Cambridge Mosque

The Cambridge Central Mosque is the first purpose-built mosque in Cambridge, standing on Mill Road in the Romsey area. It opened in April 2019 after years of planning that began in 2007. The Muslim Academic Trust led the project, supported by Dr Timothy Winter of the University of Cambridge. A design competition was won by Marks Barfield Architects, known for the London Eye, working with sacred architecture expert Professor Keith Critchlow and garden designer Emma Clark. Construction started in 2016 and finished in 2019, with most funds coming from donors abroad, particularly Turkey. The mosque blends Islamic and English architectural traditions, using geometric patterns and natural materials. Visitors enter through a formal garden with trees and a water feature before reaching the entrance canopy held by four tree-shaped wooden columns. Inside, glulam columns form a canopy like a forest, letting in sunlight through large glazed openings. The building also uses green technologies such as air source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting to reduce its environmental impact. Inside, the prayer hall is bright and airy, designed for contemplation and community gatherings. The mosque hosts religious services, lectures, workshops and cultural events throughout the year. Its architecture has won awards, including RIBA East Project Architect of the Year and Building of the Year in 2021. The surrounding area remains a quiet residential part of Cambridge, making the mosque a peaceful yet accessible place to visit.