Friday, 29/08/2008
Living In The Cambridge Area
Cambridge, renowned as one of England's great university towns, is a fusion of the everyday and the extraordinary – at first glance it is an traditional, historic city, yet behind the picturesque façade lies a thriving hub of contemporary and modern life. Described as one of the most beautiful cities in Britain, it has also been recognised as being at the forefront of scientific research, considered to be a centre for hi-tech industries and referred to locally as "Silicon Fen".
Culture
Cambridge is much more than just a university city. Aside from the beautiful architecture of the colleges, Cambridge offers a wide variety of things to see, do and experience. Some of the city’s famous cultural attractions include The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Round Church, which is one of only four remaining round churches in England, and the Kettles Yard gallery. Classical music concerts take place in many of the college chapels and during the summer months some of the colleges stage outdoor Shakespeare performances.
Outdoors
If you prefer to be outdoors, Cambridge boasts a number of delightful city parks close to the River Cam, which are perfect places to relax on a summer’s afternoon and many of the pubs back onto the river creating an enjoyable and sociable environment. Jesus Green, the largest park, is also home to a 100-yard long open-air swimming pool, the longest outdoor pool in the country and the park also hosts the world-famous beer festival every year. The pleasant surroundings of the University Botanic Garden houses a huge collection of plants in a tranquil setting and The Backs, a picturesque stretch along the River Cam, has great views of the colleges across the river. For the more energetic, punting on the River Cam is a true Cambridge activity and for those interested in rowing, the “Bumps Races” that take place on the River Cam in the summer provide great entertainment.
Shops and entertainment
Shoppers will find a pleasant environment in Cambridge with all the major stores in the town centre plus a number of boutique, individual shops, the bustling market square and excellent bookshops. In the evening Cambridge hosts a diverse selection of cosmopolitan cafes and restaurants and a wide choice of theatres, cinemas, bars and clubs. Cambridge is also home to a number of venues that regularly host a wide variety of bands, popular DJs and comedians. Recent performers have included Hard-Fi, James Morrison, Jools Holland, Jimmy Carr, Lenny Henry, Jack Dee and The Chinese State Circus
Surrounding Area
There are also many pleasant towns in the local area for those who prefer a more relaxed environment. Newmarket, home to the famous racecourse, Saffron Walden and St Ives provide pleasant alternatives to the city of Cambridge and the numerous villages in the area are perfect for those who prefer the rural environment.
Schooling and family
Cambridgeshire offers excellent schooling for all age groups and the surrounding area offers a host of activities from walking and cycling in the Fens to boating on the Norfolk Broads. The East Anglian coast and the city of London are both less than an hours travel away from Cambridge and the local area also offers many attractions for family days out, making the region a great place for all ages.
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