Punting down the Cam is excellent (Cambridge in General)

Member Name: poet831

Product:	Cambridge in General
Date:	07/06/09 (4 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lots of history, quaint streets, chocolatiers, antique bookstores, good pubs

Disadvantages: Your feet will kill you at the end of the day !

It's been a while, and the prices have gone up, but one of the most romantic places to visit (especially if you're really into history like me) is Cambridge. This place, one of England's greatest historical cities, is definitely a treat. The streets are packed with interesting curios - little cobblestone walkways off the main roads hiding antique bookstores or chocolatiers in their narrowness - and the colleges themselves are full of history.
Everywhere you walk, there is something for everyone. Feeling hungry? There are a variety of choices available from bakeries, to pubs serving good fare, or restaurants catering to different specialties. Shopping for something to wear? The choice is between department stores and the bustling market stalls.

But ...if you're looking for that special day for you and the special person in your life ...visit Cambridge in the Spring and Summer time. Take yourself down to one of the many bridges crossing the River Cam and indulge in a punting trip down the river. It is relaxing and your guides will give you a good lesson in the history of the various bridges and universities along the way.
I must admit, my playfulness was ever present on our trip some 16 years ago. After a few shoves of his pole, our punt operator was in stitches when I berated him for not singing the Cornetto song to me, and in response to my assertation that I had never ... (oops, can't say it) in a punt, he promptly said he could let us go by ourselves and he'd hit the pub for an hour! Yes, I must admit, that was a naughty thing for me to say. We were all laughing though and had a great time.

The city abounds with museums and art galleries to satisfy the most eager observer. For instance, Cambridge Contemporary Art at 6 Trinity Street has a reputation for bringing exciting young talent to public attention. In contrast, the Fitzwilliam Museum on Trumpington Street, displays European art work along with ancient Greek, Roman & Egyptian artefacts in an impressive 19th century building.
The Technology Museum at The Old Pumping Station, Cheddars Lane, is a marvellous delve into our industrial past and includes a working letterpress print shop, a Victorian pumping station, and electrical equipment from bygone eras.

The best way to see most of Cambridge? Other than taking the punt on the River Cam to see all the bridges and universities along the way, is to get yourself a good pair of comfortable walking shoes and pound the beat. So much to see that you would miss on the bus, walking around gives you the time to stop and really explore anywhere that you feel drawn to. The exercise will do you good as well.
Enjoy!

Summary: Punting down the Cam is excellent