Jesus Green: Riverside Park and Historic Lido in Cambridge
A spacious riverside park in Cambridge featuring historic lido, tennis courts, playground, and tranquil green spaces for all seasons.
Jesus Green is a spacious and tranquil park in north-central Cambridge, bordered by the River Cam and Jesus College. It features open grassy areas, avenues of London Plane and horse chestnut trees, free public tennis courts, a children’s playground, a skate park, and the historic Jesus Green Lido—one of the longest outdoor swimming pools in Europe. The park offers picnic spots, a riverside promenade, and barbecue areas, making it a popular spot for relaxation and recreation year-round.
A brief summary to Jesus Green
- Jesus Green, Cambridge, CB5 8BL, GB
- +441223457000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Jesus Green Lido during summer for a refreshing swim in one of Europe’s longest outdoor pools; book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
- Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy the expansive lawns and designated barbecue areas with stone grills.
- Try the free public tennis courts, with grass courts open from May to September and tarmac courts available year-round.
- Explore the riverside promenade along the Cam for peaceful walks, punt watching, and spotting local wildlife.
- Check out the children’s railway-themed playground and skate park for family-friendly activities.
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
Multiple bus routes from Cambridge city centre serve stops near Jesus Green, with travel times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, though service frequency may reduce in the evenings and on Sundays. A single fare typically costs around £2 to £3.
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Walking
From Cambridge city centre, Jesus Green is approximately a 20- to 30-minute walk along flat, paved paths suitable for prams and wheelchairs. The route passes through scenic urban streets and is well signposted.
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Cycling
Cycling from central Cambridge to Jesus Green takes about 10 minutes via dedicated cycle lanes. Bike parking is available near the lido and park entrances. Cycling is recommended for easy and quick access.
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Car
Parking near Jesus Green is limited, with the nearest public car park located on Park Street, about a 5-minute walk away. Parking fees apply, and availability can be scarce during peak times or weekends.
Jesus Green 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 Jesus Green
A Green Oasis in the Heart of Cambridge
Jesus Green is a beloved open parkland located just north of Cambridge’s city centre, bordered by the River Cam, Victoria Avenue, and Jesus College. The park is characterized by its expansive grassy areas divided by stately avenues of London Plane and horse chestnut trees, creating a leafy, serene environment. This green space offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle, inviting visitors to stroll along wide paths, relax under the shade of mature trees, or enjoy a picnic on the spacious lawns.Historic Jesus Green Lido
On the northern edge of the park lies the iconic Jesus Green Lido, an outdoor swimming pool opened in 1923. It is among the longest outdoor pools in Europe, stretching 100 yards (91 meters) in length but unusually narrow at 15 yards (14 meters) wide. The pool’s shallow depth varies from 1.2 meters at the ends to 2.5 meters in the center, where diving is permitted. Originally filled with river water, it now uses municipal water. The lido remains a cherished recreational facility, popular for both exercise and leisure swimming, especially in summer months.Recreational Facilities and Community Spirit
Jesus Green offers a variety of amenities including six free tennis courts (four tarmac and two grass courts open seasonally), a children’s railway-themed playground, free table tennis, and a skate park. There is also a barbecue area with stones for portable barbecues, a refreshments kiosk open year-round, and public toilets with disabled facilities. The Jesus Green Association is an active community group dedicated to preserving the park’s character and ensuring it remains a welcoming space for all.Riverside Charm and Wildlife
The park’s northern boundary along the River Cam provides a scenic riverside promenade with benches perfect for watching punts glide by or simply enjoying the tranquil water views. Nearby Jesus Lock marks a popular spot for rowing and boating activities, with a vibrant community of residential boats known as the Camboaters. The riverside setting enhances the park’s relaxing atmosphere and offers opportunities for peaceful walks and nature appreciation.Seasonal Events and Local Life
Jesus Green hosts community events such as the Cambridge Beer Festival each May, attracting visitors to its open spaces. Throughout the year, the park’s large lawns become a hub for picnics, casual sports, and social gatherings. Its central location makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike, blending natural beauty with the cultural life of Cambridge.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open 24/7 with no entrance fee, Jesus Green is accessible year-round. The terrain is flat and suitable for walking, cycling, and prams. Nearby amenities include parking on Park Street and multiple bus routes serving the area. The park’s combination of historic charm, recreational facilities, and riverside calm makes it a quintessential Cambridge experience for visitors seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, or a taste of local community life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Magdalene Bridge
0.5 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
0.6 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Bridge of Sighs
0.6 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Duke House
0.7 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Westminster College
0.7 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
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
0.8 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
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.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.9 km
Explore the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge – a fascinating journey through the planet's geological and biological history.
Arts Picturehouse
0.9 km
Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
0.9 km
Explore the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge – a treasure trove of global history and culture that captivates every visitor.
Vue Cinema Cambridge
1.0 km
Experience the joy of cinema at Vue Cinema Cambridge, where the latest movies meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Grafton Centre.
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.
The Backs
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of The Backs in Cambridge, a picturesque park offering stunning views of the iconic university colleges.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jesus College, University of Cambridge
0.2 km
Historic Cambridge college with stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and versatile modern facilities in a central city location.
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.
Scholars Punting
0.3 km
Experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a handcrafted punt with expert guides on the tranquil River Cam.
Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cambridge's waterways with Rutherford's Punting, offering guided tours and boat rentals for all visitors.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s historic charm on a serene, expertly guided punting tour along the iconic River Cam.
All Saints Church
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s Painted Church, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece adorned with exquisite hand-painted interiors and stunning stained glass artistry.
Christian Heritage
0.4 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.
Alexandra Gardens
0.4 km
A peaceful Cambridge haven with vibrant flowerbeds, unique playgrounds, and a welcoming community spirit for all ages.
Midsummer Common
0.4 km
Historic riverside meadow and cultural hub offering pastoral charm, scenic walks, and lively seasonal fairs in the heart of Cambridge.
Scudamore's Punting Company
0.4 km
Glide through Cambridge's historic waterways aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by knowledgeable locals or steering your own course.
Magdalene College
0.5 km
Discover Magdalene College, a serene riverside Cambridge gem blending medieval charm with academic heritage and stunning architecture.
St John's College
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover Cambridge’s charming Saturday market where local artisans showcase unique handmade crafts in a tranquil garden setting.
Museum of Cambridge
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Cambridgeshire’s everyday history in a charming 17th-century coaching inn just steps from the city centre.
Essential places to dine
La Mimosa
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality by the scenic River Cam at La Mimosa, Cambridge’s cherished family-run restaurant.
Restaurant Twenty Two
0.3 km
Michelin-starred contemporary British dining in a cozy Victorian townhouse, blending seasonal flavors with artistic precision in Cambridge.
The Riverbar Steakhouse and Grill
0.4 km
Upscale riverside steakhouse in Cambridge with expertly cooked steaks, scenic river views, and a lively rooftop cocktail terrace.
The Orator
0.4 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
Midsummer House
0.4 km
Cambridge’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant, offering inventive modern British cuisine in a charming riverside Victorian villa.
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.
Côte Cambridge
0.4 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Cambridge, with inclusive menus and a warm, romantic atmosphere.
Byron
0.4 km
Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
Gastrono-me
0.4 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
Raja Indian Restaurant Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with vibrant flavours and heartfelt hospitality in Cambridge’s King Street.
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.
Galleria restaurant cambridge
0.5 km
Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Efes Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean flavors in a cozy, family-run setting at Efes Restaurant, Cambridge’s beloved grill house.
The Old Spring
0.5 km
Welcoming gastropub near the River Cam, blending traditional charm with contemporary dining in spacious, light-filled rooms.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Typically British
0.4 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.
Bowns
0.5 km
Discover luxury and elegance at Bowns, Cambridge's premier designer clothing boutique, where haute couture meets personalized service.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.5 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Fridge
0.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
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.
Heffers Bookshop
0.6 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.
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.
Jigsaw
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
As Seen On TV
0.6 km
Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
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.
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.
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 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tivoli
0.3 km
A vibrant four-floor venue in Cambridge offering mini golf, shuffleboard, rooftop views, craft drinks, and casual dining for memorable social experiences.
Fort St George
0.4 km
Historic 16th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, local ales, and a warm, traditional 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.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.4 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Champion Of The Thames
0.4 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
Pickerel
0.5 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
Glitterbomb
0.5 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
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.
Ta Bouche
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
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.
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.
The Castle Inn
0.6 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.
The Burleigh Arms
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional charm with innovative Pan-Asian and British flavors in the heart of Cambridge.
Sir Isaac Newton
0.8 km
A friendly, dog‑friendly Castle Street pub named for Cambridge’s famed scientist — casual food, sports screens and a neighbourhood atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
MASH
0.6 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
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
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Tall Trees
1.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Tall Trees, a cocktail bar and live music venue in Cambridge, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
80s karaoke bar
1.6 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Calling
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
2.0 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.
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.
Cambridge Junction
2.5 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's nightlife at Cambridge Junction, a dynamic venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
Sing Dizzy
2.5 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
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
