Cambridge Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Cambridge
This weekend itinerary for Cambridge balances free cultural experiences with exciting paid attractions, carefully planned for families with children aged 3-12. It accounts for varying energy levels, includes both indoor and outdoor options suitable for a winter weekend, and offers practical tips for a smooth, enjoyable trip. Please note that while specific events for January 2026 are not yet confirmed, this itinerary features popular and reliable family-friendly venues that operate year-round, making it a robust plan for an engaging weekend. Always check individual venue websites closer to the date for any updated opening times, specific event schedules, or booking requirements.
Friday Evening - Cultural & Casual Fun
Friday, January 2Museum Exploration
Discover art and antiquities at the Fitzwilliam Museum, a treasure trove of artefacts from around the world.
The museum often provides family trails and activity packs to make exploring the galleries a fun scavenger hunt. It's a fantastic indoor option for a Friday afternoon.
Perfect for curious minds, kids can enjoy diverse collections from ancient Egypt to European masterpieces. The museum is stroller-accessible and has family-friendly facilities, including bathrooms. There are usually activity sheets or sensory toys available for younger children. Plan for 1.5 - 2 hours.
Located centrally, easily accessible by walking or public transport. Limited street parking nearby, but several multi-storey car parks are within a 10-15 minute walk. Consider the Park & Ride service into the city centre.
Family Pizza Night
Enjoy a relaxed early dinner at a family-friendly pizza restaurant in the city center.
Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser and many establishments offer a casual atmosphere suitable for children.
Kids will love choosing their own pizzas, and the early timing is perfect for younger children's bedtimes. Restaurants often have high chairs and children's menus available. A great way to wind down after a day of exploration. Expect a meal duration of about 1 hour.
Most city-centre restaurants are within walking distance of the Fitzwilliam Museum and public transport routes. Parking will be in nearby multi-storey car parks.
Saturday - Engaging Discovery Day
Saturday, January 3Science Centre Fun
Dive into a world of interactive exhibits and hands-on discovery at the Cambridge Science Centre.
Kids can explore concepts from space to engineering through engaging activities and workshops, inspiring their inner scientists.
Highly interactive and suitable for the entire 3-12 age range. Expect fascinating demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for children to experiment. Allow 2-3 hours. Stroller-friendly with accessible bathrooms.
Located near the train station, it's accessible by public transport. Limited on-site parking may be available, but check their website for details. Park & Ride is a good alternative.
Park Picnic & Play
Head to Parker's Piece for a classic Cambridge experience.
This historic green offers vast open space for kids to run, play, and enjoy a packed lunch (weather permitting). If it's too cold for a picnic, grab a quick bite from a nearby cafe.
A huge, flat common ideal for energetic kids to kick a ball, fly a kite, or simply run around. Facilities include public toilets. Bring your own picnic for a budget-friendly lunch. Plenty of space for strollers.
Centrally located and easily walkable from many parts of the city. Several public bus routes pass by. Limited on-street parking may be available nearby, but multi-storey car parks are a short walk away.
Botanic Garden Wander
Explore the beautiful Cambridge University Botanic Garden, home to 8,000 species of plants across 40 acres.
Wander through themed gardens, discover hidden trails, and warm up in the impressive glasshouses.
Kids under 16 enter free, making it a great budget option. It's a wonderful space for a leisurely stroll and nature exploration, even in winter. Look for different plant zones, water features, and plenty of space to roam. Accessible paths for strollers and good toilet facilities. Allow 1.5 - 2 hours.
Located south of the city centre. Accessible by foot from the city centre (approx. 15-20 min walk), or via local bus services. Paid parking is available on-site.
Indoor Climb Fun
Burn off any remaining energy at Clip 'n Climb Cambridge, an exciting indoor climbing adventure center.
With a variety of themed climbing walls and challenges, it's perfect for active kids and even adults.
Suitable for children aged 4 and up (check specific height/age requirements). Offers different levels of challenges, ensuring engagement for various age groups within the 3-12 range. Great for a rainy or cold day. Good facilities, including restrooms. Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially for weekend slots. Sessions typically last 1 hour.
Located near the city centre, accessible by car with parking available, or by local bus routes.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Explorations
Sunday, January 4Dinosaur & Animal Tour
Embark on a free adventure at the Museum of Zoology, home to dinosaur skeletons, giant whales, and interactive exhibits.
Kids will be fascinated by the vast collection of animal life, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin.
Highly engaging for all ages within the target range, with plenty of 'wow' moments. Downloadable trails are often available to enhance the visit. It's fully accessible for strollers and has family-friendly facilities. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Located in the city centre, an easy walk from many areas. Public transport is readily available, and several car parks are within walking distance.
Library Story Time
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Cambridge Central Library for a storytime or craft workshop (assuming regular weekly programs are running).
It's a calm, engaging, and free activity, perfect for winding down the weekend.
Storytime sessions are typically suitable for children aged 0-5 and 3-5, but some 'Songs and Stories' are for all ages. Check their calendar closer to the date for specific timings and age recommendations. Libraries are stroller-friendly and have restrooms. Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Parking available in the Grand Arcade car park, which is connected to the Lion Yard shopping centre.
Playground Wind-Down
Conclude the weekend with some fresh air and energetic play at Jesus Green, a large open space with excellent playgrounds for children of various ages.
A great spot for kids to get their last burst of energy out on swings, slides, and climbing frames. The open green space is also good for a family walk along the River Cam. Public toilets are available nearby. Perfect for winding down before the school week.
Located north of the city centre, easily accessible on foot. Public bus routes run along Victoria Avenue. Limited street parking in surrounding areas, but large car parks are a short walk away.
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