Things to Do in Cambridge in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Cambridge
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Tourist season ends - accommodation prices drop 30-40% after first week as students haven't returned yet
- Perfect walking weather with cool mornings (12°C/54°F) ideal for early college tours before crowds arrive
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe overflow brings additional cultural events and performers to Cambridge venues
- River Cam punting operates in optimal conditions - warm afternoons (23°C/73°F) but not scorching, with occasional cloud cover providing natural shade
Considerations
- Unpredictable rainfall - 10 days of rain means 1 in 3 days could be wet, disrupting outdoor college tours
- Many local students away until late August, so authentic university atmosphere is diminished until term starts
- Variable weather requires layered clothing - temperature swings of 11°C (19°F) daily mean morning sweaters and afternoon t-shirts
Best Activities in August
Walking College Tours
August's mild temperatures (12-23°C/54-73°F) make this the ideal month for exploring Cambridge's historic colleges on foot. Cool mornings are perfect for 2-3 hour walking tours before afternoon heat builds. Many colleges have fewer restrictions during vacation periods, allowing access to normally restricted areas.
River Cam Punting
August offers perfect punting conditions - warm enough (23°C/73°F) to enjoy being on water, but frequent cloud cover prevents overheating. River levels are typically stable after spring floods. 70% humidity makes the river breeze particularly refreshing during afternoon sessions.
Cycling Tours to Surrounding Villages
August's moderate temperatures and long daylight hours (sunrise 6am, sunset 8pm) create ideal cycling conditions. The 11°C (19°F) daily temperature swing means cool starts and comfortable riding throughout the day. Countryside routes to Grantchester (3.2 km/2 miles) or Fen Ditton (4.8 km/3 miles) offer minimal wind resistance.
Indoor Museum Visits
With 10 rainy days expected, August is perfect for exploring Cambridge's world-class museums. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Museum of Archaeology, and Sedgwick Museum offer climate-controlled environments during variable weather. Many have special summer exhibitions during vacation period.
Botanical Garden Walks
August showcases the Cambridge University Botanic Garden at peak summer bloom, with moderate temperatures perfect for the 1.6 km (1 mile) of pathways. High humidity (70%) actually benefits many plant displays, and afternoon showers enhance fragrances throughout the 16-hectare (40-acre) site.
Traditional Pub Experiences
August's variable weather makes historic pubs particularly appealing - warm enough for beer gardens during sunny spells, cozy enough for fireside pints during rain. Many pubs have summer food menus featuring local ingredients, and reduced student population means more space for visitors.
August Events & Festivals
Cambridge Summer Music Festival
Annual classical music festival featuring performances in college chapels and historic venues. Takes advantage of tourist season with internationally renowned musicians performing in intimate Cambridge settings.
Midsummer Fair
Historic fair dating back 800 years, held on Midsummer Common. Features traditional rides, local food stalls, and craft vendors. One of England's oldest chartered fairs, offering authentic local atmosphere.