Cambridge, UK, is renowned for its prestigious university and historic charm, but beyond the traditional attractions lies a world of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. If you’re seeking unusual things to do in Cambridge UK, you’re in for a treat. From punting along the River Cam to exploring quirky museums and indulging in eccentric traditions, this city offers a plethora of offbeat activities that will make your visit truly memorable. So, step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the unexpected wonders that Cambridge has to offer.
Punting on the River Cam
Essential Information
– Address: The Backs, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Starting from £20 per hour
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, couples, and solo travelers
Why is it so unusual
Punting on the River Cam in Cambridge, UK, offers a unique experience that sets it apart from traditional boating activities. While punting itself is a common pastime in Cambridge, what makes the River Cam stand out are the quirky and unusual activities you can partake in during your punting adventure.
One of the most unusual aspects of punting on the River Cam is the opportunity to try your hand at “chauffeuring” your own punt. Unlike traditional punting tours where a guide navigates the waters, some companies offer self-punting options, allowing visitors to steer their own course along the river. This hands-on experience provides a sense of independence and adventure, making it a memorable and unique way to explore the scenic waterway.
For those seeking a bit of thrill, some punting tours offer the chance to engage in punting races with other visitors. Test your punting skills and speed as you race against fellow travelers, adding a competitive edge to your leisurely river cruise. It’s a fun and unexpected twist on the typical punting experience that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Additionally, some punting tours on the River Cam offer themed experiences, such as sunset punting with live music or punting picnics complete with gourmet food and drinks. These special offerings add a touch of luxury and exclusivity to your punting excursion, creating a truly unique and unforgettable outing.
Overall, punting on the River Cam is not just about leisurely gliding along the water; it’s about embracing the unexpected and trying new and exciting activities that go beyond the traditional boating experience. Whether you’re steering your own punt, racing against fellow travelers, or indulging in a themed punting adventure, the River Cam offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Visit the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Essential Information
– Address: Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3DZ, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
– Fee: Free entry
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, culture lovers
Why is it so unusual
When exploring Cambridge, one might not immediately think of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology as a must-visit attraction. However, this hidden gem offers a unique experience for visitors seeking something beyond the typical tourist spots.
One of the most unusual aspects of this museum is its collection of shrunken heads from South America. These intricately preserved artifacts provide a fascinating glimpse into the ancient traditions of indigenous tribes, showcasing the artistry and cultural significance of these macabre yet captivating objects.
Another standout feature is the interactive exhibit on ancient Egyptian mummification practices. Visitors can learn about the intricate process of preserving the dead and explore the rituals and beliefs surrounding death in ancient Egypt.
For those interested in more recent history, the museum also houses a collection of artifacts from World War II, including personal items and memorabilia that offer a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the conflict.
Overall, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge offers a truly unique blend of historical artifacts and cultural insights that set it apart from the typical museum experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the world’s diverse cultures, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Explore the Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
– Fee: £6 for adults, free for children under 16
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, botany enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a unique experience for visitors seeking something beyond the ordinary. While many botanical gardens focus solely on plant collections, this garden stands out for its diverse range of activities that cater to a wide audience.
One of the most unusual attractions at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is the opportunity to participate in guided botanical drawing sessions. Visitors can unleash their creativity and hone their artistic skills while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the garden. This hands-on experience allows guests to connect with nature in a meaningful and artistic way.
For those interested in a more interactive experience, the garden also offers seasonal foraging tours led by expert botanists. Participants can learn about the edible plants that grow within the garden and even sample some of the culinary delights created from these natural ingredients. This unique activity provides a fascinating insight into the relationship between plants and food.
In addition to these hands-on experiences, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden hosts regular workshops on topics such as plant propagation and conservation. These educational sessions offer visitors the chance to learn valuable skills and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of botanical research and preservation.
Overall, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its innovative approach to engaging visitors with the natural world. Whether you’re looking to unleash your creativity through botanical drawing, explore the culinary potential of plants, or deepen your knowledge of botany, this garden offers a truly unique and enriching experience.
Discover the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College
Essential Information
– Address: Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9ES, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
– Fee: Free to visit
– Visit Duration: 30 minutes
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers
Why is it so unusual
The Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College in Cambridge is a unique and intriguing structure that draws visitors from around the world. What sets this bridge apart is its distinctive design, which appears to be made entirely of straight timbers but is actually constructed using a series of tangential arcs. This optical illusion gives the bridge its name and makes it a fascinating example of mathematical precision in architecture.
Visitors to the Mathematical Bridge can marvel at the intricate craftsmanship that went into creating this seemingly impossible structure. While it may look fragile, the bridge has stood the test of time since its construction in 1749. Walking across the bridge offers a different perspective of the surrounding area, providing a peaceful and picturesque view of the River Cam.
One of the most unusual activities at the Mathematical Bridge is trying to solve the myth surrounding its construction. Legend has it that the bridge was designed by Sir Isaac Newton himself, although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. Nonetheless, the mystery adds to the allure of this iconic landmark.
For those interested in architecture and engineering, the Mathematical Bridge offers a hands-on lesson in the principles of physics and mathematics. Observing the precise angles and curves of the bridge’s design can be a thought-provoking experience, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the ingenuity of its creators.
In conclusion, the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of history, architecture, and mathematical marvels. Its unusual design and rich backstory make it a standout attraction in Cambridge, inviting visitors to explore the intersection of art and science in a truly unique way.
Take a ghost tour of Cambridge
Essential Information
– Address: Various meeting points in Cambridge city center
– Opening hours: Tours usually start in the evening
– Fee: Around £15 per person
– Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and thrill-seekers
Why is it so unusual
When exploring the historic city of Cambridge, one might not expect to encounter tales of the supernatural. However, embarking on a ghost tour of Cambridge unveils a different side of this renowned academic hub. As darkness falls, participants are led through dimly lit alleyways and ancient courtyards, listening to chilling stories of the city’s haunted past.
What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to visit lesser-known sites that are steeped in eerie legends. From the ghostly apparitions said to roam the halls of colleges to the mysterious occurrences at the old cemeteries, each stop on the tour offers a glimpse into the spectral history of Cambridge.
Guides, well-versed in local lore, share spine-tingling accounts of paranormal encounters and unexplained phenomena that have puzzled residents for generations. As participants navigate the cobblestone streets, they can almost sense the lingering presence of the restless spirits that are said to inhabit these ancient buildings.
For those seeking a departure from the typical tourist attractions, a ghost tour of Cambridge provides a unique and unforgettable way to delve into the city’s darker side. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the stories shared on this tour are sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the haunted history that lies beneath the surface of this picturesque town.
Visit the Whipple Museum of the History of Science
Essential Information
– Address: Free School Lane, Cambridge CB2 3RH, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm
– Fee: Free admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, science lovers
Why is it so unusual
When exploring the vibrant city of Cambridge, one might not expect to stumble upon a hidden gem like the Whipple Museum of the History of Science. This unique attraction offers visitors a fascinating journey through the evolution of scientific thought and discovery.
What sets the Whipple Museum apart is its collection of unusual artifacts that showcase the intersection of science, history, and culture. From ancient astrolabes and anatomical models to early scientific instruments and rare books, each exhibit tells a story of human curiosity and ingenuity.
One of the most unusual aspects of the museum is its display of quirky scientific inventions from different time periods. Visitors can marvel at peculiar contraptions like Victorian electrotherapy machines, early microscopes with intricate designs, and peculiar anatomical wax models that offer a glimpse into the scientific practices of the past.
For those with a penchant for the peculiar, the Whipple Museum also houses a collection of unusual scientific curiosities, including bizarre medical instruments, peculiar measuring devices, and oddities from the history of alchemy. These artifacts provide a unique insight into the unconventional side of scientific exploration.
In addition to its eclectic exhibits, the museum offers interactive experiences that allow visitors to engage with the history of science in a hands-on way. From interactive demonstrations of historical experiments to guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, the Whipple Museum provides a truly immersive and educational experience for all ages.
So, if you’re looking for a truly unusual and enriching experience in Cambridge, be sure to visit the Whipple Museum of the History of Science. It’s a hidden treasure trove of scientific oddities and historical wonders that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the quirky side of scientific discovery.
Explore the Wren Library at Trinity College
Essential Information
– Address: Trinity College, Cambridge CB2 1TQ, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
– Fee: £10 for adults, £8 for students
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, book lovers
Why is it so unusual
The Wren Library at Trinity College in Cambridge is not your typical tourist attraction. While many visitors flock to famous landmarks and bustling markets, this hidden gem offers a unique experience for those seeking a glimpse into the past. What sets the Wren Library apart is its collection of rare books and manuscripts, some dating back centuries.
As you step inside, you are greeted by the sight of towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes, each one holding a piece of history within its pages. The library’s architecture, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, adds to its allure, with its elegant wooden panels and intricate ceiling details.
One of the most unusual activities you can partake in at the Wren Library is the opportunity to view original works by renowned figures such as Isaac Newton and Lord Byron. Imagine holding in your hands a manuscript penned by one of history’s greatest minds, feeling the weight of their words as you turn each delicate page.
For those with a keen interest in the history of science and literature, the Wren Library offers a rare chance to delve into the minds of the past. Whether you’re studying the evolution of mathematical theories or simply marveling at the beauty of calligraphy, this library provides a window into a world long gone but not forgotten.
So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and delve into a realm of intellectual curiosity, make sure to add the Wren Library at Trinity College to your list of must-visit destinations in Cambridge.
