196 Cocktail Bar: Cambridge’s Intimate Haven for Craft Cocktails
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven on Mill Road, where expertly crafted drinks meet cozy charm and a welcoming vibe.
Nestled on Mill Road in Cambridge, 196 Cocktail Bar offers a cozy, dimly lit retreat famed for its expertly crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere. This small but vibrant bar is beloved for its quality drinks, friendly service, and unique character, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out with premium cocktails in a relaxed setting.
A brief summary to 196 cocktail bar
- 196 Mill Rd, Cambridge, CB1 3NF, GB
- +447984151124
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 5 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-11 pm
- Friday 5 pm-12 am
- Saturday 4 pm-12 am
- Sunday 5 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekends to secure a seat, as the bar is small and fills quickly.
- Try signature cocktails like the Caipirinha or Mezcal martini for a true taste of 196’s expertise.
- Enjoy the homemade mackerel pâté as a flavorful snack alongside your drinks.
- Take a moment to check out the unique photo collection in the restroom for a quirky touch.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
196 cocktail bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 196 cocktail bar
A Hidden Gem on Mill Road
196 Cocktail Bar is a compact, warmly lit venue tucked away on Cambridge’s bustling Mill Road. Its small size, comparable to an average living room, creates an intimate and cozy ambiance that feels like a well-kept secret among locals. The dim lighting and candlelit tables foster a relaxed, almost clandestine atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day or enjoying a quiet evening with friends or a partner.Exceptional Craftsmanship in Every Glass
The bar is renowned for its outstanding cocktails, made with premium ingredients and expertly mixed by knowledgeable bartenders. The menu features a diverse range of drinks, from spirit-forward classics to innovative tiki-style concoctions. Signature drinks such as the Caipirinha and Mezcal martini have earned particular praise for their balance and depth of flavor. The cocktail portions are generous, reflecting a commitment to quality and value that keeps patrons coming back.Atmosphere and Character
196’s character is enhanced by thoughtful details like handwritten menus and a quirky photo display in the surprisingly spacious restroom, which includes images of celebrities and unusual scenes. The bar’s layout maximizes its limited space, with staff adept at managing seating even when the venue is full. The overall vibe is casual yet refined, making it a favorite for couples and small groups seeking a relaxed but special night out.Food and Accompaniments
While primarily a cocktail bar, 196 offers a selection of nibbles and small plates to complement the drinks. The homemade mackerel pâté is a standout item, appreciated for its generous portion and rich flavor. Though the food menu is limited and prices reflect the premium nature of the bar, the focus remains firmly on delivering an exceptional drinking experience.Service and Experience
Service at 196 is noted for being friendly and knowledgeable, with staff eager to guide guests through the extensive spirit selection and cocktail options. Although the bar can get busy, especially in the evenings, the team maintains a welcoming atmosphere and efficient service. The bar’s hours extend into the late evening, closing at midnight on weekends, providing ample opportunity to enjoy its offerings.Community and Local Appeal
Located away from Cambridge’s main city center, 196 has cultivated a loyal local following who appreciate its quality and ambiance. It stands out as a premium yet approachable venue, where patrons feel like they’ve discovered a special place that balances exclusivity with warmth. Its presence on Mill Road adds to the area’s vibrant nightlife, offering a refined alternative to larger, more commercial venues.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Romsey Terrace
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Explore the historic charm of Cambridge from Romsey Terrace, a convenient bus stop that connects you to the city's vibrant attractions and culture.
Hills Road War Memorial
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A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
Cambridge Leisure Park
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A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Reality Checkpoint
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A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Duke House
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Remember Cambridge
2.0 km
Explore the historic city of Cambridge with Remember Cambridge's guided walking tours, uncovering hidden gems and iconic sights in this charming university town.
Map of Cambridge
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Explore the artistic heart of Cambridge with a visit to the iconic sculpture at St Mary's Passage, a perfect blend of history and creativity.
Senate House Hill
2.0 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
2.0 km
Explore the Rose Quarter in Cambridge, a charming tourist destination filled with history, delightful cafes, and vibrant local culture.
The Old Schools
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Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
King's College Chapel
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Explore the architectural wonder of King's College Chapel, a stunning masterpiece of Gothic design and a vital part of Cambridge's rich heritage.
Mathematical Bridge
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Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
Granta Moorings
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Experience the beauty of Cambridge from the water with Granta Moorings, your go-to destination for punting adventures and historical insights.
Cambridge Walking Tours
2.1 km
Experience the enchanting history and vibrant culture of Cambridge through guided walking tours that reveal the city's timeless charm.
Newton's Apple Tree
2.1 km
Explore Newton's Apple Tree in Cambridge, a historical landmark that connects you to the legacy of scientific discovery and innovation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Romsey Town Post Office
0.1 km
Compact, practical post office on Mill Road serving Cambridge’s Romsey neighbourhood with full counter services and a local high‑street atmosphere.
Romsey Mill
0.3 km
Cambridge's heartfelt charity hub empowering youth and families through education, mentoring, and community spaces since 1980.
David Parr House
0.5 km
Discover the hidden Victorian masterpiece of artisan David Parr, where every wall tells a story of craftsmanship and passion in Cambridge.
Cambs Antique Centre
0.5 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in a historic Cambridge brewery turned charming antiques centre.
Romsey Community Garden
0.5 km
A tranquil community-run garden in Cambridge offering lush greenery, seasonal blooms, and sustainable urban growing in the heart of Romsey.
Cambridge Gateway from India
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant cultural connections between India and Cambridge at this engaging centre on Mill Road.
Cambridge Central Mosque
0.6 km
Discover the UK's first eco-friendly mosque, blending stunning Islamic architecture with sustainable innovation and serene gardens in Cambridge.
Romsey Recreation Ground
0.6 km
A lively urban park in Cambridge offering sports, playgrounds, and green space for all ages to enjoy community recreation and relaxation.
Cambridge Science Centre
0.6 km
Explore hands-on STEM exhibits, live science shows, and workshops at Cambridge Science Centre—where young minds ignite a passion for discovery.
WeWork
0.7 km
Flexible coworking with vibrant community spirit and premium amenities in Cambridge’s dynamic new business quarter.
The Calling
0.9 km
A compact, high‑energy monthly club night at Q Club—loud guitars, close-up stages and a friendly, student-rich crowd for late-night alternative music.
Tenpin Cambridge
0.9 km
Cambridge’s go-to spot for bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and lively social gatherings in a vibrant leisure park setting.
Cambridge Junction
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Cambridge Junction: A vibrant, inclusive arts venue where live music, theatre, and creativity converge in the heart of Cambridge.
TheLight-Cambridge
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Experience the latest films in comfort and style at The Light Cinema Cambridge, your modern entertainment destination in the city.
St. Paul's Church
1.0 km
Historic Gothic Revival Anglican church on Hills Road, Cambridge, blending architectural heritage with vibrant community spirit.
Essential places to dine
Tradizioni
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
Limoncello
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Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm meet in Cambridge's beloved deli, bistro, and courtyard garden on Mill Road.
Kingston Arms
0.4 km
Discover traditional British hospitality at The Kingston Arms in Cambridge—your perfect pub retreat with craft beers and delightful outdoor spaces.
Fancett's
0.4 km
Cozy French-inspired bistro in Cambridge serving seasonal, expertly crafted dishes with warm, attentive service in an intimate setting.
Bedouin
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of North Africa in the heart of Cambridge’s Mill Road at Bedouin.
Hungrill
0.6 km
Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and friendly service in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Salisbury Arms, Cambridge
0.6 km
A historic Cambridge pub famed for wood-fired pizzas, quality ales, and a friendly, lively atmosphere in a charming neighborhood setting.
Tawa Kitchen
0.7 km
Savor fresh, authentic Indian cuisine with vibrant vegan options in a cozy Cambridge setting at Tawa Kitchen.
Maurizio Dining & Co.
0.7 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh pizzas and pasta in a warm, rustic setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Vanderlyle
0.7 km
Creative vegetarian tasting menus crafted from local, seasonal produce in a warm, intimate setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
SLINGERS Smokeworks Station Road
0.9 km
Discover SLINGERS Smokeworks: A unique dart bar in Cambridge serving gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Al Pomodoro
1.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Sicily with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge.
The Oak Bistro
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The Old Bicycle Shop
1.2 km
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The Olive Grove
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre
0.0 km
Vibrant Cambridge antique centre in a former chemist shop, brimming with 20th-century toys, jewelry, and eclectic finds from fun-loving dealers.
Romsey Mill Charity Shop
0.1 km
Mill Road’s friendly charity shop — thrift, small discoveries and funds for local youth and family services in Cambridge.
The Hive
0.5 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Not Listed
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
Cambs Frocktails
0.7 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
Beehive Centre
0.9 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
Sense
1.2 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
Primark
1.2 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
Jemporium Vintage
1.3 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
The Works
1.3 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
CJ’s Vintage Store
1.6 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Oliver Bonas
1.7 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Menkind Cambridge
1.8 km
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Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
1.8 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
Urban Outfitters
1.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
196 cocktail bar
0.0 km
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven with expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and attentive service on vibrant Mill Road.
Devonshire Arms
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The Royal Standard Pub
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The Petersfield
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Station Tavern
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The Cambridge Blue
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The Live and Let Live
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The Geldart
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The Blue Moon
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Rock
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The Free Press
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The LAB
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The Elm Tree
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Panton Arms
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The Corner House
1.3 km
A lively gastropub on Newmarket Road offering excellent pub food, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in Cambridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Salisbury Club
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Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Sing Dizzy
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Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
80s karaoke bar
1.0 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.1 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
EBC Shop
1.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Lola Lo
1.8 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
High Five
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Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Vinyl Cambridge
1.9 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
MASH
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Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Hidden Rooms
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Experience the ultimate nightlife at Hidden Rooms in Cambridge, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Modern Jazz
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Discover the heart of Cambridge's jazz scene at Modern Jazz, where live performances create a captivating ambiance for music lovers.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
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Unique Bar Newmarket
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Discover the lively nightlife of Unique Bar Newmarket, where great drinks, dancing, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable evening.
The Lounge
20.6 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
OutOut Nightclub
20.6 km
Vibrant nightlife hub in St. Ives offering dynamic club nights, private events, and a lively atmosphere from 10pm to 4am Fridays and Saturdays.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Intimate
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
