Things to do near Quayside, Cambridge
Two ways to spend a few hours around Magdalene Bridge, plus a guide to every place within an easy walk of the river.
Plan your time
Two hours
Watch the punts at Quayside and look at Magdalene Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk up Castle Street to Castle Mound or Kettle's Yard, then return along Bridge Street.
Half a day
Take a punt trip along the College Backs, then visit Kettle's Yard or the Museum of Cambridge on Castle Street. Finish with a walk through Jesus Green and a stop for food near the quay.
Check opening times and ticket arrangements for any attraction before you set out. For a longer walking route, see the visitor guide.
Want the back story before you go? Read about the working river, who lived on Quayside, three old maps of the area, or the Thompson's Lane dig.
Every place within an easy walk
Magdalene Bridge
The cast-iron Great Bridge of 1823, at a crossing documented from at least 875.
Magdalene College
A college that began as a monks' hostel in 1428 and holds Samuel Pepys's library.
Castle Mound
The surviving motte of the castle William I ordered in 1068, with a panoramic view.
Kettle's Yard
A house and modern art collection arranged by Jim and Helen Ede.
Jesus Green
A riverside park with tree-lined avenues and a lido that opened in 1923.
Midsummer Common
A working riverside common, home to grazing cattle and the Midsummer Fair.
Museum of Cambridge
Everyday life in Cambridgeshire, in a former inn at the foot of Castle Street.
Food and drink
Places to eat and drink on the quay and within a few minutes' walk.
Grantchester by punt
A longer trip along the upper river, starting south of the city.
Getting to Quayside
Directions, walking times and a map.