Corpus Clock

The Corpus Clock is a unique public timepiece mounted on the exterior of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College. Designed by John Taylor, it features a giant grasshopper (or 'chronophage') that appears to devour time, with its legs moving in a mesmerizing, irregular rhythm. Unveiled in 2008 by Stephen Hawking, the clock has no hands or numbers; instead, it uses glowing blue lights to indicate hours, minutes, and seconds. The clock's design symbolizes the relentless passage of time, making it a thought-provoking landmark.

Don't miss

• Watch the grasshopper's jaw move as it 'eats' each second
• Spot the glowing blue lights that replace traditional clock hands
• Read the inscription 'Mundus transit et concupiscentia eius' (the world passes away and its desires)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Corpus Clock

Cheapest way inCambridge Famous Alumni Quest Experience4.7★ · 18 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedCambridge University Tour by Alumni™ with optional King's Chapel4.9★ · 2,483 travelers2-3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$34 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Self-Guided Dinky Door Hunt in Cambridge4.6★ · 111 travelers2-3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →

Getting there