Cambridge Central Mosque, Cambridge Travel Guide

The mosque was designed by Marks Barfield Architects with input from Islamic geometry specialists. A glulam timber frame rises from the floor in branching columns that support an octagonal lattice vault, creating the impression of a forest canopy. Skylights and glazed oculi bring natural light into the 1,000-capacity prayer hall. The exterior combines Gault brick with green roofs.

A rectangular one-acre site opens with an Islamic garden containing an octagonal fountain, crab-apple trees, yew hedges and oak benches. Seasonal planting mixes native and Islamic species chosen for biodiversity. The garden remains open to the public and provides the main point of arrival and orientation.

Most visitors spend 45 to 90 minutes exploring the garden, atrium and prayer hall. Guided tours last about one hour and cover architecture, eco-features and Islamic concepts. Self-guided time is also common. Modest dress covering arms and legs is requested; shoes are removed at the entrance and women cover their heads inside the prayer hall. Photography is allowed except during prayer.

Planning began in 2007 after the previous mosque on Mawson Road became overcrowded. The Cambridge Mosque Project purchased the site in 2009. Construction ran from 2016 to March 2019 at a cost of £23 million, funded mainly by donations. The building opened on 24 April 2019 and serves daily prayers, Friday gatherings, education, weddings and community events.

The mosque incorporates photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pumps, rainwater and grey-water systems, natural ventilation and sustainable spruce timber. These measures give the building a near-zero carbon footprint. Underground parking and strong encouragement of walking, cycling and bus use reduce vehicle impact on the surrounding residential street.