As I stepped off the cobblestone streets of Cambridge, joining a small group of fellow tourists for the Uncomfortable Cambridge tour, I couldn't shake off the feeling of being a guest in a place that still harbors secrets from its colonial past. The tour, a 3-hour stroll through central Cambridge, promised to expose the hidden legacies of empire and colonialism that shaped the prestigious university and its benefactors. This was my chance to confront the uncomfortable truths of British colonial history and its enduring impact on Cambridge's architecture, scholarship, and institutions.

What to Expect

During this guided tour, you'll delve into the complex and often fraught history of the university's involvement with colonialism and imperialism. Our expert guide will share stories of resistance, exploitation, and the current ways in which the university and its museums grapple with their colonial heritage. Be prepared to walk approximately 2 miles at a moderate pace, covering a mix of paved paths, cobblestones, and university quads.

Highlights

  • Learn about the role of philanthropy from colonial families, such as the Pepys and Rothschild families, in shaping the university's architecture and scholarship.
  • Discover the stories behind some of Cambridge's most iconic landmarks, including King's College Chapel, which was partially funded by colonial wealth.
  • Uncover the ways in which the university's museums, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum, have struggled to address their colonial-era collections and display practices.
  • Explore the resistance movements and advocacy efforts within the university to decolonize its curriculum and collections.
  • Get an insider's view of the university's ongoing conversations around repatriation, restitution, and reparation for historical injustices.

The Experience

As our tour began, our guide led us through the narrow streets of central Cambridge, pointing out subtle details and hidden histories that would have gone unnoticed on a standard university tour. We stopped at King's College Chapel, where the intricately carved stone ceiling seemed to glow in the morning light. Our guide explained that the chapel's design and construction were made possible, in part, by the wealth generated from colonization and the slave trade. This was not just a striking example of the university's colonial legacy, but also a testament to the often-overlooked stories of resistance from enslaved people, who played a crucial role in shaping the architectural style. We continued on to the Fitzwilliam Museum, where we were introduced to the complexities of colonial-era collecting practices. The museum's vast holdings of non-Western art and artifacts are a direct result of colonial plunder and the exploitation of colonized cultures. Our guide shared stories of indigenous peoples who resisted the theft of their cultural heritage and advocated for repatriation long before it became a widely recognized issue. Throughout the tour, our guide wove together stories of colonialism and resistance, creating a rich tapestry of the past and its ongoing impact. We walked through quadrangles where students and academics engage with these issues today, sparking lively conversations and debates.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
* Offers a unique perspective on Cambridge's history and its colonial legacy * Expertly guides visitors through the city, pointing out hidden details and stories * Encourages critical thinking and empathy for the complex histories of colonialism and resistance
  • Cons:
* May be emotionally taxing for some visitors, due to the confronting nature of colonialism and exploitation * Some areas of the university may be closed to visitors, limiting access to certain locations * Tour duration may be too short for those who want a deeper dive into the history

Who Is This For?

This tour is ideal for:
  • History buffs and scholars interested in colonialism and imperialism
  • University students and faculty seeking a deeper understanding of their institution's complex history
  • Visitors looking for a unique and thought-provoking experience in Cambridge
  • Anyone interested in critical perspectives on power, privilege, and social justice

Practical Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking approximately 2 miles at a moderate pace
  • Bring water, as stops are infrequent
  • Consider bringing a notebook or camera to record observations and insights
  • Be prepared for the confronting nature of colonialism and exploitation, and take breaks when needed

Our Verdict

4.5/5 stars The Uncomfortable Cambridge tour offers a profound and thought-provoking experience, one that sheds new light on the complex, often fraught history of the university. This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Cambridge, and its themes and ideas will linger long after you've left this beautiful city behind. Don't miss the chance to engage with these difficult conversations and confront the uncomfortable truths of colonialism and its enduring impact.

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