Cambridge, known throughout the world for its university, claims to have one of the highest concentrations of surviving historic buildings anywhere in England. Much of this architectural splendor is centered around the University of Cambridge’s 31 colleges, each rich in tradition. The first of these “schools” was founded in the 12th century by immigrant scholars from Paris, and the first college, Peterhouse, was founded in 1284.

Long before the university was founded, Cambridge was an important Norman stronghold. Although its castle was short-lived (the castle mound can still be seen near Shire Hall and provides magnificent views of the city), the city is still an important marketplace to this day, and Market Hill, originally the center of the ancient Cambridge wool trade, still serves as the location of the city’s lively market.

Despite its romantic, medieval character, Cambridge is a thoroughly modern city, hosting a wide variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the Summer Solstice Fair (800 years old and held in the same spot on the summer solstice), the famous Cambridge Folk Festival (one of the largest and longest in Europe) and a world-class film festival. It’s also popular for its many green spaces, including the 25-acre Parker Piece, known as the birthplace of modern soccer and the Victorian-era Christian Pieces, known for its beautiful ornamental trees and flowerbeds. One of the most popular things to do in Cambridge is the “punt” along the Cam River, which runs through the heart of the city and offers incredible views.

1. King’s College and King’s College Chapel

Founded in 1441 by Henry VI and the earliest of the royal foundations, King’s College is worth a visit for the vast expanse of lawn extending to the river and King’s Bridge, with its beautiful views of the Spinks, the various college grounds along the river. Notable alumni include writer Horace Walpole, poet Rupert Brooke, and economist Lord Keynes.

Be sure to visit the King’s College Chapel here, famous for its perpendicular 12-bay interior and its breathtaking volley by John Westell (1515). Also worth checking out: the beautiful patterning on the windows and walls; the impressive 16th-century stained-glass windows; the sumptuously carved 16th-century wooden screen and choir choir; and the altarpiece, Rubens’ Adoration of the Magi (1634). Hot Tip: If you’re visiting during term time, be sure to visit Evensong.

2. Queens College and Mathematics Bridge.

Founded in 1448 by Andrew Dockett under the patronage of Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI, Queens College was found in 1465 by Elizabeth Woodville, wife of Edward IV. It has the most complete medieval buildings of all the colleges of Cambridge, including the magnificent gateway leading to the red brick First Court from its founding period.

Other places to visit at Queens College include the wooden Mathematics Bridge, a 1902 reconstruction leading across the Cam to the college’s beautiful gardens (the bridge is so called because it was built without nails, relying on its own strength for careful calculation); The Court House (1460) with the Presidential Lodge, a beautiful half-timbered building; the Pumping Court with Erasmus’ tower over the rooms, occupied by Erasmus when he taught Greek here (1511-1514); and the Walnut Court (1618. ) and the court of Friars with Erasmus’ building.

3. Cambridge University Botanical Gardens.

Covering approximately 40 acres, the University of Cambridge Botanical Garden is a must for horticultural enthusiasts. Founded in 1831, the garden displays an impressive collection of more than 8,000 plant species from around the world. Be sure to spend time wandering the many gardens and paths in the garden, which can be done as part of the tour (free on Sundays). Afterwards, be sure to visit the Garden Café and the botanical garden store.

4. St. Mary the Great Church and Circular Church

St. Mary the Great is both a parish church and a university. Built in the 15th century, it has a beautiful interior, its galleries being added in 1739, when university sermons provided by great scholars attracted huge congregations. The tower, erected in 1608, is famous for its views of Cambridge. Little St. Mary’s is also worth a visit. Known as St. Mary’s Lesser, this Anglican parish church is famous for its many beautiful stained glass windows.

Better known as the Round Church, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of four Norman round churches left in England. Built in 1131, its rectangular chancel was added in the 15th century. Another important church, the Gothic Revival Church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs, one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in Britain, was built in 1885 and contains a rare statue of the Virgin Mary.

5. Trinity College

Founded in 1546 by Henry VIII, Trinity College was created by merging several older colleges, including Mikehouse and King’s Hall. Aside from King Edward’s Gate (1418), parts of the old King’s Hall buildings can still be identified. Trinity Grand Court is the largest court in Cambridge and was built around 1600. The passage leads to Neville Court (1614), with its chapel and statues of prominent scholars. The Wren Library, with its old oak bookcases and fine limestone hedges, was later added.

Trinity has more distinguished former members than any other college: statesmen Austin Chamberlain, Stanley Baldwin and Nehru; poets and writers such as George Herbert and Edward Fitzgerald; philosopher Bertrand Russell; and scientist Isaac Newton. Edward VII and George VI also visited Trinity. From the New Court or King’s Court, take the bridge over the Cam for its beautiful view of the backs. A magnificent avenue of lime leads to the College.

6. Fitzwilliam Museum.

The most famous museum in Cambridge, the Fitzwilliam should be on everyone’s list of must-see attractions. This architectural masterpiece contains a magnificent collection of English pottery and porcelain, as well as Greek, Roman and Egyptian antiquities and illuminated manuscripts. The exceptionally fine gallery has works by Hogarth, Gainsborough and Turner, as well as Impressionist and Dutch Baroque masters, including Rembrandt, Van Dyck and Rubens.

7. Angbly Abbey, Gardens and Mill

Although it was built in the 12th century, Anglesey Abbey was restored in 1926 and became known as the home of fine art and furniture. Now owned by the National Trust, this impressive house contains many tapestries such as Tapestry, Soho and Anglesey, as well as a collection of artwork in which Constable discovered Waterloo Bridge.

Be sure to spend time enjoying the surrounding gardens and 114 acres of parks, including the Wildlife Discovery Area, where young visitors can watch birds and bugs in their natural habitat, and Lime Tree Lookout, Then visit the historic water mill – the Lode Mill – to see how the grinding stones do their work.