A Business Travel Guide to Cambridge

Staying in Cambridge, United Kingdom 

Located in the East Midlands, Cambridge is known for its academic prominence and historical significance. Many business trips occur in Cambridge, international visitors drawn by the education opportunities offered by the renowned Cambridge University and kept by the charm of cobbled streets and market streets. Despite its olde world character, it’s often referred to as “Silicon Fen” – a hub for innovation and technology, particularly in sectors like biotech, pharmaceuticals, and IT. 

Whether you're here for academic purposes or business travel, Cambridge has plenty to keep you busy for work and leisure during your stay. Our business travel guide to Cambridge provides practical tips to efficiently navigate the city efficiently and maximise your experience.

Visiting Cambridge, United Kingdom - Key Information

Weather in Cambridge

The weather in Cambridge is characterised by its temperate maritime climate, typical of much of the United Kingdom. Summers are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 25°C. Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging between 2°C to 7°C but often dropping around and below freezing. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with light showers common, particularly in autumn and winter. So, it would be wise to pack a raincoat on your business trip to Cambridge!  

Currency in Cambridge

Great British Pound (£) 

 Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for most transactions as, much like most big towns and cities, you’ll rarely need cash except for tips. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals should you need any. Tipping in restaurants and cafés is discretionary, but a normal tip typically ranges from 10% to 15% for good service. 

Health & Well-being in Cambridge

The city offers numerous parks and green spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation; in total there are around 30 large parks, common and recreation grounds and 12 nature reserves.  Additionally, there are various amenities to support business travellers’ healthy work-life balance such as fitness centres, yoga studios, and sports clubs, catering to diverse interests and preferences.  

Data in Cambridge

Whether it’s a short-term or long-term business trip to Cambridge, traditional SIM cards offer a straightforward and reliable solution for staying connected on the go. You can buy a range of plans from operators like EE, O2 and Vodafone.   

Plug Type: Type G  

Cuisine in Cambridge

From pubs serving hearty classics like fish and chips or savoury pies to cafés offering artisanal coffee and homemade cakes, there's something to satisfy every palate. Local delicacies that can be enjoyed while on a business trip include, Cambridge Sausages (a mix of ground lean and fatty pork, and seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices) and Cambridge Burnt Cream (known as the English version of the famous Crème Brûlée)

Speaking the Language in Cambridge, United Kingdom

On your business trip to Cambridge, you may hear some British phrases that may not make sense to you initially. Here are some of the most common ones that you might hear at some point during your stay.   

Silicon Fen = An ode to Silicon Valley, this term is applied to Cambridge and the immediate surrounding region, because of the large number of high-tech businesses in the area 

The Backs = Refers to the area behind several colleges in Cambridge, along the River Cam 

Punting = Rowing a flat-bottomed boat (known as a punt) along the River Cam – it involves standing at the back of the punt and using a long pole to propel the boat off the bottom of the river 

Plodge = Slang term for the University of Cambridge's swimming pool 

May Week = The week following the end of the Easter term, characterised by various festivities and events 

Bridgemaster = Slang term for someone who is a long-time resident of Cambridge and knows the city well 

Cantab =   An informal term for a student or graduate of the University of Cambridge, derived from "Cantabrigiensis," the Latin term for Cambridge 

Transport in Cambridge - Getting Around Cambridge, United Kingdom

For a business traveller in Cambridge, the city offers a variety of transportation options for getting around. One of the most popular modes of transport is cycling, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available throughout.  

 For those preferring public transportation, Cambridge has an extensive bus network operated by several companies, providing easy access to key destinations within the city and its surrounding areas. Additionally, those who stay in the city benefit from excellent rail connections around the country, with frequent trains running to London and other major cities. 

Cambridge Map

Now that you have a better understanding of all you need to know for your business trip in Cambridge, check out our full portfolio of Cambridge serviced apartments or get in touch with our team today.