Bridge of Sighs, Cambridge (must see)

The Bridge of Sighs in Cambridge is a significant architectural feature of Saint John's College at the University of Cambridge. Named after the famed Venetian bridge, Cambridge's Bridge of Sighs was constructed in 1831 under the design of architect Henry Hutchinson. Despite its name, the bridge bears little resemblance to its Venetian counterpart aside from being covered.

Positioned over the River Cam, the bridge links the college's Third Court with the New Court, a region on the west side of the river known as the Backs. This area was developed as part of the expansion of Saint John's College, which was the first among Cambridge colleges to extend its facilities to the west bank of the Cam. The architectural style of the bridge is Gothic Revival, reflecting the fashionable trend of the era.

The Bridge of Sighs is not only a Grade I listed building but also a prominent tourist attraction in Cambridge, highly admired by historical figures including Queen Victoria, who reportedly favored it above all other places in the city. Its charm and historical significance have made it a beloved spot for many, including former Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who was photographed there as a student and during subsequent visits in 1974 and 2000.

The bridge has also been a backdrop for pranks; notably, in 1963 and again in 1968, students daringly dangled cars from the bridge as part of student pranks, though without causing any damage to the structure. Additionally, it has served as a picturesque filming location, appearing in movies such as "Elizabeth: The Golden Age" (2007) and "The Theory of Everything" (2014), further cementing its role as an iconic symbol of Cambridge's heritage.