A tour of the new facilities by CSES members
On Tuesday 21 July 2026, twenty-one CSES members enjoyed a visit to the Ray Dolby Centre, the new Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge!
First, under the expert guidance of the incredibly knowledgeable Dr Harry Cliff, the group were shown around the museum, where just a few display cases house some very significant artefacts dating back to the founding of the laboratory in 1874. Equipment used by James Clerk Maxwell, J J Thompson and Ernest Rutherford, to name just a few – which helped make some of the greatest scientific advances in our history – were brilliantly described by Harry.
As if that were not enough, the party then began a tour of the lab itself. With a new guide, Dr David Ward, they were taken into the extensive teaching and workshop areas of the £350 million building. The world-leading laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art clean rooms, every machine they could ever need, and the means – and the people – to manufacture any equipment that money cannot buy. David spoke extensively about the facilities, the laboratory's training programmes – including work experience for Year 10 or 12 students – and their collaboration with industry. The skilled technicians are able to produce equipment for businesses outside of the University.
Having enjoyed the two-and-a-half-hour tours, most of the party ended their visit with lunch in the Cavendish canteen, a great ending to a very interesting visit.
Our thanks to Nigel Stephens for organising such a great day out.