Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Michelle Chadwick, Pexels
Cambridge's drinking scene offers a refined blend of historic pubs, sophisticated cocktail lounges, and unique social venues, reflecting the city's academic and cultural character.
Entertainment and Music:
Cambridge offers a varied music and entertainment scene, blending cultural performances with local live music, appealing to diverse preferences.
Visitors can experience live music at dedicated venues such as The Portland Arms, known for hosting various genres including folk, indie, hip-hop, and electronic acts in a lively pub setting. For a broader range of performances, the Cambridge Junction presents an eclectic line-up from indie rock to world music. Additionally, the Cambridge Corn Exchange regularly features larger national and international artists, from rock and pop legends to orchestral performances. For more intimate musical experiences, spots like Hidden Rooms offer live jazz, soul, and funk in a stylish cocktail lounge, and some bars provide regular piano shows.
1. The Eagle
Type: Historic Pub
Stepping into The Eagle feels like experiencing history; it is famously where Watson and Crick announced their discovery of DNA. The pub features an preserved RAF bar with graffiti from WWII airmen, a welcoming beer garden, and serves traditional pub fare alongside a range of beers. It offers a cozy, historic atmosphere popular with both locals and visitors.
Getting There: The Eagle is centrally located on Bene't Street, easily accessible by walking from most main areas of Cambridge.
2. The Lab
Type: Cocktail Bar
The Lab presents a 1920s-themed luxury cocktail bar with a scientific twist. The interiors are lush, creating a sophisticated environment perfect for an evening out. It is known for its bespoke cocktails, with a selection often presented in unique, science-inspired ways, and boasts over 300 different spirits.
Getting There: Situated on Regent Street, The Lab is within easy walking distance of Cambridge's city centre.
3. Tivoli
Type: Entertainment Venue & Bar
Tivoli offers a multi-faceted social experience across several floors, having opened in mid-2022. Beyond a selection of craft beers and street food, guests can enjoy activities like crazy golf and shuffleboard in its Club Shuffle basement. Its rooftop bar provides views over the River Cam, making it a bustling spot on pleasant days.
Getting There: Found in the city centre, Tivoli is conveniently located and can be reached on foot from central Cambridge attractions.
4. Cambridge Wine Merchants (Bridge Street)
Type: Wine Bar & Shop
Cambridge Wine Merchants offers a relaxed setting to explore an extensive selection of wines, available by the glass or as bottles chosen from their retail shelves with a corkage fee. It is a well-regarded establishment for wine enthusiasts, hosting regular tasting events.
Getting There: This wine bar is located on Bridge Street, making it easily accessible by walking from the university colleges and market square.
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