Commissioned by UNBOXED: CreativityOur Place in Space is a project commissioned by UNBOXED: Creativity Read More
Continuing our intergalactic journey we travel across the Irish Sea to Cambridge in late July, where the trail starts on Midsummer Common and ends in Waterbeach.
So, as you stroll along the riverside, you can meet Mars, nod to Neptune and say hi to Saturn while your feet, wheels and skates stay firmly on the ground. There is no need to book but we recommend visiting between 9am-7pm when our helpful Trail Guardians are around with maps and to answer your questions.
Visit the What's On page for an intergalactic programme of free events in Cambridge including an opening weekend extravaganza for all the family!
Check directions and travel options
Pack appropriate moon boots
Trail guardians will greet you on arrival
Getting Here
The sculpture trail begins on Midsummer Common close to the centre of Cambridge. The trail makes its way along the River Cam ending with Pluto at Waterbeach.
Public Transport
There are excellent public transport links to and from Cambridge and around the city. Plan your journey using the Cambridgeshire County Council website.
Opening hours
The trail is open every day and is free to visit. We advise you to visit between 9am and 7pm to fully enjoy and appreciate the experience.
Car parking
Independent car parking facilities are available around Cambridge. Plan your parking using the Cambridge City Council website.
Alternatively, why not use public transport or a bike to make your way to the trail.
On the trail
Don’t forget, there is a lot of space in Space…
Look out for our Trail Guardians and Volunteers who will provide you with more information about Our Place in Space and provide you with a trail map. Before you jet off, take a look at some of our important points to note below:
Where do I start my interplanetary journey?
Start your journey on Midsummer Common where you can zoom from the Sun to Mars. Continue along the River Cam to view Jupiter before crossing the river to make your way from Saturn to Pluto. The end of the trail is located at Cow Hollow Wood, just a short walk to Waterbeach train station where you can get the train back to Cambridge.
How long is the trail by foot?
From the Sun to Pluto is 8.5 km. At an average walking speed the complete trail will take approximately up to 3 hours.
You may wish to explore the full solar system trail in more than one visit. Plan your journey using our handy trail maps.
Can I journey on bike?
Yes! The trail is fully accessible to bikes. Be careful on the towpath and mindful of others where the access way can get narrow at points.
Should I bring anything?
The Cambridge leg of the trail takes place in the summer. We recommend you bring some water to stay hydrated while you explore the solar system.
Toilet facilities
Public toilet facilities are available at various venues along the route.
Refreshment breaks
As you make your way along the trail you can stop for some refreshments and a comfort break at the following:
• Fort St George (on Midsummer Common)
• Cambridge Museum of Technology
• The Green Dragon (across the river foot bridge and facing Jupiter)
• The Bridge in Waterbeach (across the road Cow Hollow Wood and Pluto)
Accessibility
We've designed the sculpture trail to be as accessible as possible and want everyone to have a chance to experience it. The trail is located along a public walkway and park and is accessible to pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Download Trail App
Our augmented reality app will support your visit to the sculpture trail. Track your steps through the solar system, collect space souvenirs, upload a star to the 'Universe of Us' and learn all about the solar system during your visit. Follow the links on the website and download the app before you visit.
COVID-19: Information for visitors
The sculpture trail is located in a public outdoor space. Visitors should adhere to all guidance set out by the government, including in relation to social distancing.
Events
An intergalactic programme of free events has been planned while the trail is in Cambridge. Join us on the opening weekend where you can meet an astronaut, take part in a book signing with Oliver Jeffers and enjoy a programme of fun STEAM activities. Throughout August enjoy tours of the trail, cycling events, family yoga and even silent disco stargazing. Visit the What's On section to plan your events.
Sign up for more information on our learning and education week from 8–12 August.
UNBOXED: Creativity is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of creativity, taking place across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and online from March to October 2022.
We’re lifting the lid on 10 awe-inspiring new ideas, shaped across science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics by brilliant minds working in unexpected collaborations. Unmissable events and unforgettable experiences are coming to places and spaces right across the UK: from coastal towns and city centres to breathtaking areas of natural beauty.
