Punting in Cambridge

In my mind, there are few summer activities greater than an afternoon spent punting down the River Cam. This will be our 10th summer living here, and it’s still one of my favourite things to do each year (as seen in this blast from the past from a few summers ago). So when Superdry asked me to name my favourite summer activity in Cambridge as part of their nationwide Summer or Nothing campaign, there was nothing I’d recommend more to any new visitor to town.

If you’re feeling game, you can rent your own punt and navigate your own path up the river. It’s easier than it looks to gain momentum and stay upright on the end of the boat, but also harder than it looks to go in a straight line (I personally specialise in zig-zagging down the river rather than gliding in anything resembling a straight line). Or if that sounds too much like hard work, hop on one of the chauffeured punts and let someone else give you a guided history of the grand colleges you pass along the way.

Either way, it’s best enjoyed with a picnic basket full of treats from Fitzbillies (a Cambridge institution) and a boat full of friends.

I know I’m being a cliche of myself wearing another white dress (I can’t help myself, I love them so much), but can we talk about how cute this dress is? I love the broderie anglaise and eyelet detailing, the fact it’s cotton and thus breathable, and that it has pockets (a detail which instantly improves any dress, in my opinion).

Full disclosure: I hadn’t shopped in Superdry since my university days and it would never be the first place I’d think of looking at, but they have so many cute, affordable dresses and I can honestly say I’ve worn this one weekly since I got it (I love the blue version, too.) And this utility jacket has been so perfect for this in-between weather where it’s chilly in the morning and evening and you need something to throw on. I’ll be ordering one of the khaki versions for autumn, because it’s so useful and seems to go with most things in my wardrobe.

Wearing: Superdry dress c/- (also available in blue) // Superdry jacket c/- // Superga trainers // Karen Walker sunglasses // ASOS hairlip // Astley Clarke earrings c/- // Michael Kors watch.

What is your favourite way to spend a summer afternoon?

Love, Briony xx

Thank you Superdry for partnering on this post!

Photos by Joe Galvin