Selwyn College Gardens

The gardens at Selwyn College are one of Cambridge's best-kept secrets - proper peaceful compared to the tourist crush around King's College Chapel. You'll find yourself wandering through a series of interconnected spaces that feel genuinely removed from the city's bustle, even though you're just east of the centre. The Fellows' Garden is the real draw: mature trees, herbaceous borders that actually look tended rather than manicured, and enough winding paths to spend a solid hour in without feeling like you're going in circles.

It's worth knowing upfront that opening hours are patchy and college visits can be restricted during term time, so ring ahead or check their website before you trek over. The good news is that when you can get in, there's no admission charge. History buffs will appreciate the Victorian bones of the place - the college itself was founded in 1882, and the gardens reflect that period's sensibilities about how a proper academic retreat should look.

This isn't a destination garden like Cambridge University Botanic Garden, but that's partly its charm. You'll see college staff and students rather than coachloads. If you're camping nearby - the Camping and Caravanning Club Site and Cherry Hinton are both within three miles - it's an excellent morning wander before heading into the colleges proper. Allow 45 minutes to an hour. Families with young children might find it a bit quiet; walkers and anyone after a gentle green space in Cambridge will rate it.