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Kettle's Yard
A Natural Oasis in the City: Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Just a short stroll from the city centre, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Whether you’re a plant lover, a photographer, or simply in need of a tranquil break, this 40-acre garden is one of Cambridge’s must-visit destinations.
Highlights: Glasshouses, Seasonal Colour & Hidden Corners
The garden is home to over 8,000 plant species from around the world, beautifully arranged across themed landscapes. One of its standout features is the stunning range of glasshouses, where you can explore everything from tropical rainforests to desert habitats. The seasonal displays are constantly changing, making every visit unique—spring brings a sea of bulbs, summer explodes with colour, and autumn offers a golden spectacle of foliage.
Don’t miss the Systematic Beds—a living library of plant diversity arranged by botanical family—or the peaceful lake, perfect for a reflective moment.
A Garden with a Story
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden was founded in 1846 for the study and display of plants. Designed to support botanical teaching and research, it continues to be managed by the University of Cambridge. Over the years, it has become both a scientific hub and a public garden, striking a rare balance between education and enjoyment.
Opening Times & How to Get There
The garden is open daily (except between Christmas and New Year), typically from 10am to 6pm in the summer and until 4pm in the winter. Entry is ticketed, with discounts available for students and children. You can reach the garden easily—it’s about a 10-minute walk from Cambridge Train Station and a 15-minute walk from the city centre. There’s also cycle parking and nearby bus routes.
Nearby Attractions
Once you’ve explored the garden, you’re perfectly placed to discover more of Cambridge. The Fitzwilliam Museum, the colleges along Trumpington Street, and the charming Mill Road with its independent cafes and shops are all within walking distance.
Why Visit?
Whether you’re visiting with kids, taking a solo stroll, or looking for a peaceful spot to picnic, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a refreshing slice of calm and curiosity in the heart of the city. A perfect blend of science, nature, and beauty—this garden invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Open Hours
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Monday - Sunday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Directions
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
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1 Brookside
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Cambridge
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CB2 1JE
More Attractions
Operated by the University Department of Zoology, this institution serves dual roles as an active research facility and public museum. The collection's origins were humble—simple teaching specimens for zoology students—but it has since grown into a remarkable archive of nearly two million items, among them Darwin-era specimens and the famous naturalist's personal beetle collection.
A Journey Through Evolution
The museum's collection follows a chronological journey through the animal kingdom, displaying fossils, organisms, and specimens that trace evolutionary development over millions of years. Glass cabinets line the walls, filled with carefully preserved biological specimens that tell stories of adaptation and survival. Above, skeletons hang suspended from the ceilings, creating a dramatic canopy of bones. The ground floor showcases impressive full animal skeletons, from towering mammals to ancient creatures. Through regular exhibits focused on zoology and evolution, visitors can explore the incredible diversity of wildlife, from the simplest organisms to the largest mammals.
Collection Highlights
The museum houses an extraordinary array of specimens that tell stories across geological time. From the extinct dodo and dinosaur fossils to Darwin's personal beetle box, each piece carries scientific and historical weight. Modern marvels like the Komodo dragon specimen sit alongside ancient treasures such as an ichthyosaur over 150 million years old. Pop culture intersects with natural history through the nine-foot-tall Asian elephant featured in 2001: A Space Odyssey. A 21-metre fin whale hangs majestically above the entrance, setting the stage for the museum's pièce de résistance: a giant blue whale skeleton that commands the central hall.
Visitor Notes
With explorer bags, interactive activities, and engaging displays throughout, the museum is thoughtfully designed for families and aims to inspire the next generation of biologists. However, parents should be aware that some of the striking and unusual historical specimens, particularly preserved animals, might disturb younger or more sensitive children.
Whale Cafe and Gift Shop
The museum shop offers an excellent range of educational games, toys, and science-inspired keepsakes perfect for budding naturalists. For a quieter moment, retreat to the upstairs whale café area where you'll find comfortable seating and a peaceful atmosphere. Set aside 1–2 hours to appreciate the full collection, or opt for a condensed 30-minute walkthrough.
Directions & Opening Hours
Conveniently located just off Downing Street, the museum is part of a cluster that makes for an excellent museum-hopping day. Directly across the road, you'll find two complementary institutions—the Sedgwick Museum and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology—all within easy walking distance of each other
Opening Times
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Tickets:
Free
Address:
David Attenborough Building, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ
Visit their website for further information
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University Museum Of Zoology
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Great Saint Mary's