Are you staying in Cambridge over the holidays? Are you looking for people to meet and things to do?
Welcome to the Winter Holidays Activities Project 2025! We know that Cambridge can feel isolating over the Winter break, which is why Cambridge SU is collaborating with colleges to build a network of students staying and to host events across the holidays. All events are open to all students, so don’t be put off if the event is held at a college you aren’t familiar with!
Here are the current upcoming events running specifically for this project, but you can find a full schedule of events across the University community here. We are also encouraging CU societies to add their events over the break to the What’s On calendar.
There are also several college-run events open to all students, which you can find in the College section below.
Cambridge is rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture, and many places offer free admission.
Fitzwilliam Museum
This iconic museum houses an impressive collection of art, antiquities, and artifacts. Strolling through its galleries is like traveling through time, perfect for a quiet afternoon of exploration.
Regular Hours: Open Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 to 17:00, Sunday and Bank Holidays 12:00 to 17:00
Christmas Closure: Closed from 24th - 26th December 2025, and 31st December 2025 - 1st January 2026. Normal opening hours from 2 January.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Though access is ticketed for the special light show starting on November 29th, the gardens themselves are free for students and offer a peaceful place to unwind amidst nature’s winter beauty.
Regular Hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 16:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from 3.30pm 23 December 2025 until 10am on 2 January 2026.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
Dive into the wonders of Earth’s history with fossils, minerals, and captivating exhibits. A must-visit for geology enthusiasts.
Regular Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, and Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from Monday 22nd December 2025, reopening on Monday 5th January 2026.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Discover treasures from ancient civilizations and artifacts that tell stories of human culture and creativity from across the globe.
Regular Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from 5pm on Sunday 21 December 2025 and will re-open at 10am on Saturday 3 January 2026. The museum will also be closed to the general public on Tuesday 6 January 2026.
Scott Polar Research Institute
Explore the icy mysteries of polar expeditions and learn about climate science and the courageous explorers who braved the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Regular Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from 16:00 on Saturday 20th December, reopening on 10:00 Tuesday 6th January 2026.
University Museum of Zoology
This museum is a treat for animal lovers, showcasing specimens ranging from whales to tiny insects, offering insights into the animal kingdom’s vast diversity.
Regular Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 16:30, and Sunday from 12:00 to 16:30.
Christmas Closure: The Museum will close at 4.30pm on Sunday 21 December 2025 and re-open at 10am on Saturday 3 Jan 2026.
Whipple Museum of the History of Science
Step back in time to discover the scientific instruments and tools that have shaped our understanding of the world.
Regular Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 12:30 to 16:30.
Christmas Closure: closed from 20 December 2025 to 12 January 2026
American War Memorial and Cemetery
Take a moment to reflect on history and pay respects at this serene and thoughtfully designed memorial.
Regular Hours: Open daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed on 25th December (Christmas Day) and 1st January (New Year's Day). Reopens on 2nd January.
Kettle’s Yard
Known for its remarkable art collection and tranquil atmosphere, Kettle’s Yard is free for students and those under 25. Don’t miss the contemporary exhibits in this unique space.
Regular Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from Wednesday 24 – Monday 29 December 2025 inclusive and Thursday 1 January 2026. . Open Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 December 2025. Normal opening hours resume from Friday 2 January 2026.
Other Attractions (Ticketed)
Imperial War Museum Duxford
A short trip away, this museum is a must for history and aviation enthusiasts. From WWII planes to modern jets, you’ll be amazed by the scale of exhibits.
Centre for Computing History
Relive the evolution of technology with hands-on exhibits and vintage computers. Students get discounted tickets, making it a budget-friendly outing.
Nearby Day Trips
Ely and Ely Cathedral
Just a quick train ride away, Ely is a charming town featuring a stunning cathedral. Admission to the cathedral is free for University of Cambridge students, making this a great day trip option.
The SU will be leading a trip to Ely on the 10th January 2026 - see here for more details!
London
A quick train ride from Cambridge, London offers a vibrant change of scenery, especially during the festive season. Stroll past iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye, or take a leisurely walk along the South Bank to soak in the city's holiday lights.
London’s world-class museums and galleries, many of which are free, provide an enriching way to spend the day. You can also explore seasonal markets and enjoy the festive atmosphere in some of the city’s most popular areas. Whether you're after a cultural escape or a leisurely day of sightseeing, London has something for everyone.
Make the most of your trip by heading out early, and don’t forget to wrap up warmly for a day filled with new experiences!
College Events
Here are some college-led events across the winter break that are open to all students (more info will be added by Tuesday 9th December):
11th December - Build Your Academic Vision Board, Wolfson Library
14th December - Christmas Concert, St Edmund's College
18th December - Jigsaw Jam!
8th January - Wikipedia edit-a-thon
15th January - Winter Wellbeing Reads
Volunteer locally
Volunteer Cambs
Search for a variety of volunteering roles available in Cambridge and beyond. The search function can help you find a role you would like to do in your preferred area. Some of the current roles are in administration, listening volunteer, trustee, family friends, tutor, fundraising, marketing and engagement, treasurer, chair, wildlife friend, etc.
*Please note most homelessness charities in Cambridge do not need extra volunteers during Christmas week as they organise Christmas cover well in advance using their existing volunteers. However, if you are able to travel to London, Crisis at Christmas are looking for volunteers: https://www.crisis.org.uk/get-involved/christmas-volunteering-london/*
Cambridge Community Kitchen (CCK)
CCK welcomes help with cleaning and delivering food to those in need. For the most up to date roles available at CCK, please check their Instagram account.
Charity Shops
Throughout December and ongoing, many charity shops need extra help. Check the Charity Shop Association site for a list of shops, or drop into your local charity shop and ask.
Arthur Rank Hospice Charity
A list of current roles is available on their website.
C3 Church
C3 Church is looking for helpers to make the festive season a special time for the community. Roles vary from helping with events, greeting, or other support roles. You can sign up to help on Christmas Day or in the lead up to Christmas via their website - please follow this link if you'd like to sign up to help on Christmas day or in the lead up to Christmas.
Cambridge Sustainable Food (CSF)
CSF is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help collect surplus food donations from supermarkets around Cambridge and deliver them to local social food projects so they can be sent out to feed the community. If you drive a vehicle and are available weekday mornings, collecting and delivering surplus food could be the perfect role for you! To find out more and get involved contact: alex@cambridgesustainablefood.org
Additionally, CSF need helpers with the ‘Caring for Cambridge’s Homeless’ project. Further information is available here.
Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough run a telephone befriending service - the commitment would be for more than Xmas but is a way to volunteer flexibly. Further information is available here.
Warm banks
There are warm banks running again this winter and it is worth contacting your local warm bank to see if they need any extra help near Xmas.
Looking for a welcoming place to spend time over Christmas?
If you are looking for a welcoming place to spend time over Christmas, the following options are available (they might still welcome volunteers as well, but you will have to ask them directly):
- The Edge Café
- 351 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3DF
- Open from 9:30am–4:00pm, offering food and companionship on a pay-what-you-can basis. No booking required — just drop in.
- St Philip’s Church Christmas Day Warm Space
- Enjoy a chat over warm drinks and a slice of Christmas cake from 2:30–4:00pm at St Philip’s Church, 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN.
You can also find up-to-date information on foodbanks, community hubs, and meals available across South Cambridgeshire and Cambridge during the Christmas period via this link.
12 Sports of Christmas
We appreciate that Cambridge can be quiet and lonely over the Christmas period, which is why we are putting our social programme on, for those staying to have fun, positive interactions with other students.
Give it a Go sessions are completely free, all equipment is provided, and every session is led by an experienced coach. You’re welcome to attend as many sessions as you like whether you joined us during Michaelmas or you’re trying something new now that term has finished. All students are welcome.
Undergraduate or postgraduate, beginner or returning participant, this no-commitment programme is designed for everyone. Add a little activity to your festive season with the 12 Sports of Christmas!
All sessions can be booked through the CamUniSport app up to seven days in advance. You can find the timetable and the app here. We can’t wait to welcome you to a session soon.
| Activity |
Time |
Facility |
| Monday 8th December |
| Intro to Squash |
13:00 - 13:45 |
University Sports Centre, Squash Courts |
| Volleyball |
14:00 - 16:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Women's only Tennis |
15:00 - 16:00 |
Murray Edwards Hard Courts |
| Pilates |
18:00 - 18:45 |
University Centre |
| Tuesday 9th December |
| Open Football |
14:00 - 15:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Open Pickleball |
15:00 - 16:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Just Play Badminton |
16:00 - 17:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Open Padel |
17:00 - 18:00 |
Padel Courts |
| Wednesday 10th December |
| Yoga |
9:00 - 9:45 |
University Centre |
| Intro to Tennis |
15:00 - 16:00 |
Downing College Hard Courts |
| Intro to Padel |
16:00 - 17:00 |
Padel Courts |
| Thursday 11th December |
| Open Squash |
13:45 - 14:30 |
University Sports Centre, Squash Courts |
| Intro to Tennis |
15:00 - 16:00 |
Emmanuel Sports Ground |
| Intro to Pickleball |
16:00 - 17:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Just Play Badminton |
17:00 - 18:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Friday 12th December |
| Table Tennis |
12:00 - 13:00 |
University Sports Centre, Fives Courts |
| Indoor Cricket |
15:00 - 16:00 |
University Sports Centre |
| Open Padel |
16:00 - 17:00 |
Padel Courts |
| Monday 13th December |
| Learn to Squash |
13:00 - 13:45 |
University Sports Centre, Squash Courts |
| Volleyball |
14:00 - 16:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Tuesday 14th December |
| Open Football |
14:00 - 15:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Intro to Pickleball |
15:00 - 16:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Just Play Badminton |
16:00 - 17:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Open Padel |
17:00 - 18:00 |
Padel Courts |
| Wednesday 15th December |
| Festive Walk |
12:00 - 13:30 |
University Centre |
| Intro to Tennis |
15:00 - 16:00 |
Downing College Hard Courts |
| Intro to Padel |
16:00 - 17:00 |
Padel Courts |
| Thursday 18th December |
| Open Squash |
13:45 - 14:30 |
University Sports Centre, Squash Courts |
| Intro to Tennis |
15:00 - 16:00 |
Emmanuel Sports Ground |
| Intro to Pickleball |
16:00 - 17:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Just Play Badminton |
17:00 - 18:00 |
University Sports Centre, Sports Hall |
| Friday 19th December |
| Table Tennis |
12:00 - 13:00 |
University Sports Centre, Fives Courts |
| Open Padel |
16:00 - 17:00 |
Padel Courts |
For all enquiries, contact activestudents@sport.cam.ac.uk
Festive events in the City
Grantchester Barrel Rolling
This quirky tradition takes place in Grantchester on the 26th December and sees locals competing in a barrel-rolling race. Join the fun by cheering on the participants!
Mill Road Winter Fair
Mark your calendar for Saturday 6th December, 10.30am to 4.30pm, as Mill Road transforms into a hub of festivities. Start early to catch highlights like the fire engine pull, opening ceremony, vibrant dance shows, and the lively parade. The fair is brimming with market stalls, performances, and community spirit, making it a perfect way to soak up the holiday cheer. It is a perfect blend of creativity, culture, and camaraderie!
Christmas Market on Parker's Piece
Wander through the festive market, grab a hot drink, and shop for unique gifts while enjoying the seasonal ambiance.
Relaxing Cafés and Warm Treats
Mill Road’s cafés are a great place to warm up with a hot drink and a snack. Many stay open until 7 PM, providing a cozy refuge for catching up on reading or meeting friends.
Carols and Church Services
Cambridge’s chapels and churches host beautiful carol services. Check with your college chaplain or local listings for dates and times. It’s a lovely way to embrace the holiday spirit.
Places to study
Here are some possible study space options for use over the winter period. Please note you may need to contact these venues regarding festive opening times.
Tips to make December Special
Explore Cambridge on foot
The city’s beauty shines in winter. Wrap up warm and take a walk along the River Cam or through the city’s picturesque streets.
Host a Potluck or Movie Night
Invite friends to share a meal or watch holiday classics together. It’s a great way to bond and bring some cheer to the quiet break.
Volunteer Locally
Check out opportunities to volunteer in Cambridge during the holidays. It’s a meaningful way to spend time and meet new people.
Helpful links and Support
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Student Advice Service - The Advice Service provides free, confidential and independent advice and support for all students. For more information, visit this webpage: Cambridge SU Student Advice Service. The Advice Service is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm, inside and outside of term time however, they will be closed for the winter break from Monday, 22nd December, reopening on Monday 5th January.
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Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre (ADRC) - The ADRC can provide disabled students with support throughout their studies. They have a range of useful resources on their website, which are found here: Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre | ADRC
The resource centre opening times are found here: Opening Hours and Staff list | Disability Resource Centre
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University Counselling Service (UCS) - The University Counselling service offers a range of services. For further information on how to access support, please visit: University Counselling Service | Student Counselling. Please check the UCS website for any closure periods.
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The Careers Service is open in the run-up to Christmas and can help students in a huge variety of ways in terms of thinking ahead for summer work, internships or work experience. Access their website here: Careers Service
The service is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm out of term time however, please check the website for any closure periods.
Check out this blog post about 5 ways to support your career planning this Winter Vacation here: University of Cambridge Careers blog - 5 ways
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Out-of-hours support - To access a range of out-of-hours help and advice line information, please visit this page on the SU website: Out of Hours Support
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Emergency Accommodation - Please see below for the details for some charities which provide resources and helplines in regard to homelessness and emergency accommodation: