Things to do in
River Cam

River Cam: Our most recommended tours and activities

Cambridge: Discover the University Punting on the River Cam

1. Cambridge: Discover the University Punting on the River Cam

Discover Cambridge University on a guided punting tour along the River Cam. Hear more about student life as you see some of the historic colleges of one of the world's most reputable universities. This punting tour covers the entire length of the River Cam, along which the colleges of Cambridge University are located. Soak up more than 800 years of history as you take in the historic sights. Relax in comfortable seats that feature traditional cushions and blankets. Enjoy interesting historic commentary from your punter, along with some amusing Cambridge punting stories. The 7 colleges featured on the tour boast some of the most illustrious and influential alumni to have graduated from Cambridge. Hear tales of student life, academic and social, from Isaac Newton to Prince Charles.

Cambridge: Alumni Led Walking & Punting Tour w/Kings College

2. Cambridge: Alumni Led Walking & Punting Tour w/Kings College

Embark on a guided walking tour led by a graduate or a student and explore the rich history of Cambridge University. Led by knowledgeable guides, discover where famous alumni, including King Charles III, Sir Isaac Newton, and Stephen Hawking, once studied. Enjoy an additional visit to the renowned King's College Chapel, stroll through the green spaces along the River Cam, and, when available, wander through the gardens of Trinity College. Listen to anecdotes and learn about the discovery of DNA while marvelling at the historic architecture spanning over 800 years. Opt for the King's College ticket option to ensure entry into the chapel, boasting the highest vaulted ceiling of any chapel in the world. Explore famous landmarks such as St. Catherine’s College, Corpus Christi College, Queen's College, Clare College, Trinity Hall College, Trinity College, St. John's College, Gonville and Caius College, Great St. Mary’s Church, The Eagle Pub, and Senate House, and immerse yourself in the captivating stories that punctuate every corner of the city. Your punting tour begins 30 minutes after the conclusion of your walking tour if you do not purchase the King's College option, and 90 minutes later if you do. Sit back and relax on your chauffeured punting cruise as your local guide shares stories about the eight colleges and nine bridges along the River Cam. Feel free to bring refreshments on board and enjoy a complimentary punting lesson during your tour.

Cambridge: Chauffeured Punting Tour

3. Cambridge: Chauffeured Punting Tour

Upon arrival at the supplier's check in at the La Mimosa Landing Stage (CB5 8AQ), you will be greeted and booked on to the next available departing tour unless you have pre booked your departure time with the office. Tours depart regularly throughout the day and hold up to 12 passengers. The tour lasts for 45-50 minutes and you will travel along the River Cam in Cambridge. During the trip you will pass by 7 riverside colleges: Kings, Queens, St Johns, Trinity, Trinity Hall, and Clare. Sights along the way include Kings College Chapel, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Wren Library. During the tour, your chauffuer will provide an interesting and informative historical commentary and answer any questions you may have.

Cambridge: Guided Shared River Punting Tour

4. Cambridge: Guided Shared River Punting Tour

Embark on a guided punting tour along the River Cam. Experience the famous Cambridge University from the water and pass notable colleges, including King’s College Chapel and the Wren Library. Enjoy an introduction to Cambridge’s long and eventful history on a river punting tour. Discover how the city has evolved from a medieval market town to a world-class center for education from your guide. Cruise past 8 colleges and 9 bridges whilst enjoying spectacular views from the River Cam. Sit back and relax as your guide propels the punt along the river and shares their passion for history with you. From the Gothic splendor of King’s College Chapel to the classical elegance of the Wren Library, glide past all major college buildings. Float by the oldest riverside college of Clare College. See the wooden Mathematical Bridge and hear of famous Queens' College alumnae. Pass under the beautiful Bridge of Sighs at St John's College.

Cambridge: Self-Guided Colleges Walking Tour and Sightseeing

5. Cambridge: Self-Guided Colleges Walking Tour and Sightseeing

Uncover the secrets of Cambridge's historic center, including the heart of the University of Cambridge, along with less obvious gems with this smartphone walking tour. Listen to the experiences of a local student at the University of Cambridge and enjoy access to offline audio, maps, and geodata.  Dive into Cambridge, the second oldest university in England. See how it showcases almost a thousand years of architectural highlights. Unpack highlights like the Round Church, which dates back to 1130, and the the Wren Library which was completed in 1695. Find out about modern sights too like the Corpus Clock which was installed in 2008. Have the option to pause and resume your tour at anytime which will allow you to snap some photos of the quaint cobblestone streets and winding alleyways. Walk at your own pace over the 2-kilometer track over flat terrain. Finish your tour in the city center on the King’s Parade. Have the option to choose to take the tour at home with a virtual option and take the tour multiple time with unlimited access to the tour.

Cambridge: 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour

6. Cambridge: 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour

Your tour starts in the city center where you'll be given a brief timeline of all the interesting and peculiar things and events that make Cambridge University famous. Moving forward, cover Cambridge’s key sights such as its oldest church, and best-known laboratory, which hosted world-renowned scientists. You will taken to the best photo spots to capture landmarks including King’s College Chapel, the Mathematical Bridge, and Trinity College. Hear from your student guide as they highlight the local color and share little-known secrets such as what Henry VIII is holding above the gate of Trinity College and what special privileges the fellows of St. John’s share with the Royal Family. For a truly tailored experience, customize your tour to your preferences. From specific start and end times to special topics of interest. This tour can provide a closer focus on the University’s academic history, scientific achievements, or on outstanding women at Cambridge.

Cambridge: Private Chauffeured Punting Tour

7. Cambridge: Private Chauffeured Punting Tour

Experience the best of what Cambridge has to offer on your very own Private Chauffeured Punt Tour and explore the beautiful College Backs with your private guide at the helm delivering a historical tour as you are punted effortlessly along the River Cam. Taking a Private Tour allows you to see all of the delights of the College Backs through a personalized experience. Your private chauffeur will have a passion for the history of Cambridge and its university, regaling you with facts and anecdotes about everything you see along the way. From the Gothic heights of King’s College Chapel to the Bridge of Sighs, your chauffeur will ensure that you do not miss a thing. This tour will take you on a return journey that will last approximately 50 minutes, so sit back and enjoy everything Cambridge has to offer for this famous past-time. It's a must do activity in Cambridge, so join us on board and get the local insight about the city and its famous University all whilst viewing the iconic sights that are only accessible by boat.

Explore Cambridge with Family – Walking Tour

8. Explore Cambridge with Family – Walking Tour

Together with your family, enjoy an insightful 2-hour walking tour and explore Cambridge. Learn about the city’s wealthy history, tradition and culture while witnessing inspiring nature sites. Start the tour from the iconic Cambridge University Botanic Garden and bond with nature and history at the same time. Indulge in sightseeing and recreation as you enjoy magnificent scenic views of the River Cam. Pass by the historic Fitzwilliam Museum and learn about its wealthy heritage. Hear intriguing facts regarding the worldwide trademark University of Cambridge and witness the historic Round Church from the 12th century. Feel like a local while strolling the vibrant Cambridge Market and end the tour near the University Museum of Zoology.

Cambridge Student-Guided Chinese Walking and English Punting

9. Cambridge Student-Guided Chinese Walking and English Punting

This unique experience perfectly blends history, culture, and leisure. The walking tour lasts 90 minutes, led by a knowledgeable student or local guide in Chinese, providing a comprehensive introduction to Cambridge’s rich heritage, architecture, and cultural significance. The tour covers some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including colleges, chapels, and bridges, while delving into the stories and legends that make Cambridge an extraordinary place. After the walking tour, the experience continues with a relaxing 50-minute punting tour along the tranquil River Cam in English. Punting tours provide a unique perspective of the city and its famous architecture, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre. Guests can sit back, relax, and soak up the beauty of Cambridge’s timeless landscapes and rich heritage, as their knowledgeable guide shares stories and provides insight into the city’s history and culture. The combination of a walking tour and a punting tour provides a comprehensive experience of Cambridge.

Experience ROWING like 'The Boys in the Boat' in Cambridge!

10. Experience ROWING like 'The Boys in the Boat' in Cambridge!

Here's an example itinerary of a typical experience day with us; 10:00 – 10:30 = Introduction and a group erg session to learn the technique in our high spec gym 10:30 – 10:40 = Tour of boat bay and talk on the fleet 10:40 – 11:40 = Take 1x boat out (with training blades), place on the bank and apply technique (in pairs) on water 11:40 – 11:50 = Short bathroom break and then start getting people into the boats 11:50 – 12:40 = Pictures and then push off to go rowing for one hour outside the boathouses. 12:40 – 13:00 = Wash boats and put away. There will be plenty of picture momenbts throughout the experience for you to show your very 'Cambridge' experience!

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Other Sightseeing Options in River Cam

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What people are saying about River Cam

Overall rating

4.7
(1,220 reviews)

Ari was very friendly and tried his best to answer our questions. We felt that we had gotten an insider’s scoop on the life of a student in Cambridge. Only wished the tour lasted longer. Thank you very much Ari and best of luck to your studies!

It was an amazing experience and highly recommend booking punting with Nick ❤️

Our guide was very kind and knowledgeable. We enjoyed the beautiful views.

It was thrilling experience and natural scenery all around.

Great short term activity to embrace the atmosphere