The Backs is a picturesque area in central Cambridge, United Kingdom. It refers to the backs of several colleges of the University of Cambridge, including King's, Clare, Trinity and St John's Colleges, which back onto the River Cam, presenting an iconic view of the historic buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens alongside the river.
Yes, tourists can visit The Backs. The area is accessible to the public and is a popular spot for walking, taking photographs, and enjoying the scenic views of the university colleges and the river. However, access to the college grounds themselves may be restricted or subject to entrance fees.
The best way to see The Backs is by taking a stroll along the river pathways or by punting on the River Cam. Punting is a traditional Cambridge activity where you can either rent a punt and navigate yourself or join a guided tour. It provides a unique perspective of The Backs and the opportunity to see the historic architecture from the water.
There is no fee to walk along the river and enjoy The Backs. However, some college gardens may charge an entrance fee if you wish to explore them further. Pricing can vary and may be subject to change, so it's advisable to check with the individual colleges beforehand.
The Backs can be visited and enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring is particularly beautiful with blossoming flowers, autumn highlights the stunning fall foliage, and summer provides lush greenery. Winter has its own charm, although it can be quite cold and some garden areas may have restricted opening hours.
Yes, guided punting tours are available and offer insightful commentary about the history of the colleges and the architecture you see along The Backs. Walking tours may also be available and can provide more detailed information about the university and its colleges.
A casual walk along The Backs can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to punt along the River Cam or visit the college grounds, you should allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the experience and the sights.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted at The Backs and along the river. It's a highly photogenic area, so be sure to bring your camera. However, the use of drones or commercial photography might require permissions from the University or the individual colleges.
There are benches and some open spaces along The Backs where you can rest and enjoy the views. Nearby streets are lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops. Public restrooms may be found in some areas, but access to facilities within the colleges will likely be restricted to paying visitors or during specific events.
While certain parts of The Backs are accessible, some pathways along the river may be narrow and uneven, which could pose challenges for wheelchair users. It's best to check in advance with specific colleges for information on accessibility and available routes.
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Historical Places (84)
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