Travellers Tips

Plan smarter, travel easier – everything you need to know before you go

Parking info

Travellers’ Tips for Visiting Cambridge

We want your time in Cambridge to be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit – from getting around the city to avoiding parking pitfalls and enjoying your tour with confidence.

Driving and Parking in Cambridge

Be aware: Cambridge is not the easiest city to navigate by car. In addition to strict speed limits, there are many bus lanes and bus gates throughout the city, monitored by cameras. These are reserved for buses, taxis, cyclists, and emergency vehicles. Driving through them may result in a £60 fine (£30 if paid within 14 days).

⚠️ Key areas to avoid:

  • Silver Street (especially tempting when following GPS to Grand Arcade car park – don’t do it!)
  • Station Road, Bridge Street, Emmanuel Road, and Regent Street/St Andrew’s Street

Many unsuspecting drivers are caught out by these routes, they all have bus gates, with painting on the road, and no bollards (like in the past), and cameras will record your number plate – so plan ahead and avoid following sat-nav blindly – and getting a hefty fine.

Parking Options:

  • Grand Arcade Car Park – Central but expensive (weekend prices: £4.60 for one hour, around £29.40 for up to 5 hours)
  • Queen Anne Car Park – More affordable, slightly further out (weekend prices: £3 for one hour, around £13.60 for up to 5 hours)
  • Park Street Car Park – Central and easier to get out from (weekend prices: £4.60 for one hour, around £29.40 for up to 5 hours)
  • Queens’ Road (The Backs) – Fixed fee and convenient; pay via the RingGo app which allows you to extend your stay from your phone

We recommend downloading RingGo and setting up your account before arriving. Alternatively, if you don’t mind walking, there are free parking spots further out – or cycle into town using a hire bike.

Park & Ride:

Cambridge has several Park & Ride sites around the city. Parking is free, and a bus will take you straight into the city centre. It’s a smart, hassle-free way to explore without worrying about traffic or fines.

Tip: If you’re staying in a city centre hotel, ask if they offer discounted parking or access to a nearby car park.

Getting Around Cambridge

Cambridge is compact and mostly flat, making it easy to explore on foot. Aside from a short incline at Castle Hill, the city is very walkable.

You can also:

Punting on the River Cam

A classic Cambridge experience! Glide along the River Cam and admire the colleges from the water – either through the city’s Backs or on a quieter trip towards Grantchester.

General Safety & Local Advice

Cambridge is generally a very safe and welcoming city. Still, it’s best to take sensible precautions:

  • At night, especially in poorly lit areas, try to walk in groups
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and plan your route back to your hotel or car in advance

Our Photo Tours

Our photo tours are designed to be relaxed, educational, and fun. Whether you’re joining a photo walk, iPhone photography session, or a group or family photo tour, we’ll take the time to help you enjoy every moment. If things run over slightly, we won’t rush you – we’re here to make your experience memorable.

Cambridge Market

Nestled in the heart of the city, Cambridge’s historic Market Square has been a hub of activity since the Middle Ages. Open daily from 10am to 4pm (except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day), it’s the perfect place to browse a vibrant mix of local produce, street food, arts, crafts, books, vintage treasures and more. Whether you’re after a bite to eat, a unique gift, or just a taste of local life, the market is a must-visit spot.

Location: Market Hill, Cambridge CB1 0SS

What to Bring

We recommend you carry:

  • A camera or smartphone
  • Credit/debit card for cafés and shops
  • Charged mobile phone
  • A lightweight day bag
  • A snack and bottle of water
  • A map (or download one on your phone)

Feature Your Photos in Our Shop

Join one of our photography tours and capture a great shot of Cambridge? If you’re proud of your image, we’d love to feature it on our website or Instagram – with full credit to you. It’s a great way to share your talent and even sell your prints.

Turn Your Favourite Shot into a Vintage Cambridge Print

Love a photo you took in Cambridge? For just £7.99, we can transform it into a beautiful vintage-style poster – perfect for framing or gifting. Whether it’s a memory from your tour or a favourite view of the city, we’ll give it a timeless, nostalgic look. Just send us your image and we’ll take care of the rest.

Enjoy Your Visit!

Cambridge is a vibrant, multicultural city steeped in history, learning, and charm. We’re sure you’ll fall in love with its beauty – and we’re here to help you experience it at its best.

If you have any questions or need help planning your visit, just get in touch. We’re always happy to help.

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