Cambridge Union

General information

**Debates**

Hosting world famous weekly debates, we have debating some of the most pressing issues of our long history, discussed by some of the most influential people in the world, and some of the best student speakers in the world, alike.

**Speakers**

In the past few years alone Union members have met Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, the legendary actors Sir Ian McKellen and Bill Nighy, comedians Dara O'Briain and Russell Brand, and the controversial scientist and author Professor Richard Dawkins.

**Charitable Work**
Not only does the Union provide a service to students in Cambridge, it also has multiple programmes for disadvantaged children across the UK. Through teaching public speaking and debate, the Union’s charitable aim is to promote opportunity through education - and we have ambitious plans to expand our charitable work in the future.

**Social Entertainment**

Throughout the year we run some of the best social events in Cambridge. Our Valentines Ball is hugely popular, and we kick off May Week with the most extravagant Garden Party around.

But there's more. With pilates to pub quizzes, Comedy Smokers to Casino & Cocktails nights, we have something for everyone. There's something on almost every night of the week - Union membership ensures you a packed social calendar.

**1815 Bar and Café**

Our bar is the only one to cater to the whole university, making it the perfect place to chill with friends, particularly from other colleges. Complete with plasma screens and comfy sofas, plus nightly entertainment and drinks deals.

Our café is the perfect place to work or play, offering cheap, fairtrade coffee and food throughout the day in a newly-refurbished, friendly and comfortable setting.

Open most days until after midnight.

**Library**

Our beautiful and historic library is a great place to study and read away from college, with free Wi-Fi, newspapers, and the largest selection of borrowable fiction books outside of the University Library.

**Competitive Debating**

Our competitive debating teams regularly compete on an international level, and in the past two years have won more competitions than any other university in Britain or Ireland. We run workshops for those interested in improving their skills, as well as for complete beginners, giving our members the chance to learn from highly experienced debaters and compete in national competitions themselves.