Both digestible and comprehensive A Short History of Cambridge takes the reader through the fascinating history of one of England's most famous towns, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Shedding light on the very origins of academia in the area, the intricate lives of the students and scholars that studied there, and how this community interacted with the townsfolk over the past 800 years, Richard Tames weaves in the roots of age old Cambridge traditions such as the June May Week, Bedders and Bumps.

Tames tracks the evolution of the town through the Reformation, the Civil War, the age of Empire, the Great Wars and beyond to the present day, where the town and university remain solidly in international consciousness. The splendour of Cambridge - its bridges, gardens, chapels and libraries - is devotedly examined, drawing the readers attention to attractions such as Fitzwilliam Museum and the Botanic Gardens, Kettle's Yard, and museums devoted to Archaeology, Anthropology, Zoology, Earth Sciences, Polar Research and the History of Science. Going beyond the world-renowned research attractions of the University, this book also explores the vast cultural output of the town, from art and literature to theatre and comedy.

This joyful history of the town to which more than five million visitors flock every year will delight both readers familiar with the cobbles of Cambridge and those who have seen no further than the stained-glass windows of King's Chapel.

Richard Tames read History at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and thought for Syracuse University in London. He is also the author of books on the history of Oxford, London and Bath.