Saffron Walden

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University of Cambridge
2026 Europe 50 - Family-friendly Attractions

University of Cambridge

8.1
4.6/5
595 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
73 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
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
London Eye
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

London Eye

10
4.6/5
3.2k reviews
Take a ride on the incredible 135-metre London Eye and enjoy a panoramic view of London's stunning skyline, packed with iconic landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and more. Ride during the day, at night, at sunset, or at dusk—which will you choose? The London Eye has a total of 32 air-conditioned, fully enclosed cabins, each of which can accommodate approximately 25 people. It takes about half an hour to complete a full rotation. The cabins are equipped with explanations of various sights in London, which play when they rotate to the corresponding angle. In addition, touch-sensitive information panels are also available.London · 62.8km from Saffron Walden

Experiences you can't miss in Saffron Walden

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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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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London Cable Car
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4.4/5
· 1.2k reviews· 156 booked
English
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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
English
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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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Windsor Castle + Stonehenge + Oxford 1-day tour [Round-trip from London | Chinese or English guide available]
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4.7/5
· 6 reviews· 50 booked
Duration: 7.6 hrs
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London by Night Sightseeing Tour - Open Top Bus
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4.3/5
· 351 reviews· 54 booked
Duration: 90 mins
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Featured Cultural experiences in Saffron Walden

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Saffron Walden Audio Tour: Castles, Canvases & Secret Gardens
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Duration: 1 hr
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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
· 74 reviews· 1.2k booked
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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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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
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Featured Outdoor experiences in Saffron Walden

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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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Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath Trip from London
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4.7/5
· 642 reviews· 27 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
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Islington Audio Tour: The New River, Georgian Squares and Theatre Pubs
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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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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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Quah819 October 2026
5.0
Super fast and convenient!No need to book days in advance. I just bought my ticket on Trip.com right when I arrived, and it was issued within seconds. Highly recommend!

London Eye

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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 Day tours, try 1-day tour to University of Cambridge + Thaxted + Saffron Walden | comfortable minibus. If you enjoy Cultural experiences, try Saffron Walden Audio Tour: Castles, Canvases & Secret Gardens.

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 Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 1-day tour [instant confirmation/free cancellation]. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 28 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Saffron Walden is around GBP 12.81 – 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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