Cambridge is one of Britain's smaller cities, but also one of the fastest growing. Only a hundred years ago the population was just 36,000, and the main sources of employment were agriculture and the world-famous University.
Now, thanks in part to the "Cambridge Phenomenon", the hi-tech industry is a major part of business around Cambridge - the so-called Silicon Fen. As its reputation has risen, new businesses have started up and people have poured in from all across the country.
But, despite it's ultra-modern image, the city has retained its picturesque charm which lures and delights visitors from all over the world. The narrow streets and historic colleges are famous throughout the world, and there can be few people who have not seen pictures of punts gliding down the willow-lined River Cam, amongst the colleges.
Cycling is the way to get around the city, with students and visitors alike owning or hiring bikes. Cars are being encouraged out of the city centre onto the ring road, and the day-long rush hour in the busiest aprts of thecity is more than enough to encourage people to use other forms of transport.
Apart from the colleges, dating from the early 1200s to mid 1900s, the University has many other historic and beautiful buildings. From the stately grandeur of Senate House and the Greco-Roman face of the Fitzwilliam Museum to the modern colours of the Judge Institute and the prized glass chapel at Fitzwilliam College, architectural marvels abound to suit all tastes.
Guided tours of the city are available throughout the tourist season - all you have to do is decide whether you prefer to walk, sit on an open-topped bus, or recline in a chauffeur driven punt to see the sights.
