Tucked away just off the busy St Andrew’s Street, Christ’s College is one of Cambridge’s most charming and centrally located colleges. Step through the Great Gates and you’ll find yourself in a quiet world of elegant courtyards, tranquil gardens, and over five centuries of rich academic heritage.
Christ’s College was founded in 1505 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, the formidable mother of King Henry VII. Previously known as God’s House, the college was re-established under its new name and quickly became a hub of learning and religious reflection. The striking Tudor buildings in Front Court, still in use today, are a testament to this early vision and give visitors a genuine sense of Cambridge’s past.
Lady Margaret’s influence is still seen throughout the College grounds, from her family crest carved into stonework to the grand portrait in Hall. Her commitment to education laid the foundations for generations of scholars who followed.
Christ’s has an impressive list of alumni, perhaps most famously Charles Darwin, who studied here in the 1820s. John Milton, the celebrated poet behind Paradise Lost, was also a student in the 17th century.
In modern times, the college has continued to nurture exceptional talent, with alumni including Chemist and industrialist Yusuf Hamied, historian Simon Schama, and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig.
Beyond its academic legacy, Christ’s is known for its peaceful and picturesque setting. The Fellows’ Garden is a highlight, a walled oasis filled with ancient trees, colourful flowerbeds, and even a mulberry tree believed to date from Milton’s era.
It’s an ideal spot for a reflective moment or a quiet stroll away from the bustle of city life.
The college also features the Second and Third Courts, along with the striking modernist New Court designed by Sir Denys Lasdun, which blends the old with the new in true Cambridge style.
In addition to being an academic institution, Christ’s offers comfortable B&B accommodation and conference facilities right in the heart of Cambridge. Guests can enjoy staying overnight in the college’s historic buildings, with rooms overlooking peaceful courts and gardens.
Accommodation is available out of term time and provides a unique chance to experience life inside a working Cambridge college.
For conferences, meetings, and events, Christ’s provides a range of fully equipped venues, from intimate meeting rooms to larger lecture spaces, excellent in-house catering, and a stunning setting. Whether you're planning a residential conference, a training session, or a special event, the college offers a professional yet character-filled alternative to traditional venues.
Christ’s is open to the public during the day (outside of exam periods), and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds, chapel, and gardens. Admission is usually free. The entrance is located on St Andrew’s Street, just steps away from the Grand Arcade, Market Square, and other central attractions.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a future student, or simply in search of a beautiful and peaceful corner of Cambridge, Christ’s College offers a warm welcome and a truly memorable experience.
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