Looking for an entirely unbiased opinion about which activities to do in Cambridge? Now that exams are over, we’re all in need of a break or two, so keep reading to discover my thoughts about a range of activities that will take you all over the city.

Grantchester – 3.5/5

Technically, Grantchester is not in Cambridge, however it does us all some good to leave the student bubble. In Grantchester, you’ll find plenty of pubs (three), all of which will sell you an overpriced pint, just like in Cambridge. You can swim in the Cam, sunbathe by the river or frolic in the fields. It is a nice walk or cycle through Newnham Village and then along the river across expansive fields.

Already issues spring to mind. First of all, what about the illnesses in the Cam? I know several people who came down with the flu last year, which has entirely put me off ever swimming in the river. Also, Grantchester meadows are no friend to hayfever sufferers. If you think that freshly mown Jesus Green is bad, then please do not even attempt to go to Grantchester.

“If this isn’t enough to convince you, there is also an excellent café”

As hinted above, while there are pubs, they are expensive and, in my experience, can have slow service. And at the end you then have to get home. Maybe you walk back or cycle, or you could be exceedingly lazy and get a cab, speaking from personal experience this is the fastest route home…

Mini Golf – 3/5

Your only option for this activity in Cambridge is the Tivoli. There you have an option of two different courses and can have a drink from the bar as you play. Neither of the two courses take very long, and I say this as an awful mini golf player. Admittedly, it is a little further out than other activities, which could be a blessing or a curse depending on whether you do or do not want to avoid everyone you know.

Kettle’s Yard – 4.5/5 (as an art historian)

You’ve (hopefully) visited the Fitzwilliam Museum, but what about a trip to Kettle’s Yard? It’s free for students and provides a nice alternative to the grandeur of the Fitz. It’s set in the former house of Jim and Helen Ede and modern British and American art abounds, covering the walls and displayed as Jim Ede desired. It is deceptively big, thanks to the extension and exhibition space. Even for non-fans of modern art, like me, it is a fun way to spend an afternoon. If this isn’t enough to convince you, there is also an excellent café.

“If you are blessed with intercollegiate friendships, you could do a college bar crawl”

Croquet – 4/5

Many colleges have a croquet set that you can set up and play in the grounds (we definitely have one in Magdalene). There are clear joys to be found in croquet. For example, it is a simple game to set up, that anyone can play and is easy to learn. More importantly, when played right, it can become incredibly competitive (even violent). Alternatively, you could live out your Bridgerton dreams from season 2 (it is true that they played pall mall, but the game is similar). A game of croquet can occupy a whole afternoon, giving you a much-needed distraction, while doing some very important exercise.

Pub golf – 4/5

There is no doubt that Cambridge is swimming in pubs, most of which offer expensively priced pints and drinks. Why not visit several of these fine establishments in one night with a round of pub golf? Of course, this is an idea both detrimental to your bank account and your academic weaponry, but it is a very enjoyable way to spend an evening. There are lots of potential routes, depending on where you start. For example, from Magdalene you could first visit the Pickerel Inn, then stop at the Baron of Beef, or Mitre, then divert to the Maypole before looping back into town for a stop at the Bathhouse, before stumbling to the Eagle. If you really want to get your steps up, you could also head over to the Mill or cross the river to the Granta.

Alternatively, if you are blessed with intercollegiate friendships, you could do a college bar crawl. This option is infinitely cheaper and could include many more stops than a pub crawl, and who doesn't want that?