid-friendly fun. Whether you’re punting on the River Cam, playing in the park, or exploring dinosaurs and ice cream shops, there’s something here for everyone.

We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect day — and if you’re starting (or ending) with a punt, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Book Your Family Punting Experience Today