Clare College
Cambridge's second-oldest college, founded in 1326, famed for its iconic bridge, beautiful gardens, and world-class choir.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Clare College
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cambridge's second-oldest college, founded in 1326, famed for its iconic bridge, beautiful gardens, and world-class choir.
"A small yet pretty little college, with beautiful buildings along the River Cam."
Check Access First
Clare College can be closed for refurbishment or events. Always check their official website before visiting. :information_desk:
Stroll The Backs
Enjoy the beautiful gardens and river views from 'The Backs' – a must-do for scenic beauty. :parkwithtree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Clare Bridge
River Cam
Iconic Gothic and Baroque bridge, a popular photo spot and a symbol of the college's beauty. Count the round stones!
College Gardens
The Backs
Stunning gardens along the River Cam, offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape. Famous for their beauty.
Chapel Choir
Chapel
Renowned for its exceptional choir, often performing classical and contemporary pieces. Check for performance schedules.
Jerwood Library
River Cam
Unique modern library architecture offering a striking contrast to the historic surroundings. A notable visual element.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Refurbishment
Academic Intensity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access First
Clare College can be closed for refurbishment or events. Always check their official website before visiting. :information_desk:
Stroll The Backs
Enjoy the beautiful gardens and river views from 'The Backs' – a must-do for scenic beauty. :parkwithtree:
Listen for the Choir
The Clare College choir is world-famous. Try to catch a rehearsal or performance if possible. 
Bridge Stone Count
Challenge yourself to count the round stones on the iconic Clare Bridge for a fun, unique activity. :thinking_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access First
Clare College can be closed for refurbishment or events. Always check their official website before visiting. :information_desk:
Stroll The Backs
Enjoy the beautiful gardens and river views from 'The Backs' – a must-do for scenic beauty. :parkwithtree:
Listen for the Choir
The Clare College choir is world-famous. Try to catch a rehearsal or performance if possible.
Bridge Stone Count
Challenge yourself to count the round stones on the iconic Clare Bridge for a fun, unique activity. :thinking_face:
Respect Academic Space
Remember it's a working university. Be mindful of students and academic activities. :mortar_board:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clare College is praised for its beautiful architecture, especially the iconic Clare Bridge, and its stunning gardens along the River Cam. However, visitors should be aware that it's a working academic institution and may have limited public access due to ongoing refurbishments, which can be a point of frustration.
"Clare College is rather hidden even though it is located in the city centre. It is undergoing some refurbishment at the moment and seems to be perpetually closed to public. But if you manage to get in, it is a small yet pretty little college. Take a stroll along the bridge and count the number of round stones on it! You can also get a good view of the unique Jerwood Library from there."
Mabel
"Clare College is a constituent college of the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, England. The college was founded in 1326 as University Hall, making it the second-oldest surviving college of the University after Peterhouse. It was refounded in 1338 as Clare Hall by an endowment from Elizabeth de Clare, and took on its current name in 1856. Clare is famous for its chapel choir and for its gardens on "The Backs" the back of the colleges that overlook the River Cam."
Rao Jodha
"Intense academics. Amazing garden. Nice punters going around. Please don't come here if you value sanity and love for life."
Jacky Zhou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clare College is centrally located in Cambridge, easily accessible by foot from the city center. Several bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in Cambridge can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, Clare College is situated along the River Cam, close to other prominent colleges like Trinity College and King's College, making it easy to explore multiple sites on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clare College is often closed to the public due to refurbishment or academic events. It's essential to check their official website for current visitor access and any potential entry fees or booking requirements.
Opening hours can vary significantly due to ongoing refurbishment and academic schedules. Always consult the official Clare College website for the most up-to-date information on visitor access.
While Clare College is primarily an academic institution, it sometimes allows public access. However, this is subject to ongoing renovations and academic calendars, so checking their website is crucial.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Clare Bridge, the beautiful gardens on 'The Backs' along the River Cam, and the historic Chapel, renowned for its world-class choir.
Absolutely! Clare College offers stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, the picturesque Clare Bridge, and serene gardens, making it a photographer's delight.
Founded in 1326 as University Hall, Clare College is the second-oldest surviving college at Cambridge. It was refounded as Clare Hall and is known for its chapel choir and gardens.
Information on guided tours can be limited as the college is a working institution. It's best to check the official Clare College website or inquire directly about any available tour options.
The Clare Bridge is a famous landmark, celebrated for its elegant design and the unique architectural feature of its round stones. It's a central point for photos and appreciating the college's beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Clare College offers formal hall dining for its students and fellows. Public access to dining facilities is generally not available, but nearby Cambridge city center has numerous dining options.
Formal hall is typically reserved for students and fellows of Clare College. It's unlikely to be available for general visitors, though specific events might occasionally permit guest attendance.
📸 📸 Photography
The Clare Bridge, the college gardens along the River Cam, and the exterior of the historic buildings are prime photography locations. Capture the bridge's arches and the serene garden vistas.
While generally permitted in outdoor areas, it's always wise to be discreet and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially inside buildings or during academic activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that Clare is a working academic institution, so access might be limited due to renovations or events. It's best to visit during less busy times and focus on the outdoor areas like the gardens and the bridge for a relaxed family outing.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Learn about its refounding as Clare Hall and its enduring legacy, including its famous chapel choir and the picturesque gardens that have graced 'The Backs' for generations. The college's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Cambridge University's development.
🎶 Music Lovers
+2If you have the opportunity, attending a service or a concert in the Chapel is a highly recommended experience. The choir's talent and the acoustics of the Chapel create a truly memorable musical encounter. Check the college's schedule for any public performance opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Renowned Clare College Choir
+2Visitors hoping to experience the choir's talent can often attend services in the Chapel or look out for special concert announcements. The choir's performances are a significant part of Clare College's cultural identity and a highlight for many visitors.
Notable Performances and Recordings
Recent highlights include performances of Handel's Messiah and Mozart's Coronation Mass, as well as works by John Rutter. Their dedication to high-quality choral music makes them a cornerstone of the Cambridge music scene.
Architectural Gems and the Clare Bridge
Beyond the bridge, the college grounds feature beautiful quadrangles and historic buildings. The Jerwood Library provides a striking modern architectural counterpoint to the older structures, showcasing a thoughtful integration of new and old.
Key architectural elements to look for include:
* The intricate stonework on the older buildings.
* The elegant arches of the Clare Bridge.
* The contemporary design of the Jerwood Library.
* The serene landscaping of the college gardens on 'The Backs'.
Academic Life and Debates at Clare
These debates highlight the intellectual environment at Cambridge, where students are encouraged to critically analyze and articulate their viewpoints. The discussions often involve challenging established ideas and engaging with complex global affairs.
While these debates are a testament to the college's academic spirit, it's important to remember that Clare is a place of learning. Visitors should be respectful of the academic atmosphere and the students' pursuit of knowledge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit