Cambridge is no longer defined solely by its world-famous university and historic colleges. Today, the city is evolving into a modern lifestyle destination where wellness, slow living, sustainability, and flexible working shape how people experience travel and everyday life.
Visitors are increasingly choosing Cambridge not just to sightsee, but to live like locals - cycling between cafés, exploring green spaces, discovering independent shops, and enjoying experience-led travel. For property owners and hosts, understanding these lifestyle trends is essential for connecting with modern guests and creating stays that truly resonate.
Here’s how lifestyle trends are transforming Cambridge - along with the best places to go, see, and explore along the way.
One of the biggest lifestyle movements influencing travel is slow living - prioritising meaningful experiences over busy itineraries. Cambridge’s compact layout makes it ideal for this trend.
A gentle walk through The Backs offers iconic views of historic colleges reflected in the River Cam, while punting provides a relaxed way to explore the city at an unhurried pace.
Visitors embracing slow travel often spend time:
These experiences allow travellers to disconnect from busy routines and immerse themselves fully in the city’s rhythm.
Wellness travel continues to influence how visitors plan their trips, and Cambridge naturally supports healthy, outdoor lifestyles.
Cycling - the city’s preferred mode of transport - has become part of the visitor experience itself. Guests increasingly hire bikes to explore parks and scenic routes, combining sightseeing with gentle exercise.
Popular wellness-friendly places include:
Many travellers now structure their stays around balance: outdoor activity, good food, and restful accommodation.
Remote and hybrid working have reshaped travel patterns, and Cambridge has become a natural choice for “workations.” With fast rail links to London and a creative intellectual atmosphere, professionals increasingly stay longer while working remotely.
Areas around Cambridge Market Square are especially popular, offering easy access to cafés, lunch spots, and lively surroundings that break up the workday.
Remote-working visitors typically seek:
Pass the Keys helps property owners adapt to this growing trend by preparing homes for longer stays and ensuring guest expectations match modern working lifestyles.
Travellers today are moving away from generic tourism and seeking authentic, community-led experiences. Cambridge delivers this through its thriving independent culture.
Mill Road has become one of the city’s most vibrant lifestyle hubs, filled with international eateries, bakeries, and vintage shops reflecting Cambridge’s diverse character.
Cultural exploration often includes visits to:
Guests increasingly value insider recommendations - something that enhances reviews and encourages repeat visits.
Sustainability is now a core lifestyle priority. Cambridge’s cycling culture, walkability, and strong independent business scene naturally align with eco-conscious travel habits.
Visitors are actively choosing:
Accommodation choices are also influenced by sustainability, with guests appreciating recycling facilities, energy-efficient lighting, and thoughtfully furnished spaces.
Pass the Keys works with property owners to maintain professional standards while helping homes meet evolving sustainability expectations.
Food culture plays a central role in Cambridge’s lifestyle appeal. Dining has become experiential, with visitors planning days around cafés and local eateries.
Popular places to explore include:
Brunch culture, artisan baking, and plant-forward menus reflect wider lifestyle shifts toward social, relaxed dining experiences.
Lifestyle trends have also reshaped accommodation design. Guests increasingly look for boutique-style interiors that feel calm, stylish, and functional.
Highly rated Cambridge stays often include:
Pass the Keys supports owners by advising on presentation, amenities, and guest experience - helping properties stand out in a competitive market.
Modern travellers choose accommodation that fits how they want to live during their stay - not just where they sleep.
By aligning with lifestyle trends, property owners can benefit from:
Professional management through Pass the Keys ensures homes remain aligned with changing guest expectations while maximising occupancy and income potential.
Cambridge’s appeal today lies in its balance - historic charm paired with modern ways of living. Slow travel, wellness experiences, sustainability, and flexible working are redefining how visitors experience the city.
For travellers, Cambridge offers a chance to reset and reconnect. For property owners, these trends create strong opportunities to attract guests seeking meaningful, lifestyle-led stays.
With support from Pass the Keys, owners can stay ahead of evolving travel habits and deliver experiences that reflect how people want to live, work, and explore today.
Cambridge combines walkability, green spaces, independent businesses, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for slow travel, wellness breaks, and longer stays.
The Backs, Grantchester Meadows, Jesus Green, Parker’s Piece, Mill Road, and Cambridge Market Square are all excellent areas for experiencing the city at a slower pace.
Yes. Reliable infrastructure, café culture, and peaceful residential areas make Cambridge highly attractive for remote workers and extended “workation” trips.
Fast Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, stylish interiors, eco-conscious features, and personalised local recommendations are increasingly important.
Working with professional managers like Pass the Keys helps owners adapt pricing, presentation, and guest experience to meet evolving traveller expectations while maximising bookings.