Private | Cambridge Walk & Punt Tour by Alumni™ & King's Chapel

Cambridge, GB
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (45 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Learn about Cambridge history and anecdotes
  • inclusion
    Enjoy a chauffeured punting tour along the River Cam
  • inclusion
    Exceptional access to college gardens (WHEN ACCESSIBLE)
  • inclusion
    Enter King's College Chapel (WHEN YOU BOOK THIS OPTION)
  • inclusion
    Cambridge University Student or Graduate Guide
  • inclusion
    Gain an insight into student life at an elite university
  • inclusion
    Learn about the Oxbridge application process from a student

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Indoor access to structures unless booked in advance
  • exclusion
    Refreshments
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Please meet outside the main entrance to King’s College, on King’s Parade. Your guide will be wearing an item of royal blue clothing—such as a jacket, scarf, cap, beanie, or polo shirt—with the heraldic symbol of Alumni Tours on it.

Meeting point

King’s College, King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

Reach Mill Lane Scudamore's (postcode CB2 1RS) 3 hours after the start of your walking tour if you visit King’s College Chapel at the end. If you do not visit King’s College, arrive at Scudamore's 2 hours after the start of the walking tour.

Meeting point

Mill Ln, Cambridge CB2 1RS , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Cambridge Alumni Tours

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Meet your Alumni Guide outside King's College, on King's Parade. Your guide will be wearing an item of royal blue clothing—such as a jacket, scarf, cap, beanie, or polo shirt—with the heraldic symbol of Alumni Tours on it.

2

Corpus Clock

Learn about the fascinating story behind the design of this famous clock, noticing the details than an uninformed observer could easily miss!

Duration 5 minutes
3

Eagle

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Visit The Eagle pub—where history lives in every corner, from WWII airmen to the scientists of the nearby Cavendish Laboratory. With over 400 years of history, this pub holds countless remarkable stories.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Old dsCavendish Laboratory

Discover the place that put Cambridge on the map of the scientific world—a place that changed the history of science and the history of humanity as well.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Corpus Christi College

Listen to your student-guide describe the (somewhat dark!) history of Corpus Christi College, and feel free to ask any questions about the College or student life

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6
Queens' College

Hear about the reason why this is Queens' College rather than Queen's, and discover the myths that abound about the nearby Mathematical Bridge

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
7

The Backs

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Walk along by the famous College Backs while you learn about the history of King's College and how it is related to three different King Henrys.

Duration 10 minutes
8

Trinity College

Home of some of the most famous Alumni, hear a student's take on the rivalry between Trinity and St John's!

Duration 10 minutes
9

St. John's College

Admire the magnificent profile of St John's College, known for its grand architecture and notable alumni. A perfect blend of history and beauty along the River Cam.

Duration 10 minutes
10

Senate House

Get a student's perspective on the practice of the public announcement of grades, and get a glimpse into the particular traditions of the University of Cambridge while you hear about the graduation ceremony.

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
11
King's College Chapel

##IMPORTANT: this option must be selected as an upgrade of the walking tour ticket. Please, make sure that you select it. The visit of the chapel is self-guided at the end of the 90 minutes walking tour, and it is not supervised by our official guide. The duration of the visit is a basic approximation, but you can leave the chapel when you prefer.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
12

Scudamore's Mill Lane Punting Station

After experiencing the above (and more!) on the walking tour, take a short break before heading to Scudamore's Mill Lane punting station. Your punting tour will begin 2 hours after the start of the walking tour if you have not purchased access to King's College Chapel, or 3 hours after the start if you have purchased access to the Chapel.

13

Darwin College

Following the walking tour, you will be punted along the River Cam past 8 colleges and 9 bridges while your local student-guide explains famous Cambridge history and anecdotes about each landmark. Start your tour by gazing upon the Georgian and Victorian architecture of the college with strong connections to the family of Charles Darwin, one of the most famous alumni of the University of Cambridge, while hearing your guide relay some of the fascinating history of the college, university and city.

14
Mathematical Bridge

Sit back and appreciate your excellent view of the bridge that somehow manages to get a graceful arch from a series of straight timbers!

15

Gibbs' Building

Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of King's College and its Neoclassical neighbour, the Gibbs Building — one of the most famous colleges in the University of Cambridge — from a new perspective.

16
Clare College

Listen to your guide describe the second-oldest surviving college of the University, which was one of the first to accept women as undergraduate students.

17

Trinity College Bridge

Learn about the history of Cambridge’s most prestigious college, situated on one of the most beautiful bends of the River Cam, surrounded by some of the finest gardens in town—all while relaxing as your chauffeur expertly punts you along the river.

18

Bridge of Sighs

Relate to Queen Victoria as you look upon the bridge that was said to be one of her favourite spots in the city!

19

Magdalene College

Complete your tour of the College Backs with Magdalene, known as one of the most traditional of the colleges. Make the most of these last few minutes to ask your knowledgeable guide any final questions to satisfy your curiosity! After this stop, the punt will return to the punt station you left from.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    ##IMPORTANT: Please ensure you have booked the King’s College option in advance, as it cannot be purchased during the tour—only before or after the walk
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travellers who cannot complete a 90-minute walk
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The punting station can cater for wheelchair users providing they can communicate how best to assist them, or have a carer with them who can do so
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Cambridge Alumni Tours

What our experts say

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    Try to ask your guide about student life.
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    Visit the nearby Fitzwilliam Museum post-tour.
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    Grab coffee at Espresso Library nearby.
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    Check opening times for Trinity College Backs.
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    Punting tours have cushions for comfort.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the prestigious world of Cambridge University with the Private Cambridge Uni Alumni-Led Walking Tour & Punting Tour. Led by a knowledgeable student or graduate of the university, this 90-minute walking tour will take you through the most famous colleges and landmarks, providing you with an authentic insight into student life. As you explore the historical buildings and picturesque courtyards, you'll be captivated by the rich history and fascinating anecdotes that bring the university's illustrious past to life.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can anticipate a unique and immersive experience. The 45-minute punting tour offers a picturesque adventure, allowing you to admire the beauty of the famous Cambridge Colleges from the serene waters. With a professionally trained local guide, you'll glide past iconic spots like Darwin College and Magdalene College, while learning interesting facts and stories about each location. This combination of a walking tour and punting experience ensures a comprehensive exploration of Cambridge.

Who is this for?

The Private Cambridge Uni Alumni-Led Walking Tour & Punting Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone interested in gaining an insider's perspective on the world-renowned Cambridge University. Whether you're a fan of architecture, academia, or simply enjoy exploring new destinations, this tour caters to a wide range of interests. From aspiring students to lifelong learners, this experience is designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.

Why book this?

Book this tour to uncover the hidden treasures of Cambridge University through the eyes of a knowledgeable student or graduate guide. Gain exclusive access to Pembroke College and Trinity College backs (when open) and receive authentic insights into the daily life of a student. The combination of a walking tour and a punting experience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this historic institution. Unlock the secrets behind the architectural marvels, intriguing anecdotes, and captivating history that make Cambridge University truly exceptional.

Good to know

For those embarking on this tour, keep in mind that the total duration is approximately 150 minutes. Remember to meet your tour guide wearing a royal blue uniform at the entrance of King's College on King's Parade, allowing for a prompt start. Additionally, the punting tour will commence at Granta Moorings, where you will meet the cashier for your bookings. Come prepared to be enchanted by the beauty of Cambridge and have your camera ready to capture unforgettable moments.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Private Cambridge Uni Alumni-Led Walking Tour & Punting Tour have raved about the exceptional knowledge and enthusiasm of the student or graduate guides. Many have found the tour to be an enlightening and immersive experience, providing them with a deeper understanding of the university's history and culture. The punting tour is often described as a highlight, offering a peaceful and picturesque perspective of the famous Cambridge Colleges. Overall, participants have expressed high levels of satisfaction, making this tour a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and enriching encounter with Cambridge University.

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