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16 Best Pubs in Cambridge for Great Food and Drinks

2024-08-06

16 Best Pubs in Cambridge for Great Food and Drinks
A place like Cambridge, with its rich history and vibrant attractions, naturally boasts a plethora of pubs. This historic city is teeming with dining options, catering to locals, visitors, and students alike. From the intimate charm of small batch breweries to the expansive and lively atmospheres of larger pubs, the city offers a range of diverse pubs and bars. Read on to find out about some of the best pubs in Cambridge.

1. Eagle Cambridge

*Photo by Matt Brown on Flickr 

Eagle Cambridge on Bene't Street offers a diverse drink menu featuring a variety of red, white, and rosé wines. Guests can also enjoy signature drinks, such as the classic Bloody Mary and Margarita.
For those with dietary restrictions, the pub provides non-gluten options for both main courses and side dishes, as well as deserts. Additionally, the Eagle Cambridge is renowned for its famous Sunday roasts, making it a popular spot for a traditional British dining experience.

2. The Mill

*Photo by sean_hickin on Flickr 

The Mill Pub is one of Cambridge’s most iconic establishments, celebrated for its extensive selection of well-kept real ales. This cosy spot offers a charming and picturesque setting and a great view of the river. Visitors can expect friendly service, even during busy times, which contributes to the great atmosphere. The Mill also boasts a quality food menu, with all dishes well-cooked, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

3. The Free Press

The Free Press, first licensed in 1834 by homebrewer Sarah Horne, offers a unique and historic pub experience. Known for its delightful small plates like the Soup of the Day, the pub also serves one of the best burgers in town, along with amazing Fish & Chips and Charred Harissa Mackerel.
The desserts are mouthwatering, complementing the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, The Free Press boasts a great beer selection, featuring a variety of local ales.

4. The Regal

The Regal, a Wetherspoon pub in Cambridge, is famous for its extensive curry menu.  It is quite well-known for offering decent, warm food at a reasonable price. 
The Regal provides a variety of seating areas, including an outdoor space. It's the perfect place to enjoy a good breakfast, coffee, or beer, making it a versatile spot for any time of the day.

5. Town and Gown

Town and Gown is a distinctive British pub and theatre located in downtown Cambridge. This large, beautifully designed pub offers a laid-back feel and a pleasant ambiance, making it an ideal spot to sit, drink, and dine.
The food is not only presented beautifully but also delicious, with prices that offer good value for the portions served. Guests can enjoy a diverse food menu and a variety of cocktails at Town and Gown.

6. The Anchor

*Photo by Jim Linwood on Flickr 
The Anchor Cambridge is a charming waterside pub featuring a beer garden, making it a perfect spot for outdoor relaxation. Family-friendly and dog-friendly, it welcomes all guests. On a sunny day, an outdoor table along the river offers an ideal setting for unwinding. 
With reasonable prices and quick service, The Anchor is a great place to hang out with friends. The upstairs dining area provides stunning views overlooking the river, allowing patrons to watch punting and fish-eating birds.

7. The Cambridge Blue

The Cambridge Blue is a fantastic pub, offering ample space both inside and outside. Renowned for its wonderful and surprisingly vast beer selection, it features a variety of cask and keg beers, as well as an extensive assortment of bottles and cans.
With good food and a decent selection of ciders, The Cambridge Blue is a brilliant spot for anyone looking for a great range of beers and ciders in a relaxed and spacious setting. The huge back garden is a brilliant place to enjoy a drink, especially in the summer or if you're with a large group.

8. The Emperor

The Emperor Pub in Cambridge is renowned for its great bar, excellent food, and amazing staff. Visitors consistently praise the delicious food and great cocktails. The service is exceptional, with friendly and helpful staff. The portions are generous, and the drinks are lovely, offering great value for money.

9. Granta

*Photo by Jim Linwood on Flickr 

Granta, located in the heart of Cambridge near Mill Pond on Newnham Road, is known for its freshly prepared British food. Its fish and chips is renowned as some of the best in Cambridge.
The pub boasts a beautiful view and a lovely atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal in a picturesque setting. 

10. The Elm Tree

The Elm Tree is a classic, old-school pub that focuses solely on offering a wide variety of drinks. There is no food for sale here, but everyone can enjoy an impressive selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, spirits, and wine, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. 
This great local spot is known for its well-kept and rare ales, offering an excellent selection of Belgian beer and British ale in top condition. The atmosphere is cosy and wonderful, with helpful staff.

11. The Grain & Hop Store

The Grain & Hop Store in Cambridge, housed in a former factory, offers a unique and inviting atmosphere. The friendly and helpful staff ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Guests can enjoy a range of pub games, including shuffleboard, adding a fun element to their visit. The menu features fabulous options such as steak, chicken wings, and burgers, all complemented by a great selection of beers.

12. Golden Hind

The Golden Hind is a popular pub in Cambridge known for its delectable dishes, such as the mixed grill, crispy buffalo fries, and the mouthwatering hot honey chicken burger.
Guests are greeted with a friendly welcome and great service, enhancing the overall dining experience. The pub boasts great food, a lively vibe, and a lovely beer garden, making it a fantastic place to eat and enjoy good company.

13. The Punter

*Photo by Reading Tom on Flickr 

The Punter is a cosy gastropub overlooking a secluded garden courtyard. Situated a bit further from the city centre, this little pub offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. With a great variety of drinks and a lovely, interesting setting to enjoy a meal, The Punter provides a delightful and peaceful dining experience.

14. Calverley's Brewery

Calverley's Brewery is a small-batch brewery located in the heart of Cambridge. The brewery prides itself on quality and offers a variety of custom ales. 
The brewery features a lovely, cosy space with a small number of picnic benches, creating an intimate atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their drinks directly in the brewery's taproom, and if they're hungry, they can order sourdough pizzas from Scott’s All Day.

15. Sir Isaac Newton

The Sir Isaac Newton pub is another top spot in Cambridge, offering homemade food, including pies and burgers, along with a great selection of drinks. With top-class pub service, reasonable drink prices, and a child-friendly environment, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The pub is spacious, spanning two floors, with additional seating available outside. It features vintage furniture, a room with a billiard table, and a dart board.

16. BrewDog Cambridge

BrewDog Cambridge is known for its staff's beer expertise, offering extensive knowledge and information on their diverse beer selection. The menu includes wings with different flavours, burgers such as the Jackpot and Buffalo Chicken, as well as crispy and spicy sides. They also serve a full English brunch and a veggie breakfast, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.

In conclusion, Cambridge's pub scene offers an impressive array of choices for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal or a refreshing drink. Whether you're a local, a student, or a visitor exploring the city's historic streets, you'll find a pub that perfectly matches your preferences.


Minstrel Court
Ermine Way, Cambridge, SG8 0AB
Telephone: 0333 4444 234