Staying in Cambridge
Staying in Cambridge
Steeped in history and innovation, Cambridge is one of the world’s most inspiring cities for students and professionals alike. With the globally renowned University at its heart, the city offers a unique blend of academic tradition and cutting-edge research, attracting scholars, entrepreneurs, and thought-leaders from around the world. Visitors can wander through historic colleges, enjoy punting along the River Cam and explore world-class museums, libraries, and cultural venues. Beyond its heritage, Cambridge thrives as a modern hub for technology, science, and creative industries — making it an ideal destination for learning, networking, and professional growth in a truly international setting.
Cambridge also holds a place in global history through its many connections to the worlds of intelligence and security. Not least among these were Alan Turing, (King’s College) the legendary mathematician and computer scientist who led the codebreaking efforts at Bletchley Park which successfully cracked the Enigma code and Lord Louis Mountbatten (Christ’s College) who served as the Supreme Allied Commander, South East Asia Command (SEAC) 1943 – 46.
Living in a Cambridge College - ISI Summer Programme
Nestling behind 16th-century sandstone walls in the heart of Cambridge, Emmanuel College offers delegates a rare chance to experience life within one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions. Serene courtyards, picturesque gardens, the Wren chapel, the C18th Dining Hall, the Library, spacious lawns and the charming duck pond are among the delights to be found in this serene space. The accommodation and dining facilities provide an authentic taste of Cambridge college life and with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues just steps away, Emmanuel—affectionately known as Emma—combines academic excellence with a welcoming community and an inspiring glimpse into Cambridge’s collegiate traditions.
Accommodation and Meals - ISI Summer Programme
Single occupancy accommodation is offered for the duration of the programme, either with en-suite or shared bathroom facilities. Bed linen, towels and cleaning by college staff are provided and laundry facilities are available (there is a small charge).
There are well-equipped kitchens for delegates’ use on each floor; study and social spaces; Wi-Fi, a café and a bar, Breakfast is included in the programme fee as well as several formal College dinners.
Central Cambridge offers an abundance of food outlets to suit all tastes (and budgets), a very popular daily produce market, and many convenience stores.
Social and Cultural Life
The ISI Pro and ISI Summer Programmes are residential programmes bringing together people from many countries with shared intellectual interests who find there is much to be gained from the shared experience. Both Programmes offer busy and varied cultural and social opportunities. Highlights have included visits to the great medieval cathedral in Ely, the birthplace of Oliver Cromwell, the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, a key 2WW airfield, historical tours of the University and its colleges, punting, pub outings and, afternoon tea at Grantchester long-associated with the 1st World War soldier-poet Rupert Brooke (King’s College). In the summer the Cambridge Shakespeare festival offers a selection of his plays performed in delightful college garden settings and, of course, London, with all that it has to offer, is only 50 minutes away by train.
The Cambridge Security Initiative contracts with Cambridge Colleges for the use of facilities: this event otherwise has no direct connection or association with the University of Cambridge or its Colleges.