11 Amazing Things to Do in Cambridge in Winter

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It’s easy to fall in love with Cambridge at Christmas; the city is beautiful and, in my opinion, one of the prettiest cities in the UK. It’s fairly small in comparison to places like London and York. But it’s certainly not lacking in interesting and fun things to do.

Many people flock to the city to admire its stunning historical sites. The city is most famous for its Universities and river punting, and these are the focus of several of the city’s Christmas events.

Many of the universities put on a show and punting tours definitely don’t grind to a halt in Cambridge in winter. Plus, if you enjoy exploring the outdoors, you could also enjoy a frosty stroll near the Backs, behind the universities.

Even though the winter is undoubtedly chilly and a picnic on Jesus Green might be out of the question, don’t be put off. Just wrap up warm and embrace the English weather. Some of the best things to do in Cambridge can be enjoyed all year round!

What are the best Things to do in Cambridge at Christmas?

There is plenty to do in Cambridge over Christmas. From the light switch on to the North Pole, the city comes to life with twinkly lights, festivities, and great Christmas cuisine. Head to the market square which comes alive with festive fun and food.

As well as Christmas markets, there are a host of Christmas activities and a wonderful light show. Plus, it’s a great place to go Christmas shopping with great shopping centres like Lion’s Yard, The Grand Arcade, and the Grafton Center.

What is there to do in Cambridgeshire in winter?

In Cambridgeshire, there’s plenty to do in winter. There are Christmas markets, light shows, Christmas Fairs, chances to meet Santa, and much more.

From the beautiful Christmas light trail at Wimple Hall to the many events in Duxford, you’ll have no shortage of wonderful Christmas events to choose from.

11 Amazing things to do in Cambridge at Christmas

You can still enjoy many of the usual things to do in Cambridge in the winter months, but during this time the city is extra sparkly.

There are lots of things to do in Cambridge in December and, if you fancy a festive trip to the UK’s gorgeous university city, here are 11 of the best things to do in Cambridge at Christmas.

1. Christmas Light Switch On ​

Arranged and run by Cambridge BID, the beautiful light switch on is a must-see. Held in the Market Square, you’ll be treated to entertainment and festivities all day long, including rides, market stalls, games, food and drink.

The switch is usually done by a different minor celebrity every year.

The event normally starts at 11am with lights going on in the Grafton Centre at midday first. Then the lights go on at Lion Yard, before the big finale in the Market Square.

The annual Big Switch-On event kicks off the festive season with family fun and a beautiful blanket of sparkling lights stretching across the city centre.

In 2023, there are a range of performances kicking off the big events in the Grande Arcade, including performances from the Cambridge School of Visual Performing Arts and the Collaborations Choir.

2. Go for a winter Punting Trip

Punting is one of the best things to do in Cambridge, but a lot of people only see it as a warm-weather activity.

However, punting can be just as fun in the winter as in the summer. You can actually see some stunning winter scenery without the usual busy hustle and bustle of summer on the river.

Of course, it will be colder. But most companies will provide extra blankets and hot water bottles to keep you cosy. Be sure to wrap up warm with plenty of layers anyway!

Winter punting experiences are offered from November until March but you have to book directly as a daily service isn’t offered during these times.

This is actually a good thing, however, as it means you’re often the only one on the river. Float past the colleges, the Bridge of Sighs and the famous Mathematical Bridge and truly soak up some of the magic that Cambridge in winter brings.

This year, there’s even a special Christmas event courtesy of Let’s Go Punting, in collaboration with the Traditional Punting Company.

The choir of St John the Evangelist Church will be doing s sponsored punting event to raise money for Cambridge Aid on the 4th of December 2023. This is a great way to welcome Christmas in Cambridge while supporting a good cause.

✅ Book a winter punting tour in Cambridge

3. Visit the Cambridge Christmas market

Cambridge Christmas market is easily one of the best things to do at Christmas in Cambridge. I love the market square and it’s one of my favourite places to eat when I visit the city. In winter, this takes on a whole new festive twist.

There are stalls selling a range of items including homemade ornaments, decorations hand-crafted candles and knitwear. But the food! This is what keeps me coming back!

There’s an amazing selection of cuisines from all around the world. You’ll find delicious Thai noodles, traditional Brazilian stews, fragrant Greek souvlaki, and tasty Moroccan falafel all brought to you by authentic vendors from around the world.

During the Christmas season, these vendors offer many of their local festive delicacies.

There are also stalls selling traditional Christmas treats. I love gingerbread and homemade shortbreads, the creamy hot chocolates and great to warm up on a frosty day, and I can never say no to a warm mince pie!

4. The North Pole at Parkers Piece

Unfortunately, this event was cancelled again for 2023, but returned for 2024 – YAY! I love the North Pole at Parker’s Piece and think it’s one of the best Christmas things to do in Cambridge.

They have a pop-up ice rink, market stalls, and an Alpine Cabin Bar serving tasty bratwurst, craft beers, ales and cider.

For the child inside, there are also plenty of classic fairground rides. They are also introducing a real ice slide in 2024, which I cannot wait to try.

Similar to London’s winter events, the North Pole is free to enter. But you have to pay individually for different rides and activities.

Rides start at just £2 each. So it’s not too bad depending on how many things you want to do.

Warm up after your skating session with a steaming mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows, delicious mulled wine or festive cocktails.

Also, be sure to check out the Authentic German Swing Grill. They sell gourmet burgers or Christmas crepes for a tasty winter treat!

5. Visit the Mill Road Winter Fair

Mill Road is one of the busiest roads in the city. Yet, for one day in December, it remains closed for the city’s Winter Fair.

One of the best things to do in Cambridge at Christmas, the fair usually takes place at the start of December and begins with an opening ceremony performed by the Mayor. You can expect lots of different stalls: including food, arts and crafts, and delicious beverages.

Also, prepare to be dazzled by the performers from dancers and singers to Tai Chi or story-telling. It’s run by a voluntary committee and it’s a huge community event throughout Cambridge in winter.

They collect money for charities and lots of businesses hold their own events. The fair also raises awareness of the opportunities in the city.

Whether you like scrummy street food, performances, museums or musical arts, there’s something at the Winter Fair for everyone.

6. Listen to a Carol service at Kings College

King’s College is one of the prettiest places to visit in Cambridge and it’s unmissable in winter. Their famous service ‘A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols’ typically takes place on Christmas even and is magical to listen to. This is often broadcast on the BBC too, so it’s a pretty big event.

To get tickets, you have to enter the ticket ballot, and then certain members of the public are selected to attend. You can enter either via the online form to by writing to the Dean in person.

However, if you don’t want to listen in person, you can also hear the recording on BBC Radio 4 and the BBC World Service on Christmas Eve.

Furthermore, if carolling isn’t your thing, a trip to Kings College is still one of the best things to do in the city. The building is beautiful, especially when it’s decorated for the festive season and is the perfect way to celebrate a Cambridge Christmas.

✅ Book tickets to Kings College

7. Explore Cambridge’s Winter Botanic Garden

If you fancy a wellness wander around a selection of gorgeous wildflowers, then you’ll love the Winter Botanic Garden at Cambridge University.

Open all year round, the garden has a range of floral displays regardless of the season. But its winter displays are perfect for a peaceful stroll and a great way to enjoy Cambridge in December. 

As well as the gardens, you’ll also find the Garden Shop which features a delightful range of plants, gardening tools, stationery, unique, homemade gifts and jewellery. The standard adult fee is £8, but children and friends or students of Cambridge University go free.

8. Go for a Christmas Afternoon Tea

You simply can’t visit Cambridge in winter (or any season for that matter) without sampling one of England’s traditional afternoon teas.

You can indulge in finger sandwiches, mini cakes, pastries, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a hot cup of tea – all with a festive theme.

Some of the best places to grab a festive afternoon tea include:

• Quy Mill Hotel – They offer a scrumptious afternoon tea in their tea room. Prices start from £24.75 per person and the menu includes freshly baked scones and a selection of finger sandwiches.
• Browns Restaurant – Offering both a festive and a champagne afternoon tea (for £23 and £33 per person respectively), their menu includes turkey and cranberry sandwiches and mini mince pies.
• The Cambridge Belfry – Serving tasty desserts, hot tea, and delicious savouries on their afternoon tea menu, the Belfry is a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas in Cambridge. It costs £28 per person.
• Parker’s Tavern – One of the most elaborate festive afternoon tea menus in Cambridge, Parkers pulls out all the stops. You’ll find mincemeat and brandy custard tarts, chestnut ‘snowman’ macarons, and much more for £25 per person.

9. Go For a Christmas Brunch

There is an endless choice of wonderful brunch places across Cambridge, and they make the perfect opportunity to escape from the chilly weather for a while.

From traditional English all-day breakfast, sourdough toasted sandwiches and avocado on toast to scrummy eggs benedict on an English muffin or grilled cheese and smoked salmon croissants, they are delicious.

A few of the best brunch spots include All Bar One, Espresso Library, The Old Bicycle Shop, The Punt Yard and, of course, the famous Fitzbillies. A few of these options will also give you a bottomless brunch which includes unlimited prosecco and cocktails.

10. Watch a Festive Pantomime

‘He’s behind you!’ Pantomimes always bring back wonderful memories of my childhood. They’re a fabulous way to welcome Christmas in Cambridge.

Usually featuring some great actors (and quite often a man in drag!), you can watch a pantomime at the Cambridge Corn Exchange or the Cambridge Arts Theatre.

Each year, they have some wonderful productions in the run-up to Christmas, ranging from Cinderella to Aladin. If you like a bit of theatre and festive comedy, this is definitely for you!

11. Go Christmas Shopping

Christmas shopping is such a fun thing to do in Cambridge at Christmas and is bound to delight. Especially after the Christmas light switch-on.

The biggest and newest shopping centre is the Grand Arcade. They have over 60 high street stores including Apple, Hollister, H&M, Pandora, and a huge John Lewis.

Linked to the Grand Arcade, is Lion Yard. Home to Cambridge Central Library, you’ll find a delightful combination of high-street brands and small, independent boutiques.

There’s also a great range of eateries to refuel from your day shopping including Boost Juice Bars, Yo! Sushi and B Tap Baron.

Then, of course, don’t forget the Grafton Centre for high street names, a Vue cinema, and a huge Primark! The Market Square is fab for vintage clothes and food.

Plus, Trinity Street, Bridge Street and King Street for some cute, independent stores.

👉 Planning a trip to Cambridge? Here are my favourite places to stay and my guide to punting in Cambridge.

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