Open Cambridge bigger and better than ever

Open Cambridge bigger and better than ever

The ancient and sometimes mysterious doors of Cambridge University will open to the public this September, giving thousands the chance to glimpse into hidden corners of both the University and city as a whole.

From the prison letters of acid bath murderer John George Haigh to the latest laser technology at the £15m Institute for Manufacturing (pictured), the Open Cambridge weekend of September 10-12 will shine a light on the weird, wonderful and sometimes unexpected treasures to be found behind doors often closed to the public.

For one weekend only, visitors from Cambridge and the rest of the UK will be granted access to a whole host of University and city-wide venues that cover some of the most diverse and eclectic collections in the country.

The booking website for the free tours, talks and open access events opens today at www.cam.ac.uk/opencambridge.

Open Cambridge organiser Sue Long said: "Both the University of Cambridge and the city are treasure troves full of some of the most amazing and unusual items. We have everything from AA Milne’s manuscript of Winnie the Pooh to tours of a Mechanical Biological Treatment Plant on offer.

"And this year we are delighted to be able to offer tours and activities specifically designed for children and families. There literally will be something for everyone."

Highlights of the weekend include:

From buildings to burial grounds: Tour Cambridge University Library (home to seven million books), King’s College Chapel, or visit the smoke house at Cambridge Fire Station. Alternatively, take a tour of Mill Road Cemetery, or find out about the history of the University among the gravestones at the Ascension Burial Ground.

From aerospace to archaeology: Visit the hangers of Marshall Aerospace at Cambridge Airport or discover the hidden history behind the University’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

From the South Pole to outer space: See Captain Oates’ sleeping bag and Captain Scott’s letters at the newly reopened and refurbished Polar Museum, or wander among the telescopes at the Institute of Astronomy.

From Cromwell to Churchill: The head of Oliver Cromwell lies within the grounds of Sidney Sussex. Open Cambridge visitors can hear about this most controversial of characters or peek at the papers of Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher and more than 600 politicians, scientists and military leaders at the Churchill Archives Centre.

From lasers to lilies: The Institute for Manufacturing is one of the University’s newest research buildings. Costing £15m, the eco-friendly Alan Reece building contains powerful lasers and state-of-the-art automation laboratories. Those looking for something more green and serene can visit the gardens of Robinson College and Madingley Hall, which will also be open to the public.

Added Long: "Last year, Open Cambridge attracted thousands of people to our talks and tours. This year, we have an even bigger and better programme with Colleges, libraries and buildings around the city taking part - many for the first time ever."

For full details of the Open Cambridge programme and information on how to book, please visit www.cam.ac.uk/opencambridge