Jesus Lock: Historic Gateway on the River Cam
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Jesus Lock, built in 1836, is the only lock on the River Cam in Cambridge, England. Situated north of Jesus Green, it regulates river flow and marks the transition between the middle and lower stretches of the river. Adjacent to the lock is the historic Jesus Green Lock Cottage and the iconic footbridge connecting Chesterton Road to Jesus Green, offering picturesque views and a tranquil riverside atmosphere.
A brief summary to Jesus Lock
- Cambridge, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning for peaceful surroundings and beautiful sunrise reflections on the water.
- Bring a camera to capture the historic lock, footbridge, and riverside vistas.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Jesus Green and the River Cam for a fuller experience.
- Observe the lock in operation to see boats navigating between river levels.
- Check for local events or community activities near Jesus Green and the lock area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Citi 1 or Citi 3 bus routes from Cambridge city center towards Chesterton Road; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening and weekend variations. From the bus stop, Jesus Lock is a short walk. Single fares cost around £2-£3.
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Walking
From Cambridge city center, a scenic 20-25 minute walk along the River Cam or through Jesus Green leads to Jesus Lock. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
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Car
Driving from central Cambridge to Jesus Lock takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available nearby, but spaces may be restricted during peak times. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour.
Jesus Lock 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 Lock
A Singular Feature on the River Cam
Jesus Lock stands as the sole lock on the River Cam within Cambridge, constructed in 1836 to regulate the water levels and facilitate navigation. This lock marks Lock No. 1 on the navigable portion of the river, serving as a critical control point between the middle and lower stretches of the Cam. Its presence ensures smooth passage for boats transitioning between different river levels, playing a vital role in Cambridge’s riverine transport and leisure activities.Historic Structures and Surroundings
Adjacent to the lock is the Jesus Green Lock Cottage, originally the lock-keeper's residence. This charming building, located on Jesus Green, has a storied history and has been repurposed over time, including use as student accommodation. The lock is also accompanied by a distinctive iron footbridge, built around 1892, which links Chesterton Road with Jesus Green. This bridge features metal trellis railings and a wooden walking surface, with ramps on either side to aid accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians.Natural and Recreational Ambiance
The lock sits amidst lush greenery on Jesus Green, a popular open space north of the city center. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the scenic Jesus Green Swimming Pool, a long outdoor lido, and the open grazing lands of Midsummer Common downstream. The stretch of river below Jesus Lock is favored for rowing and home to a vibrant community of residential boats known as the Camboaters. The peaceful sounds of flowing water and the verdant riverside create a serene environment ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and photography.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Jesus Lock and its footbridge are recognized as Grade II listed structures, reflecting their architectural and historical importance. The lock-keeper’s house, with its Victorian-era design, has been carefully preserved and recently renovated to maintain its heritage. The lock and its surroundings encapsulate a blend of functional engineering and picturesque charm, emblematic of Cambridge’s rich cultural landscape.Community and Connectivity
The lock and footbridge serve as a vital pedestrian link between the residential areas along Chesterton Road and the recreational spaces of Jesus Green. This connection fosters community interaction and provides easy access to riverside amenities. The lock also symbolizes the boundary where punting activities upstream give way to rowing and boathouse clusters downstream, underlining its role in the city’s aquatic traditions.Visitor Experience and Local Life
Visitors to Jesus Lock can immerse themselves in a unique blend of history, nature, and local life. The area is perfect for quiet reflection by the river, watching boats navigate the lock, or capturing iconic views of Cambridge’s waterways. The lock’s proximity to other attractions makes it a peaceful yet integral part of exploring the city’s scenic and historic heart.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jesus Lock
0.0 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
0.4 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Magdalene Bridge
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Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Bridge of Sighs
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A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Westminster College
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Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Castle Park
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Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Senate House Hill
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The Old Schools
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Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Duke House
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The Crescent
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Experience the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of The Crescent in Cambridge, a perfect blend of history and modern charm.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
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Explore the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge – a fascinating journey through the planet's geological and biological history.
The Backs
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Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of The Backs in Cambridge, a picturesque park offering stunning views of the iconic university colleges.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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Explore the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge – a treasure trove of global history and culture that captivates every visitor.
Arts Picturehouse
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Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Corpus Christi College
1.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Corpus Christi College, a vital part of Cambridge's academic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scholars Punting
0.2 km
Experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a handcrafted punt with expert guides on the tranquil River Cam.
Alexandra Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful Cambridge haven with vibrant flowerbeds, unique playgrounds, and a welcoming community spirit for all ages.
Jesus Green
0.2 km
Historic riverside park in Cambridge offering open green spaces, tennis courts, a children’s playground, and one of Europe’s longest outdoor pools.
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.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s historic charm on a serene, expertly guided punting tour along the iconic River Cam.
Magdalene College
0.4 km
Discover Magdalene College, a serene riverside Cambridge gem blending medieval charm with academic heritage and stunning architecture.
Jesus College, University of Cambridge
0.4 km
Historic Cambridge college with stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and versatile modern facilities in a central city location.
Castle Mound
0.4 km
Historic Norman motte offering panoramic views over Cambridge’s skyline and countryside from the city’s highest point.
Scudamore's Punting Company
0.5 km
Glide through Cambridge's historic waterways aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by knowledgeable locals or steering your own course.
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.
Kettle's Yard
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Discover Kettle's Yard, where modern art meets historic charm in a serene Cambridge home and gallery.
Christian Heritage
0.5 km
Discover Cambridge’s iconic 12th-century Round Church, a rare Norman circular landmark rich in history, architecture, and Christian heritage.
The Round Church
0.5 km
Explore Cambridge’s medieval marvel: a rare 12th-century round church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, rich in history and Norman architecture.
All Saints Church
0.5 km
Discover Cambridge’s Painted Church, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece adorned with exquisite hand-painted interiors and stunning stained glass artistry.
St John's College
0.6 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.
Essential places to dine
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.
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
0.3 km
Upscale riverside steakhouse in Cambridge with expertly cooked steaks, scenic river views, and a lively rooftop cocktail terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
Côte Cambridge
0.5 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Cambridge, with inclusive menus and a warm, romantic atmosphere.
The Orator
0.5 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
Galleria restaurant cambridge
0.5 km
Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
The Old Spring
0.5 km
Welcoming gastropub near the River Cam, blending traditional charm with contemporary dining in spacious, light-filled rooms.
Gastrono-me
0.5 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
Byron
0.5 km
Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
Midsummer House
0.5 km
Cambridge’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant, offering inventive modern British cuisine in a charming riverside Victorian villa.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
The Architect
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Cambridge’s vibrant gastropub serving classic fish & chips and pies with a modern, inclusive twist in a welcoming setting.
The Punter
0.6 km
A cozy gastropub blending classic British fare with quirky charm and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
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
Typically British
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Discover authentic British and Cambridge souvenirs in a welcoming shop full of heritage and charm at 29 Bridge Street.
Bowns
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Discover luxury and elegance at Bowns, Cambridge's premier designer clothing boutique, where haute couture meets personalized service.
Fridge
0.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
Victoria Store
0.5 km
Experience the convenience of Victoria Store in Cambridge, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and local goods.
Lilac Rose
0.6 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories in a charming independent boutique in the heart of Cambridge.
Bring It Back Cambridge
0.7 km
Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
Heffers Bookshop
0.7 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.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.7 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Jigsaw
0.7 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
Jacks on Trinity
0.7 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.7 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
Fantasia
0.8 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
0.8 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
As Seen On TV
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Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tivoli
0.2 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
0.5 km
Historic 16th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, local ales, and a warm, traditional atmosphere.
Pickerel
0.5 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
The Castle Inn
0.5 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.
Modern Jazz
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover Cambridge's underground speakeasy: creative cocktails, live tunes, and intimate vibes in historic vaults on Jesus Lane.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.6 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Sir Isaac Newton
0.6 km
A friendly, dog‑friendly Castle Street pub named for Cambridge’s famed scientist — casual food, sports screens and a neighbourhood atmosphere.
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.
Glitterbomb
0.7 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
0.7 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
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Step into 2648 Cambridge for expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, vinyl-filled setting at the heart of Trinity Street’s vibrant nightlife.
Ta Bouche
0.7 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
La Raza
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Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
The Burleigh Arms
1.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional charm with innovative Pan-Asian and British flavors in the heart of Cambridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Vinyl Cambridge
0.7 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
0.7 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
High Five
0.9 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
0.9 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
0.9 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.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.2 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Tall Trees
1.7 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
1.8 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Calling
2.1 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
2.1 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
2.5 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Cambridge Junction
2.7 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's nightlife at Cambridge Junction, a dynamic venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
