Cambridge

Trinity Street, Cambridge

cmglee St Benets exterior

Peterhouse Chapel

President's Lodge, Queens' College, Cambridge

Cambridge 1575 colour

Cambridge is a university city and the county town of Cambridgeshire, England, on the River Cam approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of London. As of the 2021 United Kingdom census, its population was 145,700. Cambridge became an important trading centre during the Roman Empire, and there is archaeological evidence of Roman settlement in the area of what is now the city. The first town charters were granted in the 12th century, although modern city status was not officially conferred until 1951.

Cambridge is most widely known as the home of the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209 and consistently ranked one of the top five universities in the world. The university includes the renowned Cavendish Laboratory, King's College Chapel, and the Cambridge University Library, one of the largest legal deposit libraries in the world.

The city's skyline is dominated by several college buildings, along with the spire of the Our Lady and the English Martyrs Church, and the chimney of Addenbrooke's Hospital. Green spaces such as Parker's Piece, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, and Midsummer Common play a vital role in the life of the city, hosting various cultural and sporting events.

Cambridge's economy is based largely on education, high-technology, and research industries. The university and its associated businesses attract professionals and students from around the world, contributing to the city's diverse population. Several software and bioscience companies have been founded by members of the university, earning the city the nickname "Silicon Fen" in reference to Silicon Valley and the surrounding Fenland.

History

The earliest clear evidence of occupation is the remains of a 3,500-year-old farmstead discovered at the site of Fitzwilliam College. The city's Roman origins are preserved in parts of the Cambridge Castle. After the departure of the Romans, the Saxons took over the land on and around Castle Hill. The Viking Age brought the establishment of a Danelaw border with the Saxons, which was later integrated into the Kingdom of England. The University of Cambridge was founded in 1209 by scholars leaving Oxford after a dispute with townsfolk. The two ancient universities share many common features and are often referred to collectively as "Oxbridge".

Education

The University of Cambridge is a collegiate university with 31 colleges, some of which date back to the 13th century. The colleges are self-governing institutions with their own endowments and property, founded as integral parts of the university. Cambridge serves not only as a centre for academic research and study but also attracts visitors to its historic buildings and student-led May Balls.

Economy

Cambridge's economy is robust, with sectors in software, electronics, and biotechnology. The city benefits from its proximity to London and connections to other hubs across the UK and Europe. The Cambridge Science Park and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus are notable examples of the city's commitment to innovation and research.

Culture

Cambridge has a rich cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and galleries, including the Fitzwilliam Museum. The city's literary and theatrical traditions are upheld by the university and its students, contributing to a vibrant arts scene.

Transport

Cambridge is served by the Cambridge Railway Station, one of the busiest in the United Kingdom, with frequent trains to London and other major cities. The city promotes sustainable transport, with extensive bicycle paths and lanes, making cycling a popular mode of transport.

Sport

Sporting activities are a significant part of life in Cambridge, with the annual Boat Race against the University of Oxford being a notable event. The city also has strong football, rugby, and cricket teams.

Notable People

Many distinguished individuals in the fields of science, literature, politics, and the arts have been associated with Cambridge, including Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and Sylvia Plath.