A Bookish Time in Cambridge
Saturday 13th September 2025
Let’s spend a dreamy day together exploring Cambridge - the place where Douglas Adams - author of ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ - was born and spent his student days. Book here or find out more below!
We’ll meet at 10am on Saturday morning for coffee and pastries at ‘The Copper Kettle’ - a cafe which was long established when Adams was a student. It’s been a popular hangout since the 1920s and overlooks Kings College Chapel. Join a small, welcoming group of people who share your interest in books, art, and curiosity. Even if you arrive knowing no one, you’ll leave with new connections and maybe even future creative collaborators!
We’ll then amble to the ADC Theatre - the university theatre. This was where Adams was part of the famous ‘Footlights’ comedy troupe. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Cambridge’s iconic theatres. Learn about stage design, storytelling, and how theatre brings narrative to life—perfectly complementing your exploration of literature and visual art.
We’ll then have a light lunch and drinks in the bar and a chance to connect over Douglas Adams’ ADC story!
After lunch we will head to Michaelhouse cafe, the venue for our drawing workshop. This will be run by Robyn, who is a published illustrator and art tutor. We’ll be inspired by the new Hitchiker’s illustrations by Chris Riddell. He works in pen and ink, and so will we! This is a chance to tap into your creative self. In a welcoming illustration workshop, you’ll bring your imagination to life. No experience needed—just a willingness to play. Whether you're sketching Vogons or visualising your own galaxy, you'll discover new ways of expressing yourself. All materials will be provided and remember, absolutely no experience is necessary.
Then there is some time for a wander around the beautiful streets of Cambridge, to check into your room, and have a quick breather before our dinner together at The Waterman pub. We will have our own space to relax in and discuss The Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and all the other books we have loved. Whether you’ve read every page, skimmed a few chapters, or just soaked up the day’s activities, you’re welcome here. The focus is on connection, not cleverness—on laughter, shared moments, and the comfort of a relaxed group in a friendly place.
On Sunday if you want to make a weekend of it, we suggest a morning amongst the art and ancient artifacts of the Fitzwilliam museum for coffee before spending the day as you choose - perhaps visiting Kettles Yard for more artistic inspiration, or wandering the beautiful glasshouses of the Botanic Gardens.
Places on this trip are strictly limited - we want to be able to chat to everyone and make sure a wonderful time is had by all - but this means that places will go quickly!
Book your spot here as soon as you can to avoid disappointment.
What is included in the trip:
Coffee/ tea and a pastry on Saturday morning
A visit to the ADC Theatre
A light lunch on Saturday with a drink
A drawing workshop
Dinner and half a bottle of wine (or non-alcoholic alternative) in the evening - we will confirm the menu nearer to the time
Guided book chat
What is not included in the trip:
Overnight accommodation (although we can recommend accommodation at St John’s College - great value with breakfast included - see here)
Any other snacks/ drinks/ treats you might want over the weekend