As the vibrant colours of autumn cover Cambridge, the city’s charm becomes even more captivating. Known for its rich history, academic excellence, and stunning architecture, Cambridge transforms into an autumnal haven, perfect for those seeking to enjoy the serene beauty of the season. At the heart of this historical city, is The University Arms, a luxury hotel that offers the perfect getaway to experience the joys of autumn in Cambridge.
Here’s your guide to the best seasonal activities and events to make your visit truly unforgettable.
- Glenn Ligon Art Exhibition: ‘All Over the Place’
Experience the work of American artist, Glenn Ligon, at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Discover his thought-provoking work, that explores the social, cultural and political constructions of race - aimed at peeling back the layers of history. With powerful paintings, sculptures, and prints there is lots to explore.
This Exhibition is Free - Visitors can choose to make a donation to The Fitzwilliam Museum
20th September 2024 - 2nd March 2025
- Cambridge Music Festival
Experience the magic of live music at the Cambridge Music Festival. This Autumn series, which has been a staple of the city’s cultural calendar since 1991, promises to deliver outstanding performances of Classical Music - performed in bold and imaginative ways.
29th September - 21st November
- Duxford Flying Finale
Duxford Flying Finale is a special end of season flying display that takes place at the former RAF site that played a leading role in some of the most dramatic days in 20th century history, serving as a base for many of the Spitfire and Hurricane pilots during the Second World War.
5th October 2024, 10am - 6pm
- The Craftivist Collective Handbook with Sarah P Corbett at David Parr House
Join Sarah P Corbett for a talk on her new book The Craftivist Collective Handbook: Projects, Stories, and Methods for Gentle Protests as part of our Salon Series of Talks at David Parr House.
Sarah asks if we want our world to be more beautiful, kind and fair then can we make our activism be more beautiful, kind and fair?
9th October 2024, 6:30 - 8pm. £10 per person. David Parr House.
- Apple Day
Visit Botanic Garden for the region’s biggest Apple Day! An event perfect for all ages with a variety of engaging activities from apple tasting, identification and crafts, to live entertainment and food trucks. A day of fun, food, and festivities for the whole family.
20th October 2024, 10-4pm. £12.65 per adult. Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
- Halloween Afternoon Tea at Parker's Tavern
Indulge in a spooky yet delicious Halloween Afternoon Tea at Parker’s Tavern, located within University Arms. Our pastry team has crafted a seasonal menu featuring traditional finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and Halloween-themed treats like pumpkin delice and orange butterscotch skulls. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season in style.
Price: £39 per person
Available 21st - 31st October. Served daily, 12:30-5pm
- Portia Zvavahera Art Exhibition at Kettle's Yard
Explore the evocative world of Portia Zvavahera, at her first solo exhibition in Europe. Drawing inspiration from African Printmaking, Christian iconography, and traditional European painting - this exhibition offers a deep personal reflection on her dreams and spiritual experiences using various artistic techniques. This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see the work of an artist who is rapidly gaining international acclaim.
22nd October 2024 - 16th February 2025, 11am - 5pm. Free to attend.
- Luxury Autumn Wreath Making Workshop
Join us in our ballroom with Emily Tallulah flowers for a luxury Autumn wreath making workshop, the perfect way to dress your front door as we head into the new season. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine whilst Emily demonstrates the wreath making process. In this 2-hour workshop, you will make a Autumnal mossed wreath base using an abundance of the finest Autumn offerings; dried fruits, dried flowers, feathers & seed heads.
18th & 19th October 2024. £85 per person. University Arms.
- Barbara Hepworth: 'a work of mine in your house'
This new display in the Research Space at Kettle’s Yard brings together works by Barbara Hepworth that are not ordinarily on permanent display in the Kettle’s Yard house. The display also includes works by artists who have been inspired by Hepworth including Alfred Wallis (1855 – 1942), Ann-Marie James (b. 1981) and Catherine Yass (b. 1963).
- Ghost Walking Tour
No one really believes in ghosts, do they? By the end of this tour you might change your mind. As autumn arrives and the streets get darker and quieter, it's easy for the imagination to run riot. Why is that window in the Eagle Pub never closed? What do people really see in the Haunted Book Shop? In a city packed with medieval buildings, it is little wonder that ghost stories abound. Hear about the many spooky goings on from one of our expert ghost guides. Don’t be afraid…..
£20 per person, 1 hour duration. Dates on demand.
Looking for a place to stay? For a truly luxurious and convenient autumn getaway, look no further than . Our hotel is nestled in the heart of Cambridge and offers unique features and accommodations. Whether you're looking for a cosy , stunning views, or , we have it all.