King’s College

King’s College

Highlights The King’s College Chapel within the college is a quintessential example of Cambridge’s historic architecture, personally designed by King Henry VI and taking nearly 100 years to complete, finally finished in 1547.

The fan-vaulted ceiling of the chapel is supported by 22 buttresses, constructed in 1515 by the master craftsman John Wastell. The details of the crown and Tudor rose on the west door reflect King Henry VIII’s vision of British supremacy. The 16th-century stained glass windows on the walls depict primarily biblical scenes. The screen inside the chapel is a fine example of Tudor woodwork, separating the ante-chapel from the choir stalls, with a magnificent 17th-century organ case above the screen adorned with two angels holding trumpets. Behind the altar is a decorative painting, “The Adoration of the Magi” (1634), painted by Rubens for the Belgian convent of the White Nuns. Introduction King’s College is one of the most famous colleges at the University of Cambridge. Founded in 1441 by King Henry VI of England, it was named “King’s” College in his honor. To showcase the king’s immense wealth, the college pursued grand and magnificent architecture from its inception, and the most famous structure among its buildings is the college chapel. Its soaring spire and majestic Gothic architectural style have become a symbol and pride of the entire town of Cambridge.

The main entrance to King’s College is a grand 19th-century Gothic gateway. In the college courtyard, a bronze statue of Henry VI, created in 1879, stands on the green. A luxurious corner of the college is known as “Keynes Corner.” Keynes, an alumnus of King’s College and a renowned economist, is among the many distinguished figures associated with the college, which has also produced figures such as political commentator Leonard Woolf, philosopher and critic Lowes Dickinson, painter Duncan Grant, and writer E.M. Forster. Like other colleges, only parts of King’s College are open to the public. Visitors cannot freely enter the campus buildings so as not to disturb the students’ routines, and the college is also closed to visitors during exam periods.

The King’s College Choir (Choral Evensong) was established at the same time as the chapel built by Henry VI. Today, the Christmas Mass concerts held annually are broadcast across the UK by the BBC, making it one of the world’s most renowned Christmas concerts. Transportation The college is located on King’s Parade in central Cambridge. From Mill Pier, head north along the River Cam (Cam), and after passing the famous Mathematical Bridge and Queen’s Garden, you will arrive at the college. Ticket/Opening Hours Admission to the college is free. The King’s Chapel charges £4.5 for adults, £3 for children, students, or seniors over 65, and is free for children under 12, local residents, and students; an audio guide device is available for an additional £2.

Opening Hours: During term time, Monday to Friday 9:30–15:30, Saturday 9:30–15:15, Sunday 13:15–14:15; during holidays, Monday to Saturday 9:30–16:30, Sunday 10:00–17:00.

Cambridge, United Kingdom