LOVE LOCAL
Elnara Nazarova reflects on the beauty and balance of Cambridge – a city she was destined to live in
I’ve lived in Cambridge for two years. I originally moved here in 2024 after getting married, as my husband couldn’t imagine living anywhere else but Cambridge. Before moving I spent a summer here just to see how it felt, and I fell in love with the city. I love it here because it offers such a beautiful balance. You have the city rush, the centre of innovation and research, and the lively energy of international students and tourists. However, right alongside that loudness is the quietness and greenery of a small town. Everywhere you walk, you feel like you are part of history. The view that means the most to me is of King’s College Chapel, from the Backs. When I was growing up in a small village in western Azerbaijan, that exact view was on the cover of my fifth-grade English textbook. I was a little girl obsessed with
castles and historic architecture, buildings with stories to whisper, and I dreamed of living in England. Standing there now feels like a dream come true. Every time I look at that building, I remember that small child wishing for something that felt impossible back then. The best performance I’ve ever seen here was an improv comedy night at the ADC Theatre. I had never experienced improv before, and I remember laughing until I had tears in my eyes. It was an amazing experience. You weren’t just an audience member; you had an actual influence on the story unfolding on stage. When people ask me for local recommendations, I point them to the independent coffee shops. I will always champion local spots over chains. I send people to Fitzbillies for the Chelsea buns;
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the history and the vibe that just feels like the essence of Cambridge. For incredibly delicious coffee, I always recommend Bould Brothers Coffee. And, of course, punting. I honestly feel a little sad for anyone who lives here and hasn’t gone punting yet. They are missing out on a lot! One thing I’ve never done here, but plan to, is visit Kettle’s Yard. I am a bit ashamed to admit that I haven’t already been; it’s the kind of quiet, aesthetically beautiful space I naturally gravitate towards. So, I plan to spend a slow, intentional afternoon there as soon as I can.
I feel a little sad for anyone who lives here and hasn’t gone punting yet. They are missing out on a lot!
82 JUNE 2026 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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