Cambridge may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to pubs! Whether you’re a real ale fan, a history buff or a food connoisseur, you’re bound to find something you fancy in our list of Cambridge’s top ten pubs.
Being in Cambridge is all about being by the river - and winter or summer, The Anchor is one of the best places to sit on the banks of the Cam and watch the world flowing by. Enjoy a pint in the sunshine on their riverside terrace, or indulge in some classic pub grub in their dining room, which also has spectacular views over the river. Pink Floyd aficionados are also in for a treat, with a specially commissioned mural celebrating Syd Barrett, who used to drink here regularly. The pub still hosts jazz evenings and open mic nights, ideal for music fans.
Another lovely riverside pub, The Granta’s shady terrace is a great place to relax and watch the punts drifting by. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a punt out yourself, as they are available to hire just next door - though this is best attempted before you start drinking! With picturesque views over millpond and meadows, at this 19th century inn you could almost imagine yourself to be in the countryside instead of being close to the centre of Cambridge.
No visit to Cambridge would be complete without a stop at The Eagle, Cambridge’s oldest pub, which dates back to the 14th century. A former coaching inn, the building is a regular stop on ghost tours thanks to a number of spine-chilling spectral appearances. Whilst supping your cask ale, make sure to pop into the RAF bar, so-called due to the graffiti of visiting RAF airmen during the war, who burned their names and squadron numbers onto the ceiling using cigarette lighters and candles.
With a regular appearance in the Good Beer Guide, and previous winner of CAMRA’s Pub of the Year, The Mill is a great place for those with an appreciation for local and real ales. Overlooking the scenic Laundress Green, this pub was a former mill (the name gives it away!) and while it’s pocket-sized, it’s perfectly formed. In summer, drinkers spill outside to create an informal beer garden; in colder weather, you can book their cosy snug for a private event or family meal.
This pub has a chequered history - one of the oldest continually operating pubs in Cambridge, there are claims that it was formerly a gin palace, an opium den and even a brothel! There is little sign of its rackety past showing these days, apart from the charmingly historic buildings - instead, soak in the traditional ambiance while enjoying the unparalleled views of Magdalene College, which is just across the road. One of C S Lewis’ regular watering holes during his time in Cambridge, The Pickerel is the perfect place for people-watching, with a heated pub garden, so you can enjoy the views even when there’s a nip in the air.
Have trouble deciding what to choose at the bar? Then don’t come to the Cambridge Blue - this unassuming venue offers an array of literally hundreds of different beers, from bottled Belgian to cask ales. If you can get past the initial hurdle and order your drink, you’ll find a friendly spot with knowledgeable staff and a spacious pub garden surrounded by greenery. Need something to soak up that pint? No problem - the Cambridge Blue specialises in pies. Why not try the ‘Moo and Blue’, a steak and stilton pie; or, for the vegetarians, a ‘Heidi’, stuffed with goats’ cheese and sweet potato.
Perfectly situated for visiting the colleges, The Mitre is just at the edge of the historic town centre, ideal for a refreshment stop during your sightseeing trip. This rambling inn dates back to 1822 and is placed on the site of two former taverns, The Blackmoor’s Head and the Cock & Magpie. Featuring an ever-changing selection of guest cask ales, this pub is especially cosy in winter, when you can forget about the world outside and nestle down next to a roaring open fire.
Situated in the quaint village of Madingley, only a short distance from Cambridge, the Three Horseshoes is the quintessential English country pub. With its thatched roof, wood-burning stove and verdant garden, this is an easy place to while away an afternoon. Voted Cambridgeshire Dining Pub of the Year in 2018, their airy conservatory dining room is a popular lunch spot - but don’t expect the classics! This gasto-pub serves food with a twist; why not try fennel-crusted pork tenderloin, or goats’ cheese arancini with arrabiata sauce? With dogs welcome at the bar, and a dedicated area for children, this is the perfect choice for families.
The idyllic village of Grantchester is an unmissable stop on the itinerary of any visitor to Cambridge, and with the highest concentration of Nobel Prize winners living within the village boundary, it’s more than just a pretty face! The Red Lion is a suitably upmarket pub for such a highbrow place; and with its beautifully thatched roof, shabby-chic interiors and landscaped garden, you’ll never want to leave. Drinks range from prosecco and cocktails to real ale, and there’s something for everyone on the food menu, from burgers to sweet potato and coconut curry.
Balsham may be a little way from Cambridge, but never fear - this pub is worth a special trip, with its emphasis on fine dining and beautifully designed interior. Enjoy unusual dishes such as pigeon breast with lentils and apricot, or smoked haddock with tarragon foam, whilst indulging in a fine wine from their extensive list. No need to worry about driving home; the inn’s four star accommodation means you can fall into a luxurious bed at the end of your evening.