Newnham House, Cambridge – Historic College Residence with Serene Gardens
Historic Newnham House blends serene gardens and classic Queen Anne architecture with modern student living just minutes from Cambridge city centre.
Newnham House, part of Newnham College in Cambridge, offers a tranquil blend of historic Queen Anne architecture and modern student accommodation. Nestled on Newnham Road, it features elegant gardens, comfortable single study-bedrooms, and communal facilities, providing a peaceful academic retreat just minutes from Cambridge city centre.
A brief summary to Newnham House
- Newnham Rd, Cambridge, CB3 9EY, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book accommodation early if planning a stay during the summer term, as availability can be limited due to student occupancy.
- Explore the college gardens and relax in deckchairs on the lawn to fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.
- Visit the Iris Café for a selection of warm and cold snacks and barista-style beverages in a charming setting.
- Check the college’s visitor policy before arrival, especially if planning to visit during academic terms.
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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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 1 or 7 from Cambridge city centre to Newnham Road; journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with tickets costing around £2-£3 one way.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cambridge city centre to Newnham House takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7-£12. Taxis are readily available but may have limited availability late at night.
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Walking
Walking from Cambridge city centre to Newnham House is a pleasant 15 to 20-minute stroll through scenic streets and along the River Cam. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
Newnham House 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 Newnham House
Architectural Elegance and Historic Charm
Newnham House is situated within Newnham College, renowned for its distinctive Queen Anne style buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The architecture combines classic Victorian elements with touches of Edwardian grace, creating a visually striking and historically rich environment. The buildings feature large sash windows, high ceilings, and oak floors, particularly in newer additions like the Dorothy Garrod Building, which offers modern ensuite rooms with balconies and window seats.A Serene Academic Sanctuary
Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, Newnham House provides a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city centre just a short walk away. The college grounds include spacious lawns with deckchairs, colorful flower borders, and a variety of plants that create a calming green space for study and relaxation. This tranquil setting is ideal for students and visitors alike, offering a quiet retreat amidst Cambridge’s historic academic landscape.Comfortable and Secure Accommodation
Newnham House offers single study-bedrooms primarily for undergraduate and postgraduate students, with a focus on security and comfort. Rooms are grouped into households with shared kitchens and bathrooms on each floor, except in the Dorothy Garrod Building where rooms are ensuite. Kitchens are equipped with essential appliances, allowing residents to prepare meals at their convenience. The accommodation includes safety-tested electrical equipment and secure card access to kitchens, ensuring a safe and practical living environment.Community and Facilities
Residents enjoy access to communal spaces such as the Buttery and Iris Café, where they can socialize and dine. The college also provides Wi-Fi, network phones for free university calls, and various amenities to support student life. For visitors, Newnham College offers bed and breakfast accommodation with en suite rooms, blending modern comfort with historic charm. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by helpful staff and a 24-hour front desk.Location and Accessibility
Located on Newnham Road, Newnham House is approximately 15 minutes’ walk from Cambridge city centre, close to the famous College "backs" and the River Cam. This prime location offers easy access to city attractions, shopping, and dining, while maintaining a quiet, village-like feel. The area is well served by public transport and provides a good balance between urban convenience and peaceful surroundings.Legacy and Notable Residents
Newnham College has a rich history as one of Cambridge’s pioneering women’s colleges. Its buildings have housed notable figures such as Sylvia Plath and Germaine Greer. The college maintains a relaxed visitor policy, especially in the summer term, inviting guests to experience its unique blend of academic heritage, architectural beauty, and natural tranquility.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Senate House Hill
0.8 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
1.1 km
Discover the charm and history of the Kitchen Bridge at St. John's College, a picturesque landmark in the heart of Cambridge, England.
Parker's Piece
1.1 km
Explore Parker's Piece, Cambridge's iconic park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Reality Checkpoint
1.1 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Bridge of Sighs
1.1 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
St. Paul's Church
1.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and community spirit of St. Paul's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Cambridge, perfect for reflection and connection.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
1.1 km
Explore the enchanting Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a serene escape showcasing 8,000+ plant species amidst stunning landscapes in the heart of Cambridge.
The Round Church
1.2 km
Explore The Round Church, a captivating medieval Anglican church in Cambridge, known for its unique architecture and rich historical significance.
Grantchester Road
1.2 km
Discover the picturesque charm of Grantchester Road in Cambridge, where nature meets history and community spirit thrives.
Christian Heritage
1.2 km
Explore the Round Church in Cambridge, a stunning Norman architectural gem and a key site of Christian heritage, rich in history and spirituality.
Christ's Pieces
1.2 km
Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of Christ's Pieces, a picturesque park in the heart of Cambridge, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
Duke House
1.2 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
1.3 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
All Saints Church
1.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Granta Moorings
0.1 km
Discover Cambridge’s iconic river with Granta Moorings—expertly guided punts and self-rental canoes from the best mooring on the College Backs.
Lammas Land
0.2 km
Historic riverside commons where medieval grazing rights meet modern recreation.
Sheep's Green
0.2 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Cambridge blending historic grazing meadows, rich wildlife, and a unique outdoor river pool.
Empire Grill
0.2 km
Cambridge’s beloved late-night takeaway spot, famed for huge portions and unbeatable burger sets, open daily from 5 PM to midnight.
Museum of Classical Archaeology
0.3 km
Explore one of the world’s largest collections of ancient Greek and Roman plaster casts in a serene Cambridge museum.
The Rush
0.3 km
Discover The Rush at Sheep's Green, a peaceful riverside nature reserve near Cambridge city centre, perfect for relaxation and wildlife watching.
Queens' College
0.3 km
Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
Coe Fen
0.4 km
Tranquil fenland green space beside the River Cam, blending natural beauty with historic Cambridge charm.
Newnham College, University of Cambridge
0.4 km
Historic women’s college with stunning Victorian architecture and tranquil gardens, a serene Cambridge retreat rich in heritage.
The Red Bull Newnham
0.4 km
A friendly Newnham pub by the River Cam serving pizzas, changing ales and a sunny waterside terrace for warm days.
Mathematical Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the iconic wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College, a marvel of 18th-century engineering and enduring Cambridge legend.
St Mark's Church
0.4 km
Historic St Mark's Church in Newnham offers a welcoming spiritual sanctuary and vibrant community hub on Barton Road, Cambridge.
Little St Mary's Church
0.4 km
Discover centuries of history and serene beauty at Little St Mary's, Cambridge’s historic parish church beside Peterhouse.
Cambridge Food Tour
0.5 km
Explore Cambridge’s culinary secrets on a guided walking tour featuring hidden gems, local flavors, and rich food heritage.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.5 km
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
Essential places to dine
Rice Boat Cambridge
0.1 km
Experience authentic Kerala cuisine with fragrant spices and freshly made breads in a warm, contemporary setting at Rice Boat Cambridge.
Sala Thong
0.1 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and generous portions in a cozy Cambridge setting.
MillWorks
0.1 km
Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Granta
0.1 km
A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Garden House
0.3 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Browns Cambridge
0.6 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.7 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
Smokeworks
0.7 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Bread & Meat
0.7 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Aromi
0.7 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Pint Shop
0.7 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.8 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
0.8 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Market House
0.9 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
Co-op Food - Grantchester Street - Newnham
0.3 km
Cambridge's Newnham convenience cornerstone: fresh local bites, quick services, and co-op community spirit since 1912.
Greaterskies
0.4 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Samuel Smiley
0.5 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Nomads
0.7 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Podarok
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.7 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.
Ark
0.8 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Parade
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Oliver Bonas
0.8 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.8 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Menkind Cambridge
0.9 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Giles & Co
0.9 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Sugarmark!
0.9 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.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.9 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 Iris Bar
0.3 km
Modern cafe buzz in historic Newnham College: exceptional coffee, fresh bakes, and student energy amid Cambridge's academic gardens.
The Mill
0.4 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
The Anchor
0.4 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
Tall Trees
0.7 km
Eclectic basement bar in Cambridge with live music six nights a week, plant-based menu, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Eagle
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Bar -OH
0.8 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
0.8 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
Panton Arms
0.9 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty homemade food, quality ales, live music, and a friendly dog-welcoming atmosphere in a vibrant city setting.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.9 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Castle Bar
0.9 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
The Cambridge Tap
0.9 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
The LAB
0.9 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
La Raza
0.9 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
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.
MASH
1.0 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
1.0 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.
80s karaoke bar
1.1 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Calling
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
The Tram Depot
1.5 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Tram Depot in Cambridge, where great food, local ales, and music nights create unforgettable experiences.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.5 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
1.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Fort St George
1.8 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Sing Dizzy
1.9 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.
EBC Shop
2.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
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
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
19.0 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
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
