In Darwin’s Footsteps

This walking tour takes you through the streets of Cambridge, where the seeds of Charles Darwin’s scientific genius were sown. From aspiring clergyman to pioneering naturalist, discover the people, places, and ideas that shaped Darwin before his voyage on the HMS Beagle. Learn about his life before, during and after Cambridge and the effect that the University and its members had on his life work.

This tour traces Charles Darwin’s journey as a student and naturalist—from his early passion for beetles to the Cambridge mentors who shaped his thinking. Along the way, we explore how his time in Cambridge helped lay the foundations for On the Origin of Species.

Ideal for biology students, history lovers, families, and curious minds of all ages.

What landmarks are included?

Depending on the length of your tour, we will visit Christ College, Museum of Earth Science, Zoology Museum, Whipple Museum of the History of Science, Great St Mary’s Church, Senate House and Old University Library, Trinity College backs and St John’s College.

Length: 1, 1.5, or 2 hours.

This tour can be extended to Half-day or Full-day to include visits to the museums mentioned above, where Darwin’s collected specimens are on display.

“The three years I spent in Cambridge were the most joyful of my happy life”