The Backs: Cambridge's Riverside Heritage and Scenic Splendor
Discover The Backs, Cambridge’s iconic riverside stretch where historic colleges meet tranquil gardens and the scenic River Cam.
The Backs is a picturesque stretch along the River Cam in Cambridge, England, where several historic University of Cambridge colleges back onto the river. Known for its stunning views of iconic college architecture, manicured gardens, and tranquil river scenes, The Backs is a celebrated landscape offering a unique glimpse into Cambridge’s academic heritage and natural beauty. It is best experienced by punting on the river or walking along nearby Queen’s Road.
A brief summary to The Backs
- Queen's Rd, Cambridge, CB3 9AH, GB
- +441223457000
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Experience The Backs by punting on the River Cam for the best views of the colleges and their gardens.
- Visit in spring to enjoy vibrant displays of daffodils and crocuses along the riverbanks.
- Walk along Queen’s Road for accessible views of The Backs, but note the riverbanks are private college grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture iconic sights like King’s College Chapel and the Mathematical Bridge.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Citi 1 or 7 bus routes to the Queen’s Road stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from Cambridge city center. Buses run every 10-20 minutes, and a single fare costs around £2.50. Note that Queen’s Road is a busy thoroughfare, so be cautious when walking to The Backs.
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Walking
From Cambridge city center, walk approximately 20 minutes along Magdalene Street and Queen’s Road to reach The Backs. The route is mostly flat but includes busy roads and limited riverside access, so wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of traffic.
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Punting
Hire a punt from operators near Magdalene or Silver Street bridges for a 45-minute guided tour along The Backs. Prices range from £20 to £30 per person. Punting is seasonal and weather-dependent, requiring moderate mobility to board the boat.
The Backs location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Backs
Historic Roots and Academic Legacy
The Backs is a distinctive riverside area in Cambridge where the grounds of several renowned University of Cambridge colleges extend to the banks of the River Cam. The name "The Backs" derives from the fact that these colleges’ rear gardens and buildings face the river, providing a private and scenic backdrop distinct from the bustling city streets. The colleges lining The Backs include Magdalene, St John’s, Trinity, Trinity Hall, Clare, King’s, and Queens’ College, with Darwin and Jesus Colleges nearby. This area has been shaped over centuries, with origins dating back to the 13th century, evolving from pasture and orchards into landscaped grounds featuring avenues of trees and iconic bridges.Scenic Beauty and Architectural Highlights
The Backs is famed for its breathtaking views of Gothic and classical college architecture juxtaposed with lush greenery and the gently flowing River Cam. Notable features include the majestic King’s College Chapel, the elegant Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College, and the Bridge of Sighs at St John’s College. The grounds are meticulously maintained, with manicured lawns and tree-lined avenues that change with the seasons—from vibrant spring daffodils and crocuses to the warm hues of autumn. The landscape offers a tranquil escape within the city, celebrated as one of England’s top scenic views.Experiencing The Backs: Walking and Punting
While The Backs can be admired on foot from Queen’s Road, the riverbank itself is private college property, limiting direct access. The quintessential way to experience The Backs is by punting—a traditional flat-bottomed boat propelled along the River Cam. Punting allows visitors to glide past the colleges’ riverside gardens, historic bridges, and secluded corners not visible from the road. Licensed punt operators offer guided trips lasting around 45 minutes, providing a serene and immersive perspective of this iconic Cambridge landscape.Natural Environment and Conservation Efforts
The Backs is not only a cultural landmark but also a green oasis within Cambridge. The colleges and city council collaborate on conservation projects, including the planting of avenues, maintenance of wilderness areas, and creation of wildlife corridors to support local biodiversity. This blend of natural and built environments enhances the area’s peaceful ambience, making it a cherished spot for both relaxation and reflection.Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Backs symbolizes the rich academic tradition and historical depth of Cambridge University. The serene river setting behind the colleges reflects centuries of scholarly pursuit and architectural grandeur. The views from The Backs have inspired artists, writers, and visitors alike, encapsulating the essence of Cambridge’s intellectual and cultural heritage.Seasonal Highlights and Visitor Experience
The Backs offers year-round appeal, with each season bringing distinct visual and sensory experiences. Spring bursts with colorful blooms, summer invites leisurely punts and riverside relaxation, autumn paints the trees in fiery tones, and winter’s quietude adds a contemplative mood. Although access along the riverbank is restricted, the combination of riverside walks and punting tours ensures visitors can fully appreciate this unique Cambridge treasure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
Bridge of Sighs
0.5 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
0.7 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Westminster College
0.7 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Cambridge Food Tour
0.8 km
Explore Cambridge's culinary scene on a guided food tour, savoring local flavors and discovering hidden gems in this historic city.
Lammas Land
0.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere of Lammas Land, Cambridge's beloved park along the River Cam.
All Saints Church
0.8 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.
The Rush
0.8 km
Explore The Rush, a tranquil nature reserve in Cambridge, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife create an idyllic escape from city life.
Christ's Pieces
0.9 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.
Castle Mound
0.9 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Castle Mound, a must-visit historic site in the heart of Cambridge.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
0.9 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.9 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge from the water with Lets Go Punting, offering serene boat tours past historic landmarks and lush landscapes.
Duke House
0.9 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
St Mark's Church
0.9 km
Explore the serene St Mark's Church in Newnham, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and tranquility in the heart of the countryside.
Unmissable attractions to see
University of Cambridge
0.1 km
Explore the timeless grandeur and scholarly spirit of the University of Cambridge, a world-renowned seat of learning since 1209.
Clare College
0.2 km
Discover Clare College’s timeless charm with its historic bridge, lush gardens, and rich academic heritage in the heart of Cambridge.
Garret Hostel Bridge
0.2 km
A sleek, historic footbridge in Cambridge offering stunning river views and a quirky local nickname.
Trinity Hall Cambridge
0.2 km
One of Cambridge’s oldest colleges, Trinity Hall offers historic charm, riverside tranquility, and a welcoming academic community in the city centre.
King's College Chapel
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking Gothic grandeur and rich history of King's College Chapel, home to the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling and renowned choir.
Mathematical Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the iconic wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College, a marvel of 18th-century engineering and enduring Cambridge legend.
King's College, Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Gothic splendor and rich academic heritage of King's College, home to the iconic chapel and world-famous choir in Cambridge.
Cambridge Alumni Tours
0.3 km
Uncover the rich history and architectural beauty of Cambridge with informative guided alumni tours through this iconic university city.
Queens' College
0.3 km
Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
The Corpus Clock
0.3 km
A mesmerizing gold-plated clock with a mechanical grasshopper that devours time, blending art and science in the heart of Cambridge.
King's College Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Gateway to King's College's rich heritage, offering souvenirs and visitor services in a historic Cambridge setting.
University of Cambridge Museums Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced gifts inspired by Cambridge’s museums, supporting heritage and culture in the heart of the city.
St Catharine's College
0.3 km
Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Remember Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s timeless charm and hidden stories on engaging walking tours led by passionate local guides.
Map of Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of St Mary's Passage, a timeless lane at Cambridge’s heart.
Essential places to dine
The Cambridge Chop House
0.3 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
Bread & Meat
0.4 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Smokeworks
0.4 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Aromi
0.4 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Pint Shop
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
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.
Trinity Restaurant
0.5 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.5 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.5 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Market House
0.5 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
Garden House
0.5 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Granta
0.5 km
A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.5 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
Sala Thong
0.6 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and generous portions in a cozy Cambridge setting.
MillWorks
0.6 km
Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nomads
0.3 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.3 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.
Parade
0.3 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Greaterskies
0.3 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Samuel Smiley
0.4 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Podarok
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Giles & Co
0.4 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Ark
0.4 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.4 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Jacks on Trinity
0.4 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.4 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
Fantasia
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Anchor
0.3 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
Eagle
0.3 km
Historic Cambridge pub where DNA’s double helix was announced, blending scientific legacy with classic British charm and lively atmosphere.
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.
The Mill
0.4 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
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.
2648 Cambridge
0.4 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
0.5 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Ta Bouche
0.5 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Town and Gown
0.5 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
The Iris Bar
0.5 km
Modern cafe buzz in historic Newnham College: exceptional coffee, fresh bakes, and student energy amid Cambridge's academic gardens.
Glitterbomb
0.6 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
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.
Modern Jazz
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover Cambridge's underground speakeasy: creative cocktails, live tunes, and intimate vibes in historic vaults on Jesus Lane.
Pickerel
0.7 km
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
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
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
