Our city isn't short of sun-soaked spots, perfect for kicking back with a crisp drink to hand. Whether you're on the lookout for a charming rural pub with a luscious garden, or a city centre hideaway screaming out for a daytime drinking session, these alfresco gems are sure to impress. So, slap on that SPF and check out our guide to Cambridge's beer gardens.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 30th May 2025
If you're wondering where to drink outside in Cambridge, The Crown & Punchbowl is a charming option. While it's a quaint pub in the village of Horningsea, the terrace gets packed out with sun worshippers tucking into hearty pub grub and ice cold pints during the summer.
Top up your tan while you sip over at The Waterman. Nestled in the city centre, this cool and contemporary boozer also flaunts a mega beer garden. Here, you'll find long, colourful tables, lots of cushions and cosy lanterns for when dusk falls.
Douce Heights takes the beer garden to new heights - literally. Sitting pretty above the city, this rooftop bar is the ultimate outdoor drinking spot in Cambridge.
With fresh air, stellar views, and crisp local brews, it's a dreamy place to spend a summer afternoon. Add in pizza deals, Aperol spritzes, and a mellow soundtrack, and you've got yourself the best rooftop garden session in town.
The Red Lion offers a sprawling, leafy corner in which to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Pop along to this city centre hangout to chomp on all kinds of enticing eats, from burgers to fish finger butties, with an excellent array of boozy bevs to keep you refreshed.
If you're on the hunt for Cambridge beer gardens, The Petersfield is an excellent shout. Settle into this beaut boozer's stylish alfresco area for plenty of pints and British food. We mean everything from Buffalo wings to tandoori chicken skewers and much more.
Looking for the best beer gardens in Cambridge? Old Ticket Office is ideal for warmer days, thanks to its sprawling alfresco outdoor space. Nab yourself a spot to chomp on hearty eats with freshly pulled pints to wash it all down.
While not technically a beer garden, we felt that Revolution's gorgeous rooftop was worthy of a mention when it came to alfresco sipping. Found on the fifth floor of the city centre party palace, the sprawling sky-high space has its own bar and a retractable cover for those scorching summer days.
With a cracking beer garden to set up your very own picnic, The Mill is ideal for alfresco drinking in Cambridge. Offering a huge range of real ales, prosecco and draught beer, the venue also has food to munch on while soaking up the sun - think wings and Korean chicken burgers.
When it comes to pubs with beer gardens in Cambridge, The Tickell Arms always comes out on top. Easily identified thanks to its baby blue exterior, the Whittlesford boozer is home to a Victorian walled rose garden and pond; the perfect, calming oasis for a chilled-out Saturday.
The Old Bicycle Shop's beautiful outside space has been designed with long lunches and balmy evenings in mind. While rich in history (it's claimed that Charles Darwin bought a bike from here), the Regent Street spot is best-loved for its tasty brunch plates and extensive list of cocktails.
Located in the oh-so-gorgeous village of Madingley, just three miles outside of Cambridge, The Three Horseshoes is a true English beauty. The thatched-roofed pub has a luscious green beer garden, speckled with private dining pods and traditional deck chairs.
Another corker of a Cambridge beer garden is The Portland Arms. While you may want to stay inside to catch the live music that's on throughout the week, this joint also has a suntrap of a terrace, decked out with spacious booths that are ideal for a group day out in the sunshine.
The Anchor is home to one of the prettiest waterside terraces in the city. Take in the views of the Mathematical Bridge and watch the punters bob past as you enjoy an alfresco lunch, created from local, seasonal ingredients and washed down with a craft beer (or two).
The Punter is one of the most popular watering holes around, often topping the list of pubs with outdoor seating in Cambridge. Tucked away on Pound Hill, the gem is covered in vintage knick-knacks and is the perfect escape from the chaos of the city in peak season.
You'll find this gorgeous green oasis perched atop The Varsity Hotel, complete with comfy sofas, warm heaters and views for miles. Head to this sky-high garden just as the sun is setting to enjoy orange-tinged tipples and a selection of grilled delights, from fresh lobster to smoky BBQ ribs.
