I hadn’t even heard of the Fitzwilliam Museum until I started researching what there was to do in Cambridge online.  The museum got really good reviews on Tripadvisor.  And, like many other museums in England it was free, so I figured we should at least check it out. 

Let me tell you more about our visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum so that you can decide if you should go too.

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About the Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum is in an impressive building in the same style of the British Museum.  I love the massive columns in the front.  The exterior of the Fitzwilliam really reminded me of the British Museum. - "Why You Should Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge" - Two Traveling Texans

The exterior of the Fitzwilliam really reminded me of the British Museum.The museum holds the collection for the University of Cambridge and they recently celebrated their 200 year anniversary.  The collection is pretty diverse including paintings and sculptures, ceramics, and coins.  The time period of the pieces ranged from ancient Egypt to modern day.  

One of the beautiful sculptures on the balcony in the entry hall. - "Why You Should Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge" - Two Traveling Texans

One of the beautiful sculptures on the balcony in the entry hall.

Visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum

We arrived right when the museum opened at 10 am and were the first ones there.  We didn’t have the whole museum to ourselves for long, but it was never too crowded.  

European Art at the Fitzwilliam Museum

Most of the top floor was beautiful European art.  The balcony in the entry room, had several gorgeous marble sculptures and also a nicely decorated Christmas tree since we visited in December.  

Then we wandered into the rooms, which were set up beautifully.  Many of the rooms had furniture pieces that were also works of art.  I also really liked the rooms that were painted red.  There was one room that had a balcony with more artwork, but it was also nice just to look down at the room below and admire the decor.

fitzwilliam-red-room

Modern Art Collection

My favorite part of the museum though was the small but significant collection of more modern art, specifically the impressionist works.  There were some lovely Monet, Seurat, Cezanne and Renoir paintings and also some sculptures from my favorite artist, Rodin.  They also had some nice even more modern pieces.

A sample of the modern art at the Fitzwilliam. - "Why You Should Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge" - Two Traveling Texans

A sample of the modern art at the Fitzwilliam.

Downstairs at the Fitzwilliam Cambridge

At the stairway, there is a replica of the Angel of the North sculpture.  You can find the full-size 66-foot tall version, designed by Anthony Gormley, just outside of Newcastle, England. We saw it on our UK road trip.

Downstairs they have an interesting collection of coins and also ceramics.  The rooms with ceramics were full of so many beautiful items, we did not have time to look at them all!  

They also have a nice collection of Egyptian art and artifacts as well. The seven-ton sarcophagus lid of Ramesses III may be the largest piece on display.

If you are hungry, you can find the Fitzwilliam Museum cafe next to the gift shop.

So many pieces to see! - "Why You Should Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge" - Two Traveling Texans

So many pieces to see!

How Long Does it Take to See the Fitzwilliam Museum?

We spent about two hours at the Fitzwilliam Museum and enjoyed it, so I would definitely encourage you to check it out even if you are just doing a day trip to Cambridge.  

Is the Fitzwilliam Museum Good for Kids?

It depends on the child.  Some may enjoy the art especially the Egyptian section, but the exhibits are not aimed at children.  They do have free family trails but you should bring your own paper and pencils if you want to draw in the gallery.

Is there a cafe at the Fitzwilliam Museum?

Yes. Downstairs you will find the cafe where you can grab some food and/or a coffee.

Do You Need to Book Tickets for the Fitzwilliam Museum?

Yes. While tickets are free, you should book in advance online here.

Is the Fitzwilliam Museum Worth Visiting?

Yes! It has an impressive collection with something for everyone.  It is free to visit, so take advantage. 

Have you visited the Fitzwilliam Museum? What did you think?

-Anisa

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Expert Tips for Visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum

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Last Updated on December 30, 2021