Parkside Pools and Gym

You'll find yourself on Gonville Place, a stone's throw from the city centre, walking into the kind of leisure centre that's been keeping Cambridge fit for decades. It's not Instagram-worthy or trendy—it's the real deal. The 50-metre pool is the main draw, perfect for serious swimmers who actually want to put in lengths rather than float about. Beyond that, there's a decent gym setup and various classes if you're into that sort of thing. Fair warning: it can get rammed during peak times, and the changing rooms have that distinctly utilitarian British leisure centre vibe. But if you're after no-nonsense swimming and fitness without the premium price tag, this place does exactly what it says on the tin.