Museum of Cambridge: everyday life in an old inn
A short walk from Quayside at the foot of Castle Street, this small museum tells the story of everyday life in Cambridgeshire from inside a former inn.
The building
The museum occupies the former White Horse Inn at 2-3 Castle Street, a timber-framed, Grade II listed building with winding stairs. The museum describes it as 17th century, and the building is part of the visit.
How the museum began
The collection grew out of an exhibition held in 1933. The museum opened on 3 November 1936 as the Cambridge and County Folk Museum, with about 900 exhibits, and was opened by Sir Cyril Fox.
What you will find
The focus is ordinary life in Cambridge and Cambridgeshire, not colleges or grand occasions, which makes it a useful companion to the university sights along the river.
Walking from Quayside
Cross Magdalene Bridge and continue up Magdalene Street to the start of Castle Street. Kettle's Yard and Castle Mound are close by, so the three combine easily. See things to do nearby for more ideas.
Plan your visit
As of October 2026, the museum lists opening on Monday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 5pm, plus Thursdays in school holidays. Hours can change with volunteer availability.
Admission is listed at £7 (£7.70 with Gift Aid), £6 for concessions, £3.50 after 4pm, and free for ages 16 and under.
Information checked October 2026. Confirm on the Museum of Cambridge visitor page. History: the museum's history page.
Plan the rest of your day
Two ready-made itineraries around the river.