St John's College, Cambridge
St John's College
The second-largest college in Cambridge, straddling both banks of the River Cam. It features the Victorian Bridge of Sighs and the grand Gothic Revival New Court.
St John’s College was founded in 1511 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII. Its main gate is decorated with gilded family coats of arms and mythical animals. The college consists of a series of courts arranged one after another. After passing through the First, Second and Third Courts, cross the river over Kitchen Bridge (also known as Wren Bridge), and you will see the Bridge of Sighs, completed in 1831. This fully enclosed Gothic covered bridge links the Third Court with New Court on the opposite bank, and it is the most photogenic bridge in Cambridge. Standing on Kitchen Bridge gives you a perfect view of its front. Students nicknamed New Court the “Wedding Cake” because of its shape. The college chapel has Cambridge’s tallest tower, and its choir is equally excellent. Evensong in the evening during term time can be attended free of charge. The college charges visitors (about 10–15 pounds, subject to the official website), and it is often closed during exam periods and college events. You can also pass under the bridge while punting on the River Cam.
Opening hours
Outside exam season approx. 10:00–17:00 (check official notice)
Nearby sights
- Trinity College, Cambridge
- Magdalene College & Pepys Library
- Great St Mary's Church
- King's College Chapel, Cambridge
- Cambridge Market Square
- Kettle's Yard
- Corpus Clock
- The Eagle