Introduction
Let’s face it—sometimes the best stories come from the weirdest adventures. Cambridge is packed with quirky things to do, perfect for anyone who likes their travel with a side of the unexpected. If you’re ready to ditch the ordinary, follow this guide to Cambridge’s most offbeat experiences.
Oddball Museums and Collections
- Whipple Museum of the History of Science: Marvel at bizarre scientific gadgets, from ancient telescopes to Victorian quackery.
- Museum of Cambridge: Step into a time warp with exhibits on local legends, odd customs, and eccentric inventions.
- Polar Museum: Explore tales of polar exploration, penguin costumes, and husky sleds.
Unusual Tours and Experiences
- Ghost Walks: Hear spine-chilling tales of haunted colleges and mysterious happenings after dark.
- Punting with Poetry: Enjoy a river cruise where your guide recites classic and modern poems.
- Silent Disco Tours: Dance through the streets in a group, headphones on, grooving to your own beat.
Eccentric Eats and Drinks
- Afternoon Tea with a Twist: Try Fitzbillies’ famous Chelsea buns or a themed tea at The Orchard in Grantchester.
- Gin Laboratory: Mix, blend, and taste your own gin in a mad-scientist-style workshop.
- FoodPark: Sample street food from a converted fire engine or vintage caravan.
Secret Gardens and Hidden Spots
- The Fellows’ Garden at Clare College: A secret haven of rare plants and quiet benches.
- Castle Mound: Climb this ancient earthwork for quirky city views.
- Mathematical Bridge: Snap a selfie and debate its legendary construction.
Quirky Shopping and Souvenirs
- All Saints’ Garden Art Market: Find handmade oddities and meet local artists.
- Books for Amnesty: Hunt for rare, out-of-print, and just plain weird books.
- Mill Road’s Vintage Shops: Unearth retro clothes, vinyl, and collectibles.
Bullet List: Fast & Quirky
- Watch the Corpus Clock “eat time”
- Join a Cambridge scavenger hunt
- Attend a themed pub quiz (Harry Potter, anyone?)
- Try axe throwing at The Boom Battle Bar
- Spot the “Snowy Farr” cat sculpture in Market Square
FAQs
Are these quirky activities suitable for groups?
Most are perfect for friends, couples, or solo explorers.
Do I need to book in advance?
Some tours and workshops are popular—booking ahead is smart.
What’s the quirkiest souvenir from Cambridge?
A photo with the Corpus Clock, a handmade trinket, or your own blend of gin!
Conclusion
Cambridge is brimming with eccentricity and charm. Whether you’re exploring oddball museums, sipping gin in a laboratory, or dancing through the streets on a silent disco, quirky things to do in Cambridge promise memories—and stories—you’ll never forget. Why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary?
