7 Colleges, 9 Bridges

The Cambridge College Route

Our signature punting route takes you through the heart of Cambridge’s famous “Backs” – the stunning stretch of the River Cam that flows behind seven of the university’s most prestigious colleges. As you glide along the water, you’ll pass under nine historic bridges, each with its own unique story and architectural charm.

The Seven Colleges

• King’s College: Founded in 1441 by Henry VI, famous for its stunning Gothic chapel and choir.
• Queens’ College: Home to the iconic Mathematical Bridge, founded in 1448 by Margaret of Anjou.
• Trinity College: Cambridge’s largest college, founded by Henry VIII in 1546. Alumni include Isaac Newton.
• St John’s College: Founded in 1511, featuring the famous Bridge of Sighs connecting its courts.
• Clare College: The second-oldest surviving college, known for its beautiful gardens and bridge.
• Trinity Hall: Founded in 1350, one of Cambridge’s oldest colleges with a picturesque riverside setting.
• Corpus Christi College: Founded in 1352, unique as it was established by townspeople rather than royalty.

The Nine Bridges

• Mathematical Bridge: The famous wooden bridge at Queens’ College, built in 1749 with an ingenious design.
• Bridge of Sighs: St John’s covered bridge, built in 1831 and named after Venice’s famous crossing.
• Kitchen Bridge: Connecting the kitchens of St John’s College, offering charming views of the Backs.
• Clare Bridge: Cambridge’s oldest surviving bridge, adorned with decorative stone balls.
• King’s Bridge: A simple stone bridge offering views of King’s College Chapel.
• Trinity Bridge: Elegant stone crossing providing access to Trinity College’s grounds.
• Garret Hostel Bridge: A modern bridge connecting Trinity Lane to the college backs.
• Silver Street Bridge: Marking the start of the college backs, a popular punting launch point.
• Magdalene Bridge: Historic crossing at the northern end of the backs near Magdalene College.

What You’ll See

• King’s College Chapel – one of the finest Gothic buildings in the world
• The Mathematical Bridge – a marvel of 18th-century engineering
• The Bridge of Sighs – Cambridge’s most photographed landmark
• Beautiful college gardens and manicured lawns
• Centuries of history and academic tradition
• Wildlife along the riverbanks including ducks and swans