Kings College building and chapel in Cambridge, England, covered in snow during winter with the River Cam in the foreground.

Christmas in Cambridge

As you bask in the festive warmth and elegance of Gonville Hotel, we invite you to explore the enchanting city of Cambridge. Famous for its historic university, breathtaking architecture, and lively cultural scene, Cambridge offers a winter wonderland of attractions just waiting to be discovered.

Stylized map of a city area with marked locations and a large orange GH marker.

Get to Know Cambridge

1. King's College Chapel - Renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and famous choir.

2. Trinity College - Known for its impressive Great Court and beautiful Wren Library.

3. St John's College - Famous for the 'Bridge of Sighs' and its picturesque grounds.

4. Punting on the River Cam - A quintessential Cambridge experience, offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges.

5. The Fitzwilliam Museum - A world-class museum housing art and antiquities from around the globe.

6. The Backs - Beautiful parkland along the river, offering iconic views of several colleges.

7. Cambridge University Botanic Garden - A 40-acre garden featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world.

8. Market Square - A vibrant marketplace with a variety of stalls selling everything from local produce to unique crafts.

9. Great St Mary's Church - Offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

10. The Mathmatical Bridge - An architectural curiosity located at Queen's College.

A brightly lit carnival at night with a large Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, and festive market booths
Christmas in Cambridge is back from 13th November until 31st December 2025

Christmas in Cambridge Fair

Experience ‘Christmas in Cambridge’ taking place at Parker’s Piece adjacent to Gonville Hotel over the Christmas period.

Wander through the sparkling Christmas Market, glide across the open-air ice rink, get lost in the twinkling Christmas Tree Maze, and take in the views from the Big Wheel. Gather with friends in the cosy Alpine Lodge or book a spot on the Après Terrace with curling lanes for festive fun. With seasonal street food, warming drinks, and magical memories waiting around every corner, Christmas in Cambridge is the perfect way to celebrate the season in the heart of the city.

Colorful illuminated lotus flower sculptures floating on water at night, with dramatic lighting and fog effects in the background.
From 28 November to 23 December 2025

Cambridge Botanic Lights

Cambridge Botanic Lights will bring the Garden to life after dark with spectacular displays and artistic installations - creating a beautiful landscape for visitors to enjoy in the Garden after dark.

The lights will highlight some of the Garden’s most beloved features, such as the Fountain, Lake and Glasshouse Range, and create special experiences around the rest of the Garden, as well as the light tunnel and lilies on the Lake.

Wooden Mathematical Bridge covered in snow over the River Cam at Cambridge, with historical brick buildings and snowy trees.

Winter Punting on the River Cam

Experience the magic of winter punting in Cambridge as you glide along the tranquil River Cam, surrounded by frost-kissed landscapes and historic college backdrops.

Bundle up in cosy blankets and enjoy the serene beauty of the season, making it a perfect way to see the city’s iconic sights from a unique perspective. We recommend a tour with Traditional Punting Co that takes you past seven colleges and eight bridges.

Choir singing in a grand cathedral with stained glass windows and ornate wooden stalls

King's College Chapel

King’s College Chapel is a sight to behold in winter. Adorned with festive decorations, the chapel exudes a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can marvel the intricate fan vaulting, stunning stained glass windows, and experience the ethereal sound of the renowned King’s College Chior during their special Christmas performances.

A visit to King’s College Chapel in winter offers a unique opportunity to witness this architectural masterpiece in a truly magical setting.