Discover pubs near Cambridge
Cambridge may be famed for its rich heritage, striking spires, and world-class university, but the Cambridgeshire city is also home to some pretty impressive pubs.
In fact, stopping by a friendly inn for a pint is a tradition woven into the very fabric of Cambridge life, with some of Greene King Pubs’s venues dating back as far as the 15th and 16th centuries.
As well as exploring the cobbled streets and the River Cam that flows through the city, you're also within easy reach of the countryside, offers rolling hills, scenic woodlands, and storybook villages to discover.
When you're ready to settle down and savour a tasty plate or a glass of something special, there is a great selection of pubs near Cambridge with Chef & Brewer, Hungry Horse, and Greene King Pubs. We’ve got characterful spots with rich histories or riverside venues for drinks by the water. Sports fan? You can catch the game with pubs showing live sports, and we’ve got plenty of dog-friendly pubs as well as beer gardens for those warmer months.
There are plenty of places to choose from, each offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, tempting food menus, and well-stocked bars ready to quench your thirst.
And if you fancy venturing beyond Cambridge, discover our Crafted Pubs and venues with Metropolitan Pub Company.
Discover the best pubs near Cambridge to visit
An outstanding spot on the river for great pub food
Perched on the banks of the River Cam, the Fort St George is a 16th century Greene King Pub venue that's a firm favourite with both locals and visitors. This riverside pub offers charming views from the beer garden, as well as a classic food menu and plenty of drink options at the bar. Tuck into a plate or enjoy a pint of beer or a classic cocktail by the water. The Fort St George is also family-friendly and dog-friendly, so no one has to miss out on the fun.
A historic gem with so many stories to tell
An iconic city-centre pub that's considered the second oldest in Cambridge, Greene King Pubs’ Eagle is not to be missed. It famously marks the spot where Francis Crick and James Watson announced their ground-breaking discovery of the DNA double helix in 1953, and the opulent interiors feel just as grand as the University of Cambridge where they both worked. If you're feeling parched, be sure to try the Eagle’s special DNA ale for a fitting nod to its remarkable legacy.
A modern venue with plenty of live entertainment
While Cambridge isn't short of historic spots, Greene King Pubs’ Grain and Hop Store offers a bit of industrial cool in the city centre. Housed within a refreshed factory building, there's plenty of good food on the menu, flowing drinks, and TNT Sports and Sky Sports on screens. Take a seat and enjoy a drink at one of the many live music nights, or check out the calendar to see what else is on. If you're planning a party, there's also a private function room and a big top floor that looks out on the famous Parker’s Piece common.
A waterside pub on the River Cam
The Bridge is a Chef & Brewer pub that resides in the Cambridgeshire village of Waterbeach and takes pride of place on the River Cam. Dog-friendly and family-friendly, a warm welcome extends to everyone who passes through. Tuck into pub classics in the restaurant or enjoy an al fresco meal by the water in the beer garden. Stop by for a Sunday roast with all the trimmings and experience a truly British pub experience in a stunning location.
A quaint pub with a cosy charm
Whether it’s drinks with friends, a family feast or a romantic date, the Crown is a Chef & Brewer pub for any occasion. Converted into a pub in 1816, it has a vintage charm, with exposed beams across the ceiling and a roaring fire keeping things cosy in the winter months. In summer, the beer garden comes into its own, with picnic tables perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening. The pub is also packed with delicious British food, seasonal specials, and tempting desserts.
More about Cambridge
When you think of Cambridge, the world-famous university is often the first thing that comes to mind. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge has more than 800 years of history behind it and has educated some of the world’s most influential minds, including Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking.
While earning a place at the prestigious institution may be no easy feat, visitors can still explore many of its historic colleges through guided tours. Discover the grand architecture and fascinating stories behind renowned colleges such as Trinity College, King’s College, and St John’s College.
For even more history, visit the Round Church, one of Cambridge’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back to 1130. Modelled on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the church remains one of only four round churches in England, and guided walking tours offer a deeper insight into Cambridge’s medieval roots.
King’s College Chapel is another must-visit landmark, celebrated for its magnificent Gothic architecture, soaring stained-glass windows, and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceilings.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a while, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden provides a peaceful retreat, with beautifully curated plant collections, landscaped gardens, and impressive glasshouses to explore.
Of course, no visit to Cambridge would be complete without discovering the city’s famous bridges. In fact, Cambridge takes its name from the River Cam and the bridges that cross it, which have long connected the city and helped it flourish as a centre of trade and travel. Today, the historic bridges remain some of Cambridge’s most recognisable landmarks, from the elegant Bridge of Sighs to the Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College.
And no visit to Cambridge and the surrounding area would be complete without a trip to the pub, and there are certainly plenty to pick from.
Find pubs near Cambridge
Looking to discover a pub near Cambridge? Whether you’re after a countryside pub with scenic views, a waterside retreat, or a vibrant spot in the heart of the city, there are plenty of welcoming options to choose from. Stop by for a bite to eat and enjoy tempting lunches, delicious dinners, and indulgent desserts, alongside a fantastic range of drinks. From beers and wines to cocktails, spirits, and low and no-alcohol options, there’s something for every occasion. Finding your perfect pub is easy. Simply enter your postcode or location into the pub finder and discover an outstanding pub waiting to welcome you in.