Few days in Cambridge

[squashyhat]

Dh and I and 3 friends are meeting up in Cambridge for a few days in mid-April. We will probably go punting (gotta be done) and like historical sites (but not massive generic museums). Any suggestions welcome for what to see and good restaurants (we like most food styles) and bars, including a pub for lunch that is walkable along the river.

The Chop House was good the other week, and is right opposite the Corpus Clock which most tourists are interested in.

The Fitzwilliam Museum is lovely. Have a walk along the Backs. I really like Kettle's Yard and the Polar Museum. The Botanic Gardens are pretty and relaxing but a bit pricey. A walking tour might be worth it too if you are interested in history. It's generally a nice place to amble round, especially round the colleges.

There aren't really 'massive generic museums' in Cambridge.

I would:

Wander around some colleges (helps if one of you has an alumni card)

Go to the Fitzwilliam, the Polar and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. I have a soft spot for the Classics Museum which is also small.

If you can book the David Parr House I'd go there. Also Kettle's Yard.

In terms of food the classic walk down the river is to the Orchard Tea Room in Grantchester. If you must have a pub then the Blue Ball.

In Cambridge for eating the food stalls in the market at generally excellent and span the range of world foods. If you like Chinese food, Cambridge gets a lot of Chinese tourists so there are a lot of places catering for them, usually if the menu is in Chinese then they are busy.

Finally for eating out have a look down Mill Road where there are a lot of nice restaurants. Places like Fin Boys or the Oak Bistro will need booking.

Fitzbillies for a legendary Chelsea bun is a great shout. Bread and meat for a lovely lunch in town, and Jacks Gelato for a lovely ice cream to stroll around with.

The old bicycle shop is a good restaurant.

The orchard at grantchester is nice but best done in nice weather so you can sit outside.

A trip to Ely Cathedral one day, under half an hour by train.

Another vote for Kettle's Yard. Last time I went we had to book a time slot to visit the house (there's a gallery too).