Angela and I were both born and bred in Oxford and lived for most of our lives there. We were both aware from an early age that there was a certain rivalry between the two famous universities, especially The Boat Race which first took place in 1829. As of 2015 Cambridge are in front winning 81 times to Oxford’s 79.
The Varsity Match which was first played in 1872 is being led by Cambridge. They have won 61 times to Oxford’s 59. Up to and including 2015 there have been a total of 134 matches and 14 have ended in a draw. The only interruptions being the two world wars.
Other Varsity matches between the two colleges include hockey, amateur boxing, cricket, archery and handball.
Not only do the students compete on a sporting level but also in the knowledge gained at their respective colleges. This being played out on the long running programme first shown on TV in 1962 called University Challenge first presented by Bamber Gascoingne.
So after all those years of wondering what Cambridge would be like to visit we finally got around to it. Lots of people say that the two cities are similar and they are, but I have to say my mind is not yet made up as to which is my favourite. Each has good and bad. What I will say is that Angela and I both enjoyed it very much and would recommend a weekend break if you ever get the chance.
We stayed at the Caravan Club site Cherry Hinton which is ideal as you can walk into the city centre. The bus stop is nearby as well as a couple of pubs, shops and takeaways.
During our stay we walked in and drove in without any dramas. The car park charges we decided were about the same as a return bus fare so thought it easier that way as we could leave as and when we wanted and not have to rely on the buses.
Our first visit was just a quick tour around stopping for lunch and coffee at Fitzbillies which is famous for their homemade Chelsea Bun. We took two away for later that evening.
Our second visit we decided to buy a small tour guide book from the tourist information and follow the Town & Gown walk. We chose to do it this way for a couple of reasons, the main one being we didn’t want to pay the £18 per person fee! Also we could go at our own pace 
Overall our stay in Cambridge was great and we will definitely be returning to do more walking tours from our little book.
Tomorrow we are leaving for the Suffolk coast to see our niece 
