Claire Reynolds, a regular contributor to Instacamb, tells us why Cambridge is always in her heart – and her viewfinder
I’ve lived in Cambridge my whole life, born on Mill Road. My favourite thing to do is wander in the early morning with my camera in hand before the city wakes up, while the streets are still quiet. I’ll then stop for a coffee and pastry, often with my dogs alongside me.
I love everything, from the historical architecture to the coffee shops. I have a passion for photography and ‘capturing the moment’. I think every corner is a photo opportunity, with many picture-postcard scenes.
The place that means the most to me is the beautiful River Cam, which will always hold special memories. I have enjoyed punting with my family and, more recently, early morning paddleboarding with my husband and miniature dachshund Billie.
The best experience I have ever had here is watching the May Balls from Garret Hostel Bridge as the River Cam turns into a mirror of light, with punts drifting below and fireworks above Trinity College. It’s a magical way to experience this historical event in Cambridge.
When people ask me for local recommendations, Aromi, Hot Numbers, Pages, Bean Theory, Fitzbillies, Bridges and Benets are just a few of my favourite spots for coffee and something sweet. Between cafes, I love wandering the Backs, Portugal Place, Jesus Green and the smaller lanes that make the city feel timeless. It’s best explored slowly, without much of a plan.
One thing I’ve never done here, but plan to, is dine at Midsummer House. A place where details matter; the perfect way to experience Cambridge at its most refined.
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If you’ve been a Cambridge resident for a year or more and would like to appear on this page as one of our next interviewees, drop the editor a line at [email protected]
Meet another one of Cambridge’s remarkable residents in our interview with Like Kobzeva