punting tour cambridge

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Get 15% discount on Private Tours and Shared Tours from 9:00am until 10:15am . *Includes weekends *Discount applied at booking

Punting in Cambridge

Punting in Cambridge Chauffeured tours along the picturesque River Cam.

The Cambridge Punt Company

Punting in Cambridge is the ultimate way to enjoy the sights, with the River Cam passing through the very heart of Cambridge’s University campus affording unique views of the most famous Colleges. Our chauffeured punting tours begin opposite Magdalane College Gardens and commence up through St John’s College, Trinity College, Trinity Hall, Clare College, Kings’ and Queens’ Colleges.

So come and join us for an unforgettable punting tour in our beautiful city of Cambridge, we look forward to welcoming you onboard!

We regularly offer promotional discounts for our punting tours, so be sure to keep an eye out for those! 

Private Punting Tour | Shared Punting Tour

Private Tour

Shared tour, evening tour, may ball fireworks, shared punting tour.

Our Shared Punting Tour is the perfect way to experience the beautiful sights along The Backs, at a fraction of the price of one of our exclusive and ever popular Private Tours . Relax whilst you are Chauffeured by one of our fabulous and knowledgeable tour guides, and share the experience with fellow explorers.

For bigger groups, a Private Punting Tour may make more sense as you can take the whole boat and not share it with other members of the general public. See our Private Punting Tour Page. Boat capacity is a max of 12.

Allow your punting guide to show you the wonder of The Backs, the mile stretch of river we take you on hasn’t changed, nor has the quality of our guides and the commentary, just the way you are spaced in the boat. 1m apart from other groups or separated by a perspex screen, we have taken measures to ensure we comply with guidelines. Hand sanitiser and masks available.

Private Punting Tour

Our speciality at The Cambridge Punt Company remains the traditional Private Punting Tour. (Tour duration 45-50 mins).

It used to be that every punt tour in Cambridge was conducted privately for one group of customers at a time. The explosive popularity of Cambridge as a tourist destination has resulted in shared tours, that is larger punts carrying several groups of different customers on the same punting tour.

Join us today, for your very own private piece of Cambridge!

Book Your Hen

Punting is a must-do activity for you and your hens. Take one of our Private Guided River Tours along The College Backs, and listen to our expert, (easy on the eye – even if we do say so ourselves) guides giving you an informative tour

Over 1,400 Five Star Reviews on Tripadvisor

Relaxing, informative and amusing

" Had an enjoyable tour of Cambridge with my patenter. We shared with a family of 5 but we got half the boat to ourselves which was nice. It was especially enjoyable as the sun was out. Would definitely recommend if you are unfamiliar with Cambridge "

Douglus - August 12th 2023

Informative and humorous!

" This was a thoroughly enjoyable experience - the sightseeing was excellent from the river and Will our guide was informative and humorous. we would definitely recommend this as it was one of the highlights in our trip. "

Helen G - August 11th 2023

Fabulousness

" Trip was amazing Max was great with the history lesson which made the punting a great start to the day "

Peter G - 7th August 2023

Recommended by 95% of travellers

Traditional Punting Cambridge

Book your cambridge punting tour.

Start searching now for availability and prices

The Traditional Cambridge Punting Experience

For over a century, flat bottom boat hires have been a beloved tradition in Cambridge, and now it’s your turn to experience the magic. Book your chauffeured punts tour today and prepare to be swept away by the stunning views of the River Cam from the most coveted seat in the city!

Founded in 2001 by proud Cantabrigians, has been delighting tourists with top-rated boat tours for over two decades. Our highly skilled punt chauffeurs are the cream of the crop and have been hand-picked to provide you with the ultimate punting experience that Cambridge has to offer.

Best Value Cambridge Punting Trips

Contact us for more information on tickets for our Cambridge punting tours

Private Punting

Tour the river in style with a private punt all to yourselves. Bring your own refreshments, relax, and enjoy the view.

• A private punt just for you
• Your own personal tour guide
• Tailored to your needs

Shared Punting

A Private seating area on a Shared Punting Tour for group sizes of up to 9.

• A cheaper alternative to Private Punting
• Live availability and discounted prices online
• Runs frequently throughout the day

Picnic Punting

The ultimate alfresco dining experience with a picnic punting package

• Delicious, freshly prepared picnics
• Perfect for anytime of the day

Romantic Punting

A romantic punting tour is the perfect couples experience. A quintessential activity for lovers in Cambridge.

• A private punt just for you and your loved one
• A unique date night

Hen Party Punting

If you’re looking for a fun and unique Hen do activity in Cambridge, then Hen Party Punting is for you.

• A private chauffeured tour
• Bring your hen do accessories & refreshments on board

Punting for Large Groups

Large group punting is the ideal activity for any occasion from big school groups to social events.

• Multiple Punts to cater for large group sizes
• Invoice methods of payment when booked in advance

What our Punting Trips Offer

Authentic punting.

We offer a truly traditional and authentic Cambridge punting experience

HISTORIC SIGHTS

View famous Cambridge colleges and sights from the best seat in town

Pre-booked departure times with text message alerts for boarding

DISCOUNTED RATES

Book online to receive up to 50% off when compared to the on the day rates

Why Choose the Traditional Punting Company for your Cambridge River Trip

Our commitment to excellence is unwavering, and we never cut corners when it comes to providing you with an incredible river journey.

• Our expert tour guides are carefully chosen and have a wealth of knowledge that includes fascinating facts, mesmerising stories, and captivating anecdotes that will keep you entertained throughout your trip.
• We’re not just a punt hire tour operator, we’re also dog lovers! We welcome your furry friends to join us onboard for an adventure on the Cam.
• Don’t let the season hold you back from experiencing the beauty of Cambridge from the river! Our guided tours are available all year round, even in the autumn and winter, so you don’t have to miss out on this incredible adventure.
• Our advanced booking system ensures a stress-free experience to purchase your punting ticket, allowing you to relax and look forward to your upcoming unforgettable experience with us.

Traditional Punting Company, Landing Stage, Thompsons Ln, Cambridge CB5 8AQ

Our Reviews

We did a punting tour with the Traditional Punting Company, that I had booked online on Monday the 17th of February. Our guide was Ben and he did a brilliant job, punting against the strong current and telling us lots of interesting stories. Very good experience! Thank you.

KIRSTEN KRAUSE

Great experience, very relaxing and our tour guide Torin was brilliant! He was very knowledgable and provided all the info we needed on the tour and more. He guided the punt professionally and we all learned a great deal about Cambridge. We booked a private punt at 10.30am and it was a perfect time as not too busy! Thanks Torin.

ALISON GARDNER

The Best Punting in Cambridge

Look no further for the best punting in Cambridge. Our range of boat punt hire rental tours are perfect for everyone, from families to hen parties and even large group events .

We also offer optional extras that will take your Cambridge river trip to the next level. Indulge in one of our various picnic deals, from cream tea punting to deli-style sharing boxes, and make your tour package a truly luxurious experience.

We pride ourselves on tailoring our services to meet your unique requirements. Our staff are available seven days a week to answer any questions you may have.

And if traditional punting isn’t your thing, we’ve got you covered! Our special events runs all year round and covers a wide range of events, from Music on the River to the May Ball Fireworks. So what are you waiting for? Choose the us for an adventure of a lifetime and make unforgettable memories with us!

NIGHT PUNTING

We offer evening punting tours in Cambridge during the summer months

CHAMPAGNE PUNTING

Traditional Punting Company allow you to take your own refreshments on board

FAMILY PUNTING

We offer discounted rates for morning departures, perfect for families who want to make the most of their day

The Traditional Punting Company are a fully licensed punt tour operator in Cambridge.

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• Things to See & Do

Relax on a Punt Tour of the river and take in the beautiful views of the college “Backs” – the ideal opportunity to take photographs of the iconic colleges, from a unique and privileged viewpoint.

The River Cam runs through the heart of Cambridge enabling you to enjoy fantastic views of the world famous Cambridge College ‘Backs’ from the comfort of a traditional Cambridge Punt.

King’s College Chapel, The Wren Library at Trinity College and the Bridge of Sighs, are just some of the famous Cambridge landmarks you can expect to see during a chauffeured punt tour.

Please ensure you use one of the below licensed punt companies. Unlicensed operators do sell tickets on King’s Parade and at other city centre locations. Licensed operators only operate from near their punting stations at Quayside the Mill Pond and close to Jesus Green.

• Punts were introduced to Cambridge as pleasure craft at the start of the 20th century
• Punts today are usually 6 to 7 metres long and 1 to 2 metres wide

All Punting ( 10 )

• Leisure Activities
• Local Nature Reserve
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Cambridge Punt Company Ltd

Welcome to Cambridge Punt Company, the no.1 Punting Company in Cambridge.

Cambridge Punting

Ready to experience Cambridge like never before? Join us at Cambridge Punting, for a journey that blends history, charm, and adventure.

Granta Moorings Cambridge

Recognised as Cambridge’s most tranquil and picturesque river location – a FABULOUS location for a beautiful day!

Let’s Go Punting

At Let’s Go Punting we offer award-winning private and shared chauffeured punting tours in Cambridge. Sit back, relax and see the majestic Cambridge University 'college backs' in comfort & style.

Punting cambridge-A Serene Adventure on the Water

Punting in Cambridge, the premier boat rental company in the heart of the city, offers an exceptional experience on the tranquil River Cam. With a fleet of beautifully crafted punts and expert guides, we cater to various preferences, including private, shared, corporate, and special occasion punting tours. Our knowledgeable narrators bring the city's history to life, making each journey insightful and memorable. Whether you seek a romantic outing, a team-building event, or a family adventure, our bespoke services ensure a captivating and personalized trip. Embrace the beauty and charm of Punting in Cambridge from the water, and create cherished memories with Punting Cambridge.

Rutherford’s Punting

Glide along the world-famous College Backs on a traditional punt and experience Cambridge with Rutherford's.

Glide along the world-famous College Backs on a traditional punt and experience Cambridge with Rutherford’s.

Scholars Punting Cambridge

Established in 2007, Scholars Punting Cambridge is a small collective of four local independent owners licensed by Cambridge City Council.

Scudamore’s Punting Company

Founded in the early 20th Century, Scudamore's are Cambridge's original punting company.

Traditional Punting Company

The Traditional Punting Company was started by locals who wanted to showcase the best and most beautiful parts of Cambridge from the most unique perspective – the River Cam.

Did you know?

The first game of football, as we know it, was played in Cambridge in 1848.

Rutherfords Punting

Current Opening Times:  9am-Dusk

PUNTING IN CAMBRIDGE

Punting Cambridge with Rutherford’s

Experience the best punting in Cambridge with Rutherford’s, where you’ll tour the world-famous English Heritage historic park in the heart of the city.

The best way to discover Cambridge punting

On our luxurious punting tours, you’ll soak up the atmosphere of the exclusive riverside Colleges, admire sublime bridges, glimpse prestigious private gardens and get a sample of some of the local wildlife – predominantly ducks and swans!

Our expert guides will punt you through the stunning College Backs, and entertain you with Cambridge’s inspiring history as you discover the secrets of the city.

Our Top Experiences

Champagne Punting

Romantic Tour

Gin & Punting

Shared Punting

Shared Punting Tours in Cambridge – Experience VisitEngland’s Best Told Story.

Current Opening Times

9am – Dusk

WHY GO PUNTING IN CAMBRIDGE?

Leave the world behind as you glide along one mile of the world’s most beautiful rivers. This majestic stretch of the River Cam will take you across time, through the stories of kings and queens, of wars and astounding discoveries across 800 years of Cambridge history. Be a part of it!

SEVEN PRESTIGIOUS UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE RIVERSIDE COLLEGES

See seven University of Cambridge Colleges, their riverside buildings and private gardens. Discover the history and alumni of Magdalene, St John’s, Trinity, Trinity Hall, Clare, King’s and Queens’. Just under the Silver Street Bridge you’ll find the eighth College on The Backs – Darwin.

PROFESSIONAL AND KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES

Each of our expert guides has an award-winning tour, which they continue to research and develop further. Our guides are well-versed in the history of our city, the University riverside Colleges, the alumni and all that’s connected to the river. Our tours are not scripted, so ask your guide questions to uncover more information.

NINE MAGNIFICENT AND HISTORIC BRIDGES

The Cam features some of the most famous bridges in the world. Witness these incredible bridges from a unique perspective as you glide under them in a traditional punt. The most famous are Queens’ famed Mathematical Bridge and St John’s Gothic Revival Bridge of Sighs.

LUXURY CAMBRIDGE PUNTING EXPERIENCE

Immerse yourself in Cambridge culture and enjoy a taste of luxury as you glide down the river in our upgraded traditional punts. Our boats are recognisably the best on the river, with raised seats and little tables for your use. Enjoy – the views are unparalleled!

Punting is about more than just seeing the sights. It’s an opportunity to try a traditional pastime and tour through the history behind the city. It’s also a lot of fun! 

Your Punting Experience

Chauffeured Experience

Raised Seats

Extras Available

8 Colleges & 9 Bridges

We loved this tour! Charlie was our guide and he was awesome. It was raining but they had blankets and umbrellas! It was so cozy and fun! We loved it! This company was the best by far!!!

The Rutherford’s team never fail to make the punting experience magical. Rutherfords are first-class for their knowledge of the city’s rich history, their cheerful and witty humour and their hospitality.

HEATHER STEWART

An enchanting journey into the fascinating history of Cambridge and its alumni! John’s knowledge was foundational in our immersive experience. Excellent!

ANDREW GOWLER

Discover Cambridge

Things to do Over Easter in Cambridge

As winter slowly relinquishes its hold, Cambridge starts to blossom into a picturesque haven of springtime charm. Amidst the vibrant blooms, budding trees and a gentle warmth permeating the air, there’s no better time to explore this history city. 

Mother’s Day in Cambridge

With Mother’s Day approaching, it’s time to celebrate the incredible women in our lives that guide, nurture, and fill our hearts with love. This year, why not treat your mum to a day of relaxation and elegance with our mother’s day punting package?

Where to Watch the Six Nations in Cambridge

As the Six Nations rugby tournament sets off once again, fans around the world are eager to find the perfect spot to catch all the action. In Cambridge, known for its rich history and academic excellence, rugby enthusiasts are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a venue to support their favourite teams. 

Punting Tours in Cambridge

About Rutherford’s Punting

Rutherford’s punting company has family heritage directly linked to Ernest Rutherford, a Cambridge Graduate and nuclear physicist, who has shaped our world today through his contribution to industry and education. We’re Cambridge’s luxury punting company focused entirely on giving customers the very best punting hospitality.

We would be delighted to plan your Cambridge experience around your ideas, suggestions and requests – Get in touch as we’re here to make the best Cambridge day happen for you!

The BEST Cambridge Punting Tours, England

Are you looking for the best cambridge punting tours from scudamore’s to let’s go punting, this is how to find a tour that’s right for you..

If punting in Cambridge isn’t on your Great British bucket list then add it now. There’s nothing quite like gliding down the River Cam learning all about the history of Cambridge while on a punting tour. It really feels like you’ve stepped back in time into an old Dickens novel.

The best thing about punting in Cambridge is it takes you past sights that are otherwise impossible to see. On a Cambridge punting tour you’ll see sights like the Bridge of Sighs, the Mathematical Bridge and the back of King’s College. Punting gives you such a unique insight into what being a student at Cambridge university must be like.

Also, it’s a lot of fun snooping into all the different collages. It’s so easy imagining people like Stephen Hawking and Charles Darwin running around these places. I think there’s something so magical about that. This really is such a beautiful city to explore.

I’ve been on a few different Cambridge punting tours and they’re surprisingly different. A number of tours have former Cambridge University students as their guides – obviously these are the ones who know the university inside out. However, there are some alternative and unique tours I’ll go into too.

In this blog post I’ll take you through all the different types of tours on offer. From experiences like the popular punting & walking tour to hiring your own punt, there are so many to choose from. Also, I’ll go into the different tour prices and which one my favourite is.

Saying that, it doesn’t matter which one you choose though because you’re in for an amazing time. As I said, it’s one of those classic British experiences that you just have to do at least once in your life.

What is punting in Cambridge?

For those of you who don’t know (I’m thinking of all you tourists here!), a punt is a flat-bottomed boat designed for getting around shallow rivers. One person (the punter) stands on the back of the boat with a long wooden pole in their hands. They then use this pole to push off the shallow river bed and to steer the punt. And in a nutshell, that’s what punting is.

Everyone always confuses punting and the gondolas of Venice as being the same thing, but they’re not. A gondola is a completely different type of boat to a punt. The locals can get a bit tetchy about this so make sure you call the boats punts and not gondolas.

Punting was first used to transport cargo around the rivers of Cambridge. It wasn’t until around 1902 that people started punting for fun. Fast forward to today and there are more punts on Cambridge than any other river in England .

Punting on the River Cam has become synonymous with life here and it is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Cambridge. Honestly, you really can’t quite beat punting in the summer when the sun’s shining. It is such a good experience.

There are two places where you can go punting in Cambridge. One is at the Backs – this is the most popular place where you’ll find the Bridge of Sighs, the Mathematical Bridge and King’s College.

The other place is Grantchester – this is a lot quieter, so if you’re thinking of punting yourself (as opposed to a tour) then this is the place to do it. You can also stop off at a riverside pub for lunch.

What are the types of tours?

Usually there are 3 types of tours you are go on.

Shared group tour – This is the cheapest type of tour where you share a punt with other tourists. If you’re lucky then sometimes you’ll share a boat with only a couple of other people. In summer though these boats are usually full.

Private tour – A private tour is where you hire a punt and someone to punt it for you. This means you’ve got a guide all to yourself who’ll go through the history of Cambridge. This type of tour is perfect for large groups or families. Also, this type of tour is really popular with hen parties too. Something a little different for your hen party there.

Hire your own punt – If you’re feeling brave you can hire you own punt for a couple of hours or for the afternoon. This is where you’ll steer the boat yourself which is a lot harder than it looks. This is great if you’re up for an adventure though and you can even bring along your own picnic too. Usually it takes around 30 minutes to get comfortable with poling the punt, so factor in that time.

The best Cambridge punting tours

There are a number of different companies to choose from. One of the oldest and my favourite is Scudamore’s punting company. This is the tour that I’ve done which takes you past places like Clare College Gardens and the Wren Library.

This tour takes 45-minutes and is the ideal introduction to Cambridge’s long and eventful history. The guides at Scudamore’s are often ex-students so I can’t recommend these guys enough.

For those of you who like to do things yourself, you can hire a punt . This is usually for 90 minutes with up to 5 seated passengers and one brave volunteer from your group to punt. I’ve tried it before and it takes a few tries before you master the knack of it, but then it’s smooth sailing.

If you’re like to see more of Cambridge then I’d recommend this punting and walking tour . On this tour a Cambridge graduate will take you on a 90-minute walking tour around the city where you’ll visit all the famous chapels and libraries. Then you’ll go on a 50-minute punting tour on the River Cam where you’ll get to see a completely different side of the city. You will even have a a free punting lesson during your tour. This is a really fantastic tour for people who want to see some more of the city – it’s one of the highest rated tours too.

Here are a few other popular Cambridge punting companies:

• Cambridge Punting Company
• Let’s Go Punting
• Traditional Punting Company

Cambridge punting price

The Cambridge punting price varies depending on what type of tour you book and which day you go on.

Usually, a ticket for a shared group tour on a weekday is around £12. This is around £14 on the weekends.

Hiring a 12-person punt can cost around £120 on a weekday and £150 on the weekend. However, this does include a guide.

When it comes to punting prices in Cambridge, I would always book online and book ahead too. This is how you’ll get the cheapest tickets, and often you’ll find some good deals. The prices can be a lot more expensive if you book spontaneously on the day.

Other tours in Cambridge

If you’re spending more than a few days here, then make sure you check out the best day trips from Cambridge to explore more of the surrounding area.

I really hope you found this guide useful, and if there’s anything I can help with at all just let me know in the comments below. Oh, and enjoy your Cambridge punting tour – it really is one of the best things to do in Great Britain!

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Cambridge Punting Tours

Leave your car behind and take a trip through time in one of England’s ancient cities. Our guided punting trip is the best (and most leisurely) way to explore the famous attractions of Cambridge!

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Your Authentic Cambridge Punting Experience

Your 45 minute Cambridge punting journey will take your along the backs of the River Cam where we will share the history, legends, and eccentricities of Cambridge University. You will see seven of the colleges, nine of the bridges, and all of the most iconic views our city has to offer. At Cambridge Punters we strive to offer both a great a service and to maintain the tradition of punting. Your friendly, local guide will be one of the most experienced wits, raconteurs, and boatmen on the river. Versed in the arts of history, punting, and tall tales!

Spacious, luxurious, and fully customisable. Our private punting trip is just you, your chauffeur, and whoever you decide to invite. Best enjoyed with a glass of something cold and a picnic, this 45 minute trip will let you see Cambridge on your own terms.

Affordability without the compromise! Our shared punting tour includes all of the same sights, stories, and escapades as our private tour, only you share the boat with other intrepid explorers of Cambridge.

Our early bird private punting trips are exactly the same as our private tours – just cheaper! Book a morning tour to get the best value punting experience in Cambridge.

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Cambridge Punter News

The latest rumours, gossip, and goings on from the River Cam

30th June 2020

COVID-19 OPENING UPDATE

Here at Cambridge Punters we have been closed since March, and since then our position has been absolutely clear: We will not reopen until either it is safe to do so, or someone gets us drunk. So we are pleased to announce that from July 4th, as the pubs around the U.K. reopen, we will […]

13th March 2020

Covid 19 (corona virus) and Cambridge

UPDATE: In line with the latest government advice, and our own consciences, we have taken the decision to close for the time being. our social media and email channels remain open if you need to contact us for any reason. Current government advice is to avoid all non-essential travel. Whether coming to Cambridge to see […]

28th February 2020

Mothers’ Day

For today’s blog post we would like to propose a thought experiment… Let’s say you carried a child in your womb for nine months. Underwent the labours of birth. Nursed them for years as a child. Supported them. Helped them become an adult. An adult who then takes you to Las Iguanas for Mothers’ Day […]

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Book a Top Rated Cambridge Punting Tour with us!

Book one of our award-winning Cambridge punting tours. Our chauffeured punting tours of Cambridge last approximately 50 minutes along the college backs. Tours are return trips starting from and returning to our landing stage on the corner of Jesus Green. Choose between a private tour for just your group (up to 2, 6 or 12 people) or shared tour. There are up to 4 separate groups on a shared tour, book a row for 2 or 3 or 4 *(inc 1 child under 5 on a lap) or a section for up to 6 people or 7 people *(inc 1 child under 5 on a lap).

Book Your Shared or Private Punting Tour

Online bookings: Max 2 boats. For larger bookings please contact us.

Note: Family ticket for 4 or 7 includes 1 child under 5 on a lap.

Know Before You Go

All tours last approximately 50 minutes. Tours are booked for a specific time. Late arrival will result in a missed (or shortened for private) tour.

You are welcome to bring food and drinks on board. We can also organise food & drinks for private tours (at least 48 hours’ notice required).

Tours booked online are paid for in full at the time of booking. If you would prefer to pay a 30% deposit with the balance due 2 weeks before the booking date please CONTACT US . This option is only available for private tours.

We do go ahead in poor weather. If requested by you we will aim to reschedule wherever possible. More information can be found here: Terms & Conditions.

Punting in Cambridge

Our private punting tours can accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers per boat (multiple boats available). 

Shared tour tickets can be purchased for up to 2, 3, 6 or 9 people. We also have a family ticket for up 6 people with a maximum of 2 adults.  When booking a shared tour there will be other groups on the boat.

Our Cambridge Punting tours last for approximately 50 minutes and pass by 7 riverside colleges and famous landmarks including Kings College Chapel, The Bridge of Sighs, The Wren Library and The Mathematical Bridge. During the tour, your chauffeur will provide a guided tour including historical facts and anecdotes about Cambridge University and the buildings you are passing.

COVID-19 Safety Measures

• Boat sides and cushions are cleaned between each tour.
• Specific departure times are booked in advance to assist social distancing meaning no queuing.
• Group-specific seating – book an entire row or section. If booking a row for up to 2 or 3 then they may be a group opposite – minimum face to face distance is 1.5 metres.
• Tour available on an app with a free download code.

Punting in Cambridge – A Few Changes.

Due to social distancing guidelines and minimising cross contamination we have made the following changes:

• Life Jackets and Umbrellas are temporarily unavailable. You are very welcome to bring your own.
• We are unable to allow any customers the opportunity to have a go at punting.
• Our rugs covering the cushions have been replaced with a wipe clean material.

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Cambridge's finest punting

Share our love for the river in the heart of Cambridge

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Private tours.

private tours

A boat and a guide to yourself, the height of luxury on the river Cam

• Starts from £40

Shared tours?!

shared tours

Hop on board with fellow passengers and take in the college views

Cool adventures?!

sweet adventures

A picnic? Perhaps some wine? Go above and beyond

Traditional punting at its finest

All Hand crafted wooden boats with raised seats for your comfort. Top rated chauffeurs dressed in classic punting uniform. Tours can be purchased with free cancellation and there are no booking fees.

book your punting trip

Scholars Punting Co.

We pride ourselves on a warm, friendly service, offering chauffeured punting tours to meet individual needs and requirements. We offer excellent Cambridge punting deals on shared or private tours of the famous 'Backs' - the historic University of Cambridge colleges that align the river

All our punts are equipped with raised seating , warm blankets and umbrellas, so rest assured you'll be comfortable come rain or shine. We also offer tours in a number of languages, so please let us know your preference and we'll make every effort to ensure your tour is extra special

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"The time has come," the Walrus said,

      To talk of many things:

Of shoes — and ships — and sealing-wax —

      Of cabbages — and kings —"

From  The Walrus and Carpenter  (Lewis Ca rroll)

Our private College Backs punting tour offers the ideal introduction to Cambridge’s long and eventful history. Our river tour guides have a passion for history and a talent for sharing it with our customers — discover how the city has evolved from medieval market town to world-class centre of learning, while enjoying breath-taking views from the river. From the gothic splendour of King’s College Chapel to the classical elegance of the Wren Library, your guide will ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

Private College Backs Punt Tour

45-minute private chauffeured punt tour of Cambridge. Highlights: - See the Mathematical Bridge - Pass by the world famous King's College Chapel - Admire the Wren Library - Punt under the Bridge of Sighs - Go under the “Cam Bridge” at Magdalene College

Know before you buy   ▾

Getting here   ▾

• Private tours can be booked daily from our Mill Lane or Quayside Punting Stations. For any special requests, please call our Bookings Team directly on 01223 359750.
• Aim to arrive 15 minutes before your booking reservation to allow time for checking in.
• You can easily reschedule your booking up to 1 hour before departure by following the link in your booking confirmation. Changes to guest numbers can be made up to 48 hours in advance by calling our Bookings Team on 01223 359750.
• Bookings are valid for the date and time purchased and are not refundable less than 48 hours before departure. Don’t worry, you can easily rearrange your trip without paying an exchange fee up to 1 hour before departure by following the link in your confirmation. You’ll only pay the difference in ticket price, where applicable.
• Paid bookings, cancelled up to 48 hours in advance are eligible for a refund minus an administration fee equal to 30% of the booking's value up to a cap of £50 or a credit note for the full amount of the booking. We are unable to offer refunds less than 48 hours in advance except in cases of dangerous conditions.
• Bookings are subject to our Terms & Conditions.

Mill Lane Punting Station

Quayside Punting Station

Parking and Public Transport

2. select online pricing:.

On weekdays enjoy the river at its quietest. At weekends don't miss your chance to go punting and book yourself a guaranteed entry. On the day kiosk prices vary from pre-booked online prices.

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Do I need to pre-book? We would recommend booking in advance, this way you won't miss your chance to go punting and book yourself a guaranteed entry. On the day kiosk prices vary from pre-booked online prices. If you're looking to book more than 2 boats please contact our Bookings Team on 01223 359750 or at [email protected]. How many people can each boat hold? Our chauffeured tour boats hold up to 12 passengers. Online bookings can be made for 2 boats maximum. If you're looking to book more than 24 people please contact our Bookings Team on 01223 359750 or at [email protected]. Babies and toddlers count towards the total number of passengers. What is the start and endpoint of the tour? You can choose between our two departure points when you book: Mill Lane or Quayside . Your tour will finish at the same place you started from. Can I move or reschedule my booking? Yes, just follow the link in your email booking confirmation. You can easily rearrange your trip without paying an exchange fee up to 1 hour before departure. You’ll only pay the difference in the ticket price, where applicable. What should I wear? We suggest that you wear something you don’t mind getting a little wet. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather and boating activity. You need to make sure you have the correct footwear, that is non-slip, stable, can’t fall off easily and offers protection to your toes and heel. Please do not punt in bare feet or wear sandals, flip-flops, slip-on, leather-soled or high-heeled shoes. Can I make changes to the number of guests? You're able to amend guest numbers up to 48 hours in advance. To do so please get in touch with our Bookings Team on 01223 359750 or at [email protected]. What if the weather changes on the day? All of our tours run as normal unless the river conditions are dangerous and we have to stop operating. As standard, we provide umbrellas and blankets on our boats. Do you have wheelchair access? We have wheelchair access to our Mill Lane punt station. Please get in touch by phone or email so we can figure out how best to help you with your accessibility needs. Are pets allowed? Yes, we are pet friendly! In our experience, pets love a day out on (and sometimes in) the river every bit as much as their owners. Any other questions? If you have any other queries or special requests please do get in touch. Email: [email protected] Phone: 01223 359750

• College Backs Map

Download our College Backs map before you go.

Scudamores punting - Est 1910

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Why Book With Us?

• Best Chauffeured Experience
• Customer Support Availability
• 50 minutes- round trip journey
• 7 Colleges & 9 Bridges

Get a Question?

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

01223 782503 [email protected]

• 10:45 - 17:45
• 50-minute roundtrip journey along the River Cam
• We care about Environment & Sustainability
• Personalized and memorable punting experience

Embark on a shared punting Cambridge Tour, immersing yourself in the city’s heritage while unwinding on the tranquil waters. Admire the stunning architecture of renowned colleges like King’s College Chapel . At Punting Cambridge , we take pride in offering a wide range of services to cater to every preference. Whether you’re seeking a Private , Romantic , Corporate , Hen Party , or Large Group punting experience, we have you covered. Our dedicated team ensures that each tour is tailored to create unforgettable memories and provide exceptional service.

Start Your Journey Along the River Cam in 50 minutes

Enjoy a 50-minute driven punting excursion through the scenic college backs for the ultimate Cambridge experience. Our shared excursions have seating options for groups of up to 12 people and may be customised to fit the size of your group. Select from a row of seating for two to three people, a section for up to six people, or a section and row for nine people

Book Your Shared Punting Cambridge Tour Online at the Best Price

Don’t miss out on our exclusive online specials for shared punting trips! By reserving in advance, you can enjoy incredible savings of up to 50% . With our live availability and convenient set departure timings, you can easily book a trip up to 30 minutes before your desired time. Experience the excellence of our award-winning tours, led by knowledgeable chauffeurs who bring the rich history of Cambridge University and its colleges to life. Join the countless satisfied travelers who have rated our tours highly on TripAdvisor and Google.

Please be aware that the displayed price is for the entire group and that dynamic pricing is in force. The price starts at £35 for 2 individuals. The best rates are offered on weekdays before 11 am and during the quieter river hours . Reserve your spot now with punting cambridge for an unforgettable punting adventure!

Important Information for Your Shared Punting Cambridge Experience

Please Arrive Five Minutes Prior to Departure : To ensure a seamless experience, kindly be at our meeting point five minutes before your scheduled departure time as per the SMS alert you will receive.

Onboard Refreshments: Feel free to bring light drinks onboard, but please remember to dispose of any waste responsibly. 

Online Exclusive: Take advantage of our discounted shared punting tours, available exclusively online. Please review the terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy, before booking.

Reserve Your Shared Punting Cambridge Tour Today

Experience the excellence of Punting Cambridge through our renowned guided tours. With our exceptional ratings on Google and TripAdvisor, you can trust us to provide an unforgettable adventure. Book our Shared Cambridge Punting Tours now to secure the best prices and availability. Join us and embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories of this remarkable city.

Related Tours

Monica John

I opted for the shared punting tour with my family, and we had a blast! It was a wonderful opportunity to bond with other families and share stories while admiring the beauty of Cambridge. The shared experience added to the joy of the outing.

Naifa Razak

Highly recommended for solo travelers! The shared punting tour provided a social experience and I made new friends during the journey. It was a delightful way to discover the city’s charm while connecting with like-minded adventurers.

Erica Mathew

Shared punting exceeded my expectations! The group dynamics were fantastic, and the guide ensured that everyone felt included and had a memorable time. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a shared and enjoyable punting adventure.

Archana Prasad

Had a fantastic time on the shared punting tour! It was a great way to meet new people and enjoy the scenic beauty of Cambridge. The guide was knowledgeable and made the experience engaging for everyone.

Athira Satheesh

Shared punting was a fun and affordable option for exploring Cambridge. I met fellow travelers from different parts of the world and we had a great time chatting and enjoying the serene river views together.

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Cambridge Punting Tours take pride in providing the highest quality tours of the Cambridge river. With over 15 years experience punting in Cambridge, you can be sure of having a memorable, safe and informative punting tour through the resplendent Cambridge University grounds.

We have the capability to take 100 passengers simultaneously so don’t worry if you’re a large group. Our tours depart and return to Jesus green, please see our location here . Our tours are 50 minutes in duration and you will see 7 Colleges and 8 bridges along the route.

With over 15 years of experience punting in Cambridge, you can be sure of having a memorable, safe and informative punting tour through the resplendent Cambridge University grounds.

Our 50 minute Chauffeured punting tours depart every 30 minutes and take you through the heart of the University of Cambridge punting you past some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Sit back and relax as our experienced chauffeurs share their knowledge and insights, while you gently glide past magnificent buildings and ornate bridges, steeped in history and heritage.

Prices are more expensive during peak times (weekends), so if you have the chance, book on a weekday or weekend evening for a quieter experience. All of our punts are 12 seater and must be captained by a trained chauffeur, so the price is inclusive of your chauffeur.

The chauffeurs job isn’t just to punt, they will give you a historical narrative of the University and city as you glide up and down the river Cam.

EXPLORE OUR POPULAR TOURS

Private Punting Tour

The package of your private punting is inclusive of a chauffeur, or you can go self-punting and prefer to spend 50 minutes of your time on the river as you desire.

BOOK ONLINE

Private Tour for up to 2 Private Tour for up to 6 Private Tour for up to 12

NUMBER OF BOATS

1 2 BOOK NOW

Cambridge Hen Party Tour

Bring your group of ladies for a chauffeured punting tour in Cambridge . You are allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on board and get some punting lessons if you dare!

Hen Party Tour - Up to 6 Hen Party Tour - Up to 12

Evening Punting Tour

Since most of the college buildings are not illumined, we highly recommend you to go punting before dusk.

BOOK NOW OR CALL US ON 07854 070 727

Varsity Tours | Punting Cambridge | Traditional Punting Cambridge | Punting in Cambridge

Bringing you bespoke tours around the city of Cambridge

Call now 07854070727, punting and walking tour run by university & current students.

We are the independents.... Bringing you the bespoke tours around the city of Cambridge offering student led walking tours and graduates as well as traditional Cambridge punting tours. It's a unique experience.

Shared Punting Tours

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Private Punting Tours

Walking tours, punting and walking tour.

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PUNTING & WALKING TOURS

A unique 50 minute guided river tour or a 90 minute walking tour through quintessential Cambridge with a local historian. Run by Cambridge students which brings a unique experience to punting & walking in Cambridge See the sights unreachable by foot at prices lower than our competitors. Not booking a ticket leaves you liable for a long delay. During busy times of the year and most weekend afternoons, it is normal for all the punting companies to be scheduling tours for two hours in advance. Equally, during slower times, not pre-booking will typically lead to a 40-minute delay in order to find more passengers for you to share with. Booking online has become more and more popular since COVID 19, as a result, its imperative to book It is always more expensive on the day as staff stick rigidly to the prices, £40.00 per adult is a good example. We pride ourselves on a warm, friendly service, offering chauffeured punting tours to meet individual needs and requirements. We offer excellent Cambridge punting deals on shared or private tours of the famous 'Backs' - the historic University of Cambridge colleges that align the river. All our punts are equipped with warm blankets and umbrellas, so rest assured you'll be comfortable come rain or shine. We also offer tours in a number of languages, so please let us know your preference and we'll make every effort to ensure your tour is extra special. Find Out More

7 College's & 9 Bridge's including...

• Trinity Hall
• Trinity College
• Queen's College
• Magdalene College
• Mathematical Bridge
• Bridge of Sighs
• New court Building
• King's College Chapel
• And more...

Central sights, BYOB, questions & photography welcome, expert local historian guide, shared group or private tailored tour. All tours depart from our landing stage at Thompson's Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8AG. Please note that walking tours leave from a different location, check details on your ticket. Book Now

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