Cambridge is known internationally for its university and closely linked to Oxford University, it likewise features many specialist colleges, located across the city, the first of which (Peterhouse) was formed in 1284. Although a city, Cambridge does not have a cathedral, the usual requirement for city status and did not formally become a city until as recently as 1951.

The city of Cambridge is in the country of Cambridgeshire and is also home to many high-technology businesses, earning it the nickname: 'Silicon Fen' (second only to 'Silicon Valley in California, for technology investment and start-ups). The surrounding area is fenland, originally reclaimed by Dutch engineers, employed by the Earl of Bedford in the 17th Century. It lies below sea level and flooding is averted through the construction of ditches and dykes, in a similar manner to the polder reclamation in the Zuiderzee, Netherlands.