Cambridge: Cambridge and Colonialism Tour

The Cambridge and Colonialism Tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the university’s hidden colonial legacies. Led by current researchers, the 1.5-hour guided exploration examines the complex relationship between imperialism and academia. Participants will explore untold stories of resistance and critically reflect on the impact of Cambridge’s colonial past on contemporary society. With significant sites like St. John’s College and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, this tour promises an enlightening experience for all who seek to understand the enduring influence of empire.

Key Points

• The tour explores the hidden legacies of empire and colonialism in Cambridge, focusing on the connections between the university and Britain’s colonial past.
• The tour examines the influence of imperial wealth on the architecture, scholars, and institutions in Cambridge, critically engaging with the city’s colonial history.
• Participants can discover untold stories of resistance and resilience from local communities, highlighting the impact of historical legacies on contemporary society.
• The tour visits notable sites like St. John’s College, Trinity College, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, providing an educational opportunity to learn about Cambridge’s colonial past.
• The tour is led by current university researchers and is suitable for visitors and locals aged 12 and older, with a focus on wheelchair accessibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Cambridge and Colonialism Tour offers a 1.5-hour guided exploration of the city’s hidden colonial legacies.

A 1.5-hour guided exploration of Cambridge’s hidden colonial legacies.

Priced from €154.60 for up to 6 participants, this private tour is led by current university researchers.

Wheelchair accessible, it examines connections between Cambridge’s institutions, scholars, and Britain’s colonial past.

Visitors will discover untold stories of resistance, see controversial objects, and explore notable sites like the Round Church and Cambridge Market Square.

Designed to critically engage with this history, the tour provides an engaging and unique way to learn about Cambridge’s colonial influence on contemporary society.

Tour Highlights and Focus

Led by current university researchers, the Cambridge and Colonialism Tour explores the hidden legacies of empire and colonialism in Cambridge.

Participants discuss connections between science and imperialism, and learn untold stories of resistance and resilience from local communities.

The tour examines controversial objects under discussion for repatriation and visits notable sites like the Round Church, St. John’s College, Trinity College, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

Designed to critically engage with Cambridge’s colonial history, the tour offers an engaging and unique way to discover the university’s ties to Britain’s imperial past.

Historical Context and Educational Value

The tour explores the historical ties between the university, its benefactors, and Britain’s colonial past, offering a critical examination of how architecture, scholars, and institutions were influenced by imperial wealth and ideas.

Participants will reflect on the impact of these historical legacies on contemporary society.

Designed to engage critically with Cambridge’s colonial history, the tour provides an educational opportunity to discover untold stories of resistance and resilience from local communities.

Tour Experience and Recommendations

Suitable for both visitors and locals, the walking tour takes participants through the beautiful city center of Cambridge, providing an engaging and unique way to learn about the university’s colonial history.

Recommended for ages 12 and older, the tour is researched and designed by academic researchers passionate about diversifying narratives. Participants can expect to explore hidden legacies of empire and colonialism, discuss connections between science and imperialism, and examine controversial objects under discussion for repatriation.

The tour route may vary slightly depending on the guide, and mild crowding may occur on busy days.

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Meeting and Important Information

Participants will meet the tour guide outside the Round Church, where they can identify them by the Uncomfortable Cambridge™ branded tote bag.

Visitors should come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour takes place entirely outdoors.

While the tour route may vary slightly depending on the guide, it doesn’t enter any college buildings.

The tour is fully accessible, with an elevator available at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

Participants should keep in mind that mild crowding may occur on busy days, but the guide will ensure everyone can hear and see the highlights.

Exploring the Legacies of Empire

While exploring the beautiful streets of Cambridge, the tour takes visitors on a thought-provoking journey through the university’s historical ties to Britain’s colonial past.

The tour uncovers:

• Connections between science, academia, and imperialism

• Controversial objects in the university’s collections under discussion for repatriation

• Untold stories of resistance and resilience from local communities

• The influence of imperial wealth and ideas on the university’s architecture and scholarship

• Reflections on the impact of these historical legacies on contemporary society

Designed to critically engage with Cambridge’s colonial history, the tour offers a unique educational experience for participants.

Science, Scholarship, and Imperialism

As the tour progresses, it examines how the University of Cambridge’s scholarship and scientific pursuits were deeply intertwined with Britain’s colonial ambitions.

Many of the university’s elite professors and researchers were directly involved in colonial projects, using their academic work to justify and advance imperial interests.

The tour explores how fields like anthropology, archaeology, and geography were shaped by and upheld colonial ideologies.

Participants learn about controversial artifacts and human remains held in Cambridge’s museums, which are now the subject of ongoing repatriation efforts.

The tour prompts critical reflection on the legacy of science and scholarship in service of empire.

Resistance and Resilience in Cambridge

Though the tour explores the troubling colonial legacies entrenched within Cambridge’s history and institutions, it also highlights stories of resistance and resilience from local communities.

The tour delves into:

• The activism of students and academics who’ve challenged the university’s historical ties to colonialism and slavery.

• Efforts by local activists to repatriate controversial objects held in the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

• The legacies of anti-colonial movements and figures who opposed Britain’s imperial rule.

• Community initiatives that preserve and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Cambridge’s residents.

• The ongoing work to critically examine and diversify the narratives surrounding Cambridge’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is currently offered only in English. The guides are current university researchers who specialize in exploring the colonial history and connections related to Cambridge, but fluency in other languages is not mentioned.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 12?

The tour is generally recommended for participants aged 12 and older. While the content may be suitable for younger children, the focus on complex historical topics may not be fully engaging for those under 12.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized for specific interests. While the standard tour is recommended for participants aged 12 and older, the organizers are willing to adapt the content and pace to accommodate younger visitors or particular areas of focus.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. According to the tour overview, private group options are available, allowing participants to customize the experience and potentially extend the tour length beyond the standard 1.5 hours.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotional Offers Available?

The tour doesn’t currently offer any discounts or promotional offers, but you can save by booking with a group of up to 6 participants at the flat rate. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

The Cambridge and Colonialism Tour offers a thought-provoking exploration of the university’s colonial history. Participants explore untold stories, critically examining the complex connections between academia and imperialism. By engaging with this contentious past, the tour provides an enlightening experience, encouraging visitors to reflect on the lasting impact of colonialism on contemporary society.

You can check availability for your dates here: