The Backs

Six colleges, one view

From north to south the colleges backing onto the river are St John's, Trinity, Trinity Hall, Clare, King's and Queens', with Magdalene sometimes counted too. Their bridges are among the best-known sights in the city: the Bridge of Sighs at St John's, Trinity and Clare bridges, King's Bridge and the wooden Mathematical Bridge at Queens'. Historically the land was used for grazing and orchards, and cattle still graze behind King's.

How to see it

Much of the land belongs to the colleges, so access to the lawns themselves depends on each college's visiting arrangements. Walking along Queen's Road and the public paths that cross towards the town gives good views, but the classic way to see The Backs is from the river, on a punt from the Mill Pond or Quayside.

Linking it with the centre

King's College Chapel and the Mathematical Bridge are a few minutes from the river. Cross into town and the Corpus Clock and Great St Mary's, with its tower view over the colleges, are close by. For a pint, the Anchor sits right by the Mill Pond and the Eagle is on Bene't Street.

Highlights

• Riverside grounds of St John's, Trinity, Trinity Hall, Clare, King's and Queens'
• Bridge of Sighs, Clare Bridge and the Mathematical Bridge
• Views of King's College Chapel across the lawns
• Classic punting route along the Cam

Good to know

• Most of the grounds are college property; entry depends on each college's visiting rules
• Queen's Road and the river give the best free views

Frequently asked questions