The Colleges and the Backs
Ten stops from King's Parade to the Bridge of Sighs, taking in six colleges, three bridges and the riverside lawns behind them.
This route links the central colleges with the riverside lawns behind them, moving from the front-door view on King's Parade to the back-door view from the bridges. Access to college courts varies, so check each college's visiting arrangements before you set out.
The route
Start: King's Parade
Start where the gatehouse and screen of King's face the University Church. The street runs between Trumpington Street and Trinity Street.
Henry VI founded it in 1441. The Chapel, begun in 1446 and complete by 1544, has a fan-vaulted roof widely described as the largest in the world. Tickets are bought through the college website.
3. The Backs
Where the colleges' rear grounds meet the Cam, listed as a Grade I historic park in 1995. Cattle still graze behind King's.
4. Clare Bridge
Built in 1639-40 and usually named the oldest bridge in Cambridge still carrying traffic. Look for the stone ball with a piece missing.
The second-oldest surviving college after Peterhouse, refounded in 1338. Old Court is Grade I listed; public opening is not confirmed, so ask at the Porters' Lodge.
6. Trinity Hall
Founded in 1350 and older than Trinity College by nearly two centuries. Its Old Library is one of the few chained libraries left in Britain.
One of only three public bridges linking the centre with the Backs. It needs no ticket and has no opening hours.
Henry VIII founded it in 1546. The founder's statue stands over the Great Gate, and Wren's library closes Nevile's Court. Porter-led tours are booked online.
The charter came on 9 April 1511. The Great Gate carries Lady Margaret Beaufort's arms; check the college site, as the grounds have been open to visitors only on set paid dates.
10. Bridge of Sighs
Finished in 1831, the covered bridge joins Third Court and New Court. It belongs to a working college, so view it from outside.
Practical notes
- Allow extra time if you go inside colleges. Several limit public access, so treat any court you see as a bonus.
- The Backs are best early in the morning, when they are quieter.
- Distance and time are estimates for the straight line between stops, adjusted for street detours.
- Distance: 1.4 km / 0.9 miles (estimate). Time: about 1 hr 30 min (estimate, including stops).
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
