Families, local residents and community groups are being invited to discover rarely-glimpsed parts of the University of Cambridge and Colleges at this year’s Open Cambridge event, from September 11th to 13th.

 

The annual event allows the public to explore some of Cambridge’s spectacular architecture, art collections and beautiful gardens and features tours, talks and art exhibitions. All the tours are completely free, but they must be booked in advance in most cases. There is however no need to book to see the spectacular libraries taking part in ‘Open Libraries’ or to attend the series of free talks about the University. A full programme and booking details can be viewed at: www.cam.ac.uk/opencambridge

This year’s activities are particularly special as they mark the University’s 800th anniversary. The programme explores Cambridge’s history since the University was founded in 1209. People taking part will have the chance to meet current staff and see the hidden corners of the University and Colleges.

The weekend will also see the 8th annual Bridge the Gap charity walk, on the morning of Sunday 13th September. The walk is in aid of the Arthur Rank Hospice charity and Press Relief, the News Community Fund. Participants take part in a 4.5 mile walk that takes them through a series of historic College grounds, as well as other University highlights such as the Museum of Zoology. Details can be found at: http://www.bridgethegapwalk.org

Highlights from the Open Cambridge Programme include:

• A chance to visit Clare Hall among the leafy gardens of West Cambridge. This is one of the youngest Colleges in the University, with outstanding gardens, art and a fascinating history.
• Admire William Wilkins’ neo-classical architecture on Friday 11th September at Downing College. Visit the Hall and Fellows’ Garden and learn about the history of the College since its foundation 200 years ago.
• Explore Girton, the first residential College for women, established in 1869. The Girton College Hall portraits’ tour will trace the story of the College through the portraits in the dining hall, as well as tales of the painters behind these spectacular pieces of art.
• Visit Hughes Hall, the oldest of the University’s six graduate Colleges, where teacher training for women was pioneered back in 1885. Explore the Margaret Wileman Building, Wollaston Lodge and the Fenner’s Building and find out about current events.
• Tour the University Library building, designed by Giles Gilbert Scott. Explore this fantastic building and get a glimpse of the seven million books and 1.2 million periodicals that are stored there.
• Visit Wolfson College, known as “the most cosmopolitan College in Cambridge”, where tours will guide you through its buildings and gardens.
 

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