The Backs
Sightseeing attraction | Cambridge | England | United Kingdom
"The Backs" in Cambridge is one of the most famous and picturesque sights in the city, offering a unique perspective on the historic colleges and their gardens. The name "The Backs" refers to the riverside walk along the River Cam that includes the backs of the famous colleges of the University of Cambridge. This area is renowned for its beauty and historical significance, attracting numerous visitors every year who are enchanted by the harmonious combination of nature and architecture.
The backs of the colleges provide a fascinating and less known perspective on the University of Cambridge. While the fronts of the colleges are often characterized by prominent public squares and streets, visitors along "The Backs" can enjoy quieter, picturesque views. The River Cam meanders through this area, adding an extra element of tranquility and nature to the scenery. The college gardens, often surrounded by high walls and magnificent buildings, are open to the public and offer an opportunity to linger in a historic and peaceful environment.
The combination of ancient, venerable buildings and well-kept gardens makes "The Backs" a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The architecture of the colleges, mostly dating from the Middle Ages to modern times, is impressively diverse. Visitors can admire Gothic towers, classical columns, and Renaissance arcades that harmonize with lush vegetation and flower beds. The River Cam flows in gentle curves and reflects the facades of the colleges, making "The Backs" a particularly beautiful place for a walk, especially during the spring and summer months when the gardens are in full bloom.
A particularly popular feature of "The Backs" is the opportunity to punt on the River Cam in a traditional punting boat. This activity, typical of Cambridge, allows visitors to experience the area from a completely different perspective. Punting on the river is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of "The Backs," offering views of the majestic colleges and their gardens.
"The Backs" also has a significant cultural and historical dimension. The colleges lining the river here are among the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the world. The history of the University of Cambridge stretches back over 800 years, and many of the buildings along "The Backs" are witnesses to this long tradition of academic excellence. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of scholars, poets, politicians, and other prominent figures who have studied or taught here.
A walk along "The Backs" not only offers a journey through the history of Cambridge but also an opportunity to experience the fascinating architecture and rich botanical diversity. The area is a popular spot for students, locals, and tourists alike. It offers an ideal opportunity to unwind amidst beauty and history, while also getting a glimpse into vibrant university life.
For the residents of Cambridge and the many visitors who come to the city annually, "The Backs" is an essential place. It uniquely combines nature, history, and architecture, representing one of the most charming and cherished areas of the city. The tranquility of the river, the magnificent buildings, and the peaceful gardens provide a retreat amidst the urban bustle and are a true highlight of any visit to Cambridge.
