Staying in Cambridge
Cambridge
Steeped in history and innovation, Cambridge is one of the world’s most inspiring cities for students and professionals alike. Home to the globally renowned University of Cambridge, 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.
Beyond its heritage of learning, Cambridge also holds a place in international history through its connections to intelligence and global security — most notably as the university where the “Cambridge Five” studied, a group later linked to espionage during the Cold War.
Living in a Cambridge College
Nestled 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. Delegates can enjoy serene courtyards, picturesque gardens, the Christopher Wren chapel, and the charming Emma duck pond, alongside access to the grand formal hall and historic library. Accommodation and dining facilities provide an authentic taste of Cambridge student life, enhanced by the college’s rich heritage and the vibrant city atmosphere.
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
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 cafe, a bar, and a fine historic dining hall. Breakfast is included in the accommodation fee as well as some college dinners. There will also be a Gala Dinner during the Programme.
Central Cambridge offers an abundance of food outlets to suit all tastes (and budgets), a very popular daily produce market, and many convenience stores.
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 social and cultural experience.
Activities beyond the classroom
The ISI Summer Programme offers a busy and varied cultural and social programme. Highlights may include visits to the great medieval cathedral in Ely, the Imperial War Museum at Duxford Airfield, historical tours of the University, punting, pub outings, afternoon tea at Grantchester, and the Cambridge Shakespeare festival which has a selection of his plays performed outdoors in college grounds.
Further afield the whole group has a day trip to Bletchley Park as part of the programme, and London, with all that it has to offer, is only 50 minutes away by train. The Cambridge Tourist Office has an abundance of information of ‘What’s on & things to see and do’ in Cambridge.