Magdalene College, Cambridge: A Riverside Treasure of History and Architecture
Discover Magdalene College, a serene riverside Cambridge gem blending medieval charm with academic heritage and stunning architecture.
Magdalene College, founded in 1428 and nestled on the northwestern bend of the River Cam in Cambridge, offers visitors a serene glimpse into centuries of academic tradition and medieval architecture. Known for its picturesque riverside views, historic courts, and the renowned Pepys Library, this college blends tranquil beauty with rich heritage. Free to enter and open year-round except during exams, Magdalene invites exploration of its chapel, cloisters, and gardens amid a peaceful collegiate atmosphere.
A brief summary to Magdalene College
- Magdalene St, Cambridge, CB3 0AG, GB
- +441223332100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Entry to Magdalene College is free, but check opening times as access can vary during exams and special events.
- Respect the working college environment by keeping noise to a minimum and staying within public areas.
- Don't miss the iconic riverside views along the River Cam, perfect for photography and spotting punts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
By Train
Cambridge Station is approximately 1.5 miles from Magdalene College, a 30-minute walk through the city centre. Frequent trains connect Cambridge to London Kings Cross and Liverpool Street, with onward links from major airports.
-
By Bus
Stagecoach X5 service links Oxford to Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford, stopping near the city centre. Cambridge Drummer Street Bus Station is about 0.6 miles from the college, with multiple local buses and Park & Ride options available.
-
By Car
There is no parking at Magdalene College except for pre-arranged access. Visitors should use nearby public car parks such as Castle Hill Car Park. From the M11, take Junction 14 to A14, then follow signs to Cambridge city centre.
-
On Foot
Walking from Cambridge city centre to Magdalene College takes about 15 minutes on flat, paved streets, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
Magdalene College location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Magdalene College
Origins and Historical Foundations
Magdalene College was established in 1428 as a hostel for Benedictine student-monks, providing a secluded environment away from the distractions of Cambridge town. Originally named Monks Hostel, it was later renamed and re-founded in 1542, evolving from a theological focus to embrace broader Enlightenment-era subjects. The college stands on a site with deep historical roots, near an ancient Roman river crossing, with archaeological finds such as Roman coins underscoring its long-standing significance.Architectural Character and Grounds
The college's architecture reflects its gradual evolution over centuries, distinguished by predominantly brick buildings rather than the stone typical of other Cambridge colleges. Its medieval Great Court, peaceful cloisters, and chapel dating from the late 15th century showcase historic craftsmanship, while modern additions like the award-winning new library provide contemporary contrast. The riverside frontage along the Cam offers iconic views of punts and quayside buildings, making it a picturesque highlight for visitors.Academic Life and Notable Alumni
Magdalene maintains a close-knit academic community with around 350 undergraduates and 200 postgraduates. It has nurtured notable figures including poet Thomas Hardy, Nobel laureate Patrick Blackett, and honorary fellow Nelson Mandela. The college fosters a vibrant student life supported by strong academic resources and a friendly atmosphere, balancing tradition with modern scholarship.Visitor Experience and Access
Visitors are welcome year-round except during the exam period from mid-April to mid-June. Entry is free, but access is typically limited to public areas such as the courts, chapel, and riverside. The Pepys Library, housing valuable manuscripts and naval records, is currently under renovation and expected to reopen at the end of 2026. The tranquil gardens and riverside paths offer peaceful spots for reflection and photography.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Magdalene Street in central Cambridge, the college lies opposite the town centre across the River Cam, historically chosen to provide monks with a quiet retreat. The nearby Castle Hill and the historic quayside area enhance the setting’s charm. The college’s location offers a blend of urban accessibility and scenic riverside ambiance, ideal for leisurely exploration.Contemporary Significance and Cultural Heritage
Magdalene College remains a vital part of Cambridge’s academic and cultural fabric, preserving centuries of heritage while embracing modern developments. Its blend of medieval and modern architecture, rich collections, and serene environment make it a unique destination for those interested in history, architecture, and academic tradition.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalene Bridge
0.1 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
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.
Westminster College
0.3 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Bridge of Sighs
0.3 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Jesus Lock
0.4 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Castle Park
0.4 km
Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
The Old Schools
0.6 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Senate House Hill
0.6 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
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.
10 Downing Street
0.9 km
Explore the historical charm of 10 Downing Street in Cambridge, a symbol of British politics and architectural beauty, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Duke House
1.0 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
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.
Mathematical Bridge
1.0 km
Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
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.
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
Museum of Cambridge
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover Kettle's Yard, where modern art meets historic charm in a serene Cambridge home and gallery.
Scudamore's Punting Company
0.1 km
Glide through Cambridge's historic waterways aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by knowledgeable locals or steering your own course.
Castle Mound
0.2 km
Historic Norman motte offering panoramic views over Cambridge’s skyline and countryside from the city’s highest point.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s historic charm on a serene, expertly guided punting tour along the iconic River Cam.
Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cambridge's waterways with Rutherford's Punting, offering guided tours and boat rentals for all visitors.
Scholars Punting
0.2 km
Experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a handcrafted punt with expert guides on the tranquil River Cam.
Alexandra Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful Cambridge haven with vibrant flowerbeds, unique playgrounds, and a welcoming community spirit for all ages.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
0.3 km
Historic Kitchen Bridge at St John's College, a serene stone span blending early 18th-century craftsmanship with Cambridge's timeless academic heritage.
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
0.3 km
Explore Cambridge’s medieval marvel: a rare 12th-century round church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, rich in history and Norman architecture.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
0.4 km
Historic lock-keeper’s house beside Cambridge’s only River Cam lock, blending heritage charm with riverside tranquility.
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.
All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market
0.4 km
Discover Cambridge’s charming Saturday market where local artisans showcase unique handmade crafts in a tranquil garden setting.
Wren Library
0.4 km
Discover the historic Wren Library at Trinity College, Cambridge—home to rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and centuries of intellectual heritage.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
0.1 km
Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
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.
Galleria restaurant cambridge
0.2 km
Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
La Mimosa
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality by the scenic River Cam at La Mimosa, Cambridge’s cherished family-run restaurant.
The Punter
0.2 km
A cozy gastropub blending classic British fare with quirky charm and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
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.
The Architect
0.2 km
Cambridge’s vibrant gastropub serving classic fish & chips and pies with a modern, inclusive twist in a welcoming setting.
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.
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 Orator
0.3 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
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.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.5 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
Trinity Restaurant
0.5 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.5 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fridge
0.1 km
Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
Bowns
0.1 km
Discover luxury and elegance at Bowns, Cambridge's premier designer clothing boutique, where haute couture meets personalized service.
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.
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.
Victoria Store
0.5 km
Experience the convenience of Victoria Store in Cambridge, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and local goods.
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
0.5 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
Jacks on Trinity
0.5 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.5 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.
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.
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.
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.
Giles & Co
0.6 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pickerel
0.1 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
The Castle Inn
0.2 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.
Sir Isaac Newton
0.4 km
A friendly, dog‑friendly Castle Street pub named for Cambridge’s famed scientist — casual food, sports screens and a neighbourhood atmosphere.
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.
2648 Cambridge
0.5 km
Step into 2648 Cambridge for expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, vinyl-filled setting at the heart of Trinity Street’s vibrant nightlife.
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.
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.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.6 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Ta Bouche
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
The Tivoli
0.6 km
A vibrant four-floor venue in Cambridge offering mini golf, shuffleboard, rooftop views, craft drinks, and casual dining for memorable social experiences.
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.
Champion Of The Thames
0.7 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
Bath House
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
MASH
0.6 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.6 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
High Five
0.7 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Cambridge Lola Lo
0.8 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
EBC Shop
1.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.3 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
80s karaoke bar
1.8 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit at Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club, a lively venue for live music, events, and friendly gatherings in Cambridge.
The Calling
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Cambridge Junction
2.6 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's nightlife at Cambridge Junction, a dynamic venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
Salisbury Club
2.6 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Sing Dizzy
2.7 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Rock
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
18.2 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
