Cambridge Life

Cambridge is an ancient university town 55 miles north of London. The University has become so literally part of the town that a defined "campus" is difficult to find. There is a complex of older buildings known as the "old Schools," but the buildings of the University’s colleges are spread throughout the town's picturesque 15th century streets. These roads and narrow lanes wind alongside the river Cam and amongst the attractive grounds and gardens known as the Backs. The population of Cambridge is over 120,000, but grows to about 140,000 during term time with the students.

Cambridge is a lively, elegant town that offers many social, cultural, and sporting opportunities to students attending the INSTEP programs. Libraries, galleries and museums, the historic commons (parkland), and the river, where traditional punts can be hired, are all within walking distance of the INSTEP housing.

As an INSTEP Cambridge student, you will live near the city center and the various colleges of the University. There are 32 Cambridge colleges, each with its own distinct history and architecture. The oldest of these was founded over seven centuries ago; the youngest college has only been in existence for three decades. You will also be within easy walking distance to nearly everything the town has to offer: student venues, societies and pubs, the outdoor market, the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Art Picturehouse cinema, theatres and concert venues, and the shopping complex including a new multiplex movie theatre.


Medieval Streets of Cambridge
Students punting on the River Cam


Open Market - Cambridge City Center
Modern Train Station with fast trains to London


The Programs

  Cambridge Summer Program
