Universal U1, Girton Road to Cambridge City Centre

Journey Overview

The journey commences in the relative calm of the tree-lined surroundings of Girton College, which is part of University of Cambridge. The bus then turns right and makes its way amidst green shrubland towards the University’s Sports Centre and Gym before heading towards the City Centre, passing, on the left, a perfectly manicured cricket ground with views of The Chapel at Churchill College in the distance. St. John’s College Playing Fields are visible on the left, so too the famous Cambridge University Library. The bus turns left, passing more cricket fields, this time part of King’s College School and the views are a mix of gorgeous trees and fields, as Queen’s College is circled and the River Cam crossed besides the pleasant-looking Cloister Court.

The bus is into the heart of Cambridge City Centre now and the scenery becomes more built up, but the architecture is supreme – a mix of Regency and Georgian buildings, but still serene places of retreat, such as the idyllic The Master’s Garden to the left.

This really is a journey to be cherished and it gets ever-more interesting as the famous Pembroke College is passed on the left, just before Little St. Mary’s Church on the right and the famous Fitzwilliam Museum. More playing fields – all perfectly manicured are visible from the bus window before the magnificent Botanic Gardens comes into sight, which the bus then tantalisingly surrounds as it finds its way to Cambridge Rail Station. The fascinating views continue though, firstly of the renowned red bricked Homerton College with its ornate gothic revival look, then yet more playing fields, this time of The Perse Upper School before the bus makes its conclusion at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.

A Fab Day Out!

Starting from Girton Road, you’ll journey towards Cambridge University Library, a towering architectural marvel that houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and archives. While you may not have time to explore the library’s interior, its striking exterior and imposing facade make it a notable sight from the bus.

Continuing on, the bus route takes you past the amazing coffee shop, Fitzbillies, which dates back to 1920 and includes a delightful cake shop, tearoom and an amazing selection of cakes, brunch and lunch as well as classic afternoon tea. From here, just a few yards away is The Fitzwilliam Museum, one of the finest art and antiquities museums in the country. It’s worth making a visit to admire the museum’s neoclassical facade and consider exploring its world-class collections of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Back on the bus and the next stop worth getting off at is at Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a tranquil oasis of plant diversity and botanical beauty. Consider alighting here to explore the garden’s extensive grounds, featuring themed plant collections, glasshouses, and peaceful walking trails.

Finally, the bus arrives at Cambridge City Centre, where you can disembark and explore the bustling streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant shops and cafes. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Cam, admire the iconic architecture of Cambridge University’s colleges, or indulge in shopping and dining experiences in the city’s bustling heartland.