Saffron Walden

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University of Cambridge
2026 Europe 50 - Family-friendly Attractions

University of Cambridge

8.1
4.6/5
593 reviews
The University of Cambridge has 31 colleges, almost blending into the city of Cambridge. Newton, Darwin, and Hawking once studied here, with over a hundred Nobel laureates associated with the university. Xu Zhimo attended a study tour at King's College in his early years, and his poem "Saying goodbye to Cambridge again" made the city memorable for many Chinese readers. In his later years, Jin Yong also returned here to pursue his doctoral degree. The colleges were built in different periods, each with its own architectural style, but most retain their medieval charm. The porches and walls of the school buildings are still adorned with simple yet solemn statues and seals, making the visit truly delightful. Some of the colleges popular among travelers includeKing's College, Trinity College, St. John's College, Queen's College, Peterhouse, Christ's College, Clare College, etc. Travelers can choose several colleges of interest to visit in sequence, but they need to check their opening hours in advance. To enjoy the scenery along both banks of the River Cam, punting is a classic activity. You can find boarding spots near Silver Street or Bridge Street. The small boats pass beneath bridges like the Mathematical Bridge at Queen's College with its wooden slats and the covered Bridge of Sighs at St John's College, gliding past the back gardens of King's College, Trinity College, and St John's College. The spires of King's College Chapel and the lawns reflect on the river, evoking the poetic imagery of "Saying Goodbye to Cambridge Again." By the riverside in King's College's back garden stands a stone tablet inscribed with Xu Zhimo's verses. You can either try punting yourself or board a boat guided by a punter who will share stories about the architecture and bridges along the way.Cambridge · 22.1km from Saffron Walden
Cambridge Punting
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Cambridge

Cambridge Punting

7.8
4.4/5
63 reviews
Coming to the historic Cambridge, Cambridge punting is a classic way to explore the city from the water. For most travelers, visiting Cambridge is a rare experience, and it would be a pity not to personally try Cambridge punting, a classic local tour activity. During the cruise, guests can enjoy about three-quarters of the River Cam's scenery, experiencing a complete journey through history, culture, and nature. The cruise passes by seven colleges, the Mathematical Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, and the iconic buildings of Cambridge University—King's CollegeThe church. The cruise usually accommodates 6 travelers per boat, but can be adjusted to a larger boat for a group size of 12 upon request. Each boat is staffed with an experienced local guide. The delightful scenery along the way, combined with the professional guide's narration, will make the travelers' Cambridge trip an unforgettable experience.Cambridge · 22.6km from Saffron Walden
King's College Chapel
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Cambridge

King's College Chapel

6.8
4.2/5
6 reviews
King's College ChapelKing's College Chapel is a religious building at the University of Cambridge's King's College and a prominent example of Cambridge architecture as well as a significant late medieval English architectural masterpiece. This chapel served not only as a mass chapel for the college's founder but also stands as a monument of the church, opposing the Lollards and other heretics of that time. It represents the pinnacle of English Perpendicular Gothic style, with influence extending far beyond Cambridge, being the last great ecclesiastical building constructed under royal patronage before the Reformation.King's College ChapelA landmark building of Cambridge University and a cultural heritage that local residents take pride in, it attracts countless visitors to admire its unique architectural style and profound cultural significance.Cambridge · 21.9km from Saffron Walden
Trinity College
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Cambridge

Trinity College

6.3
4.8/5
167 reviews
Trinity College is located on Trinity Street in the center of Cambridge, United Kingdom, and is one of the larger colleges of the University of Cambridge. The complex consists of multiple courtyards, a chapel, a dining hall, a library, and teaching and living facilities. Classical stone buildings and green courtyards are intertwined, presenting the typical style of a British university college. The Great Court is a representative space, with historical buildings and a clock tower distributed around it. The college chapel is famous for its exquisite interior decoration and choral tradition. The Wren Library is an important building, housing precious manuscripts, early printed books, and historical documents. It is located near the River Cam, and the riverside green space at the back is suitable for enjoying the campus architecture and natural scenery. It is not only an academic institution for teaching and research but also a representative cultural and architectural attraction in Cambridge.Cambridge · 22.1km from Saffron Walden
IWM Duxford

IWM Duxford

4.3
5.0/5
2 reviews
The Imperial War Museum, located in Cambridge, is a museum dedicated to military history and the impact of war. Through rich exhibits and interactive displays, the museum provides visitors with a deep understanding of the profound impact of war on society, culture, and personal life. The museum houses a large collection of precious historical artifacts, including military equipment, personal belongings, artwork, and film, covering a wide range of historical periods from the First World War to modern conflicts. The museum's exhibitions are designed to provide an immersive experience, helping visitors to more intuitively understand the complexity of war and human resilience. Through multimedia displays and interactive activities, visitors can explore personal stories and collective memories of war and experience the realities of historical events. In addition, the Imperial War Museum hosts special lectures, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions to promote public understanding and reflection on history. Whether you are a history enthusiast, student, or ordinary tourist, this museum provides an opportunity to delve into the history of war and its impact. The Imperial War Museum is not only a place to showcase history, but also a cultural platform that inspires thinking and discussion.Cambridge · 10.8km from Saffron Walden
Audley End House and Gardens

Audley End House and Gardens

3.6
5.0/5
1 reviews
Audley End House and Gardens is the place to discover how grand country houses operated in Britain. You can visit the magnificent hall, state rooms and intimate private apartments, all decorated with exquisite furniture and artworks. In the 1830s nursery, children would enjoy trying on costumes and playing with replica antique toys. The coal exhibition upstairs showcases how servants supplied the house with coal and hot water. The service wing offers a glimpse into the "downstairs" life of the 1880s. Once the domain of Mrs. Avis Crocombe, a Victorian-era cook (and 21st-century YouTube star!), this wing is filled with Victorian-era furnishings and features lifelike visual and auditory installations. Don't miss the magnificent horses living in the grand stables at the estate. The grounds of Audley End were designed by the renowned architect Capability Brown, offering acres of beautiful and award-winning parkland to explore.Saffron Walden · 1.3km from downtown
The Fitzwilliam Museum
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Cambridge

The Fitzwilliam Museum

5.3
4.6/5
69 reviews
The Fitzwilliam Museum is located on Trumpington Street in the center of Cambridge, United Kingdom, and is an important part of the University of Cambridge's museum system, as well as one of the area's main art and cultural venues. The building features an imposing exterior, characterized by a classical stone facade, a grand entrance, and well-structured exhibition spaces. The collection includes over 500,000 items, ranging from ancient artifacts, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glassware, furniture, jewelry, coins, and manuscripts to rare printed books. Spanning from ancient times to the modern era, the collection encompasses art and culture from Europe, Asia, Egypt, and other regions. The museum features galleries dedicated to ancient Egypt, ancient Greek and Roman art, European paintings, Asian art, and decorative arts, with exhibits including paintings by Monet, Renaissance artworks, and ancient sarcophagi. It also hosts special exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about different civilizations and art forms.Cambridge · 21.4km from Saffron Walden
The British Museum
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

The British Museum

10
4.8/5
3.7k reviews
The British Museum is one of the largest and most renowned museums in the world. The British Museum houses over 8 million cultural relics and treasures from around the globe, with its vast quantity and diversity of collections being rare among museums worldwide. Rich collection of treasures Due to its vast collection, The British Museum can nearly showcase the entire course of world civilization. Despite spatial limitations, it still displays approx. 50,000 items simultaneously. The main collections date from the medieval period, with particular renown for ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman artifacts, alongside a wealth of precious cultural relics from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. Many cultural treasures from around the world can only be seen in their authentic form here. Ancient Greek-style main building The main building emulates ancient Greek architecture, featuring a grand entrance with a tall colonnade flanked by eight thick and towering Roman-style columns on each side, topped by a pediment roof adorned with reliefs. Entering through the main door leads to the great court, which is connected to over 100 galleries of various sizes surrounding it. Inspired by the Louvre Pyramid, the great court is bright, spacious, and elegantly minimalist. Bright central atrium The great court was originally part of the British Library. After the library moved out, it was transformed into a covered square with a white color scheme. The square's massive semi-transparent roof is composed of many uniquely shaped glass panels, combined with white stone, ensuring excellent lighting even on gloomy days in London. The sculptures displayed in the court are genuine treasures, such as the marble lion and Easter Island statues. Additionally, artists from around the world occasionally perform here, adding a relaxed atmosphere to the solemn museum. At the center of the grand atrium is the reading room, displaying art literature and books open to the public, where travelers can admire the dome and quaint circular bookshelves up close. The entrance of the reading room is marked with the names of notable figures to commemorate their time spent reading here. Cafés and restaurants are located on both sides and above the grand atrium, offering dining options with a view overlooking the entire space. Along the outer edge of the reading room lies the museum shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs after their tour. Three iconic treasures The Rosetta Stone: Originally from Egypt, this stone bears three different script versions of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh's decree. Through comparing these scripts, archaeologists gradually unlocked the key to deciphering ancient Egyptian civilization. However, the Rosetta Stone displayed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a replica. Admonitions scroll: The scroll consists of 12 paintings in total, with The British Museum housing 9 Tang dynasty replica versions. The Admonitions scroll ranks 39th in BBC's "A History of the World in 100 Objects," highlighting its immense cultural and historical value. Throughout history, the scroll has been collected by numerous emperors and high-ranking officials. The Elgin Marbles: These are sculptural fragments from the Parthenon, with a history of over 2,500 years. They have been housed in the museum for over 200 years since the British royal family purchased them at great expense. Specialty exhibition halls Asian pavilions: Halls 33 and 95. Hall 33 features artifacts from China, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, including collections from countries like India. Hall 33B is dedicated to Chinese jade artifacts, while Hall 95 showcases Chinese ceramics. The British Museum is one of the museums with the largest collections of lost Chinese artifacts, housing over 25,000 pieces, with approx. 2,000 on long-term display. The exhibition is meticulously designed, organizing Shang and Zhou dynasty bronzes along a chronological sequence, displaying artifacts from the Shang and Zhou, Qin and Han, to the Republican era. The major kilns of porcelain are divided into different curated sections by Ru, Ge, Jun, Ding, and Guan styles, presented professionally and systematically. Recommended artifacts to admire include large Tang tri-color ceramics, the Song Cizhou kiln "circus pillow," the Yuan blue-and-white fish and algae pattern large plate, Ming Xuande cloisonné, and Dunhuang mural Buddha statues. Ancient Egypt exhibition hall: halls 4, 61-66. One of the popular spots in the museum. The exhibits include mummies. The ancient Egypt hall is also one of the most visited exhibition halls, and almost all visitors to The British Museum make it a must-see. Ancient Greek and Roman galleries: rooms 11-23, 69-73, 77, 78, 82-85. The entire Parthenon is truly awe-inspiring, along with numerous ancient Greek marble sculptures and exquisite artifacts like vases. Don't miss the Portland Vase in room 70. Some exhibits are not suitable for long-term display and are only open during specific periods each year (including the mentioned Admonitions scroll). If you plan to visit, check the schedule on the official website in advance.London · 61.4km from Saffron Walden
Duxford Airfield

Duxford Airfield

3.5
Cambridge · 10.7km from Saffron Walden
Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs

5.2
4.8/5
170 reviews
The Bridge of Sighs is located within St John's College in Cambridge, United Kingdom. It spans the River Cam and connects the college's Third Court with the New Court, making it one of the iconic architectural landmarks of Cambridge. Built in 1831, the bridge features Victorian Gothic Revival style, characterized by its stone structure, arched design, decorative stone carvings, and window openings with Gothic tracery. The bridge features an enclosed pedestrian walkway, distinguishing it from typical open-air bridges. Together with the River Cam, the college buildings, and the riverside green spaces, it forms a typical Cambridge campus view.Cambridge · 22.3km from Saffron Walden

Experiences you can't miss in Saffron Walden

Featured Cultural experiences in Saffron Walden

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Saffron Walden Audio Tour: Castles, Canvases & Secret Gardens
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The London Pass [includes Tower of London/London Eye/Tower Bridge/Westminster Abbey and 100+ popular attractions/local experiences/dining]
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4.7/5
· 76 reviews· 1.2k booked
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Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 1-day tour [instant confirmation/free cancellation]
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4.5/5
· 10 reviews· 466 booked
Duration: 5.5 hrs
English
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From£95.00
City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Optional Add-Ons
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4.1/5
· 1.1k reviews· 38 booked
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Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Tour
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28 booked
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Harry Potter Studio Tour London 1-day tour | admission ticket + shuttle bus included
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews· 65 booked
Duration: 6.2 hrs
English
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From£111.12
Westminster Abbey: Entry Ticket
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101 booked
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London by Night Sightseeing Open Top Bus Tour with Live Guide
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4.6/5
· 733 reviews· 23 booked
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90.2% of travelers recommend
From£29.55

Featured Food & drink in Saffron Walden

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Aqua Shard restaurant reservation service in London, UK
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From£6.13
London: Traditional English Scone Making and Tea Workshop
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4.9/5
· 91 reviews
Duration: 1 hr
English
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From£20.14£21.2

Featured Outdoor experiences in Saffron Walden

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London Cable Car
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4.4/5
· 1.3k reviews· 157 booked
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Gripped London: Zip Line, High Ropes & Freefall Adventure
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Richmond Audio Tour: A Tudor Palace, the River and the Famous View
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[Chinese/English private charter] London round-trip + Dover white cliffs + Canterbury + Westgate Gardens
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From£450.00
Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath Trip from London
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4.7/5
· 643 reviews· 27 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
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94.4% of travelers recommend
From£80.50
Islington Audio Tour: The New River, Georgian Squares and Theatre Pubs
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Featured Day tours in Saffron Walden

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1-day tour to Windsor Castle + The Roman Baths + Stonehenge in the UK | refundable 1 day in advance
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4.4/5
· 296 reviews· 381 booked
Duration: 12.4 hrs
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UK Windsor Castle + Stonehenge + University of Oxford In-Depth Guide 1-Day Tour with Multilingual Options
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4.5/5
· 90 reviews· 82 booked
Duration: 10 hrs
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Windsor Castle + Stonehenge + The Roman Baths [round-trip from London | bookable for one person]
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4.7/5
· 12 reviews· 73 booked
Duration: 13 hrs
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Free things to do in Saffron Walden

What travellers say about Saffron Walden

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好孩子的麻麻(莉莉)24 September 2025
5.0
The University of Cambridge (Cambridge) is a leading research university based in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England, using a traditional collegiate system. It is a member of the Russell Group, the Global University Presidents Forum, the Global Alliance of Universities, the International Applied Science and Technology Development Network, and the Cambridge University Health Partnership. It has fostered the "Silicon Fen" technology hub and is known as a "Golden Triangle University" and a "G5 University." The University of Cambridge is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world and the fourth-oldest surviving university in the world. Founded as a scholarly society in 1209, it boasts eight museums, a library system with over 15 million volumes, and the world's oldest publishing house, Cambridge University Press.

University of Cambridge

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开朗的喵先森3 October 2026
5.0
We arrived at the Bridge of Sighs unexpectedly 🤺 We arrived at the Mathematical Bridge unexpectedly 🫆 (return trip) Because I was traveling alone, I was grouped with 5 other people (seats reversed) The weather was great, and the gondolier provided commentary in English the whole time. He even recited the poem "Saying Goodbye to Cambridge Again" unexpectedly 🤣 Qianmo Transportation 14:00-14:45 Everyone's rowing skills were top-notch! Hopefully next time I can get a better view.

Cambridge Punting

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M22***797 August 2025
4.0
This is where the British king is crowned. Many members of the British royal family and aristocracy are buried here. The architecture is magnificent and worth a visit for those interested in European history and culture.

King's College Chapel

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withjennifer6 April 2021
5.0
There is a statue of Henry VIII at the entrance of Trinity College. There is an apple tree on the green lawn at the entrance of the college, which is the source of Newton's law of "universal gravitation". When you enter the Great Court of the college, the magnificent architecture brings a sense of awe. In the lobby of the church are jade statues of famous graduates from Trinity College, including Newton, Bacon, Tennyson and others.

Trinity College

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clarimina29 January 2025
5.0
The best airplane museum I've ever been to. Incredibly large, with predominantly indoor viewings. Has really unique aircraft like the Concorde, Vulcan, SR71, B52, A10 as well as many many more. The museum stretches about a 10minute walk from the furthest hangars.

IWM Duxford

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小兜爱天下1 July 2025
5.0
As a historical heritage of the British Empire and a royal estate, the interior of the building is magnificent, and each functional area demonstrates the luxurious quality of life of the royal aristocracy. It is well worth a visit.

Audley End House and Gardens

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赵在大道上z1630 December 2022
4.0
It is worth visiting, especially the ceramic exhibition halls, which have so many varieties, ages and a wide range, which is not easy to find. They include fine ceramics discovered in many European countries, porcelains from Iran, China, Vietnam, Thailand, North Korea and other countries in Asia, many of which are rare treasures.

The Fitzwilliam Museum

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_We***5025 October 2026
5.0
My visit to the British Museum was completely transformed by Diana's guide. She didn't just introduce the exhibits; she connected the scattered artifacts into a coherent narrative of world history. From the Rosetta Stone's code and the controversy surrounding the Parthenon reliefs, to the Mesopotamian cuneiform and the historical context behind Oriental porcelain, her explanations were engaging, logically sound, vivid, and insightful. Dry history was no longer just cold text; each artifact came alive with a vibrant background. Her pace was comfortable, and she patiently answered our diverse questions. Three hours was incredibly enriching. Highly recommended! If you want to truly understand the artifacts at the British Museum, you absolutely must see her!

The British Museum

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BetTerDAY25 June 2020
5.0
Cambridge is so beautiful. I really want to stay here forever. Even if I can't study, it would be very pleasant to read a book and take a walk every day. It's a pity that there is only one hour left in Cambridge in the itinerary.

Bridge of Sighs

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Saffron Walden?

Don't miss these attractions in Saffron Walden: University of Cambridge, Cambridge Punting, and King's College Chapel. If you like Cultural experiences, try Saffron Walden Audio Tour: Castles, Canvases & Secret Gardens. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Bustronome London panoramic glass double-decker sightseeing bus restaurant with British cuisine lunch/dinner options.

You can give Bustronome London panoramic glass double-decker sightseeing bus restaurant with British cuisine lunch/dinner options and Aqua Shard restaurant reservation service in London, UK a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include 1-day tour to University of Cambridge + Thaxted + Saffron Walden | comfortable minibus, 1-day tour to Windsor Castle + The Roman Baths + Stonehenge in the UK | refundable 1 day in advance, and UK Windsor Castle + Stonehenge + University of Oxford In-Depth Guide 1-Day Tour with Multilingual Options. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 29 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Saffron Walden is around GBP 68.51 – GBP 173. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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