When planning conferences in Cambridge, I often get asked by conference delegates what to do if they are staying for a few days after their conference. Most delegates have either travelled from overseas or from a far-flung corner of the UK and this is their first experience of Cambridge.

Here are my top tips of things to see and do in Cambridge:

1. Visit the Botanical Gardens in Cambridge – The gardens are based in the town centre and with over 40 acres of space to explore there really is something to see whatever the season. During the colder months, visitors can visit the glasshouses filled with exotic plants and sample some of the yummy cakes in The Garden Café. In the summer, pack a picnic, picnic blanket and after exploring the stunning rose garden, set yourself up for a lazy afternoon by the lake. Recently added is The Rising Path which allows a fresh perspective of the garden. Visit https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/ for more information.
2. Go on a chauffeured punt – This is one Cambridge experience not to be missed. There are a variety of tour companies to choose from such as Scudamores, Cambridge Punt Company and Rutherford’s Punting. A chauffeured punt with a guide usually a Cambridge University student lets you see the colleges from the best viewpoint. Buy a bottle of Prosecco to enjoy as you enjoy your punt and in the summer you can pick up a hamper from Fitzbillies that offer a range of picnics from the full traditional wicker hamper to a cream tea.
3. Visit the tea rooms in Grantchester – you can walk along the river from Newnham to Grantchester and see the swans and birdlife as you walk along. Walk in wellies in the winter and autumn months and stop for a cream tea at the Grantchester tea rooms. You can walk back to Cambridge through Trumpington and then get a bus back to the city centre.
4. Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum for a cultural fix. There is a current exhibition on Whistler’s work and a display of Isaac Oliver miniatures. The museum is free to visit and asks for a voluntary donation. There is a super shop and café too.
5. Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a pub like the Anchor by the river or the Eagle where Francis Crick and James Watson announced they had discovered the structure of DNA in 1953. You can sample traditional English cuisine.
6. Go on a walking tour with a blue badge guide which you can hear all about Cambridge’s history. Tours start from two hours onwards.
   If you need any help with planning your itineraries, then contact Samantha on [email protected] who will be happy to assist.

Samantha Salisbury

Samantha Salisbury has been working in events management for over 20 years. Her event management career started at the old Wembley stadium. She has since managed events all over the world covering sectors including sport, academia, pharmaceuticals, banking and public sector.

Email: [email protected]