Lets Go Punting Cambridge: Iconic River Tours with Expert Guides
Discover Cambridge’s historic charm on a serene, expertly guided punting tour along the iconic River Cam.
Lets Go Punting offers classic chauffeured punting tours along Cambridge’s River Cam, providing a unique perspective on the city’s historic colleges and bridges. Operating daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm, this highly rated boat tour agency combines scenic views with engaging commentary, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Tours last around 45 to 60 minutes, with options for shared or private punts, ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.
A brief summary to Lets Go Punting Cambridge
- Landing Stage, Thompsons Ln, Cambridge, CB5 8AG, GB
- +441223651659
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour online in advance to secure the best prices and preferred time slots, especially for weekends and peak seasons.
- Morning and evening tours tend to be quieter and more peaceful, ideal for photography and a relaxed experience.
- Bring a light jacket or blanket provided by the company, as the river breeze can be cool even in warmer months.
- Consider a private punt tour for a more intimate and personalized experience, perfect for special occasions or family groups.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a gentle boat ride; the punt guides handle navigation so you can relax and enjoy the views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Citi 1 or Citi 3 bus from Cambridge city center to Thompson’s Lane, approximately a 15-20 minute ride. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend service. A single fare costs around £2.50.
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Train
From Cambridge Railway Station, a taxi ride to the landing stage at Thompsons Lane takes about 10 minutes, costing approximately £6-£10. Alternatively, a 30-minute walk along the River Cam offers scenic views en route.
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Walking
From Cambridge city center, a pleasant 20-25 minute walk along the river or through the historic streets leads to the landing stage. The terrain is flat and suitable for most mobility levels.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lets Go Punting Cambridge
Immersive River Experience Through Cambridge’s Historic Heart
Lets Go Punting invites you to glide gently along the River Cam, the lifeblood of Cambridge’s storied university town. From the vantage point of a traditional flat-bottomed punt, you’ll pass under picturesque bridges and alongside some of the city’s most famous colleges. This serene waterway tour reveals architectural gems and verdant riverbanks, offering a tranquil escape within the bustling city.Expert Guides Bring Cambridge’s Stories to Life
Each tour is led by knowledgeable punters who share captivating tales about Cambridge’s illustrious alumni, historic buildings, and local lore. Their engaging commentary blends history with humor, enriching the sightseeing experience. Whether on a shared or private punt, guides tailor their narratives to the group’s interests, ensuring an informative and entertaining journey.Flexible Tour Options for Every Visitor
Lets Go Punting provides a variety of booking choices, including shared tours starting at approximately £15 per person and private tours for groups up to 12, with prices from around £79 for two people. Tours typically last 45 to 60 minutes, with morning and evening slots offering quieter, more peaceful experiences. Blankets and umbrellas are available to enhance comfort in cooler or rainy weather.A Welcoming Atmosphere and Strong Customer Focus
The company prides itself on excellent customer service, with friendly staff ensuring a smooth, enjoyable outing. The landing stage at Thompsons Lane serves as the central departure point, well-equipped for visitors. Feedback highlights the professionalism and warmth of the guides, making the experience accessible and memorable for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.Scenic Highlights and Photographic Opportunities
Punting along the Cam offers iconic views of Cambridge’s skyline framed by historic college facades and lush greenery. The slow pace of the punt allows ample time for photography and quiet reflection. The route passes under famous bridges such as the Mathematical Bridge, providing quintessential Cambridge photo moments.Commitment to Sustainable and Enjoyable Tourism
Lets Go Punting operates with respect for the river environment, promoting low-impact tourism that preserves the natural and cultural heritage of Cambridge. The tours encourage mindfulness and appreciation of the city’s unique riverside setting, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious travelers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalene Bridge
0.2 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Jesus Lock
0.2 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
0.2 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Bridge of Sighs
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Westminster College
0.4 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Castle Park
0.5 km
Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Senate House Hill
0.7 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
The Old Schools
0.7 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Duke House
0.9 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
University Museum Of Zoology
0.9 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and fascinating zoological exhibits at the University Museum of Zoology, a top tourist attraction in Cambridge.
Corpus Christi College
1.0 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Corpus Christi College, a vital part of Cambridge's academic heritage.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
1.0 km
Explore the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge – a fascinating journey through the planet's geological and biological history.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
1.0 km
Explore the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge – a treasure trove of global history and culture that captivates every visitor.
Newnham Open Air Boat Club
1.0 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge's rowing culture at Newnham Open Air Boat Club, where scenic views and community spirit unite.
Arts Picturehouse
1.0 km
Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
0.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cambridge's waterways with Rutherford's Punting, offering guided tours and boat rentals for all visitors.
Scholars Punting
0.0 km
Experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a handcrafted punt with expert guides on the tranquil River Cam.
Magdalene College
0.2 km
Discover Magdalene College, a serene riverside Cambridge gem blending medieval charm with academic heritage and stunning architecture.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
0.2 km
Historic lock-keeper’s house beside Cambridge’s only River Cam lock, blending heritage charm with riverside tranquility.
Scudamore's Punting Company
0.2 km
Glide through Cambridge's historic waterways aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by knowledgeable locals or steering your own course.
Alexandra Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful Cambridge haven with vibrant flowerbeds, unique playgrounds, and a welcoming community spirit for all ages.
Castle Mound
0.2 km
Historic Norman motte offering panoramic views over Cambridge’s skyline and countryside from the city’s highest point.
Museum of Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Cambridgeshire’s everyday history in a charming 17th-century coaching inn just steps from the city centre.
Kettle's Yard
0.3 km
Discover Kettle's Yard, where modern art meets historic charm in a serene Cambridge home and gallery.
Jesus Green
0.3 km
Historic riverside park in Cambridge offering open green spaces, tennis courts, a children’s playground, and one of Europe’s longest outdoor pools.
Christian Heritage
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s iconic 12th-century Round Church, a rare Norman circular landmark rich in history, architecture, and Christian heritage.
The Round Church
0.4 km
Explore Cambridge’s medieval marvel: a rare 12th-century round church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, rich in history and Norman architecture.
St John's College
0.4 km
Walk through centuries of Cambridge history at St John’s College, home to the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a magnificent chapel, and tranquil riverside gardens.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
0.4 km
Historic Kitchen Bridge at St John's College, a serene stone span blending early 18th-century craftsmanship with Cambridge's timeless academic heritage.
Jesus College, University of Cambridge
0.4 km
Historic Cambridge college with stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and versatile modern facilities in a central city location.
Essential places to dine
La Mimosa
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality by the scenic River Cam at La Mimosa, Cambridge’s cherished family-run restaurant.
The Riverbar Steakhouse and Grill
0.1 km
Upscale riverside steakhouse in Cambridge with expertly cooked steaks, scenic river views, and a lively rooftop cocktail terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
Galleria restaurant cambridge
0.2 km
Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Côte Cambridge
0.2 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Cambridge, with inclusive menus and a warm, romantic atmosphere.
Gastrono-me
0.3 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
The Orator
0.3 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
Byron
0.3 km
Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
The Architect
0.4 km
Cambridge’s vibrant gastropub serving classic fish & chips and pies with a modern, inclusive twist in a welcoming setting.
The Punter
0.4 km
A cozy gastropub blending classic British fare with quirky charm and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
Restaurant Twenty Two
0.5 km
Michelin-starred contemporary British dining in a cozy Victorian townhouse, blending seasonal flavors with artistic precision in Cambridge.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.5 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.5 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
Trinity Restaurant
0.5 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bowns
0.2 km
Discover luxury and elegance at Bowns, Cambridge's premier designer clothing boutique, where haute couture meets personalized service.
Fridge
0.2 km
Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
Typically British
0.2 km
Discover authentic British and Cambridge souvenirs in a welcoming shop full of heritage and charm at 29 Bridge Street.
Lilac Rose
0.4 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories in a charming independent boutique in the heart of Cambridge.
Victoria Store
0.5 km
Experience the convenience of Victoria Store in Cambridge, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and local goods.
Heffers Bookshop
0.5 km
Cambridge's historic book haven since 1876: vast collections, expert staff, lively events, and treasures from academics to games in a scholar's paradise.
Bring It Back Cambridge
0.5 km
Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
Jigsaw
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
Jacks on Trinity
0.6 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.6 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.6 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.6 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
Fantasia
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.6 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pickerel
0.2 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
The Castle Inn
0.3 km
Traditional Cambridge pub on Castle Street serving classic British fare, local ales, and cozy vibes in the shadow of historic landmarks—a perfect pitstop for explorers.
Modern Jazz
0.4 km
Hidden jazz gem on Jesus Lane where modern rhythms pulse amid Cambridge's historic whispers—intimate gigs fueling the city's creative soul.
Hidden Rooms
0.4 km
Discover Cambridge's underground speakeasy: creative cocktails, live tunes, and intimate vibes in historic vaults on Jesus Lane.
The Tivoli
0.4 km
A vibrant four-floor venue in Cambridge offering mini golf, shuffleboard, rooftop views, craft drinks, and casual dining for memorable social experiences.
Sir Isaac Newton
0.5 km
A friendly, dog‑friendly Castle Street pub named for Cambridge’s famed scientist — casual food, sports screens and a neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.5 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
2648 Cambridge
0.6 km
Step into 2648 Cambridge for expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, vinyl-filled setting at the heart of Trinity Street’s vibrant nightlife.
Town and Gown
0.6 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
La Raza
0.6 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Glitterbomb
0.6 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
Ta Bouche
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Champion Of The Thames
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
Fort St George
0.7 km
Historic 16th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, local ales, and a warm, traditional atmosphere.
BrewDog Cambridge
0.8 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
