Edificio de la Biblioteca Taylor
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Corpus Clock

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A captivating, handless clock featuring a 'time-eating' grasshopper and illuminated by blue LEDs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Nighttime

Mesmerizing blue lights glow

CrowdMedium
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Edificio de la Biblioteca Taylor

Corpus Clock

Best Time

Nighttime

Mesmerizing blue lights glow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A captivating, handless clock featuring a 'time-eating' grasshopper and illuminated by blue LEDs.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A unique and fascinating landmark, it's a striking reminder that time is precious, fleeting, and unstoppable."

Vertical photo
TIP

Nighttime Glow ✨

Visit after dark to see the clock's mesmerizing blue LED lights. It's a different, more impressive experience .

Embrace the Art 🎨

Don't expect a traditional clock; it shows the exact time only every 5 minutes. Enjoy its artistic and philosophical message .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Chronophage

The Chronophage

Top of the clock

A mechanical grasshopper that 'eats' time, symbolizing its fleeting nature. It's both artistic and unnerving .

TikTokInstagram
The Gold-Plated Dial

The Gold-Plated Dial

Clock face

A rippling 24-carat gold-plated stainless steel disc with no hands or numerals, illuminated by blue LEDs at night .

TikTokInstagram
Stephen Hawking's Unveiling

Stephen Hawking's Unveiling

Corpus Christi College

Unveiled in 2008 by the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, adding a layer of scientific significance .

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Corpus Clock's unique design means it only shows the exact time every five minutes. Plan your visit accordingly if you need precise timing, but embrace the artistic interpretation of time's subjective flow. It's a fascinating reminder of time's preciousness.Reddit

Crowds and Capturing the Moment

This striking landmark is located at a busy intersection, making it a popular photo spot. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. Visiting at night offers a different, more atmospheric experience with its blue LED lights.Reddit

Best Times

When
Nighttime
Why
Mesmerizing blue lights glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Every 5 minutes
Why
See the exact time
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#corpusclock #clock #cambridge #uk #goldenclock #grasshopperclock #taylorlibrary #corpuschristicollege
@simontaylor20
5.9K likes • 116.4K views

Nighttime Glow ✨

Visit after dark to see the clock's mesmerizing blue LED lights. It's a different, more impressive experience.Reddit

Embrace the Art 🎨

Don't expect a traditional clock; it shows the exact time only every 5 minutes. Enjoy its artistic and philosophical message.Reddit

Your sign to visit the famous Corpus Clock in Cambridge 🇬🇧 📍Corpus Clock #london #londonlife #cambridge #budget #cambridgeuniversity #ukgems #freethingstodo #thingstodoincambridge
@travelwithnige
1.2K likes • 21K views
Grasshopper by design, time-eater by choice 🕰️ The Corpus Clock at Corpus Christi College is famous for its “Chronophage” mechanism, a grasshopper that literally devours time! Keep watching ... the last fact might surprise you ⚰️👀 Just a short Park & Ride from Marleigh Park to the city centre, why not pop by on your next day out? #MarleighPark #Hill #CambridgeLife #CorpusClock #LocalGems #DidYou...
marleighparkcb5
2 likes • 84 views

Photo Patience 📸

The spot is often crowded. Be patient for your photo opportunity, or try early morning for fewer people.Reddit

Unique Design 🤩

Marvel at the 'Chronophage' grasshopper and the handless, numeral-less dial. It's a true work of art and engineering.TikTokInstagram

The Corpus Clock has become one of the most visited landmarks in Cambridge by tourists and locals alike. The clock is an intricately designed mechanism that is both a magnificent timepiece and a haunting work of art. This song and the movie has special place in my heart ❤️ @r.balki_7 @r.balki_kiran.blitzkrieg @_madentertainment_ @balanvidya @bachchan @amitabhbachchan @corpuscambridge @visitcambri...
iamjayparadkar
36 likes • 612 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Nighttime Glow ✨

Visit after dark to see the clock's mesmerizing blue LED lights. It's a different, more impressive experience.Reddit

Embrace the Art 🎨

Don't expect a traditional clock; it shows the exact time only every 5 minutes. Enjoy its artistic and philosophical message.Reddit

Photo Patience 📸

The spot is often crowded. Be patient for your photo opportunity, or try early morning for fewer people.Reddit

Unique Design 🤩

Marvel at the 'Chronophage' grasshopper and the handless, numeral-less dial. It's a true work of art and engineering.TikTokInstagram

Free to See! 🆓

Admission is free, making it an accessible and worthwhile stop on your Cambridge exploration.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Corpus Clock is a unique and fascinating landmark, praised for its artistic design, the intriguing 'Chronophage' sculpture, and its mesmerizing blue LED lights at night. While its unconventional timekeeping and busy location are noted, it's widely considered a must-see free attraction in Cambridge, offering a thought-provoking experience.

"A unique and fascinating landmark in Cambridge. The Corpus Clock was unveiled in 2008 by Stephen Hawking and created by John C. Taylor, a former student of Corpus Christi College. The clock is known as the Chronophage – the “time eater.” Instead of hands, it shows the time with blue LEDs. On top sits a large mechanical grasshopper that “devours” each second as it passes.

There are no numbers on the face, and the movement is deliberately uneven, to remind us that the flow of time feels subjective. In fact, the clock shows the exact time only once every five minutes. Both artistic and philosophical, it is a striking reminder that time is precious, fleeting, and unstoppable. Definitely worth seeing in person when in Cambridge."

Olga L.

"The Corpus Clock is an intriguing and unusual piece of public art located right on the corner of one of Cambridge’s busiest intersections. The craftsmanship is fascinating — especially the way the grasshopper-like Chronophage “eats time.” It’s a brilliant fusion of art, science, and engineering, and worth seeing if you’re nearby.

That said, the spot is quite cramped and always busy, so it’s hard to stop and take photos without being in the way. Still, a quick look as you pass by is well worth it."

Kamaldeep Singh

"The Corpus Clock is free, and that’s the right price. It’s a striking design, but the real show is the beast above the clock. It blinks, crawls, and adds a touch of unease. At night, the glow makes it more impressive. Worth a quick stop, though it’s more spectacle than depth.

3.5/5"

Real Panda

What People Like

Unique artistic design
Mesmerizing night lights
Intriguing 'Chronophage'

What People Dislike

Crowded location
Inaccurate timekeeping

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Corpus Clock is centrally located at the junction of Bene't Street and Trumpington Street, outside Corpus Christi College, overlooking King's Parade.TikTok It's easily accessible on foot from the city center. Many visitors arrive via train to Cambridge station and then walk or take a short bus ride into the city center.TikTok

Parking in Cambridge city center can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use the Park & Ride services available on the outskirts of the city, which offer frequent buses into the center.Instagram

Yes, numerous bus routes stop near the college. If arriving by train, you can take a local bus or enjoy a pleasant walk to reach the clock's location.TikTok

The walk from Cambridge train station to the Corpus Clock is approximately 20-25 minutes. It's a straightforward route through the city center.TikTok

Many visitors combine a visit to the Corpus Clock with exploring other Cambridge University colleges, punting on the River Cam, and visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum. The clock is a great starting point for a walking tour.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Corpus Clock is a public art installation and is free to view from the street. You do not need a ticket to see it.TikTok

As it's an outdoor sculpture, the Corpus Clock can be viewed at any time. However, its blue LED lights are most visible and impressive after dark.Reddit

There is no admission fee for the Corpus Clock. It's a free attraction for all visitors.TikTok

The Corpus Clock is located on the exterior of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College, accessible from the street. You cannot go inside the college to view it, but its exterior placement makes it easily visible.TikTok

While the clock is a permanent fixture, it has undergone maintenance and repairs in the past, including after vandalism.Instagram It's always a good idea to check local updates if you're planning a visit during a specific event.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Corpus Clock doesn't have traditional hands or numerals. It uses blue LEDs to indicate the time, and the 'Chronophage' grasshopper moves to signify the passing seconds. It only shows the exact time every five minutes, reflecting the subjective nature of time.InstagramReddit

The grasshopper is actually a 'Chronophage,' meaning 'time-eater.' It's a mechanical sculpture that moves and snaps its jaws, symbolizing time being devoured.TikTokInstagram

The clock is designed to be artistically and philosophically significant rather than precisely accurate. It shows the exact time only once every five minutes, highlighting the subjective experience of time.Reddit

The clock face is a 24-carat gold-plated stainless steel disc, and the entire mechanism was designed by engineer John C. Taylor, incorporating patented inventions.TikTokInstagram

Some visitors find the 'Chronophage' and the clock's concept a bit eerie or unsettling, while others find it fascinating and thought-provoking.TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

For clear shots without too many people, early mornings are ideal. For dramatic lighting, visit at dusk or after dark when the blue LEDs illuminate the clock.Reddit

The clock is at a busy intersection, so finding a clear shot can be tricky. Experiment with different angles from across the street or slightly further back to capture the entire sculpture.Reddit

Absolutely! The blue LED lights make the Corpus Clock particularly striking at night, offering a unique photographic opportunity.Reddit

For daytime shots, a standard aperture and shutter speed should work. For nighttime, use a tripod and a longer exposure to capture the LED lights effectively. Consider a wider lens to fit the entire clock in the frame.TikTok

Yes, the area around the clock can be quite cramped and busy, making it challenging to get unobstructed photos. Patience is key, or consider visiting during off-peak hours.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Corpus Clock offers a unique visual experience that can capture children's imaginations. The 'Chronophage' grasshopper, with its 'time-eating' action, is often described as a 'beast' or 'bug',TikTokInstagram which can be both exciting and a little spooky for younger visitors. It's a great conversation starter about time and how it passes. The blue LED lights at night are also a big draw for kids, making it a memorable sight.Reddit

Since it's free and located on a busy street, it's an easy stop for families. However, the area can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is important. It's best viewed as a quick, fascinating stop rather than an extended activity. Combine it with a walk through the city or a visit to a park for a well-rounded family outing.

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Corpus Clock is a fantastic free attraction, making it ideal for budget travelers exploring Cambridge.TikTok Its central location means you can easily incorporate it into a walking tour of the city's historic colleges and streets without incurring any extra costs. The visual spectacle, especially the 'Chronophage' and the nighttime illumination, provides a memorable experience without spending a penny.Reddit

Combine your visit with a picnic lunch or snacks from a local market to keep costs down. Since it's an outdoor exhibit, you can enjoy it at your leisure. It's a perfect example of how Cambridge offers rich cultural experiences that don't require a hefty price tag.

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Corpus Clock presents a unique challenge and opportunity. The intricate details of the 'Chronophage' and the striking design of the gold-plated dial are compelling subjects.TikTokInstagram Visiting at night is highly recommended, as the blue LED lights create a dramatic and atmospheric effect that is perfect for long-exposure shots.Reddit

Be prepared for crowds, as the clock is a popular spot. Consider using a tripod for sharper nighttime images and a wider lens to capture the entire sculpture. Experiment with different angles to find a unique perspective, as the busy intersection can make framing difficult.Reddit The clock's artistic nature means it offers a visually interesting subject beyond just telling time.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art and Science of the Corpus Clock

The Corpus Clock, also known as the 'Chronophage' (time-eater), is a remarkable fusion of art, science, and horology. Designed by John C. Taylor OBE, a former student of Corpus Christi College, it was unveiled in 2008 by physicist Stephen Hawking.TikTokInstagram Taylor, an inventor known for his work on thermostats, poured five years and £1 million into the project, involving a team of specialists.TikTok The clock's face is a 24-carat gold-plated stainless steel disc, approximately 1.5 meters in diameter, featuring no hands or numerals. Instead, time is indicated by a series of pulsing blue LEDs that reveal the exact time only once every five minutes.Instagram

Atop the clock sits the 'Chronophage,' a mechanical grasshopper-like creature that symbolizes time's relentless consumption. Its jaw snaps shut, 'devouring' each passing second, a stark reminder of time's fleeting nature.TikTokInstagram The deliberately uneven movement of the clock and the lack of traditional markers are intended to reflect the subjective and often unpredictable flow of time. This artistic choice encourages contemplation on how we perceive and value our time. The clock's unique mechanism incorporates six patented inventions, showcasing Taylor's innovative approach to timekeeping.TikTok

Despite its artistic merit, the Corpus Clock has also been described as 'creepy' by some due to its 'time-eating' theme and the unsettling movement of the Chronophage.TikTokInstagram However, its striking design and philosophical undertones have made it a popular and iconic landmark in Cambridge. At night, the clock's blue lights create a mesmerizing spectacle, adding to its allure and making it a must-see attraction for visitors.Reddit

Experiencing the Corpus Clock: Tips from Visitors

Visitors consistently praise the Corpus Clock for its uniqueness and artistic merit. Many highlight the mesmerizing effect of the blue LED lights, especially when viewed at night, describing it as 'magical' and 'hypnotic'.TikTokReddit The 'Chronophage' sculpture is a particular point of fascination, with its 'time-eating' action adding a layer of intrigue and unease that many find captivating.TikTokInstagram The fact that the clock is free to view makes it an accessible and highly recommended stop for anyone exploring Cambridge.TikTok

However, the location of the clock at a busy intersection means it can get quite crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed photos. Redditors suggest being patient or visiting during off-peak hours, such as early mornings, to capture better shots.Reddit Some visitors note that the clock's design, with its lack of hands and numerals and its five-minute accuracy window, is more about artistic expression and philosophical reflection than precise timekeeping. It's an experience to be savored rather than relied upon for exact timing.Reddit

For those interested in the technical aspects, the clock's intricate engineering and the story behind its creation by John C. Taylor OBE are often mentioned as points of interest. The clock was even recognized by Time magazine as one of the Best Inventions of 2008.Instagram Overall, the Corpus Clock is celebrated as a distinctive and thought-provoking landmark that adds a unique character to the historic city of Cambridge.

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