River Cam Punting & Mathematical Bridge
River Cam / Mathematical Bridge
Gliding along the River Cam in a flat-bottomed punt past the college gardens, under the Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, is Cambridge’s most iconic experience.
Punting involves propelling a flat-bottomed boat along the river with a long pole. The classic route is “The Backs,” which starts from the Silver Street landing near Queens’ College. It passes Queens’ College’s Mathematical Bridge, a wooden arch bridge said to have been designed by Newton without nails. In fact, it was built in 1749 by James Essex, and the legend is a misconception. The route continues past King’s College, Clare Bridge, Trinity College and St John’s College’s Bridge of Sighs. The full trip takes about 45 to 50 minutes. You can choose a shared punt with a guide (about 20–35 pounds per person) or rent your own and pole it yourself. Punting takes skill, and beginners tend to spin in circles and risk being pulled into the water by their poles. Another route runs upstream to Grantchester, through countryside scenery, and makes a good half-day trip. Street touts at the landing offer prices that are not transparent, so it’s best to buy directly from a reputable punt company’s counter.
Opening hours
approx. 09:00 to sunset; extended in summer
Nearby sights
- Queens' College, Cambridge
- Corpus Clock
- King's College Chapel, Cambridge
- The Eagle
- Great St Mary's Church
- Fitzwilliam Museum
- Trinity College, Cambridge
- Cambridge Market Square