Secret Cambridge

Cambridge has a world-famous university, but the town's long history predates the coming of the scholars, beginning with the Romans, who first identified this as a good spot for a settlement. It was a good choice and it continued to thrive into the medieval period. Seeking sanctuary here in the thirteenth century, the fledgling university was something of a cuckoo, growing to dominate its civic neighbour as their stories intertwined. Largely bypassed by manufacturing, in recent years the town has forged a reputation as a centre for the high-tech industries. Secret Cambridge explores the lesser-known aspects of this familiar place, integrating town and gown to offer a fresh perspective on some forgotten fragments of the city s story. Writer and historian Andrew Sargent ventures down secluded streets and alleyways in order to shed light on neglected corners, allowing readers to experience the diverse flavour of the city s rich history.