Pembroke College, Cambridge: Historic Charm Meets Intellectual Legacy
Discover Pembroke College, Cambridge’s historic gem blending medieval charm, Wren’s chapel, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
Pembroke College, founded in 1347 and located on Trumpington Street in Cambridge, is the third-oldest college of the University of Cambridge. Renowned for its blend of medieval and classical architecture, including the first chapel designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it offers visitors tranquil gardens, historic courtyards, and a rich academic heritage. The college is open daily to visitors outside exam periods, inviting exploration of its serene grounds and architectural highlights.
A brief summary to Pembroke College
- Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1RF, GB
- +441223338100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
- Touch the toe of William Pitt the Younger’s statue in the courtyard for good luck, a beloved college tradition.
- Check the college website or Porters' Lodge for any temporary closures during exam periods or special events.
- Explore the chapel, the first designed by Sir Christopher Wren, when no services are taking place.
- Enjoy the serene gardens and Ridley’s Walk for quiet reflection and nature photography.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Cambridge railway station, it takes about 25 to 30 minutes on foot to reach Pembroke College. The walk is mostly flat along city streets through Cambridge’s historic center. No special equipment needed; suitable for most visitors.
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Local Bus
Local buses run frequently from Drummer Street Bus Station to stops near Trumpington Street. Journey times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3. Check local timetables for schedules.
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Cycling
Cycling is a popular option in Cambridge, with bike lanes leading to Pembroke College from various parts of the city. Cycle parking is available nearby. Expect a 5 to 15-minute ride depending on starting point.
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Car and Park and Ride
Driving is not recommended due to limited parking and congestion. Visitors can use Cambridge Park and Ride services located on the city outskirts, with frequent shuttle buses to central Cambridge. Parking fees apply, and shuttle buses run every 10-20 minutes.
Pembroke College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Pembroke College
A Storied Foundation and Academic Prestige
Founded in 1347 by Marie de St Pol, Countess of Pembroke, Pembroke College stands as one of Cambridge’s oldest and most respected colleges. It has a long tradition of academic excellence, consistently ranking highly in university performance tables. The college has nurtured influential figures such as William Pitt the Younger, the youngest British Prime Minister, the poet Edmund Spenser, and modern luminaries including actor Tom Hiddleston and Monty Python’s Eric Idle. This heritage reflects Pembroke’s enduring commitment to intellectual curiosity and cultural contribution.Architectural Harmony Across Centuries
Pembroke is celebrated for its harmonious blend of architectural styles spanning medieval, Renaissance, and modern periods. The Old Court, dating back to the 14th century, remains largely unchanged and anchors the college’s historic charm. A centerpiece is the Pembroke Chapel, completed in 1665 as the first chapel designed by Sir Christopher Wren, showcasing elegant Baroque design. The college also features a Victorian neo-Gothic library tower and well-preserved stone buildings adorned with ivy, creating a picturesque and timeless campus.Peaceful Gardens and Courtyards
The college grounds provide a tranquil oasis within central Cambridge. Visitors can stroll through beautifully maintained gardens, including the serene Ridley’s Walk, and relax on the iconic Orchard Lawn. The ivy-clad courtyards and green spaces offer peaceful retreats from the city bustle, making Pembroke a favored spot for quiet reflection and photography. The setting’s calm ambience complements the historic architecture, enhancing the visitor experience.Visitor Access and Experience
Pembroke College welcomes visitors daily from 9am to 5pm, except during the main exam period from mid-May to mid-June and occasional private events. Visitors may explore the grounds freely and enter the chapel when no service is taking place. Guided tours are sometimes available and provide deeper insights into the college’s history and architecture. Admission is free, making Pembroke an accessible and rewarding destination for those exploring Cambridge’s university heritage.Local Traditions and Cultural Highlights
A charming local tradition involves the statue of William Pitt the Younger in the courtyard, where visitors and students alike touch his toe for good luck, especially before exams. The college’s welcoming atmosphere and blend of history, culture, and natural beauty make it a unique cultural landmark. Pembroke also hosts occasional events and open days for prospective students, further connecting its historic legacy with contemporary academic life.Strategic Location in Cambridge
Situated on Trumpington Street, Pembroke is centrally located within Cambridge, close to university departments, cafes, shops, and cultural venues. Its proximity to the city center allows easy access while maintaining a peaceful environment. The college’s location enhances its appeal as a serene yet vibrant hub of learning and tradition, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the quintessential Cambridge experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Senate House Hill
0.4 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
0.4 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Reality Checkpoint
0.7 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Duke House
0.7 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
0.7 km
Discover the charm and history of the Kitchen Bridge at St. John's College, a picturesque landmark in the heart of Cambridge, England.
The Round Church
0.7 km
Explore The Round Church, a captivating medieval Anglican church in Cambridge, known for its unique architecture and rich historical significance.
Christian Heritage
0.8 km
Explore the Round Church in Cambridge, a stunning Norman architectural gem and a key site of Christian heritage, rich in history and spirituality.
Bridge of Sighs
0.8 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Hodson's Folly
0.8 km
Explore Hodson's Folly: A tranquil park in Cambridge with stunning views, rich history, and serene nature perfect for a peaceful retreat.
All Saints Church
0.8 km
Explore the architectural and spiritual beauty of All Saints Church, a historic gem in the heart of Cambridge, showcasing stunning Gothic design and tranquility.
St. Paul's Church
0.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and community spirit of St. Paul's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Cambridge, perfect for reflection and connection.
St Mark's Church
0.9 km
Explore the serene St Mark's Church in Newnham, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and tranquility in the heart of the countryside.
Magdalene Bridge
0.9 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Paradise Local Nature Reserve
0.9 km
Explore the beauty of Paradise Local Nature Reserve in Cambridge, an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in a vibrant urban setting.
Museum of Cambridge
1.0 km
Explore the Museum of Cambridge, where local history comes alive through fascinating artifacts and engaging exhibits that tell the story of this historic city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little St Mary's Church
0.1 km
Discover centuries of history and serene beauty at Little St Mary's, Cambridge’s historic parish church beside Peterhouse.
Corpus Christi College
0.1 km
Discover the intimate charm and historic legacy of Cambridge’s only college founded by townspeople, featuring medieval courts and the iconic Chronophage Clock.
St Catharine's College
0.1 km
Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
The Corpus Clock
0.2 km
A mesmerizing gold-plated clock with a mechanical grasshopper that devours time, blending art and science in the heart of Cambridge.
Mathematical Bridge
0.2 km
Discover the iconic wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College, a marvel of 18th-century engineering and enduring Cambridge legend.
University Museum Of Zoology
0.2 km
Explore the rich diversity of animal life and evolutionary history at Cambridge’s University Museum of Zoology, home to iconic specimens and free entry.
ArchaeoLink
0.2 km
Connecting Cambridge’s past and present through community archaeology and public engagement at the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
St Bene’t’s Church
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s oldest building, an Anglo-Saxon church with a serene atmosphere and centuries of history in its ancient tower and sacred walls.
Queens' College
0.2 km
Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
0.2 km
Explore two million years of human history through captivating artefacts and world cultures at Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.3 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history in Cambridge’s oldest geology museum, featuring fossils, meteorites, and iconic collections.
King's College, Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Gothic splendor and rich academic heritage of King's College, home to the iconic chapel and world-famous choir in Cambridge.
Sheep's Green
0.3 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Cambridge blending historic grazing meadows, rich wildlife, and a unique outdoor river pool.
Coe Fen
0.3 km
Tranquil fenland green space beside the River Cam, blending natural beauty with historic Cambridge charm.
Essential places to dine
Garden House
0.2 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Smokeworks
0.2 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.2 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
Bread & Meat
0.3 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Pint Shop
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Aromi
0.3 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Browns Cambridge
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Japanese sushi and Nordic grilled sticks in the historic heart of Cambridge, where tradition meets innovation.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.3 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Granta
0.4 km
A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
MillWorks
0.4 km
Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Sala Thong
0.4 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and generous portions in a cozy Cambridge setting.
Rice Boat Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience authentic Kerala cuisine with fragrant spices and freshly made breads in a warm, contemporary setting at Rice Boat Cambridge.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Market House
0.5 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Samuel Smiley
0.1 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Greaterskies
0.2 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Podarok
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Nomads
0.3 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.3 km
A compact, well-curated King’s Parade shop for Cambridge-themed gifts, prints and locally made keepsakes—perfect for quick souvenirs with local character.
Oliver Bonas
0.3 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Ark
0.3 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Parade
0.4 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Menkind Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Sugarmark!
0.4 km
Capture Cambridge's charm with Sugarmark!'s iconic mugs, apparel, and prints from the heart of Market Hill—perfect souvenirs blending heritage and style.
Giles & Co
0.4 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
CJ’s Vintage Store
0.5 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
As Seen On TV
0.5 km
Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mill
0.2 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
The Anchor
0.2 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
Eagle
0.3 km
Cambridge's legendary pub where DNA's secret was toasted, WWII airmen left their mark, and real ales flow amid historic haunts.
Bath House
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Bar -OH
0.3 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
The Cambridge Tap
0.4 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
The Castle Bar
0.4 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.4 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
La Raza
0.5 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Ta Bouche
0.5 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Tall Trees
0.5 km
Eclectic basement bar in Cambridge with live music six nights a week, plant-based menu, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Town and Gown
0.5 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
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.
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
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
