St John's College, Cambridge
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.
Founded in 1511, St John's College is one of Cambridge’s grandest and most photogenic colleges, famed for its majestic courts, soaring chapel, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs spanning the River Cam. Visitors walk in the footsteps of poets, scientists, and royalty through beautifully preserved Tudor and neo-Gothic architecture, tranquil riverside gardens, and historic halls. The college offers a powerful sense of academic tradition, with the Bridge of Sighs and chapel among its most celebrated sights. Access is seasonal, with timed entry and a modest admission fee.
A brief summary to St John's College
- St John's College, St John's St., Cambridge, CB2 1TP, GB
- +441223338600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the college’s open season (usually summer) and check the official website for exact dates and opening times, as access can change due to academic events.
- Arrive early in the day to avoid the largest crowds and to have the best light for photographs of the Bridge of Sighs and chapel.
- Combine your visit with a punt tour on the River Cam for the classic Cambridge view of the college’s riverside façade and the Bridge of Sighs.
- Respect the college as a working academic institution: keep noise down in courts and gardens, and follow any temporary access restrictions or signage.
- If attending evensong, entry to the chapel is usually free and offers a chance to experience the college’s choral tradition in its full acoustic and visual splendour.
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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On foot from Cambridge city centre
From the central market area or King’s Parade, walk east along St John’s Street for about 10 minutes. The Great Gate of St John’s College is clearly visible on the right-hand side, marked by its ornate Tudor stonework and the college’s name.
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By punt on the River Cam
Board a punt at one of the main landing stages near Silver Street or Magdalene Bridge. A standard upstream tour passes directly beneath the Bridge of Sighs and along the college’s riverside lawns, offering the classic view of New Court and the bridge. Tours typically last 45–60 minutes and run frequently in daylight hours.
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By bicycle
Cambridge is highly bike-friendly; cycle along St John’s Street or the riverside paths from the city centre. Secure your bike at the racks near the Great Gate, then enter the college on foot through the main entrance.
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By public bus
Several local bus routes serve central Cambridge stops near the market or King’s Parade. From there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk along St John’s Street to the college’s Great Gate. Buses run regularly, with journey times from outlying areas typically 15–30 minutes depending on origin.
St John's College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St John's College
Heart of Cambridge’s Academic Heritage
St John’s College, founded in 1511 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of King Henry VII, stands as one of the University of Cambridge’s most distinguished and visually striking colleges. Built on the site of a former monastic hospital dedicated to St John the Evangelist, the college blends centuries of scholarly tradition with architectural grandeur. Its Great Gate, completed in 1516, bears the college’s coat of arms flanked by mythical yales – antelope-like creatures symbolising protection and grace – and above it a statue of St John holding a poisoned chalice, a traditional iconographic motif. This imposing entrance sets the tone for a place where history, learning, and beauty converge.Architecture and the Bridge of Sighs
The college’s layout unfolds through a series of historic courts, each with its own character. First Court and Second Court showcase Tudor and later Gothic revival styles, while the 19th-century New Court, with its neo-Gothic towers and river-facing façade, frames one of Cambridge’s most photographed views. The famous Bridge of Sighs, actually a covered passageway over the River Cam, is often compared to its Venetian namesake, though it was designed by Henry Hutchinson and Thomas Rickman in the 1830s. From the river, the bridge appears almost floating, its elegant arches reflected in the water as punts glide beneath. The college’s skyline is dominated by its chapel, one of the tallest buildings in Cambridge, with a soaring spire and richly detailed Gothic interior.Chapel, Gardens and Riverside
The college chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, features intricate stonework, a magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling, and stunning stained-glass windows that flood the interior with coloured light. Services and evensong are held regularly, and visitors can often enter when services are not in progress. Beyond the courts, the college extends to the banks of the River Cam, where manicured lawns and the Scholars’ Garden offer peaceful spots for contemplation. Riverside walks along the Backs provide sweeping views of the college’s façades and the Bridge of Sighs, making this stretch of the river one of Cambridge’s most scenic promenades.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
St John’s is open to visitors seasonally, typically during the summer and early autumn months, with entry via the Great Gate on St John’s Street. A modest admission fee supports the college’s upkeep, and tickets are usually purchased on site. Visitors can explore the main courts, view the chapel from the outside (and often enter when services allow), walk over the Bridge of Sighs, and enjoy the riverside gardens. The college is an active academic community, so access may be restricted during exams or private events. Photography is encouraged, especially from the river, and many choose to combine a visit with a punt tour for the best views of the college’s riverside frontage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
0.2 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Senate House Hill
0.3 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
0.3 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Westminster College
0.5 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
0.5 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Jesus Lock
0.6 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.6 km
Explore the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge – a fascinating journey through the planet's geological and biological history.
Mathematical Bridge
0.6 km
Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
Duke House
0.7 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Arts Picturehouse
0.7 km
Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Little St Mary's Church
0.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of Little St Mary's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of Cambridge.
Castle Park
0.8 km
Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Midsummer Common
0.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.9 km
Explore the rich collections of The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market
0.0 km
Discover Cambridge’s charming Saturday market where local artisans showcase unique handmade crafts in a tranquil garden setting.
Newton's Apple Tree
0.1 km
Discover the historic apple tree at Trinity College that inspired Newton’s theory of gravity, a living symbol of scientific genius and Cambridge heritage.
The Round Church
0.1 km
Explore Cambridge’s medieval marvel: a rare 12th-century round church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, rich in history and Norman architecture.
Christian Heritage
0.1 km
Discover Cambridge’s iconic 12th-century Round Church, a rare Norman circular landmark rich in history, architecture, and Christian heritage.
Trinity College
0.1 km
Explore Trinity College, Cambridge’s grandest college, where history, architecture, and genius converge in stunning courtyards and timeless halls.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
0.1 km
Historic Cambridge shopping quarter where medieval streets meet independent boutiques and contemporary dining.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
0.2 km
Historic Kitchen Bridge at St John's College, a serene stone span blending early 18th-century craftsmanship with Cambridge's timeless academic heritage.
Gardenia
0.2 km
Lively Greek takeaway in Cambridge serving authentic flavors late into the night at budget-friendly prices.
Wren Library
0.2 km
Discover the historic Wren Library at Trinity College, Cambridge—home to rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and centuries of intellectual heritage.
Market Passage
0.2 km
Discover Market Passage, a historic and charming alleyway blending Cambridge’s rich past with vibrant local culture in the city centre.
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.
Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge
0.2 km
Explore the historic elegance and academic legacy of Gonville & Caius College, a tranquil Cambridge oasis rich in tradition and iconic architecture.
Great St Mary's
0.3 km
Discover Great St Mary’s, Cambridge’s historic university church with stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
Market Hill
0.3 km
Market Hill is Cambridge’s historic marketplace, alive with centuries of tradition, vibrant stalls, and rich community spirit at the city’s core.
Cambridge Market Square
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
Essential places to dine
Byron
0.1 km
Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
Gastrono-me
0.1 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.1 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
Trinity Restaurant
0.1 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
The Orator
0.1 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.2 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
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.
Galleria restaurant cambridge
0.2 km
Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Market House
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.3 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
The Riverbar Steakhouse and Grill
0.3 km
Upscale riverside steakhouse in Cambridge with expertly cooked steaks, scenic river views, and a lively rooftop cocktail terrace.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.4 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
0.4 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lilac Rose
0.1 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories in a charming independent boutique in the heart of Cambridge.
Heffers Bookshop
0.1 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.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
Jacks on Trinity
0.1 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
Bring It Back Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
Typically British
0.2 km
Discover authentic British and Cambridge souvenirs in a welcoming shop full of heritage and charm at 29 Bridge Street.
Giles & Co
0.2 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.3 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
As Seen On TV
0.3 km
Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Sugarmark!
0.3 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Modern Jazz
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover Cambridge's underground speakeasy: creative cocktails, live tunes, and intimate vibes in historic vaults on Jesus Lane.
2648 Cambridge
0.1 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
0.2 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Town and Gown
0.2 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
Ta Bouche
0.2 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Pickerel
0.3 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
Glitterbomb
0.3 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.3 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Bath House
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Eagle
0.4 km
Historic Cambridge pub where DNA’s double helix was announced, blending scientific legacy with classic British charm and lively atmosphere.
Champion Of The Thames
0.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
The Castle Inn
0.5 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.
Bar -OH
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
MASH
0.2 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.4 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.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.1 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
EBC Shop
1.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
80s karaoke bar
1.4 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
1.5 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
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Cambridge Junction
2.3 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's nightlife at Cambridge Junction, a dynamic venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
Sing Dizzy
2.3 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.
Salisbury Club
2.3 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Rock
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
18.5 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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Low Impact
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
