A day out in Cambridge city centre 

by Abbie Bacon

Historic and scenic, the heart of Cambridge possesses a vibrant, excitable atmosphere. Known for its universities, its punting culture and historic architecture, it feels like something big is always happening, or has happened, everywhere you walk. Here are a few places we suggest during your visit.

Let’s start grand. The Grand Arcade, formerly known as the Lion Yard, is a large shopping centre located in the heart of Cambridge on St Andrew’s Street. 

It features three elegant storeys worth of shops with big brands like Oliver Bonas, John Lewis, Hotel Chocolat and many more. There are multiple places to get food and drink within the centre and, more recently, there has been the introduction of the Everyman Theatre, which offers a rather bougie bar and a cinema showcasing all the latest films. 

The Grand Arcade is incredibly popular amongst local people and tourists alike, regarded as a go-to spot due to its versatile amount of brands and food available there.

But perhaps you’re looking for something a little more community-based? Just a walk away is the Cambridge Market Square. Where the shopping centre offers fashionable brands, this bustling market provides a space for more local and independent businesses to thrive seven days a week. The market offers fresh, international street food, vintage clothing, home-grown fruit and loose tea as well as a stall dedicated to old books. Often, there will be music to accommodate your walk through the market, as buskers and performers tend to play during the weekends.

On your way out of the market square, on the exterior of Corpus Christi College, is the popular attraction, the Chronophage. The word chronophage is Latin for ‘time eater’. It was designed by Dr. John C. Taylor to represent the consumption of time. Unveiled in 2009, the piece functions both as an odd eye-catcher and a clock, depicting a mechanical grotesque creature running atop a stainless steel, gold-plated art piece. 

Whilst there are many cafes within Cambridge, the Michealhouse Cafe stands out all on its own. Set within a medieval church, St Michael’s Church, is a laid-back space for all things coffee. The present structure of the building dates back to the early 14th Century, estimated to have been rebuilt between 1324-1320! 

Inside, the hot drinks and food are served by welcoming staff. There’s a spiral staircase leading to an open balcony, perfect for admiring the stained-glass windows or doing some quiet work. The highlight of this place is definitely the atmosphere. The people here were very talkative and friendly and, despite the beautiful nature of the interior, it is quiet enough to not feel stifling.

The Old Bicycle Shop is reported to be the oldest bike shop in England! Formerly known as Howes Cycles, it operated for 173 years before shutting in December of 2013. The shop has now been converted into a pub, providing people with a chance to  eat their breakfast or lunch within a coppery, vintage atmosphere. 

Their English Breakfast, although a little pricey, is filling and rich with flavour. The vibe here is quiet, relaxed and quirky, but due to its popularity it’s best to book a space just to be safe!