Corpus Christi College, Cambridge

One of the oldest colleges in the University of Cambridge, Corpus Christi College stands on Trumpington Street, directly opposite Saint Catharine’s College and a short walk south of King’s Parade. Enter through the main gate on Trumpington Street and pass beneath the porter’s lodge into the Old Court, the medieval heart of the college. Founded in 1352 by two local guilds, Corpus Christi is unusual because it was established by townspeople rather than by a king, queen, or bishop.

From the entrance, make your way into the Old Court, easily recognizable by its intimate scale, irregular medieval layout, weathered walls, mullioned windows, and neatly kept lawns. It is one of the oldest surviving college courts in Cambridge and gives a vivid impression of early collegiate life: enclosed, disciplined, and closely tied to the church.

Before continuing further into the college grounds, return through the main gate to Trumpington Street and turn left to find Saint Bene’t’s Church. The church stands immediately beside the college. Look for its sturdy square Anglo-Saxon tower, the clearest identifying feature and the oldest standing structure in Cambridge. Before Corpus Christi had its own chapel, Saint Bene’t’s served that role, which explains the college’s long association with it.

Re-enter the college and continue beyond the Old Court into the New Court. The change is obvious: instead of medieval irregularity, you see a more formal Gothic Revival courtyard, completed in 1827 and designed by William Wilkins. Its pointed windows, balanced layout, and more spacious proportions make it easy to identify. The college chapel is located here. Smaller than Cambridge’s famous King’s College Chapel, it is bright, elegant, and peaceful; Wilkins himself is buried inside.

From the New Court, continue toward the rear of the college to reach the Library Court, opened in 2008. Its clean modern lines, pale stone, and glass distinguish it from the older courts while showing how the college continues to evolve.

The Parker Library is just off the Library Court, housed in the historic library building adjoining this modern area. It holds one of the world’s great collections of medieval manuscripts, including Anglo-Saxon works and illuminated texts gathered by Archbishop Matthew Parker. Public access is limited, so check visiting times in advance.