Timeline
09:00
Step inside The University Library as it opens. The halls are quietest in the first hour, allowing you to browse the exhibition of treasures from the Library's world-class collections of manuscripts and printed books. Take your time with the highlights before the mid-morning crowds arrive.
09:45
Walk to Fitzbillies for a well-deserved break. This Cambridge institution is famous for its heavenly tea and pastries. Grab a spot in the cafe or take a box of their renowned pastries to go. The shop next door also sells the best pastries in town if you want to stock up for later.
10:15
Cambridge University Press Bookshop
Head to the Cambridge University Press Bookshop, the oldest bookshop site in the country. Books have been sold there since at least 1581. Browse their unique selection of CUP books in a space steeped in academic history.
10:45
Finish your walk at Selwyn College. Founded in 1882, its grounds offer a peaceful end to your morning. Admire the Gothic Revival architecture and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of one of the newer colleges, a perfect contrast to the busy library and shops you just visited.
Local tip
Fitzbillies and the University Press Bookshop are close to each other, making this a very walkable loop. The University Library is closed on Sundays, so plan for Monday through Saturday.
Check before you go
- The University Library is open Mo-Fr 09:00-18:00 and Sa 09:00-16:30.
- Fitzbillies is open Su 12:00-17:45 and Mo-Sa 09:00-21:30.
- Cambridge University Press Bookshop is open Mo-Sa 10:00-17:30 and Su 11:00-17:00.
- Selwyn College grounds are accessible, but check specific opening hours for interior visits if you plan to go inside.
Worth knowing
- Fitzbillies is open at 09:45 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa
- Cambridge University Press Bookshop is open at 10:15 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Cambridge (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).