Peterhouse

Quick facts

• Small college
• Approx 290 undergraduates
• Approx 190 postgraduates
• Typical offer rate: 23%
• Typical acceptance rate: 18%

Reputation

The oldest college in Cambridge, with a 13th-century dining hall and daily Formal Hall in Full Term. Strengths in History, Mathematics and Economics. Intimate and small, increasingly diverse. Low-key sports culture — ideal for those wanting casual participation without competitive pressure.

Academic strengths

History, Mathematics, Economics

Famous alumni

Lord Kelvin, Henry Cavendish, David Mitchell

Atmosphere

Oldest Cambridge college; conservative reputation but increasingly diverse; intimate

Location

Central

Sports

Low-key sports culture; no weekend training; better for casual participants

Dining

13th-century hall; meals £2-3; Formal Hall daily in Full Term (£6.50); vegetarian and vegan options

Bar

Very popular after Formal Hall and before nights out

Accommodation guarantee

Mostly on-site; en-suites all three years