Intro: Cambridge Pubs Are Basically a Cult
Let’s cut to the chase: Cambridge is basically a pub crawl in human form. Walk around for 10 minutes, and you’ll stumble into a pub that smells like ancient beer, leather, and the ghost of someone’s bad breakup. But not all pubs are created equal—some are just… better. They serve better beer, have better puns, and (most importantly) take the “pub quiz” so seriously they’ll ban you for saying “Google it” twice. So, grab your mates, polish your terrible joke collection, and let’s dive into the best pubs in Cambridge that don’t make you feel like a tourist who forgot their passport.
The Grub Street Press: Where the Beer’s Good, and the Food’s Not Terrible
If you want to feel like a Victorian writer who also happens to love IPAs, this is your spot. The Grub Street Press is nestled in the shadow of the old city library, which is either very poetic or a bit meta. The vibe here is “literary pub meets dive bar,” which is the perfect balance if you’re trying to impress someone with your knowledge of 19th-century novels but also need a pint to survive.
- Must-try: The “Wordsworth Wheat” (it’s not as cringe as it sounds).
- Pub Quiz Tip: If you’re stuck on a question, just shout “I’m doing this for research” and everyone will leave you alone.
Make Your Own Beer like the writers of old—except yours might taste like regret and pineapple.
The Highbury Tap: Garden Pub Goals
Okay, let’s talk about the OG Cambridge garden pub. The Highbury Tap is like the pub equivalent of a trust fund baby who still works hard—yes, it has a lush garden where you can pretend to be outdoors, and yes, it’s been around since the 1800s. The menu here is a mix of “traditional pub food” (read: fish and chips that might make you question your life choices) and “slightly less traditional pub food” (read: the “Cambridge Sausage” that no one asked for).
- Pro Tip: Arrive before 6 PM to avoid the “I’m here for a pint, not a party” crowd.
- Outdoor Vibe: The garden has more sun than you’ll get during a Cambridge winter, so bring SPF.
Custom Beer fans should ask for the “Highbury Hefeweizen”—it’s the kind of beer that makes you forget you’re 200 miles from home.
The George and Dragon: Medieval Vibes, But Make It 2024
Let’s be honest: The George and Dragon’s name is just a way for the pub to say, “We are 100% not a glorified bar.” Located near the river, this place is the pub version of a medieval tavern. The walls are lined with enough memorabilia to make a history student weep, and the staff is so friendly they’ll remember your name after two visits… maybe.
- Hidden Gem: The “Dragon’s Fire” cocktail (rum, ginger, and a splash of “I’m ready to fight”).
- Pub Quiz Alert: The team here will beat you even if you’re using a thesaurus as a weapon.
Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer by hosting a private event here—just don’t tell anyone you’re doing it for networking.
The Red Lion: The Pub That’s Not Just Red
The Red Lion is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in a cozy sitcom. It’s got the charm of a “Cheers” episode and the vibe of a pub that’s seen it all. The menu here is a love letter to pub classics, and the staff is so good at their job they’ll probably know what you want before you do. Just don’t mention the “Cambridge Spy” rumors—the owner gets weirdly defensive.
- Food Hack: Order the “Cambridge Banger” and thank me later.
- Beer Note: The “Red Lion Porter” is a dark horse that might surprise you.
Contact us if you’re planning a group event here—the team will make it feel like your own private tavern.
FAQ: Cambridge Pubs 101
- Q: Best pub for a first date? A: The Grub Street Press. It’s romantic in a “we’re both pretending to enjoy each other’s company” way.
- Q: Pub with the best outdoor space? A: The Highbury Tap’s garden is like a slice of Eden… if Eden had Wi-Fi and bad lighting.
- Q: How to avoid the “Cambridge Pub Quiz” massacre? A: Study up on Victorian literature, or just keep shouting “I’m a historian” until someone believes you.
Conclusion: Pubs > Parties, Always
There you have it—Cambridge’s best pubs, ranked by how much they make you feel like a local. Whether you’re here for the beer, the food, or the sheer joy of pretending you’re in a period drama, these spots have you covered. And hey, if you’re ever feeling inspired to create your own beer (because why not?), Make Your Own Beer with Strategies.beer. Just don’t try to sell it at the pub—unless you’re ready to partner with Dropt.beer for that beer distribution magic.
Now go forth, raise a glass (or three), and remember: the best pubs aren’t the ones with the best beer—they’re the ones that make you forget you’re not a Cambridge native. Cheers!
