The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge is a premier art and antiquities museum of the University of Cambridge, housing over half a million objects from ancient Egypt to modern art. Housed in a grand Grade-I listed neoclassical building, it features masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Rubens, and Van Gogh alongside extensive collections of coins, manuscripts, and applied arts. Admission is free, with special exhibitions requiring tickets. The museum offers accessible facilities, a café, and a shop, making it a cultural highlight in the heart of Cambridge.
A brief summary to The Fitzwilliam Museum
- Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1RB, GB
- +441223332900
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Use the Courtyard Entrance for step-free access and proximity to the lift.
- Book tickets in advance for special exhibitions to guarantee entry.
- Take a break at the Courtyard Kitchen café, open seasonally for refreshments.
- Plan at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the main collections comfortably.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Cambridge railway station, take the U bus which stops directly outside the Fitzwilliam Museum. The journey lasts about 10–15 minutes with frequent service throughout the day. Tickets cost approximately £2–£3. This option is convenient and accessible.
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Walking
A pleasant 20-minute walk from Cambridge railway station to the museum follows mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. This route offers views of the city center and is recommended for those who enjoy urban strolls.
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Taxi
Taxis from Cambridge railway station to the museum take around 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £10. This is a good option for visitors with limited mobility or carrying heavy bags.
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Park & Ride
Visitors arriving by car can use Cambridge’s Park & Ride services located on the city outskirts. From there, frequent buses connect to the city center near the museum. This option avoids city center parking challenges and costs around £3–£5 for parking plus bus fare.
The Fitzwilliam Museum 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 The Fitzwilliam Museum
A Legacy of Art and Antiquities
Founded in 1816 through the bequest of Richard FitzWilliam, 7th Viscount FitzWilliam, the Fitzwilliam Museum stands as the University of Cambridge’s principal museum of art and antiquities. Its imposing neoclassical building on Trumpington Street was purpose-built to house an extraordinary collection that has grown to over half a million objects. The museum’s holdings span millennia and continents, from ancient Egyptian coffins and classical sculptures to Renaissance paintings and contemporary artworks, making it one of the finest collections in Western Europe.Remarkable Collections and Highlights
Visitors encounter an impressive breadth of art and artifacts. The Egyptian Galleries, refurbished in 2006, offer immersive displays that bring ancient civilizations to life. European masterpieces include works by Titian, Rubens, Van Dyck, Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, and many others. The museum also showcases rare coins, illuminated manuscripts, musical scores, Asian ceramics, and decorative arts such as English and European pottery and glass. The collections are thoughtfully curated to provide a rich narrative of world history and artistic achievement.Architectural Grandeur and Visitor Experience
The Fitzwilliam’s Grade-I listed building is a work of art in itself, with grand facades and spacious galleries that enhance the viewing experience. The interior is designed for accessibility, featuring step-free access via the Courtyard Entrance and lifts to all floors. Seating areas are available throughout, and staff provide assistance to visitors with mobility or sensory needs. The museum also offers induction loops and verbal description tours, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity.Facilities and Amenities
On-site amenities include the Courtyard Kitchen café, serving hot and cold drinks, artisan sandwiches, cakes, and ice cream during warmer months. The museum shop offers unique souvenirs and gifts inspired by the collections. Visitor facilities include restrooms, information boards, and free Wi-Fi. The museum is air-conditioned and welcomes assistance dogs. While there is no dedicated visitor parking, Park & Ride and public transport options are encouraged.Visiting Information and Accessibility
The Fitzwilliam Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sundays and bank holidays from 12pm to 5pm, with closures on Mondays and select holidays. General admission is free, though some special exhibitions require tickets, which can be booked online. Group visits of 10 or more require advance booking. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with designated facilities and staff support. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and events.A Cultural Beacon in Cambridge
With its extensive collections, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, the Fitzwilliam Museum offers a captivating cultural experience. It serves as a vital educational resource and a place of inspiration for art lovers, historians, and casual visitors alike. Its blend of ancient treasures and modern masterpieces makes it a must-visit landmark in Cambridge’s vibrant cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Senate House Hill
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The Old Schools
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Reality Checkpoint
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Duke House
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St Mark's Church
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Cambridge University Botanic Garden
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Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
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The Round Church
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All Saints Church
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Bridge of Sighs
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Hills Road War Memorial
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Magdalene Bridge
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Cambridge Gateway from India
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Museum of Cambridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Little St Mary's Church
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Cambridge Food Tour
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Coe Fen
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Pembroke College
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Sheep's Green
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A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Cambridge blending historic grazing meadows, rich wildlife, and a unique outdoor river pool.
ArchaeoLink
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Connecting Cambridge’s past and present through community archaeology and public engagement at the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
Corpus Christi College
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Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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St Catharine's College
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Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
University Museum Of Zoology
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Explore the rich diversity of animal life and evolutionary history at Cambridge’s University Museum of Zoology, home to iconic specimens and free entry.
Queens' College
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Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
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Mathematical Bridge
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Granta Moorings
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Discover Cambridge’s iconic river with Granta Moorings—expertly guided punts and self-rental canoes from the best mooring on the College Backs.
Arts Picturehouse
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A historic Cambridge cinema blending indie films, art deco charm, and a lively café-bar in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
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Garden House
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MillWorks
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Granta
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Charlie Chan Restaurant
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Sala Thong
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Smokeworks
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Rice Boat Cambridge
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The Cambridge Chop House
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Bread & Meat
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Pint Shop
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Aromi
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Parker's Tavern
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Honest Burgers Cambridge
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Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greaterskies
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Samuel Smiley
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Podarok
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Oliver Bonas
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Nomads
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Indelibly Cambridge
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Ark
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Menkind Cambridge
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Parade
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CJ’s Vintage Store
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Iris and Violet Cambridge
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Souvenirs And Gifts
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Giles & Co
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Anchor
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The Castle Bar
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Bath House
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The Cambridge Tap
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The LAB
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Panton Arms
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La Raza
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Lola Lo
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High Five
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MASH
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Vinyl Cambridge
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80s karaoke bar
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The Calling
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Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
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Cambridge Working Mens Club
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Fort St George
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EBC Shop
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Sing Dizzy
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Salisbury Club
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Rock
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The Lounge
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OutOut Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
