The Backs | Cambridge

The Backs is a picturesque area of Cambridge, England, offering one of the most iconic views of the city. It refers to a stretch of land along the River Cam that runs behind several of the university’s most famous colleges. The name "The Backs" comes from the fact that the area features the back gardens and grounds of these colleges, many of which have grand buildings and lush green lawns leading down to the riverbank.

Location and Significance

The Backs is situated to the west of the city center and includes some of the most famous colleges of the University of Cambridge. The river flows through this area, and the colleges are arranged along both sides of it, creating stunning vistas of their architectural facades, bridges, and gardens. The landscape and views along the Backs have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and visitors for centuries.

The area is also an important part of the university’s history, with the colleges in the Backs being among the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the university. The tranquil surroundings of The Backs contrast with the more bustling streets of central Cambridge, making it a serene and picturesque escape.

Notable Colleges on The Backs

Several of Cambridge’s most renowned colleges are located along The Backs, and many have gardens that run right down to the river. Some of the most famous colleges along this stretch include:

1. King’s College

• King’s College is perhaps the most famous of the colleges on The Backs. Its stunning Gothic chapel, with its iconic West Tower, is visible from across the river. The college’s formal gardens and wooded area run down to the water, offering a striking view of the chapel reflected in the river.
• The view of King's College Chapel from the Backs is one of the most photographed images in Cambridge.

2. Trinity College

• Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges at the University of Cambridge, is another prominent college located along The Backs. The college’s Great Court and Wren Library are important features, and its gardens slope down towards the river.
• Trinity’s Bridge of Sighs, a famous 19th-century covered bridge, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cambridge and connects two parts of the college over the River Cam.

3. St John’s College

• St John’s College has beautiful riverside gardens and a classic Cambridge-style bridge. The St John's College Bridge spans the River Cam and offers excellent views of the surrounding area. The college’s garden is a peaceful spot, often used by students for reflection or relaxation.

4. Queen’s College

• Queen’s College is another college with a prominent location along The Backs, famous for its beautiful stone bridge over the river. The college’s Old Court and newer buildings also contribute to the lovely views from the Backs.

5. Clare College

• Clare College is one of the oldest colleges in Cambridge, and its gates and gardens overlook the River Cam. The college has beautiful lawns leading down to the water, and the views are equally picturesque both from the college itself and across the river.

6. Corpus Christi College

• Corpus Christi College also has a presence on The Backs, with its buildings and gardens offering a more intimate, less formal feel compared to some of the other colleges. Its small bridge over the river is another charming feature.

Scenic Walks and Views

The area is particularly famous for its scenic walking paths along the riverbank, known as The Backs Walk. The paths provide visitors with breathtaking views of the colleges, their gardens, and the surrounding architecture. Walking along The Backs allows one to experience the essence of Cambridge, with its academic heritage juxtaposed against the natural beauty of the River Cam.

• Cambridge University Botanic Garden can be accessed from The Backs via Fen Causeway, offering a peaceful, nature-filled route to enjoy the outdoors.
• The walk along The Backs is also a great place for photography, with the river providing a perfect reflective surface for the college buildings and trees.

River Cam and Punt Tours

The River Cam plays an essential role in the ambiance of The Backs, and many visitors choose to take a punt tour along the river to enjoy the view from the water. Punting is a traditional activity in Cambridge, where boats are pushed along the river using a long pole. The scenic route passes through The Backs, offering a unique perspective of the colleges and their beautiful grounds.

Punt tours are often guided, with knowledgeable guides sharing history, anecdotes, and interesting facts about the colleges and the landmarks visible from the river.

Seasonal Changes and Charm

The Backs offers a different experience in every season:

• Spring brings vibrant flowers and blossoms in the gardens, with the trees along the riverbank blooming and new greenery appearing.
• Summer sees the gardens in full bloom, with students and visitors enjoying the sun in the college lawns, while the river is often filled with punters.
• Autumn brings golden and red leaves to the trees, creating a warm, colorful glow across the landscape.
• Winter offers a more serene view, with the bare trees and frosty mornings lending a peaceful, quiet atmosphere to the area.

Conclusion

The Backs is one of the most beautiful and tranquil areas of Cambridge, offering visitors a glimpse of the university’s rich history, impressive architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re walking along the riverbank, admiring the architecture of the colleges, or taking a punt ride, The Backs is an essential part of the Cambridge experience. It is a space where nature, history, and academia intertwine, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city.