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Fitzwilliam Museum
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poi · GB

Fitzwilliam Museum

Getting around: In central Cambridge on Trumpington Street, a 10-15 minute walk from the train station or the main colleges.
Hours: Typically open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-5pm, closed Mondays; free admission.

The Fitzwilliam Museum is Cambridge University's principal art and antiquities museum, housed in a grand neoclassical building and holding an eclectic collection spanning Egyptian and Greek antiquities, illuminated manuscripts, and paintings by Titian, Rembrandt, Monet, and the Impressionists. It's a substantial collection for a university museum, closer in scale to a national gallery than a typical academic institution's holdings.

The Egyptian galleries (including coffins and mummies) and the collection of Old Master and Impressionist paintings tend to draw the most attention, though the manuscripts and applied arts galleries reward a slower look. It's free, which makes it an easy add to a day in Cambridge without needing to plan around ticketed time slots.

Budget 1.5-2 hours for a general visit, longer for art enthusiasts wanting to spend real time with specific galleries.

Fitzwilliam Museum FAQs

Is the Fitzwilliam Museum free?

Yes, general admission is free; some temporary exhibitions may carry a separate charge.

What is the Fitzwilliam Museum known for?

Its broad collection spanning Egyptian antiquities, illuminated manuscripts, and Old Master and Impressionist paintings, unusually extensive for a university museum.

How long does a visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum take?

About 1.5-2 hours to see the main galleries; longer for those wanting to focus on specific collections like the Egyptian rooms or paintings.

Is the Fitzwilliam Museum in central Cambridge?

Yes, it's on Trumpington Street, a short walk from the main colleges and train station.

Is the Fitzwilliam Museum part of Cambridge University?

Yes, it's the University of Cambridge's main art and antiquities museum, open to the public free of charge.

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