After years of building work, including the construction of a temporary bridge over the Cam and the erection of a crane in the Master’s garden, Clare College marked the official opening of the River Room earlier today. 

Squeezed into a narrow wedge of land between two brick garden walls, this construction was no mean feat. The space was very challenging with all building works assembled onsite, and machinery and materials brought in via the temporary bridge. The integration of new facilities with the historic fabric of Old Court is both ingenious and impressive. What once was a warren of underutilised spaces has now been transformed into a social space for all College members to enjoy.

With spectacular views over the Cam, the café provides seating for some 70 people and has already become a popular place for students, staff and Fellows to have a cup of coffee, meet friends, discuss their work, or simply relax and watch the world go by.  

Today, donors and members of the project team joined the College community for the official opening of the River Room. Clare is very grateful to all those who have made these new facilities possible. Old Court is the beating heart of the College. Its conservation and transformation will enable Clare to provide the best possible experience for current and future generations of students.