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Cambridge
Cambridge does not have a cathedral, which was traditionally a pre-requisite for city status. Cambridge is now internationally renown for its famous University. The historic splendour of Cambridge is evident in many of its buildings and Cambridge was an important town long before the scholars arrived. Cambridge has plenty of green open parks, such as Parker's Piece and Midsummer Common, which host a range of activities throughout the year. Originally an Iron Age Belgic settlment, many conquering armies have left historic sites in and around Cambridge. Cambridge flourished as a market and river trading centre, and in 1209 a group of students fleeing the Oxford riots arrived. Cambridge University began. A punt along the 'Backs' of the Cam bring a unique view of many of the colleges and passes under 6 bridges, including the Bridge of Sighs (St Johns) and the extrordinary wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens'. Many of the colleges are worth visiting for their gardens alone, fine trees and herbaceouse borders in Clare, imposing Cedars of Lebanon in Downing, and in Christ's an ancient mulberry, Indian Bean trees and a cypress grown from seed from the tree on Shelley's grave in Rome. Cambridge University Botanic Garden comprises 40 acres and are a delight to visit at any time of year. Highlights include a superb collection of native and exotic trees, a tropical glasshouse, an alpine house and a Dry Garden containing 80 species that need no watering. Cambridge University Press originated with a printing licence issued in 1534. Hobson's Conduit, the first project to bring clean drinking water to the town centre, was built in 1610 (by the Hobson of Hobson's choice). Parts of it survive today. Addenbrooke's Hospital was founded in 1766. The railway and station were built in 1845. According to legend, the University dictated their location: well away from the centre of town, so that the possibility of quick access to London would not distract students from their work. However, there is no basis for this in fact. Cambridge also has a number of Museums, many within the management of Cambridge University. Look at Cambridge Attractions, Cambridge Activities and Cambridge Events for something to do in Cambridge, all year round! |
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