Garret Hostel Bridge, Cambridge
A sleek, historic footbridge in Cambridge offering stunning river views and a quirky local nickname.
Garret Hostel Bridge is a striking foot and cycle bridge over the River Cam in Cambridge, England. Dating back to the 15th century with multiple rebuilds, the current elegant concrete structure was designed in the 1960s by Timothy Guy Morgan. It connects the city centre to The Backs and offers panoramic views of several historic Cambridge University colleges. Known locally as 'Orgasm Bridge' for its steepness, it blends modern engineering with rich history in a scenic riverside setting.
A brief summary to Garret Hostel Bridge
- Garret Hostel Ln, Cambridge, CB2 1TJ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Cambridge University colleges.
- Be cautious of cyclists, especially during peak times, as the bridge is a busy thoroughfare.
- Explore The Backs nearby for scenic riverside walks and historic college gardens.
- Learn about the bridge’s unique engineering by observing its post-tensioned concrete design up close.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 1 or 3 to the city centre stop near Trinity Street, then walk approximately 10 minutes along Garret Hostel Lane to the bridge. The bus journey from Cambridge Rail Station takes about 15-20 minutes. Single tickets cost around £2.50.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to reach Garret Hostel Bridge, especially from central Cambridge or nearby colleges. The bridge is part of a well-used cycling route but be cautious of pedestrian traffic. Bike rental options are available in the city centre.
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Walking
From Cambridge city centre, a 10-15 minute walk along scenic streets and Garret Hostel Lane brings you to the bridge. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
Garret Hostel Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Garret Hostel Bridge
Historic Legacy Along the River Cam
Garret Hostel Bridge stands on a site with a long history of river crossings dating back to the 15th century, originally linked to the medieval Garret Hostel lodging nearby. Over centuries, the bridge has been rebuilt approximately six times, reflecting Cambridge's evolving architectural and engineering styles. The current bridge replaced a cast-iron arch from 1837, itself a successor to earlier timber and stone structures. This lineage highlights the bridge’s role as a vital connection between the city centre and the iconic college grounds known as The Backs.A Modernist Engineering Marvel
Completed in 1960, the present Garret Hostel Bridge was designed by Timothy Guy Morgan, then an undergraduate at Cambridge's School of Architecture. Tragically, Morgan passed away before its completion, but his innovative design endures as one of the United Kingdom’s first post-tensioned concrete bridges. The bridge’s construction features pre-stressed steel cables encased in concrete, lending it a sleek, modern aesthetic that contrasts with the nearby historic stone bridges. Its bush-hammered concrete surface and bronze handrails add tactile and visual appeal, making it a celebrated example of mid-20th-century engineering.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Garret Hostel Bridge is Grade II listed, a rare honor for a modern structure, underscoring its architectural importance. It serves as a pedestrian and cyclist artery, linking Garret Hostel Lane with the scenic tree-lined pathways along The Backs. The bridge offers sweeping panoramic views of Cambridge University landmarks including King’s College, Trinity College, Trinity Hall, and St. John’s College, making it a favored spot for photography and sightseeing.The Local Charm and Nickname
Beyond its structural qualities, the bridge is affectionately known as 'Orgasm Bridge' by Cambridge students and locals. This nickname arises from the sounds cyclists make when ascending its steep incline, a quirky cultural anecdote that adds character to the bridge’s identity. The lively flow of cyclists and pedestrians crossing daily reflects the bridge’s role as both a practical thoroughfare and a social landmark.Setting Within Cambridge’s River Landscape
Situated between Clare College Bridge and Trinity Bridge, Garret Hostel Bridge forms part of a trio of public bridges connecting the city centre to The Backs. Its location provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the harmonious blend of Cambridge’s historic and modern elements along the River Cam. The surrounding environment is tranquil yet vibrant, with the gentle river flow and lush greenery enhancing the visitor experience.Preservation and Continuing Legacy
The bridge’s listing as a protected structure ensures its maintenance and preservation for future generations. It stands as a testament to innovative design and the enduring importance of Cambridge’s river crossings. As a functional piece of infrastructure and an architectural landmark, Garret Hostel Bridge continues to inspire admiration and plays a central role in the daily life and heritage of Cambridge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Clare College
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Wren Library
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The Backs
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King's College Chapel
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Trinity College
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Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
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King's College, Cambridge
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Map of Cambridge
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Cambridge Alumni Tours
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King's College Visitor Centre
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Essential places to dine
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Market House
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Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
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Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
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Pint Shop
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Byron
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Gastrono-me
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Galleria restaurant cambridge
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Côte Cambridge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Parade
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Jacks on Trinity
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
