While the city may be brimming to the rim with scholars, it's bars where Cambridge also seems to shine. Hailed as one of the best UK getaways, the bars of Cambridge only add to a weekend in this wondrous place of snap-worthy architecture and river antics; from lush haunts where mixology masters reside, to historically favoured plots and slamming party palaces, we've left no stone unturned in our Cambridge discovery. Check out our recommendations for the best bars in Cambridge.
A Station Road favourite, Smokeworks is the place to go for all your BBQ needs. Transforming a derelict pub into a cool, steampunk inspired space, head on down for raw material, big bites, some of the best in beer and a brunch to boot.
With an award-winning menu, period features and delicious cask ales, The Three Horseshoes is the perfect place to spend a weekend. The charming thatched cottage is just out of the city centre, and in a perfect location for Sunday strolls.
Looking for party bars in Cambridge? MASH boasts top-qaulity sound and lighting alongside a revamped bar area that's sure to add a dash of exclusivity to your experience. Head to this unmissable venue for a night of non-stop dancing to resident DJs and even the occasional live band.
Situated in Cambridge city centre, The Petersfield is a fantastic bar to get stuck into. Along with refreshing lagers and local ales, the venue has a wide range of food as well - think whole baked camembert, tandoori chicken skewers and vegan burgers.
For those seeking an exceptional bar experience in Cambridge, Grape Britannia stands out as a must-visit destination. As an award-winning English and Welsh wine merchant, this wine bar offers a selection of over 200 bottles, with an ever-changing range of wines by the glass.
Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of English and Welsh wines, Grape Britannia provides a unique opportunity to explore classic still and sparkling wines that rival the world's best. With expert recommendations and a cosy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for discovering new favourites.
Found right in the heart of the city, Pint Shop is a cool bar and restaurant that blends the vibe of a trendy bar with a traditional pub. Expect rustic wooden furniture and pared-back interiors, as well as a charming outdoor terrace that's perfect for summertime sips.
As well as a wide range of beers, there's a hearty food menu to get stuck into. Think chicken schnitzel with whipped garlic butter, double cheeseburgers, marinated halloumi flatbreads and so much more.
Part of boutique hotel Wilde, Oscars is a bar and restaurant that combines cosy cafe charm with a lively lounge setting. Its decor reflects the literary and academic heritage of Cambridge, with rich wood and brass accents creating a luxury feel to the space.
Choose from a wide variety of classic and signature cocktails, wines or spirits. On the food menu? Everything from wild mushroom arancini to fish pie and roasted cauliflower salad.
This is one of the cosiest of vintage tavern bars in Cambridge and is a homely hangout for your chillaxing needs. Pop in for a snug post-work pint in a comfy corner or stretch out in the spacious, picturesque beer garden of a summer evening, and soak up those golden rays and hazy sunsets.
This stunning rooftop restaurant bar is a breath-taking venue with glorious views of the teeming city below. Stretch out in the sun and enjoy an extenive, top-notch menu of grilled goodies alongside your tasty tipples and refreshing pints in a favourite for alfresco eating in Cambridge.
La Raza is a social hub for those looking for tasty tapas bites and killer cocktails. Have a flick through their extensive cocktail card, it's booming with originals and twisted classics to tickle your fancy. Come for a happy hour session to enjoy selected drinks for £4.50, and enjoy live music performances and DJ sets that run throughout the week.
De Luca's second floor bar pulls in the punters with its choice of champion cocktails and live piano nights. There's plenty to ponder on the menu, although the Raspberry Mule (£7) and the Mojito Deluxe (£9) are particularly prominent best-sellers. Perfect for unwinding after dinner downstairs, the bar hosts frequent Piano nights where Robin P-iano plays your favourite tunes into the night.
With a fierce policy for spreading the ultimate combination of burger and beer love in Cambridge, Butch Annie's doles out patty's of primed beef and Iberican pork with a hop-heavenly collection of craft lagers and ales. You'll find lesser known microbrewery labels here for you beer explorers and the big dawgs of the business for those who know how they like their hops with wine and Bourbon making up the rest of their bar.
A top pick of Cambridge bars, Douce is a cool space that blends both hair salon and drinking den - a combo that definitely catches our eye. Think boutique hair products alongside draught beer and organic wines - plus a food truck with a rotating menu parked outside.
