As the second-oldest university in the UK, Cambridge has a long history that stretches back hundreds of years. Throughout that time, the university has been a place of study for some of the world’s greatest minds and famous alumni of Cambridge University. Here is a look at some of most notable alumni from Cambridge University so you can learn more about the history of the famous institution.
10 Famous Cambridge Alumni
1. Sir Isaac Newton
Before he became famous for headbutting an apple, Sir Isaac Newton was a student at Trinity College in the University of Cambridge. During his time at the school, he studied advanced mathematics in addition to optics and mechanics. As a student, he produced a number of studies that were respected by the scientific community however his initial work on the forces of gravity was initially shunned and it took a while for them to gain traction.
2. Alan Turing
This computer scientist, logician, mathematician and philosopher may not be familiar to many people; however, he was one of the essential thinkers during the early years of computer technology development. In addition to studying at Princeton University in the US, Turing spent several years expanding his knowledge of theoretical computer science at King’s College in Cambridge. Though the public may not recognise his name, he will be remembered as a pioneer of the digital age.
3. Francis Bacon
In the 1500s, Trinity College opened its doors to someone who would eventually become one of the UK’s most influential historical figures. The university is known for attracting great minds and multi-talented students but Francis Bacon took it to a new level. His areas of study included journalism, politics, literature, science and philosophy. After graduating, he went on to become a respected statesman, scientist and author.
4. William Harvey
Anyone working within the health industry or studying anatomy may already recognise this name. William Harvey is remembered for being the first physician to create a detailed description of the circulatory system. This helped moved forward the medical industry of the time and increased the scientific communities understanding of how the human body works. Before making this profound discovery, he spent his days strolling the grounds of Cambridge and studying at the Gonville and Caius College.
5. Joseph Stiglitz
Anyone running a business or trading on the stock market will know this name. For those who don’t, Joseph Stiglitz is one of the most renowned economists in history and is also one of the many Cambridge students to have won a Nobel Prize. During his former years, Stiglitz studied at a number of prestigious universities including Cambridge rival, Oxford University.
6. Sylvia Plath
Better known by her pen name, Victoria Lucas, this beloved poet and author was one of the defining voices of her generation and penned some of the most influential writings of the 20th century. After moving to the UK from America, she perfected her craft and became inspired while studying at Newnham College.
7. Stephen Hawking
One of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of our time, Stephen Hawking is an alumnus of Trinity Hall, Cambridge. Despite being diagnosed with motor neuron disease at a young age, Hawking revolutionized our understanding of black holes and the origins of the universe. His groundbreaking book, A Brief History of Time, became a bestseller, making complex scientific concepts accessible to millions. Hawking’s tenure at Cambridge as the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics— a role once held by Isaac Newton—solidified his legacy as a scientific and cultural icon.
8. Robert Oppenheimer
Often called the "father of the atomic bomb," J. Robert Oppenheimer pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge’s Christ’s College. Though initially focusing on experimental physics, his time at Cambridge marked a shift to theoretical physics, which would later influence his pivotal role in the Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer's moral reflections on the use of nuclear weapons remain a profound part of his legacy, adding depth to his contributions as a scientist and thinker.
9. David Attenborough
One of the most beloved broadcasters and naturalists in the world, Sir David Attenborough is a proud alumnus of Clare College, Cambridge. During his time at the university, he studied natural sciences, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades. Known for his iconic documentaries such as Planet Earth and The Blue Planet, Attenborough has inspired generations to appreciate and protect the natural world. His calm narration and deep passion for the environment have made him a global treasure.
10. Emma Thompson
An Academy Award-winning actress, screenwriter, and author, Emma Thompson is among Cambridge’s most distinguished creative alumni. She attended Newnham College, where she studied English literature and became a key member of the Footlights Dramatic Club, a breeding ground for British comedic talent. Known for her roles in Sense and Sensibility, Love Actually, and Nanny McPhee, Thompson’s sharp wit and advocacy for social and environmental issues have made her a celebrated figure both on and off the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions about Famous Cambridge Alumni
What notable contributions have Cambridge University alumni made to the world?
Cambridge alumni have transformed science, literature, economics, and technology, with breakthroughs like gravity, the circulatory system, and computing.
What are some famous literary figures who graduated from Cambridge University?
Cambridge boasts Sylvia Plath, Christopher Marlowe, and E.M. Forster as literary alumni who shaped poetry, plays, and novels.
How has Cambridge University influenced modern education and research?
Cambridge advanced global education by pioneering scientific methods, modern physics, and developing Nobel Prize-winning scholars.
Who is the most famous Cambridge alumni?
Stephen Hawking, Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin are among the most iconic Cambridge alumni known worldwide.
What famous people come from Cambridge?
Hugh Laurie, Richard Attenborough and Olivia Newton John are famous people from Cambridge. For a more robust list, check out our 10 Famous People From Cambridge article.
