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The Backs — Attraction in Cambridge

Name
The Backs
Description
The Backs is a picturesque area to the east of Queen's Road in the city of Cambridge, England, where several colleges of the University of Cambridge back on to the River Cam with their grounds covering both banks of the river.
Nearby attractions
University of Cambridge
The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
King's College Chapel
King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST, United Kingdom
Mathematical Bridge
Queens' College, Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9ET, United Kingdom
Xu Zhimo Memorial Stone
King’s College Bridge, River Cam, Cambridge CB2 1TL, United Kingdom
The Corpus Clock
58 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RH, United Kingdom
Trinity College
Cambridge CB2 1TQ, United Kingdom
University Museum Of Zoology
David Attenborough Building, Downing Pl, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, United Kingdom
Newton's Apple Tree
Porters Lodge, Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TQ, United Kingdom
The Arts Theatre Cambridge
6 St Edward's Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ, United Kingdom
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB, United Kingdom
Nearby restaurants
Anchor Cambridge
Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9EL
The Cambridge Chop House
1 King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ, United Kingdom
Eagle
Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Jack's Gelato
6 Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Bread & Meat
4 Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Bath House
3 Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Pho Cambridge
1 Wheeler St, Cambridge CB2 3QB, United Kingdom
Dishoom Permit Room Cambridge
17 Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TB, United Kingdom
Smokeworks
2 Free School Ln, Cambridge CB2 3QA, United Kingdom
Zizzi - Cambridge, Bene't Street
16 Bene't St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Nearby local services
Cambridge Market Square
Market Hill, Cambridge CB1 0SS, United Kingdom
Great St Mary's
The University Church, Senate House Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PQ, United Kingdom
The Cambridge Gift Shop
18 Rose Cres, Cambridge CB2 3LL, United Kingdom
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3DZ, United Kingdom
St John's College Chapel
11 St Johns St, Cambridge CB2 1TW, United Kingdom
Museum of Cambridge
2-3 Castle St, Cambridge CB3 0AQ, United Kingdom
Cambridge Punting
Landing Stage, Thompsons Ln, Cambridge CB5 8AG, United Kingdom
Nearby hotels
Harvey Court Building B&B
5 West Rd, Cambridge CB3 9DS, United Kingdom
Graduate by Hilton Cambridge
Granta Pl, Mill Ln, Cambridge CB2 1RT, United Kingdom
Garden Hostel
West Rd, Cambridge CB3 9DW, United Kingdom
University Arms Hotel, Autograph Collection
52-42 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD, United Kingdom
Westminster College
Westminster College, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0AA, United Kingdom
The Regent Aparthotel
41 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AB, United Kingdom
Cambridge City Apartment - Book Direct with Paymán Club
7 Emmanuel Rd, Cambridge CB1 1JW, United Kingdom
Related posts
🚣 Ultimate Cambridge Punting Guide: Tips & History
Keywords
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The Backs things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
The Backs
United KingdomEnglandCambridgeThe Backs

Basic Info

The Backs

Queen's Rd, Cambridge CB3 9AH, United Kingdom
4.6(407)
Open until 12:00 AM
Save
spot

Ratings & Description

Info

The Backs is a picturesque area to the east of Queen's Road in the city of Cambridge, England, where several colleges of the University of Cambridge back on to the River Cam with their grounds covering both banks of the river.

Outdoor
Scenic
Relaxation
Family friendly
attractions: University of Cambridge, King's College Chapel, Mathematical Bridge, Xu Zhimo Memorial Stone, The Corpus Clock, Trinity College, University Museum Of Zoology, Newton's Apple Tree, The Arts Theatre Cambridge, The Fitzwilliam Museum, restaurants: Anchor Cambridge, The Cambridge Chop House, Eagle, Jack's Gelato, Bread & Meat, Bath House, Pho Cambridge, Dishoom Permit Room Cambridge, Smokeworks, Zizzi - Cambridge, Bene't Street, local businesses: Cambridge Market Square, Great St Mary's, The Cambridge Gift Shop, Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, St John's College Chapel, Museum of Cambridge, Cambridge Punting
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Phone
+44 1223 457000
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WedOpen 24 hoursOpen

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Reviews

Live events

Create personal and professional portraits
Create personal and professional portraits
Wed, Jan 14 • 10:00 AM
Cambridgeshire, CB2 1SJ, United Kingdom
View details
Relive Cambridge Universitys Ghost Stories
Relive Cambridge Universitys Ghost Stories
Wed, Jan 14 • 5:00 PM
Cambridgeshire, CB2, United Kingdom
View details
Candlelight: Vivaldis Four Seasons
Candlelight: Vivaldis Four Seasons
Fri, Jan 16 • 5:30 PM
Storey's Way, Cambridge, CB3 0DG
View details

Nearby attractions of The Backs

University of Cambridge

King's College Chapel

Mathematical Bridge

Xu Zhimo Memorial Stone

The Corpus Clock

Trinity College

University Museum Of Zoology

Newton's Apple Tree

The Arts Theatre Cambridge

The Fitzwilliam Museum

University of Cambridge

University of Cambridge

4.6

(1.5K)

Open 24 hours
Click for details
King's College Chapel

King's College Chapel

4.7

(1.1K)

Closed
Click for details
Mathematical Bridge

Mathematical Bridge

4.5

(628)

Open 24 hours
Click for details
Xu Zhimo Memorial Stone

Xu Zhimo Memorial Stone

4.3

(20)

Open 24 hours
Click for details

Nearby restaurants of The Backs

Anchor Cambridge

The Cambridge Chop House

Eagle

Jack's Gelato

Bread & Meat

Bath House

Pho Cambridge

Dishoom Permit Room Cambridge

Smokeworks

Zizzi - Cambridge, Bene't Street

Anchor Cambridge

Anchor Cambridge

4.1

(1.1K)

Closed
Click for details
The Cambridge Chop House

The Cambridge Chop House

4.4

(1.0K)

$$

Closed
Click for details
Eagle

Eagle

4.4

(3.1K)

$$

Closed
Click for details
Jack's Gelato

Jack's Gelato

4.7

(790)

$$

Click for details

Nearby local services of The Backs

Cambridge Market Square

Great St Mary's

The Cambridge Gift Shop

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

St John's College Chapel

Museum of Cambridge

Cambridge Punting

Cambridge Market Square

Cambridge Market Square

4.5

(1.8K)

Click for details
Great St Mary's

Great St Mary's

4.6

(766)

Click for details
The Cambridge Gift Shop

The Cambridge Gift Shop

4.5

(48)

Click for details
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

4.7

(227)

Click for details
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Reviews of The Backs

4.6
(407)
avatar
5.0
3y

The Backs Park in Cambridge is a scenic and iconic green space renowned for its picturesque views along the River Cam. Situated behind several historic colleges, including King's College and Trinity College, The Backs offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

The park provides a delightful walking route with well-maintained pathways, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the riverbanks, lush gardens, and iconic bridges. Punting is a popular activity, allowing people to experience the charm of Cambridge from the water while passing beneath historic bridges like the Mathematical Bridge.

The Backs is not just a natural oasis but also a historical and architectural treasure. The stunning college buildings, manicured lawns, and ancient trees contribute to the park's unique charm. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Cambridge's rich academic and cultural heritage.

During spring, the riverside comes alive with vibrant flowers, creating a colorful backdrop for leisurely strolls. The tranquility of The Backs makes it an ideal place for picnics, reading, or simply soaking in the ambiance.

Overall, The Backs Park in Cambridge provides a harmonious blend of nature and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful escape in this historic university city. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone looking for a serene retreat, The Backs offers a...

   Read more
avatar
2.0
3y

The Backs: Hire a punt on the River Cam, or you may be able to walk along some college grounds (although now, most college gates at the back are shut You now need a pass - shame on you University exclusive academia) However it is worth a glimpse from a punt as it is incredibly calming and beautiful - if you can access the Backs From bridge to bridge you will see stunning green lawns, exclusive gardens and trees Privileged students galore hurrying to lectures or relaxing fully stretched out along the river banks studying or just chatting. Would have given this a 5 star rating as it is a wonderful sight to behold. However the covid pandemic and other things changed all this. The Backs used to be accessed via the back entrances of the colleges. Slowly gates have been locked and a custodian is placed at most entrances. Cambridge residents and visitors can now no longer access The Backs easily 2 stars therefore given as l findcthis unacceptable as a resident Something l once freely loved is now denied, so very sad this exclusive privilege! Social class and distinction still reigns and is much alive and kicking in Cambridge. However enjoy the short video of what once was...

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avatar
5.0
28w

The Backs on foot: from Newnham Walk across the green spaces past Queen’s, Trinity, and King’s. There are plenty of opportunities to sit on grassy areas or the occasional bench. Not only will you see the backs of the colleges, but you will notice the bridges. After reaching a small roundabout, you can walk down the hill to the right – to the Cambridge Museum (folk museum) and Magdalene Street – with many delights. Castle Hill Car Park is not too far from The Backs, or – walking from the Grand Arcade, one walking route is past Great St Mary’s, down Senate House Passage, and Garrett Hostel Lane with its namesake bridge. You will come out opposite Clare College...

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Posts

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Beatrice EllaBeatrice Ella
🚣 Ultimate Cambridge Punting Guide: Tips & History
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kelseyinlondonkelseyinlondon
🇬🇧 20 Things to do in Cambridge ⬇️⁣ 🍹 Rooftop drinks Six Cambridge ⁣ ⛪️ Step inside the famous Kings College Chapel⁣ 🍰 Eat a Chelsea bun (or two) at Fitzbillies ⁣ 🛶 Go punting & cruise under the Bridge of Sighs ⁣ ☕️ Grab a coffee at Bould Brothers, Espresso Library, Hot Numbers ⁣ 🛌 Stay at Hotel du Vin⁣ 🌿 Wander through Cambridge University Botanic Garden ⁣ 🍕Grab a slice of Sicilian sourdough pizza at Aromi ⁣ ⛪️ Climb the tower of St Mary’s Church for amazing views⁣ 🍦Gelato at Jack’s Gelato ⁣ 🏫 Visit St. John’s College⁣ 🍽 Dinner at Parker’s Tavern, Smokeworks, Midsummer ⁣ 🌳 Visit Newton’s Apple Tree at Trinity College⁣ 🍺 Grab a pint at The Eagle, the 14th century pub where DNA was discovered ⁣ 📸 Take a photo of the Mathematical Bridge ⁣ 🛍 Check out all the stalls at Market Square - open everyday ⁣ 🍸 Cocktails at NOVI ⁣ 🖼 Visit the art gallery at Kettle’s Yard (entry is free)⁣ 👟 Walk through The Backs/along River Cam⁣ 🍽 Lunch at Pint Shop, Steak & Honour, Market House ⁣ ⁣ Cambridge is only a 1 hour train journey from central London, making it the perfect day trip destination! However I highly recommend staying overnight in this beautiful town and making a weekend of it as there is so much to do & see.⁣ ⁣ #visitcambridge #cambridge #cambridgeuk #cambridgeshire #igerscambridge #cbgtown #visitengland #england🇬🇧 #thisprettyengland #scenicbritain #visituk #explorebritain #instabritain #lovegreatbritain #mybritain #visitbritain #excellent_britain #capturingbritain #brilliantbritain #traveluk #travelengland #englandtravel #photosofbritain #beautifulbritain #englandsbigpicture #cambridgeuniversity #cambridgeuni #cambridgerestaurant #cambridgefood ⁣ ⁣ Best restaurants in Cambridge | Cambridge Hidden Gems | Hotels in Cambridge | Cambridge Food Spots | Activities to do in Cambridge
Shiva ChaitanyaShiva Chaitanya
The Backs Park in Cambridge is a scenic and iconic green space renowned for its picturesque views along the River Cam. Situated behind several historic colleges, including King's College and Trinity College, The Backs offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The park provides a delightful walking route with well-maintained pathways, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the riverbanks, lush gardens, and iconic bridges. Punting is a popular activity, allowing people to experience the charm of Cambridge from the water while passing beneath historic bridges like the Mathematical Bridge. The Backs is not just a natural oasis but also a historical and architectural treasure. The stunning college buildings, manicured lawns, and ancient trees contribute to the park's unique charm. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Cambridge's rich academic and cultural heritage. During spring, the riverside comes alive with vibrant flowers, creating a colorful backdrop for leisurely strolls. The tranquility of The Backs makes it an ideal place for picnics, reading, or simply soaking in the ambiance. Overall, The Backs Park in Cambridge provides a harmonious blend of nature and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful escape in this historic university city. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone looking for a serene retreat, The Backs offers a delightful experience.
See more posts
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Beatrice Ella

Beatrice Ella

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Find a cozy hotel nearby and make it a full experience.

Get the Appoverlay
Get the AppOne tap to find yournext favorite spots!
🇬🇧 20 Things to do in Cambridge ⬇️⁣ 🍹 Rooftop drinks Six Cambridge ⁣ ⛪️ Step inside the famous Kings College Chapel⁣ 🍰 Eat a Chelsea bun (or two) at Fitzbillies ⁣ 🛶 Go punting & cruise under the Bridge of Sighs ⁣ ☕️ Grab a coffee at Bould Brothers, Espresso Library, Hot Numbers ⁣ 🛌 Stay at Hotel du Vin⁣ 🌿 Wander through Cambridge University Botanic Garden ⁣ 🍕Grab a slice of Sicilian sourdough pizza at Aromi ⁣ ⛪️ Climb the tower of St Mary’s Church for amazing views⁣ 🍦Gelato at Jack’s Gelato ⁣ 🏫 Visit St. John’s College⁣ 🍽 Dinner at Parker’s Tavern, Smokeworks, Midsummer ⁣ 🌳 Visit Newton’s Apple Tree at Trinity College⁣ 🍺 Grab a pint at The Eagle, the 14th century pub where DNA was discovered ⁣ 📸 Take a photo of the Mathematical Bridge ⁣ 🛍 Check out all the stalls at Market Square - open everyday ⁣ 🍸 Cocktails at NOVI ⁣ 🖼 Visit the art gallery at Kettle’s Yard (entry is free)⁣ 👟 Walk through The Backs/along River Cam⁣ 🍽 Lunch at Pint Shop, Steak & Honour, Market House ⁣ ⁣ Cambridge is only a 1 hour train journey from central London, making it the perfect day trip destination! However I highly recommend staying overnight in this beautiful town and making a weekend of it as there is so much to do & see.⁣ ⁣ #visitcambridge #cambridge #cambridgeuk #cambridgeshire #igerscambridge #cbgtown #visitengland #england🇬🇧 #thisprettyengland #scenicbritain #visituk #explorebritain #instabritain #lovegreatbritain #mybritain #visitbritain #excellent_britain #capturingbritain #brilliantbritain #traveluk #travelengland #englandtravel #photosofbritain #beautifulbritain #englandsbigpicture #cambridgeuniversity #cambridgeuni #cambridgerestaurant #cambridgefood ⁣ ⁣ Best restaurants in Cambridge | Cambridge Hidden Gems | Hotels in Cambridge | Cambridge Food Spots | Activities to do in Cambridge
kelseyinlondon

kelseyinlondon

hotel
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Find your stay

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Find a cozy hotel nearby and make it a full experience.

The Backs Park in Cambridge is a scenic and iconic green space renowned for its picturesque views along the River Cam. Situated behind several historic colleges, including King's College and Trinity College, The Backs offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The park provides a delightful walking route with well-maintained pathways, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the riverbanks, lush gardens, and iconic bridges. Punting is a popular activity, allowing people to experience the charm of Cambridge from the water while passing beneath historic bridges like the Mathematical Bridge. The Backs is not just a natural oasis but also a historical and architectural treasure. The stunning college buildings, manicured lawns, and ancient trees contribute to the park's unique charm. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Cambridge's rich academic and cultural heritage. During spring, the riverside comes alive with vibrant flowers, creating a colorful backdrop for leisurely strolls. The tranquility of The Backs makes it an ideal place for picnics, reading, or simply soaking in the ambiance. Overall, The Backs Park in Cambridge provides a harmonious blend of nature and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful escape in this historic university city. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone looking for a serene retreat, The Backs offers a delightful experience.
Shiva Chaitanya

Shiva Chaitanya

See more posts
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