Question 1

What is the "Fitzwilliam Museum "Donation Required"" scam in Cambridge?

Accepted Answer

Self-appointed "guides" at the Fitzwilliam Museum entrance imply that the suggested donation (£5-10) is a required entry fee. The museum is genuinely free to enter; donations are voluntary. Walk past the donation box. The Fitzwilliam, like all UK national museums, is free entry. Donations support upkeep but are never required.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit Cambridge Hoodie" scam in Cambridge?

Accepted Answer

Souvenir shops near the Market Square sell "Cambridge University" hoodies and t-shirts at £30-50. Many are not made by the licensed Cambridge University Press shop and use the trademark without permission. Quality is poor and shrinks heavily after one wash. Buy university-branded merchandise only from the official Cambridge University Press Bookshop (1 Trinity Street) or college shops with college crests.

Question 3

What is the "Fake University Merchandise on King's Parade" scam in Cambridge?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed street vendors and some independent shops on King's Parade sell "Cambridge University" branded clothing and gifts that are not produced by the official Cambridge University licensed merchandise programme. Items use copied crests and fonts and are sold at premium prices of £25–60 despite being low-quality Chinese-market goods. Buy official merchandise only from the Cambridge University Press bookshop on Trinity Street or the official Cambridge University licensed stores. Look for the official licensed merchandise hologram sticker on the product. Items with misspelled mottos ("Hinc Lucem") or incorrect shield designs are counterfeits.

Street Scams in Cambridge

Fitzwilliam Museum "Donation Required"

Counterfeit Cambridge Hoodie

Fake University Merchandise on King's Parade

Experienced a scam here?