Cambridgeshire pub and bar guide
Here's a guide to the pubs and bars of Cambridgeshire - good or bad, we bring you the most talked about venues and the places you have to visit at least once. We've included a few user reviews, to give you an idea of what to expect when you get there. Or you can follow the links to see full details and all reviews for each pub.
The Live and Let Live, Cambridge
Address: 40 Mawson Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2EA [map]
Phone: 01223 460261
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Nearest train stations: Cambridge (0.4 miles), Shelford (3.7 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
This is a splendid part of town for the discriminating drinker, with at least 3 very good pubs (the others being the Cambridge Blue and the Kingston Arms). The L&LL used to be an ordinary Allied tied house but turned into a really great free house with basic but comfortable seating. At quiet times of the week the atmosphere here can be a bit downbeat, but generally this is a great pub with a special range of beers.
7 Feb 2010 17:29
Definitely a beer drinkers pub - made to feel very welcome. Well worth the detour on the way from the Railway Station to the city centre. Here's to many further seasons of Histon or Cambridge remaining in the Conference so we can visit!!8 Dec 2009 09:18
Beer soaked floorboards in a beer lovers world boozer. A good local feel , friendly,accommodating (sorry we had a noisy game of cards for an hour or so first thing on a saturday lunchtime). Look forward to another visit soon...if Cambridge Utd keep up with the poppies !14 Nov 2009 21:25
The Cambridge Blue, Cambridge
Address: 85-87 Gwydir Street, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2LG [map]
Phone: 01223 471680
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Nearest train stations: Cambridge (0.7 miles), Shelford (4 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Just to set the record straight, Arctium_Iappa omits the tenure of Nick and Mandy Winnington, now at the Waggon and Horses, Milton, under whom the reputation for real ale was established, along with the no-smoking half of the pub, before the Lloyds took over the running of the place.
A must see!!!
16 Feb 2010 16:40
Rob372 is spot on - probably for consistency the best of the Holy Trinity of pubs off Mill Road (Kingston and Live and Let Live being the others). Once the Dewdrop (in 1970s), it entered its present incarnation under Chris Lloyd (Free Press) who established the multi-ale and good food character, as well as having a smoke-free bar before it was mandatory. Jethro and Terri have built on that foundation to make it even better - though sometimes I do miss the rowing paraphernalia that used to decorate the bar. This is THE place to come for interesting and varied beer in Cambridge, the food is varied, tasty and very good value and the rooms simple but comfortable coupled to a large beer-garden with plenty of seating. Jethro, Terri and their staff are really welcoming and the pub is often full/vibrant with locals, staff/students coming across the cemetery from Anglia Ruskin U and people from further afield who've heard what a great pub this is.7 Feb 2010 18:05
I agree wholeheartedly with the previous comment, this is by far the best pub in Cambridge!! One cannot argue or say anything negative about their real ale selection and the quality of what is served! A CAMRA members nirvana! The garden is such a relaxing place to be on long Summer evenings! A must see!!!
20 Jan 2010 17:21
The Brewery Tap, Peterborough
Address: 80, Westgate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 2AA [map]
Phone: 01733 358500
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Nearest train station: Peterborough (0.1 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Large open beerhall type establishment that has an upper 'gallery style' area. Tends to be popular with visitng football supporters (discerning Coventry fans this time) probably due to it's proximity to the station and it being able to cope with large groups. The beer is generally good (Highway Robber on this occasion) but have found the service and food to be variable (this being my third visit). Some of the staff seem enthusiastic while others tend to be little more than ornaments, while the food tends to hit the spot more depending on how much you've had to drink while waiting for it. Overall worth a visit for the beer. There are plenty of underused and badly run pubs in this town but it seems the council would rather demolish a busy and well run establishment instead.
A variety of Oakham beers sampled on my visit. Managed to have more thanexpected as i had travelled to see Peterborough vs Sheffield united only for the game to be postponed, never mind though the beer more than made up for that.
This is a big open pub that serves thai food. Guest beers are offered as an alternative to Oakham beers, i would suggest trying all of them they were that good. Service was quick friendly and very helpful.
7 Mar 2010 10:18
An excellent pub, do the council really want to knock it down? A variety of Oakham beers sampled on my visit. Managed to have more thanexpected as i had travelled to see Peterborough vs Sheffield united only for the game to be postponed, never mind though the beer more than made up for that.
This is a big open pub that serves thai food. Guest beers are offered as an alternative to Oakham beers, i would suggest trying all of them they were that good. Service was quick friendly and very helpful.
23 Feb 2010 19:47
It's simply unbelievable to read that the Council want to demolish this place! Whatever for? Is there no other land or brownfield site ripe for development without destroying something great which people enjoy? What a green disaster. The Oakham range is superb and the guest ales too a fine compliment. Vandalism, sheer vandalism is this place is demolished. Shameful. Didn't like the food though - my Thai duck wrap was very disappointing.22 Feb 2010 23:32
Elm Tree, Cambridge
Address: Orchard Street, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 1JT [map]
Phone: 01223 363005
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Nearest train stations: Cambridge (0.9 miles), Shelford (4.3 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Ten beers - really nice Springhead was my choice but many others looked tempting. Advertises Hairy bar staff and sems to be a bit hippified which was just fine by me! we arrived mid powercut on saturday afternoon and there was a good crowd making their way through the ales on tap. Great boozer.
9 Mar 2010 23:14
Probably gets my nomination as "most-improved pub" in Cambridge, though even as a straight Charlie Wells pub, it wasn't that bad. Nicely placed by footpaths between Parker's Piece and what was known as the Kite. The beer and drinks menu (on a folder on the bar) gives the customer a great description of what's on offer, and as well as the consistent Banks and Taylor and beers from the Wells & Youngs list, the guest beers are often rather interesting and always well-served. Friendly staff and clinentele, and comfortable long single bar. Stop off here on your walk between the bus station and the Mill Road trio or coming into town from the railway station.7 Feb 2010 18:15
Congratulations on another excellent welcome and beer range during an all too brief visit between Christmas and New Year. Very friendly barmaid who looked after us and steered us in the direction of some real hits. Shefford Dark Mild was like uncovering a creek of pure gold. Lovely stuff and will be back soon to sample the forest of handpumps. You run a great pub with cracking service.... 5 Jan 2010 19:12
The Queens Head, Newton
Address: Fowlmere Rd, Newton, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB2 5PG [map]
Phone: 01223 870436
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Nearest train stations: Foxton (2 miles), Shelford (2.6 miles), Shepreth (3.1 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
New Years Day 2010 after a sunny morning stroll, we gathered around a small table in the rustic Saloon bar, and sampled some excellent Adnams ales and feshly cut sandwiches. A friendly warm gem of a pub with not a red faced hooray Henry in sight. At least, not until I think I caught a glimpse of one in the mirror in the Gents after a couple of pints <grin>.
3 Jan 2010 16:46
Named as one of the top 25 pubs by the Sunday Telegraph yesterday.7 Sep 2009 21:08
Though not a local, I've known this pub since 1971 and it remains a place I go to whenever I'm in the area (maybe 4-5 times a year). It does the simple things extremely well - the beer is exemplary and they have sensibly maintained a limited (soup and sandwiches) menu which enables them to keep high standards. Other reviewers' comments about the "red-bracered Hooray Henrys" are not entirely misplaced, but the bulk of the clienetele and the welcoming Short family themselves (owners) mean that you'd have to be very unlucky or sensitive to have this spoil what should be a truly relaxing visit17 Aug 2009 18:48
The Prince Albert, Ely
Address: 62 Silver Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4JF [map]
Phone: 01353 663494
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Nearest train station: Ely (0.4 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Don't take any noitice of the "pensioner" comments they are not true. This has recently changed hands and has new management. The beer remains excellent and now the PA is open all day and offers and extended menu too. Well worth a try - good beer and good food - a haunt for many local CAMRA memebrs.
3 Nov 2009 13:58
Went there Sat 15 August Best pub in Ely for me.Great real ales and the Abbot is blinding! Great beer garden for in the summer evening.My girlfriend says its a nice undaunting place and that she could go in on her own for a drink as its friendly.A fantastic bloke behind the bar and a very nice ambience all around.No mouthy shite in here to spoil your night.Well recommended.17 Aug 2009 13:27
Everything that has been said about the pub is true but it depends what you want from a pub. Well kept ale and all that but atmosphere wise you would have to be well turned 65 to get on well here and have a mustard coloured cardigan with wooden buttons. Certainly unlikely to suit anyone under pensionable age. Been in a few times and I wouldn’t drink there again if the beer was 1940s prices, like most of the customers27 Jul 2009 22:06
Charters Bar, Peterborough
Address: Town Bridge, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 1EH [map]
Phone: 01733 315700
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Nearest train station: Peterborough (0.6 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Renowned amongst Peterborough drinkers. Manages to have a fine range of good (and even rare) beers, regular live music and plenty of seating - including some outdoor space (where the pub will hold its beer festivals in a gazebo). The interior is somewhat claustrophobic, without the views that one would get in a conventional pub. However the conversion of the barge has been excellent and the combination with the oriental restauarnt on the upper deck makes this a place that repays visit after visit.
7 Feb 2010 21:12
Great Idea.... pub in a barge. Loads of ale, well kept. Fantastic!4 Sep 2009 13:47
Large 1907 Dutch barge, long bar with plenty of handpulls; Cathedral Ale Eight Bells, Cottage Mod n Hound & Merchant Navy, Leadmill Interstate 95 (just don’t!), Oakham JHB, Bishops Farewell, Inferno, White Dwarf, Westons scrumpy. Small raised area for live music, also home to the dartboard. Seating area to right of bar has some signed muso photos but I didn’t recognise any, sorry. I thought the green area next to the mooring was all grass last time I was here, but unfortunately they seem to have slapped a large patch of concrete in the middle now.7 Jun 2009 11:22
The Wortley Almshouses, Peterborough
Address: Westgate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 1QA [map]
Phone: 01733 348839
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Nearest train station: Peterborough (0.2 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
You enter with the bar in front of you kind of straddling two rooms/sections and with further sections to the left and one to the right. Only Sam Smiths bitter on and it was okay though nothing special but it was only £1.56 for a pint. Settled in the furthest room along and looking out across the flagstoned floor through the lead lighted window it felt like I was having a pint in a National Trust property. Handy for the railway and bus stations (and also a contrast to the Brewery tap a little further down Westgate)
7 Mar 2010 10:26
Looks terrific from the outside and, as L_g_a says, you have to stand at one end to appreciate the impressive interior view straight through to the fireplace at the other. OBB on handpump (£1.54!), SS Cider Reserve, Alpine keg, plus Pure Brew lager which was the surprising choice of one of our company, sadly taking the round of six beyond the tenner. Open rooms & seating areas in sections off the ‘corridor’, various wood/fabric settles & cushioned stools, some lovely faded yellow brick flooring.7 Jun 2009 11:03
Quite a decent, cosy pub with a couple of fairly small rooms. Friendly barman and Samuel Smith's own cider on tap which is quite a decent pint.1 May 2009 17:35
The Minster Tavern, Ely
Address: Minster Place, Ely, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EL [map]
Phone: 01353668492
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Nearest train station: Ely (0.5 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Cheap food, lazy uninterested service. Decent deals on beer, half decent crowd.
The inside however, though pleaant enough, offers an average experience.
The beer on offer was standard Greene King IPA which was okay if unspectacular.
We tried the food, this was plentiful and quite nice, but typical standard pub fayre.
Overall, this pub deserves a 5 for 'average'. It is okay, but I left wondering what the pub must have been like some years ago - it has clearly had one or two 'improvements'. The pub is owned by the Mitchell and Butlers chain and this possibly explains my comments.
I don't know Ely but there must be a more traditional and perhaps better pub in the centre than this ?
20 Oct 2009 14:08
A wonderful pub for hot food served cold after an almost interminable wait. If you have precious time to waste waiting then get your food here. If you like a steak meal get it cooked and served cold here. If you like to be told on enquiring where the food is that it will be 5 or ten minutes, time and time and time again, them make sure you eat here. They take your money and then couldn't care less. Diabetics requiring a meal should go elsewhere. The wait could kill you.18 Apr 2009 18:55
A nice exterior lulls the visitor in, especially as it lies directly opposite the Ely Cathedral.The inside however, though pleaant enough, offers an average experience.
The beer on offer was standard Greene King IPA which was okay if unspectacular.
We tried the food, this was plentiful and quite nice, but typical standard pub fayre.
Overall, this pub deserves a 5 for 'average'. It is okay, but I left wondering what the pub must have been like some years ago - it has clearly had one or two 'improvements'. The pub is owned by the Mitchell and Butlers chain and this possibly explains my comments.
I don't know Ely but there must be a more traditional and perhaps better pub in the centre than this ?
16 Apr 2009 22:02
The Town House, Ely
Address: 60-64, Market St, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4LS [map]
Phone: 01353 664338
See full pub details
Nearest train station: Ely (0.6 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
In reality this is more a bar than a pub but the ale quality is high and the three handpumps offer a changing range of well kept ales many from micobrewers.On my visit the Buntingford Western Pioneer was spot on ,Oakham JHB and GK brewed Morland Original the value option at £2.30.Lunchtime food also value orientated.On entering to the left is a pool table ,bar towards the rear with a large vertical drinking area with some high tables and stools.Conservatory set up with dining tables and large courtyard outside.DJ on Friday /Saturday evening until late ,so best avoided at these times unless you want the yute atmosphere.Beware on the way out ,steps are very steep after a skinful.
To be avoided.
18 Jan 2010 10:59
Best avoided like the plague Friday and Saturday after 9pm when the disco and screen wash drinkers get started. HOWEVER, go when it's quite and you may be surprised. There beer (3 or 4 real ales) is nearly always tip top (a little word in the bar staffs ears to say that it's not a speed competition when they are pulling a pint would be worth it). There is a good beer festival in the garden every july and whilst not my fave place I do pop in there to see what beer is on from time to time for a change of scene (most oftern before eating in the fab Indian restaurant "The Sylhet" over the road. 3 Nov 2009 14:26
very busy when its a Fri/Sat night as all the vermin go to there from the pub across the road.We didnt even stay for a drink as I was being pushed in the back by some thick ratboy even though I couldnt go any further due to people infront of me.When we left people were queing to get in,thats sad.One in one out policy,best left for the locals who think that 'ooooeer Cambridge' is too much of a strange place for a better night out.To be avoided.
17 Aug 2009 13:36
The Dog and Duck, Linton
Address: 63 High Street, Linton, Cambridgeshire, CB1 6HS [map]
Phone: 01223 891257
See full pub details
Reviews by BITE users:
After a highly successful period being 'managed' this pub has now completed the transition from a clean, friendly place to one where it takes ages to get served, the staff don't appear to know what's going on or who's in charge and poor quality beer.
4 Jul 2009 12:02
Open again as of April 23rd. Being 'managed' by friendly family.25 Apr 2009 18:39
The pub has been closed for four weeks now- Greene King have made absolutely no attempt to let the people of this village know if or when their pub will be open again. Typical of them- yet more proof, if any were needed, that they have zero interest in their customers.21 Apr 2009 09:52
The Plough, Coton
Address: 2, High St, Coton, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB3 7PL [map]
Phone: 01954 210489
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Nearest train station: Cambridge (3.6 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
You stood back and watched your wife juggle two large drinks and olive trays?
Shame on you sir.
Shame on you sir.
12 Sep 2009 10:29
Two visits - two absolutely abysmal experiences. First, the play area in the back dishonestly suggests this establishment is family-friendly. The menu is geared strictly towards adult (so-called) lovers of faux gastro pub food (more on that in a bit). In a near-empty pub I was amazed to watch four staff members standing around watching my wife juggle two large drinks and olive trays while trying to push a pram back to our table in the garden. No tip there obviously - though they certainly expected one regardless. Secondly, while the beer selection is somewhat average, the prices are far from it - you'll need to visit a high-end pub in central London to see these rates. Thirdly, the food was not even mediocre. Sure this place has the prices of a top-end gastro pub - yet it lacks the innovation and flavor to compete with your average Greene King chain pub. Forty-eight quid later, I left wishing I'd spent my cash on a proper meal down the road at the Three Horseshoes in Madingly.13 Aug 2009 14:19
Went today for a quick meal and a lager, and it was fine pub fare, basic but good. Wouldn't want to drink at the bar as this is not really a pub any more. Great for a walk or cycle out from Cambridge in the summer, but not somewhere you would feel welcome having a few beers. Gets a 7 just for the nostalgic trip down memory lane. Wish the John Barleycorn hadn't closed years ago.3 Jul 2009 19:56
The Green Man of Grantchester, Grantchester
Address: 59, High St, Grantchester, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB3 9NF [map]
Phone: 01223 841178
See full pub details
Nearest train stations: Cambridge (2.2 miles), Shelford (3.1 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
Can confirm, from the outside only, that this is now re-opened. No other comment, although it looked a bit restauranty.
Under the leadership of local Josh Vargo previously of the Red Bull in Newnham this pub is sure to have the great aspects of an amazing menu, traditional cask ales and an extensive wine list. The rumour is that he has taken three months to lovingly restore the place to its former beauty.
Hopefully i will see you all there for a pint for Christmas.
20 Feb 2010 23:08
Josh Vargo was employed at The Red Bull for a few months as a part time member of staff and we would like to wish him every success in his new venture at The Green Man. It will be great to see this site back on the map after a long closure.26 Nov 2009 19:34
This fabulous site is to re-open December 18th as long as all conservation works have been completed on the building. Yes you heard right finally the Green Man of Grantchester is due to open again.Under the leadership of local Josh Vargo previously of the Red Bull in Newnham this pub is sure to have the great aspects of an amazing menu, traditional cask ales and an extensive wine list. The rumour is that he has taken three months to lovingly restore the place to its former beauty.
Hopefully i will see you all there for a pint for Christmas.
24 Nov 2009 16:39
The Woolpack, Wisbech
Address: Main Road, Terrington St John, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE14 7RR [map]
Phone: 01945 881097
See full pub details
Reviews by BITE users:
It was deserted on a Friday lunchtime. Doors were open letting in icy fenland winds / tumbleweeds as people marched in and out with rubbish sacks. The blackboards proclaimed fine grub, so we persevered despite the air of dated coach-party-annexe dereliction.
We only found out that just sandwiches were being served after ordering beer (my half of Wherry was fine). 25 minute wait for ciabbatas which were obviously cooked in a rush from the freezer. Greasy Tesco value bacon. Grubby mats. Bored lacklustre service. Suppose we caught it on a bad day.
We only found out that just sandwiches were being served after ordering beer (my half of Wherry was fine). 25 minute wait for ciabbatas which were obviously cooked in a rush from the freezer. Greasy Tesco value bacon. Grubby mats. Bored lacklustre service. Suppose we caught it on a bad day.
21 Feb 2010 15:23
Found this pub on our first night of camping nearby, never needed another as the food,beer and staff were all excellent, many thanks and keep up the good work.25 Aug 2009 12:28
After several successful years, Lucille, Barry and Ben have moved on and as the current landlady bemoaned 'are a hard act to follow'. Nevertheless, please don't be discouraged from trying the new regime. Food seems excellent as ever, albeit with a slightly reduced menu and the beer range is good for the area.28 May 2009 00:28
The Red Lion, Histon
Address: 27 High Street, Histon, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB24 9JD [map]
Phone: 01223 564437
See full pub details
Nearest train station: Waterbeach (4.3 miles)
Reviews by BITE users:
beer drinkers paradise really - quality beers, loads of pump clips, cabinets full of interesting bottles and walls covered in breweriania. Burton Bridg Damson Porter in fine form. wish we'd had more time here!
I'm sure I am yet to see so many beermats stuck to a ceiling as here, there are jugs and pots hanging too. A radiator is painted with a slogan in support of "The Mariners"...Grimsby Town I guess, and another area proclaims "My Other Team is Histon FC".
Six plus a cider yesterday lunch, White Horse Village Idiot, Oakham Bishops Farewell,Everards Tiger, Tring Blonde, Mighty Oak Oscar Wilde, Theakston OP.
Warm and comfortable, the fire was burning on what was a chilly damp day. Highly recommended.
The landlord however was present and he apologised for the fact he wasn't open and seemed a nice chap.
He showed me inside the pub and was clearly proud of both the premises themselves as well as his large range of real ales.
If ever I find myself in Histon again, I will make the effort and visit to sample some of those beers.
9 Mar 2010 23:19
JB's comment below just about covers all angles. This is an excellent village local with a friendly welcome. Loads of breweriana, I liked the Watneys Red Barrel and Double Diamond signs, both glowing red. Two rooms with all pumps in the main bar. The side room has a dartboard.I'm sure I am yet to see so many beermats stuck to a ceiling as here, there are jugs and pots hanging too. A radiator is painted with a slogan in support of "The Mariners"...Grimsby Town I guess, and another area proclaims "My Other Team is Histon FC".
Six plus a cider yesterday lunch, White Horse Village Idiot, Oakham Bishops Farewell,Everards Tiger, Tring Blonde, Mighty Oak Oscar Wilde, Theakston OP.
Warm and comfortable, the fire was burning on what was a chilly damp day. Highly recommended.
6 Dec 2009 11:22
This pub was closed on my 'visit' prior to the Histon v Leeds FAC match. The landlord however was present and he apologised for the fact he wasn't open and seemed a nice chap.
He showed me inside the pub and was clearly proud of both the premises themselves as well as his large range of real ales.
If ever I find myself in Histon again, I will make the effort and visit to sample some of those beers.
1 Dec 2008 22:11
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