Cambridge is a beautiful historic city with charming architecture, stunning college buildings and plenty of photogenic spots just waiting to star on your Instagram feed. As a university city, Cambridge has no shortage of busy streets, cycling students and academic sights to capture. Here are ten of the best Instagram spots in Cambridge.
1. King’s College Chapel
The iconic King’s College Chapel has to top any list of Cambridge’s most Instagrammable spots. The Gothic chapel, dating back to 1446, boasts the largest fan vault ceiling in the world and some of the most recognisable architecture in the city. Capture the intricate stonework and lofty stained-glass windows from the manicured college lawns for a timeless shot. Don’t forget to stick around for the famous choristers during term time.
2. The Backs
Behind several of Cambridge’s historic colleges are lush green spaces known as “The Backs”. Punts drift by, weeping willows weep into the river Cam, and students picnic on the riverbanks with the Bridge of Sighs and the Wren Library as their backdrop. It’s an idyllic scene. Snap arty photos framed through weeping willow branches or shoot the backs from a punt on the river for an atmospheric Instagram photo.
3. Clare College
Dating from 1326, Clare College is the oldest college site in Cambridge still being used. The iconic Clare Bridge, built in 1639 over the River Cam, offers one of the most instantly recognisable views in Cambridge with its elegant arches reflected in the water below. Capture students punting below the picture-perfect bridge from the Fellow’s gardens for Instagram likes galore.
4. The Fitzwilliam Museum
Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, founded in 1816, is one of Britain’s best small museums, housing over half a million artworks and antiquities. With grand neoclassical architecture and sunlit galleries exhibiting priceless art by the likes of Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso – it’s an art lover’s paradise. Show off your artistic side capturing the museum’s facade or interior exhibits for the ‘gram. Adobe Express has some professionally designed Instagram templates if you need help sharing your photos in the best light.
5. Mathematical Bridge
You don’t have to be a maths genius to appreciate the architectural brilliance of the Mathematical Bridge. The arched wooden bridge was designed in 1749 without the use of nuts or bolts. Find the perfect symmetry to snap this iconic Cambridge landmark overlooking the River Cam near Queens’ College.
6. The Round Church
Nicknamed “The Collegiate Church of St Mary the Great”, this unique Round Church was one of only four round churches built in England in the 11th century. Strike a pose in front of the historic stone church with its conical roof and arched windows for some geometry inspired Instagram snaps. Time your photo during the early evening for dramatic lighting.
7. Market Square
Cambridge’s bustling Market Square has vibrancy in spades. Visit on a weekend to capture market stall set-ups, street performers, musicians, puppeteers, and shoppers frequenting this lively urban space in central Cambridge. Look for creative angles and interesting subjects to spotlight in your Instagram photos.
8. The Eagle Pub
Dating from the 16th century, The Eagle pub holds an intriguing place in Cambridge’s history as the haunt of RAF airmen and World War II codebreakers. Today its walls are adorned with nostalgic RAF graffiti giving this history-steeped pub plenty of Instagram appeal. Come at night to snap the pub’s atmospheric interior enlightened with the ghostly messages left by aircrews.
9. The Wren Library
Designed by British architect Sir Christopher Wren in 1676, the Wren Library at Trinity College is a stunning sight. Housing rare manuscripts under its striking hammer-beam roof, this beautiful library is sure to wow your Instagram followers. Capture the symmetrical book-lined interior and antique globes before posing with some of its most valuable books for bookish Instagram bliss. The light from the tall windows creates a perfect photography atmosphere.
10. Great St Mary’s Church
Climb the 123 steps up Great St Mary’s Church tower for panoramic cityscape views – the perfect photo backdrop. This prominent 16th-century university church has the tallest church tower in Cambridge. Snap pics peering down on the historic city streets below or shoot wide shots encompassing the city and countryside beyond from its highest point.
Whether you’re looking to capture Cambridge’s historic architecture, stunning university buildings, lively streets or sweeping cityscape views – this charming city has no shortage of picture-perfect backdrops for your Instagram feed. So, get snapping and share the beauty of these Instagram spots in Cambridge with the world.
