Downing College, Cambridge facts for kids
Downing College is a special part of the University of Cambridge in England. It was built in 1800 and is home to about 650 students.
The college is named after Sir George Downing. He was a very important person who decided to leave his money and land to start a new college when he passed away in 1749. However, his family didn't all agree with his wishes. This led to many arguments in court for years. Finally, in 1800, judges decided that Sir George's will should be followed, and the college was built.
Many well-known people have studied at Downing College. These include famous artist Quentin Blake, actor John Cleese, and actress Thandiwe Newton.
What is Downing College Like?
Downing College is known for its beautiful buildings and wide-open green spaces. It's a place where students live, study, and relax.
Buildings and Architecture
The college has many impressive buildings. They are designed in a style called Neoclassical architecture. This means they look a bit like ancient Greek and Roman buildings, with grand columns and simple, strong shapes.
The Library
The Maitland Robinson Library is a key building for students. It was finished in 1992 and provides a quiet place to study and research.
The Chapel
The college also has a chapel, built in 1951. It's a peaceful spot for reflection.
Student Accommodation
Students live in different buildings around the college grounds. Places like the Howard Building and J Block provide rooms for students.
Sports and Outdoors
Downing College has great facilities for sports and outdoor activities.
Boathouse on the River Cam
The college has its own boathouse on the River Cam. This is where students who enjoy rowing keep their boats. The boathouse was rebuilt in 2000.
Green Spaces and Sports Ground
There are lovely green areas, like "The Paddock," where students can relax outdoors. The college also has a sports ground for games and exercise.
Famous People Who Studied Here
Many talented individuals have attended Downing College. They have gone on to achieve great things in various fields.
Actors and Comedians
- John Cleese: A famous actor and comedian, known for his work with Monty Python.
- Thandiwe Newton: An award-winning actress.
- Andy Hamilton: A well-known comedian.
- Michael Winner: A film director and producer.
Politicians and Leaders
- Aitzaz Ahsan: A senior politician from Pakistan.
- Remi Fani-Kayode: A Nigerian politician.
- William Philip Schreiner: He was the Prime Minister of the Cape Colony (a part of South Africa) during the Second Boer War.
- Yong Pung How: A former Chief Justice of Singapore.
- David Lloyd Jones, Lord Lloyd-Jones: A Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom.
Scientists and Academics
- Sir Ray Lankester: An important zoologist who studied animals without backbones and how living things change over time.
- Sir John Pendry: A theoretical physicist who studies how materials behave.
Other Notable Alumni
- John Leslie Green: A recipient of the Victoria Cross, a very brave award.
Images for kids
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The Maitland Robinson Library by Quinlan Terry, completed in 1992.
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Downing College Chapel (behind the portico), built in 1951.
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Downing College boathouse on the River Cam. Here a trailer of rowing boats is shown outside the building.
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East Range, Downing College.
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The Paddock, a green space at the college.
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North east view of the lawns outside the chapel.
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The Howard Building.
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J Block accommodation.
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The Kenny Building.
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A sundial celebrating the college's 200th birthday.
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Ai Weiwei Trees, part of a 2016 art show at the Heong Gallery.
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The college sports ground in the snow.
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Aitzaz Ahsan, a senior Pakistani politician.
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John Cleese, actor and comedian.
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John Leslie Green, a Victoria Cross recipient.
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Andy Hamilton, comedian.
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Sir Ray Lankester, a zoologist and evolutionary biologist.
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Thandiwe Newton, a BAFTA award-winning actress.
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Remi Fani-Kayode, a Nigerian politician.
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Sir John Pendry, a theoretical physicist.
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William Philip Schreiner, Prime Minister of the Cape Colony.
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Michael Winner, film director and producer.
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David Lloyd Jones, Lord Lloyd-Jones, Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom.
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Yong Pung How, former Chief Justice of Singapore.
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See also
In Spanish: Downing College para niños
