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The Cambridge Blue: A Celebrated Pub with Exceptional Ales and Vibrant Atmosphere

A beloved Cambridge pub offering award-winning ales, a vibrant atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden for memorable social experiences.

★★★★★4.5 (2180)

The Cambridge Blue is a renowned pub located at 85-87 Gwydir Street in Cambridge, famed for its vast selection of real ales, craft beers, ciders, and whiskies. Its cozy interior, complemented by a large beer garden, creates a welcoming space for socializing and enjoying quality drinks. The pub also offers a varied menu with a focus on burgers and caters well to diverse dietary preferences, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to The Cambridge Blue

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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85-87 Gwydir St, Cambridge, CB1 2LG, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
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Mid ranged
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Mixed
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Mobile reception: 4 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-10:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Cambridge Blue.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Try a flight of Belgian beers to experience the pub’s extensive and unique beer selection.
Visit during warmer months to enjoy the large beer garden with outdoor heaters and ample seating.
Sample the signature burgers from Wonky Kitchens, known for their robust flavors and quality ingredients.
Arrive early on weekends to secure a table, as the pub is popular and can get busy in the evenings.
Engage with the knowledgeable staff for recommendations on cask ales and whiskies.

Discover more about The Cambridge Blue

A Legacy of Award-Winning Ales and Beers

Nestled on Gwydir Street, The Cambridge Blue has earned a distinguished reputation for its exceptional offering of real ales, craft cask and keg beers, real ciders, and an extensive collection of whiskies. The pub boasts dozens of Belgian beers in tall fridges, making it a haven for beer enthusiasts. Its dedication to quality and variety has garnered numerous awards over the years, underscoring its status as one of Cambridge’s premier drinking establishments.

Atmosphere and Interior Character

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a large bar area designed to showcase the pub’s impressive drink selection. The main pub room features slanted ceilings adorned with fairy lights and recovered pub memorabilia, evoking a unique charm akin to a vintage train carriage merged with rustic barn elements. This quirky and cozy environment invites patrons to relax, chat, or enjoy quiet moments in snug corners.

Expansive Beer Garden and Outdoor Space

Beyond the interior lies a surprisingly large back garden that provides additional seating capacity and a tranquil outdoor retreat. The garden, bordered by the city cemetery, is a favored spot during warmer months, enhanced by outdoor heaters and ample space for social gatherings. This outdoor area complements the pub’s intimate indoor setting, offering a versatile experience year-round.

Culinary Offerings and Local Partnerships

The Cambridge Blue serves a diverse menu with a strong emphasis on quality burgers, including the popular offerings from Wonky Kitchens, the pub’s in-house kitchen. These burgers are noted for their robust flavors, creative toppings, and sturdy ciabatta-style buns that hold generous fillings together. The menu caters well to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options, and pairs perfectly with the pub’s extensive beer and whisky selections.

Community Hub and Social Vibe

More than just a drinking venue, The Cambridge Blue serves as a community hub where locals and visitors mingle. It offers a welcoming space to socialize, play games, and meet a diverse crowd. The pub’s lively yet comfortable atmosphere makes it suitable for both lively evenings and quieter afternoons, embodying the spirit of a traditional English pub with a contemporary twist.

Noteworthy Details and Visitor Experience

The pub’s distinctive crimson signage and the iconic firkin barrel hanging outside mark its presence on Gwydir Street. Inside, unique touches such as local sporting memorabilia and foreign currency collections add character. While the pub is generally praised for its drink quality and ambiance, some visitors note variability in service. Nonetheless, its rich selection of beverages and vibrant setting continue to attract beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

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    Getting There

    Bus

    Take the Citi 1 or Citi 3 bus from Cambridge city center to the Mill Road stop near Gwydir Street; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, but service reduces in the evening. A single ticket costs approximately £2.50.

    Taxi

    A taxi from Cambridge city center to The Cambridge Blue typically takes 10 minutes depending on traffic and costs around £7-£10. Taxi services are readily available throughout the city.

    Walking

    From Cambridge city center, walking to The Cambridge Blue takes approximately 25-30 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and suitable for most mobility levels.

    Cycling

    Cycling is a convenient option with bike lanes along Mill Road; secure bike parking is available near the pub. The ride from the city center takes about 10 minutes.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

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    A brief summary to The Cambridge Blue

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