The Round Church

Older than the university

The circular nave dates from about 1130, around 75 years before the university began. Its round plan copies the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, a design linked with the crusades. Inside you can look at the Norman pillars, the stained glass and the carved wooden angels in the roof. The stained glass and the Victorian floor tiles are worth a closer look once you are inside, and photography of the building itself is welcome.

The visitor centre

Christian Heritage, a charity, runs the building as a visitor centre. The Cambridge Story is a 12-panel exhibition running from Roman times to today, and Saints and Scholars is a 23-minute film narrated by David Suchet. It is a useful first stop to get your bearings before exploring the colleges. The film runs in a side area wide enough for one or two wheelchair users at a time.

Guided walks and nearby

Guided walking tours leave from the church on several afternoons a week, with entry included. Trinity College's Great Gate and Newton's apple tree outside Trinity are a few minutes' walk away, and Bridge Street has plenty of places for lunch. Combine the walk with a look at St John's and Magdalene, both close by, before crossing the river.

Highlights

• Built around 1130
• Modelled on the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem
• Cambridge Story exhibition and film
• Starting point for guided walks

Good to know

• There is a small entry charge; Cambridge residents (CB1-CB5), local students and under-13s with an adult go free.
• Partly accessible: step-free from the street but small steps into the nave and chancel.
• No public toilets on site; the nearest are at Jesus Green or Lion Yard.
• Closed on Sundays.

Frequently asked questions