Bethan Kapur

When you think of Cambridge, you probably think of the university (where a bunch of very famous and very clever people started out). But you’ll find when you visit that that culture and creativity exists all over the city, from its museums and galleries to its epic food scene. So, if you're looking for a quiet weekend break? This is the spot. Here are the best things to do in Cambridge right now.  How to spend the perfect day in Cambridge? Start your perfect day in Cambridge with a fluffy stack of pancakes at the Old Bicycle Shop. From there, wander up Regent Street and past the historic Downing College, turning left into the magisterial Fitzwilliam Museum, where you’ll want to spend a good few hours checking out their collections. Recharge at The Mill with a pint and pub lunch, before hopping on a punt down to Grantchester. Finish the day with a fancy meal at the city’s finest, Midsummer House or Restaurant Twenty-Two, then watch the sun go down over Mill Road with an after-dinner cocktail at Bar 196 RECOMMENDED: 🚆The best day trips from London 🍝 The best restaurants in Cambridge🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Cambridge🚣 A perfect day in Cambridge ✈️ The best weekend breaks from London Words and original photos by Miriam Balanescu, a writer based in Cambridge. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Once you’ve glided past the grand old colleges and taken in Cambridge’s charm – all honey-hued buildings, leafy walks and river views – you’ll likely be ready for a proper refuel. Punting might look leisurely, but it works up an appetite. Fortunately, Cambridge punches well above its weight when it comes to places to eat. Whether you’re craving handmade pasta, sizzling falafel or an elevated take on classic British fare, the city’s food scene offers variety, flair and plenty of flavour. And best of all Cambridge is the perfect place to go for a day trip from London, too. Here’s our guide to the very best restaurants in Cambridge.   RECOMMENDED: 🌤️The best things to do in Cambridge🚣How to spend a perfect day in Cambridge🏘️The best Airbnbs in Cambridge This guide was recently updated by Miriam Balanescu, a writer based in Cambridge. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.