Peterhouse College

0

13,404 reviews

 

 
Peterhouse was the very first college of the University! It was founded in 1284, using funds from the Bishop of Ely, which is a lovely neighbouring town with a beautiful cathedral. While they are the smallest of the traditional colleges, they are also one of the wealthiest, with assets exceeding £320 million. This modestly sized college hosted a number of eminent natural scientists notable students such as:
 

• James Clerk Maxwell, Scottish mathematical physicist who formulated the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation.
• Michael Levitt, Chemistry Nobel Laureate (2013).
• John Whitgift, the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1583 to 1604.
• Sam Mendes, the Academy Award-winning director of American Beauty.

 
In addition to the famous alumni Peterhouse also boasts plenty of stunning architecture. The cloisters on each side of the Chapel are particularly memorable. They date back to the 17th century and they frame visitors’ view to the Old Court beautifully. The Chapel itself was built in the Laudian Gothic style which incorporates Renaissance details into traditional Gothic architecture.
 
You can find out more about Peterhouse and the other amazing Colleges of Cambridge by checking out our University and City Tour!



 

 

 
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm
 

 

 

---