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Offered languages
- English
- English
On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll hear stories about the women who fought for educational equality, made groundbreaking scientific discoveries, shaped the arts, and changed politics at Cambridge University. Hear the stories of women became pioneers in their fields, campaigners for reform, and leaders of the world. The tour starts where Cambridge University was founded in 1209, at Great St Mary’s Church. Pass the Old Cavendish Laboratory and learn about Dorothy Hodgkin – Britain’s first female Nobel Prize winner in science. Walk along the river Cam and past buildings where women created their own societies of learning while being excluded from the university. The tour concludes at Senate House, where the final battles for women’s equal education were fought and won. By the end of this 90-minute tour, you’ll have heard the untold stories of Cambridge’s women, and discovered how they continue to inspire change in the ongoing fight for full equality at the university – and beyond.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour begins outside Great St Mary's Church, the tall stone tower. You should see a large white building opposite you which is Senate House. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket.
Itinerary
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Great St Mary's Church (Church of England) (Pass by)
You'll begin at Cambridge's historic parish church, a stunning Gothic structure that has stood at the heart of the university since 1209. Explore the birthplace of Cambridge University and discover how this sacred space witnessed the founding of an institution that would eventually become a beacon for women's education worldwide.
Admission ticket free -
Corpus Clock (Pass by)
You'll encounter this mesmerizing bronze and gold timepiece that displays the time through a rippling ring of LED lights. Marvel at this modern masterpiece while learning how it symbolizes the relentless march of time that Cambridge's pioneering women fought against in their quest for equality.
Admission ticket free -
King's College (Pass by)
You'll pass the impressive gates and courtyards of one of Cambridge's most prestigious colleges, founded by Henry VI in 1441. Explore the historic grounds while learning about the college's long resistance to admitting women, finally opening its doors to female students only in 1972.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll visit the historic tavern where Watson and Crick famously announced their DNA discovery in 1953. Enjoy a moment in this atmospheric pub while learning about Rosalind Franklin's crucial contributions to the discovery that were overlooked for decades.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll pass the former home of groundbreaking scientific research, a modest Victorian building that housed world-changing discoveries. Explore the legacy of Dorothy Hodgkin, who used X-ray crystallography here to unlock the structures of life-saving molecules despite facing gender discrimination.
Admission ticket free -
Queens' College (Pass by)
You'll admire the beautiful Tudor and medieval architecture of this college founded by two rival queens during the War of the Roses. Stroll through the courtyards and discover the irony of how a college established by powerful women didn't admit female students until 1980.
Admission ticket free -
Mathematical Bridge (Pass by)
You'll cross this iconic wooden bridge that spans the River Cam with its distinctive geometric design. Walk across this engineering marvel while learning about the mathematical brilliance of women like Philippa Fawcett, who outscored all male students in the 1890 Mathematics Tripos.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll enjoy panoramic views of the River Cam from this charming stone bridge, perfect for photos of the college backs. Pass over the peaceful waters while hearing stories of the women who created their own societies of learning along these very riverbanks.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll discover Cambridge's first co-educational college, established in 1964 in a collection of beautiful converted buildings. Explore the grounds where Gwen Raverat, Charles Darwin's granddaughter, pioneered the art of wood engraving and challenged artistic conventions.
Admission ticket free -
The Backs (Pass by)
You'll stroll through Cambridge's most picturesque area, where manicured lawns stretch down to the River Cam behind the historic colleges. Marvel at this tranquil green space while learning about the women who fought for their place in these hallowed halls of learning.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll cross this elegant modern bridge offering stunning views of the college backs and punters on the river below. Walk across while discovering how this contemporary structure symbolizes the ongoing progress toward full equality at Cambridge.
Admission ticket free -
Senate House (Pass by)
You'll conclude at this neoclassical building where Cambridge's most important ceremonial events take place, including graduation ceremonies. Stand before this symbol of academic achievement and hear about the pivotal 1897 and 1921 votes that sparked riots as male students fought against granting women equal degrees.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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