Things to Do in Cambridge in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Cambridge
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak punting season with 16+ hours daylight - boats available 9am-9pm with minimal queues before 11am
- University graduation period creates vibrant atmosphere with college gardens open to public for May Week celebrations
- Perfect cycling weather with dry spells between showers ideal for exploring 32 km (20 miles) of dedicated cycle paths
- Strawberry season at Pick Your Own farms within 16 km (10 miles) of city center - fruit at peak sweetness mid-June
Considerations
- Peak tourist season with punt queues reaching 60-90 minutes during 2pm-5pm window
- Accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season with minimum 2-night bookings required
- Unpredictable weather requires indoor backup plans - 10 rainy days means 1 in 3 days affected
Best Activities in June
River Cam Punting Tours
June offers optimal punting conditions with 16+ hours daylight and established boat operators in full swing. Morning sessions (9am-11am) avoid afternoon crowds and offer better photo opportunities with soft lighting on King's College Chapel. Water levels are ideal after spring rains, and experienced guides are readily available.
Cambridge University College Walking Tours
June coincides with May Week celebrations when normally restricted college gardens and courtyards open to visitors. Trinity College's Great Court and King's College Chapel offer extended hours (10am-5pm vs winter's 2pm-4pm). Graduation ceremonies add authentic academic atmosphere without disrupting regular tours.
Cambridgeshire Cycling Routes
June's mild temperatures 10-20°C (50-69°F) with 70% humidity create ideal cycling conditions. The 32 km (20-mile) Cam Valley cycle route is fully accessible with wildflowers in peak bloom. Brief afternoon showers provide cooling breaks rather than day-ruining downpours.
Ely Cathedral and Fenland Exploration
June offers perfect conditions for the 27 km (17-mile) journey to Ely Cathedral with extended opening hours (7am-7pm) and clear fenland views stretching 15 km (9 miles) to horizon. The cathedral's Octagon Tower climb provides panoramic views best appreciated in June's clear air between weather systems.
Grantchester Village Walks
The famous 4.8 km (3-mile) walk from Cambridge to Grantchester is ideal in June with daylight until 9pm and dry paths. The Orchard Tea Garden operates full hours (9am-6pm) with outdoor seating comfortable in June's mild temperatures. Wild meadows along River Cam are in full flower.
Pick Your Own Fruit Farms
June marks peak strawberry season at farms within 16 km (10 miles) of Cambridge. Fruit reaches optimal sweetness mid-June with extended picking hours (8am-7pm) in long daylight. Many farms offer additional activities like mazes and farm tours perfect for variable weather conditions.
June Events & Festivals
May Week College Celebrations
Despite the name, May Week occurs in June with college gardens opening to public, outdoor concerts, and May Balls creating festive atmosphere. King's College and Trinity College host special exhibitions and extended tours during this period.
Cambridge Shakespeare Festival
Outdoor performances in college gardens take advantage of June's extended daylight and mild evenings. Shows typically start at 7pm with natural light lasting until intermission, creating magical atmosphere unique to June performances.
Strawberry Fair
Cambridge's largest free music festival transforms Midsummer Common with 4 stages and 100+ acts. June's variable weather adds authentic British festival experience with both sunny spells and brief showers creating community spirit.