Cambridge Instagram Spots: Top 21 Locations Revealed By A Local

Searching for the best Cambridge Instagram spots?  I’ve got you covered.  As a seasoned travel writer and a Cambridge local, I’ve spent decades meandering through the historic streets and lush greenery of this quintessential English city.

Now, I’m sharing a curated guide to the most Instagrammable spots in Cambridge, England, that are sure to captivate your followers and create lasting memories.  Join me as I reveal the best locations in Cambridge for your Instagram photos.

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Let’s start this list of the best Cambridge Instagram spots with one of the big hitters.  No visit to Cambridge is complete without a stop at the Fitzwilliam Museum.  Grab a picture of the majestic lions guarding the neoclassical building or head inside the gilded entrance hall.

Little St Mary’s Lane

Tucked away from the bustling city centre, Little St Mary’s Lane is a hidden gem of a street, next to Peterhouse, the oldest college in Cambridge.  The charming buildings and old-fashioned lamps here provide a beautiful backdrop for your Insta photos.

Mathematical Bridge

Head to the architectural marvel that is the Mathematical Bridge for a unique photo op.  The folklore surrounding it makes for an interesting post.

The Backs

Stroll down to The Backs, the picturesque area behind the colleges, where the River Cam flows gently past.  It’s one of the most serene photo spots in Cambridge and is perfect for candid shots of punts gliding by.

Jack’s Gelato

Indulge in some of the best ice cream in town and snap a playful ice cream selfie outside Jack’s Gelato. The vibrant colours and artisanal flavours will add a pop of fun to your feed.

The Haunted Bookshop

For one of the best Best Instagram spots in Cambridge, check out the mysterious Haunted Bookshop hiding down St Edward’s Passage.

This spot is perfect for adding a touch of literary class to your social media. There are lots of other bookshops worth visiting in Cambridge.

For more helpful information about a trip to Cambridge, check out my guide to why Cambridge is worth visiting.

King’s College Chapel

Were you even in Cambridge if you didn’t visit the iconic King’s College Chapel?  This masterpiece of Gothic architecture is plastered all over Cambridge souvenirs and you can see why.  The chapel’s large fan vault ceiling and stained-glass windows are a treasure trove for photographers. 

Senate House Passage

Capture the essence of Cambridge’s academic heritage with a shot against the backdrop of Senate House Passage.

Trinity Lane

Stroll down Trinity Lane, an absolute classic Instagram spot in Cambridge.  The distinctive chimneys are a feature of many content creator’s feeds.

Rose Crescent

This pretty pedestrian street is ideal for fashion influencers.  It’s a great place to pose and, if you have time, check out the Harry Potter shop whilst you’re here.

Green Street

Another of the quintessential Cambridge streets, round the corner from Rose Crescent, is the cobbled lane of Green Street.  Grab a hot choc from Knoops to keep you going on your photo shoot.

St Johns Great Gate and Christ’s College Gate

The imposing gates of St John’s and Christs colleges are more than just entrances; they’re symbols of Cambridge’s academic prestige. Stand in front of them and feel the weight of all that knowledge.

Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs at St John’s College is undoubtedly one of Cambridge’s most photographed spots.  Head out on a Cambridge punting tour to get your shot.

Portugal Place

Wander down petite Portugal Place and you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into another era.  The narrow street and distinct doorways are one of my favourite Cambridge Instagram spots and a real hidden gem in Cambridge.

Varsity Hotel Roof Garden

For a panoramic view of Cambridge, go up to the Varsity Hotel roof garden. The skyline vistas offer a unique perspective of the city.

Magdalene Street Shops

Capture the essence of everyday Cambridge on Magdalene Street. The independent shops and picturesque houses are full of character.

Northampton Street Houses

Just around the corner form Magdalene Street there are more quaint houses to photograph.  This is one of the less well known Cambridge Instagram spots.

The Painted Church

All Saints Church, known as the ‘Painted Church’, is such a hidden gem in Cambridge that even some of the residents don’t know it’s here.  The Arts and Crafts movement decorated inside is stunning, but it’s not always open so check in advance.

Jesus College Sculptures

For a more modern art background to your Instagram shots, head over the road and follow the sculpture trail at Jesus College.

Orchard Street

This tiny lane is hidden almost out of sight in Cambridge.  The dinky cottages will look cute on any feed.

Narrow Boats on the River Cam

Finally, take the path less trodden with a walk along the River Cam. The narrow boats moored along the riverbank are a peaceful counterpoint to the city streets.

Map of Cambridge Instagram Spots

I’ve created a map of my list of the best Cambridge Instagram spots, to help you find them.

Wrap Up: Cambridge Instagram Spots

The graceful beauty of the university city of Cambridge will shine through your photography. 

When you’re done getting photos of Cambridge for your Insta feed, why not explore the local restaurants on Mill Road or head to one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Cambridge, the Ivy.  The flowers adorning the entrance will look great on the grid.