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Cambridge is a beautiful city that is probably best-known for its intellectual offerings – being home to the University of Cambridge, one of the most prestigious UK universities (and one half of the famous boat race), and also the well-rated Anglia Ruskin University.

But there's plenty of fun to be had outside of the lecture halls and SU bar. So, if you're heading here to study, here's our list of the best things to do...

1) The Centre For Computing History

Source: Tripadvisor

Good for: A fun day out.

What it is: A museum dedicated to all things digital.

Why you should go: If you have ever used anything technical, this museum is the perfect taste of something different. Dedicated to the information age, the centre holds an immense collection of vintage games, consoles and props from our most loved TV shows (IT Crowd included). For less than a tenner (bargain), you can see virtual become reality.

2) River Cam

Good for: Something scenic.

What it is: Cambridge’s main river, which flows through the city.

Why you should go: For a chance to punt down a beautiful natural trail, the River Cam is the ultimate escape for any stressed out student. Whether you want to bond with your new housemates, have a peaceful break to yourself or just fancy seeing what’s there, the River Cam can provide. The river allows you to see the city from a different viewpoint, and punting tours show you sights you can’t see from the land.

3) Fitzwilliam Museum

Source: Visit Cambridge

Good for: Experiencing some of the city’s culture

What it is: One of the most notable museums in Cambridge.

Why you should go: In the heart of the city, this museum is famed for its extravagant design. Housing more than half a million artworks, there’s plenty for everyone to look at, and gives you your daily dose of culture. For those keen to soak up something new, the museum has plenty of variety and is a good place to visit with your parents (for when they drop in to see how you’re getting on).

4) Cambridge’s Cows

Source: Cambridge News

Good for: A dose of animal therapy

What it is: Quite literally what it says on the tin. When uni stress and exams are looming, the cows are there to save the day.

Why you should go: I mean, who doesn’t love a cow? With their own Twitter account, the cows are quite forward thinking and can be found at Coe Fen, Midsummer Cotton and Stourbridge common. They post pictures every day of what they are up to, so it’s worth it just to get them on your ‘gram. Enjoy a pint in a nearby pub and watch nature’s finest creatures get up to what they do best.

5) King’s College Chapel

Source: Pinterest

Good for: Passing a few empty hours with architecture.

What it is: Dating back to the 1200’s, King’s College and Chapel are the historic backdrop to the modern city. Nothing short of outstanding, they’re the perfect pop-in spot for history buffs and something different.

Why you should go: Embrace a different sight than your bedroom walls and take your minds off of lectures for a while. It’s known across the world so chances are a lot of students will want to visit, so hit two birds with one stone and combine a day out with some pals. It’ll break the ice and give you something to talk about!

6) Paddle Boarding

Good for: A splash of something new.

What it is: Rather than punting your way through the River Cam, this classic seaside activity can be taken to the river too – paddle boarding!

Why you should go: An unusual activity for the city of Cambridge, paddle boarding through the city is more than just a dream for some. Apparently it’s the “cool kids” way of seeing the sights, and is something different on those empty days. Grab a group of willing participants and you’re good to go. It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried this before either, you can learn at Milton Country Park before you take to the river.

7) Bridge of Sighs

Good for: Taking a stroll and taking a break after a packed day of seminars and lectures.

What it is: A Harry Potter-esque Bridge with stunning visuals.

Why you should go: Crossing the River Cam and titled after its namesake in Venice, it’s a common (and appropriate) myth that the bridge is called so after the sighs of students who’ve just taken exams. It’s a popular prank spot too, as two separate cars have been dangled under the bridge (by students, naturally), but the bridge is made of stronger stuff so wasn’t damaged. So if you fancy a prank or a sigh, this is your bridge.

8) MASH

Source: Designmynight

Good for: Letting your hair down and embracing student nightlife

What it is: Easily one of the top five nightclubs in the city, it’s the stomping ground for basement and underground tunes. In true student style it is open seven days a week and is sure to relieve any stress you may have post-lectures.

Why you should go: I mean, what other clubs could you visit any night of your choosing? MASH, formerly known as The Fez Club is notorious for its stellar nights out and debuts any genre of music you could think of. A crowd pleaser for any student, the club is both laid back and fun enough for you to forget your troubles and dance the night away to the soundtrack of your choice. Not to forget their outstanding selection of rough and ready bevs for all.

9) Grab a cocktail at 196

Source: Tripadvisor

Good for: An outstanding cocktail selection.

What it is: A fantastic cocktail and food bar which screams independent and artsy. A popular spot for those who like something different, this small hideaway is great for a relaxing drink on the weekend.

Why you should go: Unlike the commercial bars well-known to most people, 196 is a spark of something different. Cocktails with garnish (perfect for any boomerang opportunities), good company and relaxing music, whether you’re here for a first date or catch-up with friends, 196 is the place to be.

10) Go and see the Fiver

Source: Cambridge Junction

Good for: Comedy, music, theatre, spoken word, anything you fancy!

What it is: A longstanding regular event at Cambridge Junction, new talent all round is given the chance to show what they’ve got for the city’s audience.

Why you should go: Firstly, it’s a cheap thrill. With five acts performing, it's easy to remember and (thankfully) easy to pay for. A great activity to do with a big or small group, the Fiver is your chance to see what up and coming talent will debut in the near future. The list of emerging talent is endless, and many have lived up to their potential.

Key info about Cambridge

Cambridge is an extremely student friendly city, with everything you need in the compact town centre. It's also well known for the amount of green space around the city, so there's plenty of public parks to picnic in during the summer. On top of all this, the architecture around the city is stunning, so just walking around is always a lovely experience.

Thinking of studying at Anglia Ruskin? Check out their courses here.

Or are you aiming for Cambridge? Find out what they offer here.