Bridge of Sighs Tours

Bridge of Sighs which includes heritage architecture, a bridge and heritage elements
Bridge of Sighs which includes a bridge, heritage elements and kayaking or canoeing
Bridge of Sighs featuring heritage elements, kayaking or canoeing and a bridge
Bridge of Sighs which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and kayaking or canoeing
Bridge of Sighs featuring kayaking or canoeing, a bridge and heritage elements


Take a chauffeured tour along the River Cam to get a closer look at this neo-Gothic bridge as you pass beneath it.

The Bridge of Sighs is a stunning 19th-century structure in the University of Cambridge. The covered bridge connects parts of St. John’s College and is a major draw for sightseers who come to delight in its elegance and charm. Admire the historic bridge and imagine the countless brilliant minds that have traversed it while studying at Cambridge.

The bridge, which was built in 1831, was Queen Victoria’s favorite part of Cambridge. Some say the site takes its name from the sighs of students crossing it on their way to take exams. However, it is actually named in honor of the famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice, which is also covered.

The bridge connects the New Court building with the Third Court structure across the River Cam. The students and professors that live and work at the illustrious university cross the bridge daily and you may be able to spot them from below. The bridge is not open to the public and the best ways to see it are as part of a guided tour of the university. Check with tour operators before departing as entry is often restricted.

For a memorable experience, take the chauffeured river tour instead. Appreciate the majesty of the bridge as you glide underneath it and take note of its grand arches and spirals. Listen to fascinating and humorous tales from the guide about the bridge and the river. One such story centers on a bizarre prank that students pulled twice in the 1960s, by hanging a car off the bridge by a rope.

Take photos of the site from the river or one of the nearby halls. There are also great photo opportunities from the bridge itself, with views downriver of the gardens and neo-Gothic architecture.

The Bridge of Sighs is in St. John’s College in the center of Cambridge. To get here, take a short walk from the campus or city center. Nearby features include the St. John’s College Playing Fields and the Jesus Green.

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Best Lodging Options Near Bridge of Sighs

Wilde Cambridge City Centre

Wilde Cambridge City Centre

2 out of 5
Round Church Street, Cambridge, England
Wilde Cambridge City Centre
Gonville Hotel

Gonville Hotel

4 out of 5
Gonville Place, Cambridge, England
Gonville Hotel
Graduate by Hilton Cambridge

Graduate by Hilton Cambridge

4 out of 5
Mill Lane, Granta Place, Cambridge, England
Graduate by Hilton Cambridge
Arundel House Hotel

Arundel House Hotel

3 out of 5
Chesterton Road, Cambridge, England
Arundel House Hotel
Clayton Hotel Cambridge

Clayton Hotel Cambridge

4 out of 5
Station Rd, Cambridge, England
Clayton Hotel Cambridge
The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton

The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
33 Milton Road, Cambridge, England
The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton
ibis Cambridge Central Station

ibis Cambridge Central Station

3 out of 5
2 Station Square, Cambridge, England
ibis Cambridge Central Station
Hilton Cambridge City Centre

Hilton Cambridge City Centre

4 out of 5
20 Downing Street, Cambridge, England
Hilton Cambridge City Centre
Turing Locke Cambridge

Turing Locke Cambridge

4 out of 5
47 Eddington Ave, Cambridge, England
Turing Locke Cambridge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Bridge of Sighs

When visiting the Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring nearby art galleries and enjoying the picturesque views along the River Cam. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, capture stunning photographs of the iconic bridge, and consider a punting tour for a unique perspective of the surroundings. Don't miss the chance to appreciate the rich history and architectural beauty that define this charming area.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Cambridge Market Square, just 0.3 miles from the Bridge of Sighs, offering a vibrant public market atmosphere. Nearby, Grand Arcade Shopping Centre, 0.4 miles away, features entertainment and family-friendly shopping. If you're up for a drive, explore Waterside Antiques Centre, located 15 miles away, for unique finds.

Recreation

Explore The Backs, a serene area perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation, located 0.7 miles from the Bridge of Sighs. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sheep's Green/Lammas Land, just 0.8 miles away, offers ample space for picnics and nature walks, promoting wellness in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

At Virtual Aviation, located 3 miles from the Bridge of Sighs, you can experience the thrill of air sports. Fly simulators provide an exhilarating adventure, perfect for aviation enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush while enjoying the excitement of being in the cockpit.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Bridge of Sighs offers a delightful mix of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a performance at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, just 0.3 miles away, or catch a film at the nearby Cambridge Arts Picture House, located 0.6 miles away. Both venues promise a romantic and engaging evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge offers a rich blend of historic colleges and modern universities, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking culture and city experiences. Nearby attractions include beautiful churches and various points of interest that cater to families. Don't forget to check out reviews and insights about the iconic Bridge of Sighs, which draws comparisons to its namesake in Venice, enhancing your visit with a touch of history and charm.

  • University of Cambridge: This historic university, located 0.5 miles from the Bridge of Sighs, boasts stunning architecture and rich cultural vibes. Explore its beautiful colleges and gardens, and immerse yourself in centuries of academic tradition.
  • The River Cam: A mere 0.1 miles away, the River Cam offers picturesque scenery and outdoor vibes. Consider a relaxing punt along the river for a unique view of the city, surrounded by lush greenery and charming bridges.
  • King's College Chapel: Just 0.3 miles from the Bridge of Sighs, this magnificent chapel is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and cultural significance. Don't miss the breathtaking stained glass windows and the impressive fan-vaulted ceiling.

Best time to go to Bridge of Sighs

The best time to visit Bridge of Sighs can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Bridge of Sighs falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Bridge of Sighs falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.7°F (8.7°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September59.2°F (15.1°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bridge of Sighs

To save money during your visit to the Bridge of Sighs, consider traveling between December and February when hotel prices are lower. Sundays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare deals and find eco-friendly accommodations. Look for package deals that combine flights and hotel stays for added savings, and consider joining Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Additionally, explore free activities in the area and utilize public transport to keep travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bridge of Sighs are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bridge of Sighs is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Bridge of Sighs is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Bridge of Sighs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.