The Anchor: Historic Riverside Pub and Gastropub in Cambridge
A charming riverside pub in Cambridge blending historic ambiance with modern gastropub cuisine and scenic terrace views.
The Anchor is a well-established pub and restaurant located on Silver Street in Cambridge, offering a charming riverside setting with a blend of traditional and modern gastropub cuisine. Known for its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu featuring classics like slow-roasted pork belly and fish and chips, it combines a lively bar downstairs with a relaxed dining area upstairs. The venue also boasts scenic terrace tables overlooking the millpond, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quintessential Cambridge pub experience.
A brief summary to The Anchor
- Silver St, Cambridge, CB3 9EL, GB
- +441223353554
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a window or terrace seat in advance for the best views of the millpond and vibrant street life.
- Try the slow-roasted pork belly or the classic fish and chips for a taste of the pub’s signature dishes.
- Visit during weekdays or early evenings to enjoy a quieter dining experience away from the weekend buzz.
- Bring your dog along; the pub is pet-friendly and provides water bowls upon request.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Anchor location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Anchor
A Riverside Legacy with Contemporary Flair
The Anchor stands as a long-standing fixture on Cambridge’s Silver Street, perched beside the tranquil millpond. This historic riverside pub has undergone a thoughtful refurbishment that melds traditional charm with contemporary style. The interior features elegant wood panelling and tasteful Farrow & Ball color schemes, creating a warm yet modern ambiance. Its multi-level layout separates the lively bar area downstairs from the more serene dining spaces upstairs, catering to diverse moods and occasions.Culinary Offerings that Blend Tradition and Innovation
The menu at The Anchor is a celebration of classic British pub fare elevated with creative twists. Signature dishes include slow-roasted pork belly infused with harissa and a rack of lamb served with mint mash and broad beans. Traditional desserts like sticky toffee pudding and apple rhubarb crumble provide comforting finishes. The well-curated wine list spans from crisp Pinot Grigio to robust Pinot Noir, while cask ale enthusiasts enjoy a selection of well-kept brews. The kitchen’s dedication to quality and freshness is evident in every dish.Atmosphere and Guest Experience
The Anchor’s atmosphere balances casual conviviality with refined dining. The downstairs bar buzzes with energy, making it a favored spot for drinks and socializing. Upstairs, diners can enjoy a quieter, relaxed environment with views of the millpond from the terrace tables, perfect for soaking in the riverside scenery. Staff are known for their politeness and attentiveness, enhancing the welcoming vibe. Pet-friendly policies, including dog bowls on request, add to its inclusive environment.Architectural and Scenic Highlights
The pub’s architecture reflects a blend of historic and modern design elements. Its wood-paneled interiors and color schemes evoke a vintage yet fresh aesthetic. The riverside terrace offers iconic views of the millpond, where visitors can watch the gentle movement of water and the occasional novice punters on boats, adding a quirky local charm. This setting makes The Anchor a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation.Community and Cultural Significance
As a staple of Cambridge’s social scene, The Anchor serves as a cultural hub where tradition meets contemporary tastes. Its location near the university and city center makes it a convenient gathering place for students, locals, and tourists alike. The pub’s commitment to quality food and drink alongside its historic ambiance preserves its role as a cherished community landmark.Seasonal and Practical Considerations
Open daily from noon until late evening, The Anchor accommodates a range of dining and social preferences throughout the year. The terrace is especially popular in warmer months, while the cozy interiors provide refuge during colder weather. Its central location ensures easy access, and the presence of multiple bars and seating areas helps manage crowd flow during peak times.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Schools
0.4 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Senate House Hill
0.4 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
Bridge of Sighs
0.7 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Christ's Pieces
0.8 km
Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of Christ's Pieces, a picturesque park in the heart of Cambridge, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
St Mark's Church
0.8 km
Explore the serene St Mark's Church in Newnham, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and tranquility in the heart of the countryside.
Duke House
0.8 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
0.8 km
Uncover the history of polar exploration at the Scott Polar Research Institute, a captivating museum in Cambridge dedicated to the icy frontiers of our planet.
Reality Checkpoint
0.8 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Parker's Piece
0.9 km
Explore Parker's Piece, Cambridge's iconic park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere of The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs in Cambridge.
All Saints Church
0.9 km
Explore the architectural and spiritual beauty of All Saints Church, a historic gem in the heart of Cambridge, showcasing stunning Gothic design and tranquility.
Magdalene Bridge
0.9 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Paradise Local Nature Reserve
0.9 km
Explore the beauty of Paradise Local Nature Reserve in Cambridge, an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in a vibrant urban setting.
Museum of Cambridge
1.0 km
Explore the Museum of Cambridge, where local history comes alive through fascinating artifacts and engaging exhibits that tell the story of this historic city.
Westminster College
1.0 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queens' College
0.1 km
Discover Queens' College, Cambridge: a historic riverside haven famed for its iconic Mathematical Bridge and serene academic charm.
St Catharine's College
0.2 km
Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Corpus Christi College
0.2 km
Discover the intimate charm and historic legacy of Cambridge’s only college founded by townspeople, featuring medieval courts and the iconic Chronophage Clock.
Pembroke College
0.2 km
Discover Pembroke College, Cambridge’s historic gem blending medieval charm, Wren’s chapel, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
Little St Mary's Church
0.2 km
Discover centuries of history and serene beauty at Little St Mary's, Cambridge’s historic parish church beside Peterhouse.
The Corpus Clock
0.2 km
A mesmerizing gold-plated clock with a mechanical grasshopper that devours time, blending art and science in the heart of Cambridge.
St Bene’t’s Church
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s oldest building, an Anglo-Saxon church with a serene atmosphere and centuries of history in its ancient tower and sacred walls.
Sheep's Green
0.3 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Cambridge blending historic grazing meadows, rich wildlife, and a unique outdoor river pool.
King's College, Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Gothic splendor and rich academic heritage of King's College, home to the iconic chapel and world-famous choir in Cambridge.
Granta Moorings
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s iconic river with Granta Moorings—expertly guided punts and self-rental canoes from the best mooring on the College Backs.
Cambridge Alumni Tours
0.3 km
Uncover the rich history and architectural beauty of Cambridge with informative guided alumni tours through this iconic university city.
The Backs
0.3 km
A serene riverside stretch behind Cambridge’s historic colleges, blending stunning Gothic architecture with lush gardens and tranquil river views.
King's College Chapel
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking Gothic grandeur and rich history of King's College Chapel, home to the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling and renowned choir.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
King's College Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Gateway to King's College's rich heritage, offering souvenirs and visitor services in a historic Cambridge setting.
Essential places to dine
Garden House
0.2 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.3 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
Smokeworks
0.3 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Granta
0.3 km
A charming historic pub on Cambridge’s River Cam offering classic British fare, riverside views, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Bread & Meat
0.3 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Aromi
0.3 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
MillWorks
0.3 km
Historic watermill transformed into a vibrant modern brasserie with riverside views and charcoal-grilled British cuisine in Cambridge.
Pint Shop
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Sala Thong
0.3 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and generous portions in a cozy Cambridge setting.
Rice Boat Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience authentic Kerala cuisine with fragrant spices and freshly made breads in a warm, contemporary setting at Rice Boat Cambridge.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Japanese sushi and Nordic grilled sticks in the historic heart of Cambridge, where tradition meets innovation.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.4 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Browns Cambridge
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Market House
0.5 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
Trinity Restaurant
0.6 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greaterskies
0.0 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Samuel Smiley
0.1 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Nomads
0.3 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.3 km
A compact, well-curated King’s Parade shop for Cambridge-themed gifts, prints and locally made keepsakes—perfect for quick souvenirs with local character.
Podarok
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Ark
0.3 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Parade
0.4 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Oliver Bonas
0.4 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Giles & Co
0.4 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Menkind Cambridge
0.5 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Sugarmark!
0.5 km
Capture Cambridge's charm with Sugarmark!'s iconic mugs, apparel, and prints from the heart of Market Hill—perfect souvenirs blending heritage and style.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.5 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.5 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Anchor
0.0 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
The Mill
0.1 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
Eagle
0.3 km
Cambridge's legendary pub where DNA's secret was toasted, WWII airmen left their mark, and real ales flow amid historic haunts.
Bath House
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
BrewDog Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Bar -OH
0.5 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
La Raza
0.5 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
The Iris Bar
0.5 km
Modern cafe buzz in historic Newnham College: exceptional coffee, fresh bakes, and student energy amid Cambridge's academic gardens.
2648 Cambridge
0.5 km
Step into 2648 Cambridge for expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, vinyl-filled setting at the heart of Trinity Street’s vibrant nightlife.
The Cambridge Tap
0.5 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
Ta Bouche
0.5 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
The Castle Bar
0.6 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
Town and Gown
0.6 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.6 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Lola Lo
0.4 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
0.5 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
MASH
0.6 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.6 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.
80s karaoke bar
1.1 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Tram Depot
1.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Tram Depot in Cambridge, where great food, local ales, and music nights create unforgettable experiences.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.2 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
The Calling
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Fort St George
1.4 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.5 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
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.
Sing Dizzy
1.9 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Salisbury Club
2.2 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Rock
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
18.9 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
