Cambridge Travel Guide
Cambridge is one of Britain's smaller cities, but also one of the
fastest growing. Only a hundred years ago the population was just
36,000, and the main sources of employment were agriculture and the
world-famous University. Now, thanks in part to the "Cambridge Phenomenon", the hi-tech
industry is a major part of business around Cambridge - the so-called
Silicon Fen. As its reputation has risen, new businesses have started
up and people have poured in from all across the country.
But, despite its ultra-modern image, the city has retained its
picturesque charm which lures and delights visitors from all over the
world. The narrow streets and historic colleges are famous throughout
the world, and there can be few people who have not seen pictures of
punts gliding down the willow-lined River Cam, amongst the colleges. Cycling is the way to get around the city, with students and visitors alike owning or hiring bikes. Cars are being encouraged out of
the city centre onto the ring road, and the day-long rush hour in the
busiest parts of the city is more than enough to encourage people to
use other forms of transport. Apart from the colleges, dating from the early 1200s to mid
1900s, the University has many other historic and beautiful buildings.
From the stately grandeur of Senate House and the Greco-Roman face of
the Fitzwilliam Museum to the modern colours of the Judge Institute and
the prized glass chapel at Fitzwilliam College, architectural marvels
abound to suit all tastes. Guided tours of the city are available throughout the tourist
season - all you have to do is decide whether you prefer to walk, sit
on an open-topped bus, or recline in a chauffeur driven punt to see the
sights.
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