Open-top bus offers locals a chance to explore Cambridge like a tourist

People have been challenged to “explore like a tourist” this summer to take a fresh look at Cambridge, with all the unique sights, sounds, and experiences it has to offer.

Cambridge is one of the most famous places in the world but is often overlooked by people who live in the surrounding area. Tourists are more likely to take time to appreciate the city than locals.

For example, did you know:

• Isaac Newton published his Theory of Gravity at Cambridge.

• Francis Crick and James Watson first sketched out the pattern of DNA at The Eagle pub on Bene’t Street.

• The first game of football, as we would know it today, was played on Parker’s Piece. The rules derived there formed the basis for the Football Association’s rules.

• Whilst at Cambridge, Lord Byron kept a bear in his college room – after being told he could not keep a dog!

• The statue of King Henry VIII on Trinity College’s Great Gate carried a chair leg until 2023, after his original sword was stolen.

• To date, Cambridge University’s graduates have won 121 Nobel Prizes - and also 194 Olympic medals!

• St Bene’t’s Church is over 1,000 years old – and has been active all that time.

The Cambridge City Sightseeing open-top bus is an outstanding way to see everything that the city has to offer. Maybe hop off on Chesterton Road, at bus stop 4, to stroll around the traditional English houses, see picturesque St Giles's Church, and even visit Jesus Lock on the River Cam. At bus stop 5, you'll find Bridge Street, one of the most historic streets in Cambridge. Hop off at bus stop 7 to do a spot of shopping on Market Street.

David Boden, business development director of Stagecoach East, which runs the Cambridge City Sightseeing bus, said: “We are so fortunate to have a world-renowned attraction right on our doorstep – one that people travel from thousands of miles away to see.

“But how often do we actually get out and look around it? Sometimes, you have to see things through the eyes of a tourist to really appreciate this wonder of the world on our doorstep!

“The Cambridge City Sightseeing open-top bus tours offers an opportunity see it all afresh. It really is a wonderful day out for friends and family.”

Tickets can be reserved on the Citysightseeing website priced at £41 for a family of two adults and three children, otherwise £17 per adult and £11.50 per child aged five to 15 years, four and under are free and there are concessions for seniors and students.

You can start at any stop and hop on and off as many times as you like within 24 hours.