Free self-guided walk · Cambridge

Colleges and the Backs

A free self-guided walk through central Cambridge, from the market square along King's Parade to the Backs and the Mathematical Bridge.

Distance
1.5 km
Walking time
19 min
Allow
About 1.5 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsCambridge city guide

About this walk

This walk covers the colleges' best-known buildings and the river behind them.

Watch for bikes.

  • Terrain: Flat and paved.
  • Best time: Morning, before the crowds and punts.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Market Square

    Start at the daily market.

  2. Great St Mary's

    The university church, with a climbable tower.

  3. King's College Chapel

    The Gothic chapel.

  4. The Backs

    The lawns behind the colleges.

  5. Mathematical Bridge

    Finish at Queens' College.

Tips

  • Great St Mary's tower gives the best view of King's.
  • Colleges set their own visiting hours.
  • Punts can be hired at Silver Street.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.