A walk along River Court tells an emerging story of a blooming space in College.
Surrounded by Cripps, New Court and the River Cam, River Court is undergoing a major landscaping project as part of the St John’s College Masterplan. The project aims to create a new outdoor study and relaxation area amidst a thriving biodiverse spot.
The ambitious vision has been realised thanks to the generosity of a leading Johnian who has philanthropically funded the project.
A new space to inspire big ideas, River Court will become a refreshing social hub for the College community where collegiality and biodiversity intertwine. A space where today’s brightest minds can flourish, the new design will incorporate species-rich perennial meadows, a reflection pool, a rill, a wilderness garden and seating. It will offer a vibrant recreational area for all College members to rest, study, work and socialize while enjoying serene natural views and local wildlife.
Picture students revising for an exam beside fragrant bitter orange trees and native water lilies, as small hedgehogs potter around.
This harmonious interplay of nature with the College’s historic architecture will create a relaxed, welcoming environment and boost bird, insect and small mammal life across the College site. The reflection pool adds depth and tranquillity to the surrounding aesthetics and encourages contemplation that can further inspire students and foster a sense of well-being.
The gardening team explained that River Court used to be less of an inviting space, with the exception of the daises in the grass and the Dawn Redwood trees, which have been retained in the new design.
“It has been very exciting to work with world-renowned garden designer Arne Maynard, and see his plans for River Court take shape. It will transform the College’s grounds, creating a rich, multi-layered habitat for students and wildlife alike, and I look forward to gardening it with my team.” – David Austrin, Head Gardener
David Austrin, Head Gardener
The project, which commenced in summer 2025, has been progressing at pace, with the hard landscaping phase completed in February. The soft landscaping and planting will commence in spring 2026 and is set to be completed by the summer.
Upon completion, River Court will be a welcoming gathering space for all Johnians and will host a range of signature events such as the 1511 Lunch in the spring and the Benefactors Dinner in the summer.
The Masterplan for the development of the College estate is focused on enhancing collegiality and delivering a 21st Century academic experience across our historic site.
The generosity of Johnians has been pivotal to the realisation of the Masterplan and to leaving a positive and lasting mark on the future of the College.
We thank all donors whose kindness to St John’s College continues to demonstrate a profound commitment to advancing education and the pursuit of academic excellence.
Interested in learning more or supporting the College’s fundraising priorities? Reach out to us at Development@joh.cam.ac.uk