Queens' College — Local services in Cambridge

Went back to Cambridge as an alumnus after finishing my studies 8 years ago. Had uneven experiences visiting the various colleges.

Here are the admissions policies of all colleges we visited (or attempted to visit) between July 28 and August 3:

Open to all visitors Jesus (open to all visitors) St. John’s (open to all visitors) King’s (open to all visitors) Downing (open to all visitors) Emmanuel (open to all visitors) Corpus Christi (open to all visitors) Queen’s (open to all visitors) Newnham (open to all visitors) Pembroke (open to all visitors, closed on one day for a wedding)

Open to any alumni, regardless of college Trinity (only open to any alumni, likely due to construction work) St. Catherine’s (only open to any alumni) Magdalene (only open to any alumni)

Only open to their own alumni Peterhouse (only open to their own alumni; exceptions may be made for other alumni) Christ (only open to their own alumni, likely due to construction work and wedding on one day) Sidney Sussex (only open to their own alumni – could not visit) Gonville & Caius (only open to their own alumni – could not visit) Trinity Hall (only open to their own alumni –...

Queens’ College has this slightly hidden entrance that makes discovering it feel like a bit of a secret — but once you're inside, it's absolutely worth it. The college grounds are a mix of beautiful, historic courts with a more relaxed vibe compared to some of the grander ones. What stood out to me was how the River Cam actually runs through the college — it adds this really special atmosphere that you don’t get anywhere else in Cambridge.

Walking through the different courtyards felt like jumping between time periods. Some parts are ancient, others a bit newer, but it all flows together really naturally. I loved the quiet corners, the old staircases, and how easy it was to just take your time and explore without crowds. It’s less flashy than, say, King’s or St John’s, but in a way that makes it more inviting. There’s a kind of lived-in feeling here that gives it real personality.

If you want a peaceful place to take in some history,...

Really enjoyed a short visit here. There is a Small entrance fee but it was worth it to wander around the beautiful historic courtyards and admire the ancient buildings. We were able to walk over the ‘mathematical’ bridge although this isn’t strictly it’s true origin. It was very peaceful especially in the small chapel. And the dining hall has an amazing ceiling. This college is on a smaller scale to the likes of Kings...