Spending Christmas In Cambridge: 7 Unmissable Adventures
As we get closer to Christmas, visitors and locals alike will be looking to get in the Christmas spirit in Cambridge. Thankfully, this historic city is a great place to be during the Christmas season, and there’s plenty of festive fun to be had, with unique Christmas events that combine the city’s rich history with our love of the festive season.
If you’re searching for Christmas things to do in Cambridge, then this is the guide for you. Keep reading to find the best Cambridge Christmas activities for all the family.
Take A Punting Trip
A winter punting tour down the River Cam can be an amazing way to see the colleges in all their festive glory. At Rutherford’s, we offer shared punting and private punting experiences throughout the holiday season.
Our chauffeurs will dress for the weather and provide you with warm blankets and umbrellas if necessary. On our tours, you can enjoy the sights and see Cambridge all lit up and ready for the festive season, all from the comfort of our modern punts.
Our chauffeured punting tours are ideal for all the family and can be a relaxing way to see the sights in Cambridge this Christmas. Book online or call us on 01223 322200 to secure your place on one of our incredible Cambridge punting tours.
Check Out The Christmas Lights
Christmas light displays can be a fun day out for everyone, and with most areas offering free entry, this can be an affordable choice for families looking for festive entertainment.
The main event in the Cambridge Christmas calendar happens at 5pm on Sunday, November 17 2024, in Market Square. This free event runs throughout the day, with Christmas carols and seasonal classics played by local performers before the Big Switch On at 5pm.
The Cambridge Botanic Lights display at the Botanical Gardens is also a unique experience that’s not to be missed. The Botanic Lights trail can be seen on Thursdays to Sundays and is a magical family adventure that you’ll remember forever.
Browse One Of Cambridge’s Amazing Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are an iconic part of the season and are great for the whole family. They’re more than just about shopping; a Christmas market is an experience. There’s usually the chance to pick out your Christmas tree, visit Santa Claus and even see performances by local choirs.
Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just love browsing and finding festive cocktails and foods to try, Cambridge has the perfect Christmas market for you. There are market stalls to suit everyone at venues across the city, but the main Cambridge Christmas Market is at the historic Parker’s Piece, which transforms into a winter wonderland throughout December.
The event boasts cosy lodges where you can enjoy hot chocolate, delicious mulled wine and other festive treats, ice domes next to the ice rink, and even the chance to meet Father Christmas. There are also stalls and performances, making this the definitive Christmas fair.
Try A Festive Afternoon Tea
Christmas is a great time of year for foodies, and there are plenty of food fair events and dining experiences to enjoy. One quintessentially Cambridge option is a festive afternoon tea.
Popular dining destinations such as the University Arms Hotel, Carriages Tea Room and the Cambridge Belfry all offer festive afternoon teas, complete with delicious cakes and tasty festive sandwiches.
For those who want to get the true Cambridge experience, why not try a Rutherford’s cream tea punting tour this Christmas? You’ll be able to enjoy delicious scones and tasty treats while being shown the delights of the city from the comfort of your punt.
Go See A Christmas Concert
If you’re looking to take in some culture this Christmas, a festive concert or show could be the perfect choice for you.
Whether it’s a pantomime at the Cambridge Corn Exchange or the Cambridge Arts Theatre, or the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at King’s College on Christmas Eve, there are many shows, carol services and events throughout the festive season to enjoy.
Visit An Ice Rink
Ice skating is a fun, festive activity that families, couples or even groups of friends love. While it might seem cold in Cambridge right now, it’s not cold enough to freeze the river!
Thankfully, there are artificial ice rinks throughout Cambridge offering festive ice skating sessions that are safe and fun. Cambridge Ice Arena operates throughout the year, but there’s also the outdoor at Parker’s Piece, which is the largest outdoor ice rink in the city.
Parker’s Piece also offers a Christmas market with a maze, heated domes, delicious food and much more. Plan a trip and enjoy ice skating to your heart’s content. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned ice skater, you’ll be able to make the most of the cold weather and enjoy some festive fun on the ice.
Finish Your Christmas Shopping
While Christmas markets are great for quirky gifts and getting you into the Christmas spirit, you might also want to visit some of Cambridge’s many shopping centres to stock up on festive food and Christmas Day essentials.
Popular shopping centres like The Grand Arcade, The Grafton and The Lion Yard all have stunning Christmas lights and a range of shops to enjoy. From department stores to independent shops, there’s something for everyone, and you’ll be able to find the perfect Christmas food and gifts.
With longer festive opening hours, you’ll be able to browse an array of goodies and find festive treats for everyone you love.
Enjoy The Festive Season In Cambridge!
Christmas is all about having fun with the people you love, so whatever holiday events you choose to attend and activities you do, the team here at Rutherford’s Punting hopes you have a lovely time!
If you do decide to visit us at our Jesus Green Moorings, consider using our online platform to book your Rutherford’s Punting Tour and secure your space, as our punting tours can be busy at this time of year. We hope to see you there. Merry Christmas!
