On the water / CAMBRIDGE

College Backs punting

A chauffeured punt gives a river-level view of college grounds and bridges while someone else manages the boat. Scudamore’s shared College Backs trip is a useful starting point for comparing options: you buy seats alongside other passengers, rather than a whole private boat. The experience is the river journey; college interior admission is separate.

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A punt passing moored boats at Scudamore’s Quayside station in Cambridge — Photo: Roger Kidd

Before you go

Read the departure point on your confirmation. Mill Lane and Quayside are different stations, and arriving at the wrong one can undo an otherwise comfortable itinerary.

The practical details

Where to find it: Scudamore’s Mill Lane or Quayside punting station, as stated on the booking.
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Advance booking gives a specified departure time. Shared and private trips have different prices; check the total for your party. Tours normally run in rain unless river conditions are dangerous, so read rescheduling and cancellation terms.
Access and getting around: The operator identifies wheelchair access to Mill Lane station, but that is not a promise of wheelchair boarding. Discuss boat transfer and assistance requirements directly before buying tickets.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Children under 16 need an adult. Babies and toddlers count towards the boat’s passenger limit; include everyone when booking and check arrangements with the operator if bringing a buggy.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 45-minute tour; allow 1–1½ hours overall for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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