The Travelling Wee

Introduction

Bathed in sunlight and steeped in history, Cambridge beckons families with its charming streets, historic colleges, and picturesque river. Whether you’re planning a day trip from London or a longer stay, this university city offers a delightful experience for all ages. Let’s dive into the best things to do with your little explorers!

Find the Dinky Doors

Embark on a whimsical adventure by discovering the Dinky Doors – miniature sculptures hidden throughout the city. These tiny portals to new worlds are tucked away in plain sight. Grab a trail map and seek out quirky gems like the Teleport-o-matic (only 3p to teleport 3 yards!) and the mini replica of 10 1/4 Downing Street. Keep an eye out for new doors popping up – each one holds surprises.

Follow a Treasure Trail

Explore Cambridge on foot with a treasure hunt trail. Choose from space-themed maps around the colleges or a central Cambridge route. Keep your eyes open for quirky signs, statues, and fun facts. You’ll get a mini history lesson while enjoying the city’s charm.

Visit a College

Cambridge boasts 31 colleges, each with its own story. While you can’t peek into all of them, join a free walking tour with Footprints Tours. Learn about the city’s history, traditions, and famous names.

Explore Museums

Cambridge is home to fantastic museums that cater to curious minds. Here are a few family-friendly options:

• The Fitzwilliam Museum: This exceptional art museum on Trumpington Street houses stunning ceramics, old masters, and intriguing exhibits. Don’t miss the lovely café and shop!
• Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology: Explore objects ranging from Stone Tools to Tribal Sculptures and Paintings. Kids will be fascinated by ancient artefacts and contemporary works.
• Museum of Cambridge: Dive into 300 years of Cambridgeshire history. Learn about everyday life, customs, and traditions of the local people.
• Whipple Museum of the History of Science: Marvel at scientific instruments used from the 16th century to the present. A must-visit for curious minds!
• Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences: Learn about the origins and history of life on Earth in this well-arranged museum.
• University Museum of Zoology: Explore fascinating exhibits on zoology in this well-laid-out museum. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Go Punting

No visit to Cambridge is complete without punting on the River Cam. Punting in Cambridge is a quintessential experience that allows you to explore the city’s historic charm from a unique perspective. Glide past the iconic colleges, bridges, and lush greenery. It’s a serene and quintessential Cambridge experience.

Several companies in Cambridge offer self-hire punts. You’ll get a flat-bottomed boat (a punt) and a pole. It’s a bit like steering a gondola! Remember, punting requires some skill – you’ll need to push the pole against the riverbed to move forward.

Cambridge University Walking and Punting Tour

Corpus Clock

The Corpus Clock, also known as the Grasshopper clock, is a remarkable sculptural timepiece located at street level on the outside of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College, University of Cambridge

Here are some intriguing details about it:

• Appearance: The clock features a rippling 24-carat gold-plated stainless steel disc, approximately 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) in diameter. Instead of traditional hands or numerals, it displays the time through individual slits illuminated by blue LEDs arranged in concentric rings for hours, minutes, and seconds.
• The Chronophage: Dominating the clock is a metal sculpture resembling an insectoid creature—akin to a grasshopper or locust. This creature, called the Chronophage (meaning “time eater” in Greek), moves its mouth as if devouring seconds. Its constant motion produces an eerie grinding sound, adding to its mystique.
• Hour Chime: The hour is tolled by the sound of a chain clanking into a small wooden coffin hidden within the clock.
• Inscription: Below the clock, an inscription from the Vulgate (1 John 2:17) reads: “mundus transit et concupiscentia eius” (“the world passeth away, and the lust thereof”).
• Accuracy: Interestingly, the Corpus Clock is entirely accurate only once every five minutes. The erratic motion reflects life’s irregularity, according to its creator, John C. Taylor.
• Symbolism: Conceived as public art, the Chronophage serves as a dramatic reminder of time’s inexorable passage. Taylor intentionally designed it to be “terrifying,” symbolizing how time consumes every minute of our lives/h

Conclusion

Cambridge, with its prestigious university setting, historical charm, and family-friendly attractions, is an ideal destination for travelers with children. The city offers engaging indoor and outdoor activities suitable for toddlers, younger children, tweens, and teens. From punting along the river to exploring ancient colleges and lush gardens, Cambridge provides a delightful experience for all ages. Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque streets or cycling around the old villages, this compact and pedestrian-friendly city promises memorable adventures for families. So pack your bags and embark on a Cambridge city break that will captivate both young and old alike!

Where to Stay in Cambridge

Cambridge, with its rich history and stunning architecture, offers a variety of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, charming B&Bs, or stylish apartments, there’s something for everyone. Here are some top places to stay in Cambridge:

• University Arms: A historic hotel in the heart of the city, perfect for exploring Cambridge.
• Gonville Hotel: Recently refurbished, this 4-star gem offers spacious rooms and a central location.
• Clayton Hotel Cambridge: Conveniently near the Botanic Gardens, ideal for city exploration.
• The Varsity Hotel and Spa: Luxury riverside spa hotel with stunning views.
• Hotel du Vin & Bistro: Boutique rooms, monsoon showers, and a Grade II Listed building.
• Hilton Cambridge City Centre: Modern 4-star hotel just 600 meters from the city centre.
• Holiday Inn Cambridge: Peaceful lakeside retreat, 2 miles from central Cambridge, with versatile meeting