Top Things to Do in Cambridge: Senate House with Town & Gown Tours
Right in the centre of Cambridge, opposite Great St Mary’s Church where we begin our tours, is Senate House. Designed by architect James Gibbs (1682-1754), the majestic Senate House is a fine example of neo-classical and baroque architecture. Completed in 1730, Senate House became the legislative and ceremonial centre of Cambridge University.
It is at Senate House that important decisions concerning Cambridge University are put to ballot. For example, it is here that twice (in 1897 and 1920), the Senate voted against awarding women degrees - something we talk extensively about on our Women of Cambridge tour.
Initially, the principle legislative authority of Cambridge University was the Senate. But in 1926, the Senate was replaced as the main governing body by Regent House. As of 2022, there are 7,200 members of Regents House mostly comprised of academic and senior administrative staff of the University and Colleges. The Senate is comprised of members of Regent House plus all members of Cambridge University (i.e. those who hold an M.A. degree or higher) and the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor. Members of Regent House vote on university legislation, whilst the Senate’s primary responsibility is to elect the Chancellor of the University.
Senate House is the ceremonial centre of Cambridge University. It is here that students from all colleges have their graduation. There are a number of traditions and customs surrounding graduation ceremonies, some dating back 800 years. For example, the ceremony is conducted in Latin and students kneel before the Vice-Chancellor to receive their degrees! Candidates also graduate in particular order with candidates from King’s, Trinity and St. John’s presented first. The other colleges then follow in order of their foundation or recognition by the University.
On 31st May 2017, Senate House hosted the BBC Election Debate in the lead up to the 2017 General Election. Cambridge alumnus Mishal Hussain chaired audience questions for Jeremy Corbyn, Tim Farron, Caroline Lucas, Paul Nuttal, Angus Robertson, Amber Rudd and Leanne Wood.
Unfortunately, the Senate House is not open to members of the public. However, you can hear all about it on one of our tours.
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