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From Rupert Brooke on, punting upto the Orchard for afternoon tea in summer has become a Cambridge rite of passage. In spring the blossom makes this one of the most beautiful places in Cambridge, and as you sit outside with friends you can soak up the atmosphere and pretend to be a carefree bright young thing, although alas, you will have to leave at some point if you don't want a fine for returning your punt late!

Although from the outside Martin's looks like nothing more than your average greasy caf, once inside you'll notice the warm, friendly and vibrant atmosphere that makes it a popular haunt of students from the Art History and Architecture department across the road. Having said that, however, the main attraction has to be the fantastic English breakfasts, unbeatable in Cambridge, although it's great just to wander in for a mug of tea or coffee.

Recently reopened after refurbishment, the Folk Museum is a great place to take children, who might particularly enjoy guessing the use of old implements, and with a collection of vintage toys you might become nostalgic too! As well as the permanent displays (each room is dedicated to a different theme), there are also changing exhibitions, and the museum organises activities throughout the year, such as the summer pub quiz! A fun way to learn more about the history of Cambridge itself that doesn't only concentrate on the university history.

Unlike the accompanying Royal Scottish Academy, which hosts changing exhibitions (and charges entrance fees), the National Gallery is free, and although it does feature changing exhibitions (such as the excellent recent William Blake exhibition) it’s main attraction is the permanent collection, covering several centuries (for example in one visit you can enjoy the works both of Raphael and Gaugin) and countries of origin. However, alongside the international works you might also be particularly interested in the extensive collection of Scottish art. Another plus-point is the managable size of the gallery, which can probably be appreciated in its entirety in about two hours. In addition the complex has great facilities, such as the cafe looking out over the Princes Street Gardens, and the computer system where you can search the collection online.

Although Browns is a chain, you certainly don't feel it once inside the elegant restaurant, which has something of a grand 1920's hotel about it. It works on so many levels- as a place to meet for coffee or afternoon tea during the day (although don't make my mistake and opt for the afternoon tea with champagne at 3pm, and wander tipsily round the Fitzwilliam Museum across the road afterwards), and as a cocktail bar or restaurant in the evening. If you sit outside in summer you're treated to a view of one of the most beautiful buildings in Cambridge.

The Union really is the hub of student political life in Cambridge- where else could you hear politicians and world leaders speak on a weekly basis? But it's not all about the debates- from wine tastings to club nights, to just relaxing in the rather swanky newly refurbished bar, it can add a vital injection to your social life. The building is beautiful, and with the photographs lining its walls you get a real sense of the history of the place.

Although student-run, the quality of shows at the ADC is surprisingly professional, with something new every week during term time, from traditional plays to great comedy acts, with the ever-popular late show that can be fitted in after dinner with friends. The bar is a great place to hang out, always vibrant, and with very reasonable prices. In addition it's v easy to look up shows and book tickets on the excellent website.

Although not as large as the other Paper Tiger store in Edinburgh, this one still has a great range of unusual, quirky stationary that you really won't find anywhere else. Their greetings cards and giftwrap are a particular strongpoint, and staff are always friendly and will help you find exactly what you need. It's also really close to Princes Street, so you can easily fit a visit into a larger shopping trip.

This is a distinctive, beautiful church, originally built in the twelfth century, and a wonderfully atmospheric location for the concerts that are frequently held here. It's well worth popping in to look at the interesting architecture, wall displays and video that is played for visitors. It's also the home of the Brass Rubbing Centre, and you can also leave from here for tours of Cambridge (which are not free, although entry to the church itself is).

It's true that the farmer's market is the best place to buy fruit and veg- however, during the week the market is fantastic for a whole range of other stalls! You can find flowers, books, cards, bikes...my particular favourite is the vintage clothes stall, where you can pick up genuine designer clothes at very reasonable prices. On Saturdays there are always stalls with unique gifts, such as prints of Cambridge, and antiques. A great place to wander around at any time.