The Almost Complete History of the Old Town of Cambridge

Discover the History of Cambridge’s Old Town for $29.16

The Almost Complete History of the Old Town of Cambridge is a 2-hour guided walking tour priced at $29.16 per person. This tour offers an engaging journey through Cambridge’s historic streets and key landmarks without entering any buildings, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and storytelling. Starting at Guildhall on Market Hill, the tour covers 2000 years of history from Anglo-Saxons to Vikings, Normans, and medieval townspeople.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its emphasis on local stories, humorous facts, and a 500-year-old map. The guides, who are local residents with lived experience of issues like homelessness, bring a genuine perspective that enhances the storytelling. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is designed for those who want an informative, light-paced, outdoor experience that captures the spirit of Cambridge’s development over centuries.

While no inside visits are included, the outside-only focus allows for an easy, relaxed pace. The tour’s small group size, capped at 15 travelers, ensures plenty of opportunity to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention. The group discounts make it accessible for larger parties or groups, and the mobile ticket system simplifies booking and participation.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $29.16 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours.
• Location and Starting Point: Begins at Guildhall, Market Hill, in Cambridge, England.
• What’s Included: A 500-year-old map and informative, humorous commentary from local guides.
• No Inside Access: The tour focuses on outdoor sights; no entry fees or building visits are included.
• History Covered: From Anglo-Saxons and Vikings to Normans, kings, queens, and medieval townspeople.
• Highlights: Stops include Cambridge Market Square, Great St Mary’s Church, Sidney Sussex College, St. Clement’s Church, Jesus Green, Magdalene Bridge, St. John’s College, Cambridge University Press Bookshop, and St Bene’t’s Church.

Exploring Cambridge’s Historic Market Square

The tour kicks off at Cambridge Market Square, where the guides explain how the town’s market origins shaped its development. You learn why medieval market layout was so crucial to Cambridge’s growth and how the market has remained a central feature throughout centuries. This first stop provides a solid foundation for understanding how the town’s trade and commerce influenced its architecture and urban design.

The Significance of Great St Mary’s Church

Next, the walk takes you to Great St Mary’s Church, known as the University Church today. Outside, the guides share the story of its origins as St Mary’s-by-the-market and discuss the arrival of scholars in Cambridge. The church’s exterior offers a glimpse into medieval religious life and the university’s historical ties to the town.

Sidney Sussex College and Monastic History

While the tour does not enter Sidney Sussex College, the outside view reveals its monastic roots. The guides narrate stories about monks, monasteries, and the Reformation, touching on events like regicide and other notable incidents. The college’s history connects to broader themes of religious change and academic evolution in Cambridge.

Discovering the Earliest Church at St. Clement’s

Standing outside St. Clement’s Church, the group learns that it is the site of the earliest church in Cambridge. The church is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, adding a unique maritime element to Cambridge’s religious history. This stop highlights how early Christian communities shaped the town’s spiritual landscape.

Jesus Green and the Old Town Borders

A longer pause at Jesus Green provides a chance for rest and reflection. Here, the guides discuss common land, enclosure, and how Fairs and the arrival of the East Angles influenced the borders of the old town. The green space also marks an area where fairs once took place, illustrating how market activities outside the town contributed to growth.

The Origin of the Name “Cambridge” at Magdalene Bridge

Crossing Magdalene Bridge, the tour explores the story behind the name Cambridge itself. The guides mention the Vikings and the historical significance of this area, revealing how settlement names evolved over centuries. The bridge acts as a symbolic crossing point between old and new in the town’s history.

The Norman Influence and the Round Church

At St. John’s College, the focus shifts to Norman arrival and the construction of the Round Church. The guides share stories about Cambridge joining the Kingdom of England and the medieval public hospital. Although the college and church are not visited inside, the exterior views convey medieval architecture and historical urban development.

The Role of the Cambridge University Press Bookshop

The Cambridge University Press Bookshop marks a key point where the guides discuss the history of printing and academic publishing in the city. They talk about Dr. Caius’s strange requests and the Senate House, providing insights into Cambridge’s intellectual history. Fun facts about King’s College Chapel add a lighter touch to this segment.

Oldest Building at St Bene’t’s Church

The tour concludes at St Bene’t’s Church, the oldest building in Cambridge. The guides explain its Angles origins, its connection to Corpus Christi College, and share stories about the Eagle pub. This stop encapsulates the legacy of early Cambridge and marks the end of the outdoor exploration, rejoining the modern city.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour begins at Guildhall, Market Hill, and ends back at the same point. It is designed for most travelers and has a maximum group size of 15, ensuring a comfortable experience. The tour is outdoor-only, with no inside visits, making it suitable for those preferring walking and outside sightseeing. Service animals are allowed, and the mobile ticket system simplifies access.

Why Choose This Tour?

What sets this tour apart is its focus on storytelling, humor, and local insight. The guides deliver factual history alongside fun anecdotes, making the experience engaging and accessible. The inclusion of a 500-year-old map enhances the understanding of Cambridge’s urban evolution.

While it does not include entry to colleges or churches, the outdoor focus and rich commentary compensate with a comprehensive view of the town’s historical fabric. The tour’s affordable price and small group size create a relaxed, educational atmosphere ideal for residents and visitors alike.

Final Thoughts on the Old Town Cambridge Tour

This guided walking tour offers an immersive and factual overview of Cambridge’s 2,000-year history, told through stories, humorous facts, and historical landmarks. Its outdoor format makes it flexible and accessible, and the local guides’ storytelling skills are particularly praised.

It is especially suited for those who enjoy history, architecture, and storytelling in an outdoor setting. The absence of inside visits might be a drawback for visitors seeking interior access, but the outside views and commentary compensate well. For $29.16, this tour provides a solid, engaging introduction to Cambridge’s historic core.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s outdoor nature and storytelling format make it suitable for most ages, though very young children should be comfortable walking and listening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance guarantees your spot, especially since group sizes are limited to 15.

Are inside visits included?
No, all visits are outside only, so no entry fees or inside access are part of this tour.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around the old town’s streets; accessibility details are not specified but it is mainly on level, outdoor paths.

What languages are guides available in?
The information does not specify, but it is likely conducted in English.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.

How long does the tour take?
Approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
At Guildhall, Market Hill in Cambridge.

Is there any food or drink included?
No, the tour does not include food or drink, but there are stops for rest and reflection.

Is this tour good for locals?
Absolutely, locals will appreciate the stories and historical insights that might be less known to outsiders, especially given the guides’ personal connection to the city.