Pembroke College

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It was on Christmas Eve in 1347 that Marie de St Pol was granted the license to found a new College at Cambridge University. The third oldest College in the University, Pembroke was born, although then it was called The Hall of Valence Mary. Marie de St Pol was the widow of the Earl of Pembroke, and the institution became known as Pembroke College in 1856.

Pembroke College, previously Marie Valence Hall, established 1347
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The arched gatehouse

One of the stairwells around the inner court

The architecture and grounds of Pembroke College are truly something to marvel at. They contain buildings from almost every century since its establishment – and so a varied plethora of architecture is on display. One of the most magnificent pieces is the Chapel, designed by Christopher Wren. Incidentally, Pembroke College was the first University College to have a chapel.

Inside the Chapel, designed by Christopher Wren

The historic old buildings and central court of Pembroke College

Its grounds are also well known for being some of the most immaculately kept in Cambridge

Students relaxing in the sunshine

Overlooking the gardens you will find the Pembroke Cafe, open 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday

Famous people associated with Pembroke College include alumni Edmund Spenser, author of the now widely studied The Fairie Queene, and William Pitt, Britain’s youngest ever Prime Minster under whose regime the slave trade was abolished. The College’s dramatic society, The Pembroke Players, has turned out actors such as Peter Cook, Clive James and Bill Oddie. Finally, the current Master of the College is Richard Dearlove. He was previously the head of the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service. Rumour has it that his students get away with nothing.

Statue of William Pitt

Pembroke College is open to visitors daily, dawn to dusk. Entrance is FREE. Tel: 01223 338 100

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