My Autumn Stroll Through Cambridge: Cows, Punting in River Cam, and a Taste of Jollof Rice
- Felicia Richard
- Nov 10, 2024
- 4 min read
As autumn started to arrive in Cambridge, leaves slowly changing hues to gold and orange, my sister and I set foot in this historic university town, eager to soak in its charm. Cambridge needs no introduction - renowned for being home to one of the most prestigious universities in the world, promised both history and beauty—and it delivered on every level.
Getting to Cambridge from London
Having arrived in London the day before, we bought a Great Northern Rail's return ticket from King's Cross Station to Cambridge. It was Sunday morning, so we paid for the off-peak day rate - and that cost £21.60 per person (return tickets). The train journey took around an hour each way.
Cambridge station to the University of Cambridge
Now here's a tips I'll not stop yapping about to anyone who'd ask me how I navigate my ways around the UK: Citymapper app. I first used this app on my first trip to the UK back in February 2023 (post coming up soon!), covering London and Edinburgh - and I cannot recommend this app enough. It's highly accurate and will show you the best route for those who want to take the tube or walking to their destination. However, there's one downside to this app - it drained my battery life sooooo much :( so, don't forget your powerbank, babe.
Once we arrived at Cambridge station, I just put in 'University of Cambridge' as my destination and the app gave me couple of options - walking, cycling, driving etc. We opt for walking because obviously, none of us can drive (LOL), but hey, we have always love walking in the UK so that's not too bad I guess.
Another pinpoint idea would be King's College Chapel.
Along the way, we walked past several colleges e.g St Andrew's College Cambridge, Downing College, Emmanuel College to name a few. We stopped by at some of the colleges' compounds that were open to public to get a glimpse of what it was like to be one of the students studying in this university city.
A Culinary Surprise: Our First Taste of Jollof Rice
While trying to find our way to King's College Chapel area, we couldn't help but wonder where the smell of delicious food coming from. Apparently it came from the Cambridge Market Square - and having been fueled by nothing but some Pret coffee and muesli bowl in the morning, we can't resist but to get our lunch there and then.
On a whim, we decided to try jollof rice for the first time, and I can’t even begin to express how much I loved it! The rich, spicy flavors had both of us savoring every bite, wondering why it took so long to discover this West African delight. It was one of those food moments that stay with you, adding a flavourful twist to an already delightful day.
If you have the chance, go check out Africfood stall for a hearty portion of rice and chicken.
Souvenirs and Sights
Tummies full, we continued our stroll from Cambridge Market Square towards King's College Chapel, marvelling at the stunning Gothic architecture that has graced countless postcards. The path was lined with street performers and students on bicycles. It was the perfect spot for people-watching; travelers snapping photos, locals chatting animatedly, and students engrossed in their conversations and sketching away. Of course, I snapped up a fridge magnet to add to our parents' fridge doors back home - our parents' fridge has become an international art gallery now, courtesy of me and my siblings' travels over the years.
Punting on the River Cam: A Classic Cambridge Experience
As we continued our day, we watched groups of people punting along the River Cam. While we didn’t join them this time, simply observing the scene felt quintessentially Cambridge. The soft ripples on the water and the distant sound of tour guides narrating history were all part of the riverside charm.
A Walk Among Heritage and Nature
One of my favourite moments of the trip was stumbling upon a scene that felt straight out of a painting: cows grazing peacefully in the meadows with the famous King’s College Chapel in the backdrop. There was something calming about the slow rhythm of the animals, an unexpected yet delightful contrast to the towering architectural masterpiece behind them.
To get here, find your way to Garret Hostel Lane or Trinity College Punts. Cross the bridge and continue walking until you see a small path heading to the The Backs on your left. Continue walking straight until you can see King's College Chapel across the meadow - a picture-perfect spot for sure, especially if the cows make their cameo too!
Reflections on Cambridge
It’s easy to see why so many fall in love with Cambridge. Beyond its academic prestige lies a town brimming with life, nature, and experiences that invite you to pause and take it all in. From the tranquil meadows to the vibrant food discoveries and the timeless allure of the River Cam, Cambridge is a place where history meets heart - and I won't mind visiting again :)
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