Wilkins, a disciple of the neo-classical architectural style, designed the first wholly campus-based college plan in the world based on a magnificent entrance on Downing Street reaching back to form the largest court in Cambridge, extending to Lensfield Road.

Much of the north side of what was then the Pembroke Leys was sold to the university and is now home to scientific buildings ("The Downing Site").

In fact, only limited East and West ranges were initially built, with the plans for a library and chapel on the south face of the college shelved.

An urban legend amongst Cambridge students claims that Trinity pays an undisclosed sum to the college annually with the condition that it will never build the fourth side of the square, so that Trinity may maintain the distinction of having the largest enclosed court of all colleges of Cambridge.

Downing College Rugby Union Football Club is one of Cambridge’s top teams, having secured victory in both the 2019 Cuppers and 2022 Shield competitions.

The college is renowned for its strong legal tradition, being built up by Clive Parry, his pupil and successor John Hopkins and Graham Virgo.

Legal notables who have been honorary fellows of the college include the late Sir John Smith, the pre-eminent criminal lawyer of his generation; Lord Collins of Mapesbury, the first solicitor to be appointed to the Court of Appeal and House of Lords; and Sir Robert Jennings, former President of the International Court of Justice.