King's
Certainly the most iconic of the Cambridge Colleges, King's is known to be a bit of a college of contradictions. On the one hand it's architecturally grand and old, has a huge list of famous alumni, world-class choir, and a chapel that has to be seen to believe. On the other, it's popular with those of a left-wing political bias, has a higher state to private ratio of students than any other college, and isn't in great financial condition.
All that doesn't really matter when you study here though. You're sure to make friends whatever your beliefs, you'll soon get used to the pretty buildings, and the location is just great - directly opposite Great St. Mary's Church in the centre of town, and by the river too!
As a first year you'll probably live in Keynes, a sixties-style building with en-suite facilities, within the main college site. Alternatively if you opt for something cheaper, there are hostels just across the road. In later years you have the option of living in one of numerous hostels dotted across the road from College, or the older rooms within college, some of which are truly huge, and with views of the river.
Cooking facilities in the gyp rooms are limited mainly to microwaves due to health and safety reasons, so most food is bought from the self-service cafeteria, and eaten in the Hall. Formal Halls are held infrequently at King's, and unlike other colleges, gowns are not worn.
King's has quite a lot of social events going on, which attract people university-wide. There's often live music in the bar, and King's Cellars play host to DJ sets on a regular basis, drawing big crowds. At the end of Michaelmas and Lent terms, 'Mingles' are held within the college, which are big music events, and in May Week we have King's Affair, a cheaper alternative to the Balls held at other colleges.
Sports wise, we have a sports field that we share with Selwyn, where we field teams in all the major sports. We also have a very basic gym, and a boathouse that we share with Churchill and Selwyn. The Boat Club is currently doing really well, climbing it's way up the bumps divisions.
There are music rooms available for use at the King's School just over the river, and we also have our own darkroom, for any budding photographers!
Official Website
Student Union website
