Parker's Tavern: Elegant British Dining in Cambridge
Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
Parker's Tavern offers a refined dining experience in the heart of Cambridge, located within the stylish University Arms Hotel overlooking Parker’s Piece. Known for its high-end British and European cuisine, the tavern features an elegant atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and a celebrated afternoon tea. While the food quality and service have received mixed reviews, the venue remains a popular choice for special occasions and relaxed city center dining.
A brief summary to Parker's Tavern
- 52-42 Regent St, Cambridge, CB2 1AD, GB
- +441223606266
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Reserve in advance, especially for afternoon tea and weekend dining, to secure a table in this popular city center venue.
- Try the signature cocktails like the Pisco Sour or Espresso Martini, which are highly praised for their quality and creativity.
- Afternoon tea is a highlight; enjoy the variety of savory and sweet treats, including homemade scones and diverse cakes.
- Be prepared for occasional slow service during busy periods; patience can enhance the overall experience.
- The tavern overlooks Parker’s Piece, so consider timing your visit to enjoy views of this iconic Cambridge green space.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Parker's Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Parker's Tavern
Historical and Culinary Heritage
Parker's Tavern is situated within the University Arms Hotel, a landmark that underwent a significant £80 million refurbishment before reopening in 2018. This transformation elevated the hotel and its dining venues to a new level of sophistication. The tavern itself embraces a brasserie style, championing local East Anglian produce under the guidance of chef Tristan Welch, who has worked with renowned chefs such as Roux Jr., Gordon Ramsay, and Gary Rhodes. The menu reflects a commitment to British and European culinary traditions, offering dishes that emphasize comfort and quality rather than avant-garde experimentation.Ambience and Setting
Overlooking the expansive green space of Parker’s Piece, the tavern provides a spacious and elegant setting that balances traditional charm with modern comfort. The interior design is stylish yet inviting, making it suitable for a variety of occasions—from casual drinks to celebratory dinners. The atmosphere is enhanced by attentive staff and a carefully curated cocktail menu featuring classics like Pisco Sour and Espresso Martini. The venue’s location in the city center makes it easily accessible and a favored spot for both locals and visitors.Signature Offerings and Dining Experience
Parker's Tavern is particularly noted for its afternoon tea, which includes a generous selection of savory treats, homemade scones, and an array of cakes with varied flavors and textures. The cocktails are crafted with care, complementing the menu’s offerings. However, experiences with food quality and service have been mixed; some guests praise the taste and presentation, while others report inconsistencies, including dry dishes and slow service. Despite these critiques, the tavern maintains a reputation for delivering a memorable dining experience in a refined environment.Service and Guest Considerations
The tavern’s service has drawn varied feedback, with some diners appreciating the friendly and professional staff, while others have encountered delays and occasional order inaccuracies. The management appears responsive to guest concerns, sometimes offering complimentary items to address service lapses. Given the premium pricing, expectations for seamless service and exceptional food presentation are high, and the venue continues to work on aligning these aspects with its upscale positioning.Location and Accessibility
Located at 52-42 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AD, Parker's Tavern benefits from its prime location within the University Arms Hotel and proximity to Parker’s Piece park. The area is vibrant yet relaxed, offering scenic views and a pleasant urban green space. The tavern is wheelchair accessible and features amenities such as restrooms and a separate bar area, enhancing comfort for diverse visitor needs.Overall Character and Appeal
Parker's Tavern blends traditional British dining with contemporary elegance, making it a notable destination in Cambridge’s culinary scene. Its emphasis on local ingredients, stylish setting, and quality cocktails contribute to its charm. While it may not always meet expectations perfectly, it remains a favored venue for those seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience in the city center.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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The Old Schools
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Hills Road War Memorial
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The Backs
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Midsummer Common
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Cambridge University Botanic Garden
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Bridge of Sighs
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Lammas Land
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Hodson's Folly
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Unmissable attractions to see
Parker's Piece
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Historic green heart of Cambridge where modern football was born and community spirit thrives across open lawns and iconic landmarks.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
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10 Downing Street
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Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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ArchaeoLink
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Grand Arcade
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University Museum Of Zoology
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The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
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Christ's College Cambridge
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Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
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Lion Yard
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Christ's Pieces
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The Fitzwilliam Museum
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Pembroke College
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Essential places to dine
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Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Podarok
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Indelibly Cambridge
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Ark
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Samuel Smiley
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Parade
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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MASH
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Elegant
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
