Town and Gown Pub & Theatre
Cambridge's secret pub-theatre where craft ales, gin mixology, and intimate live shows unite town and gown in one cozy hideaway.
Tucked away in a dimly lit passage off Cambridge's bustling Market Passage, the Town and Gown is a vibrant pub and intimate theatre blending hearty British fare, craft drinks, and live performances. This hidden gem offers cozy barrel booths, a gin bar, and a black-box theatre hosting musicals, cabaret, and comedy in the heart of this historic university city.
A brief summary to Town and Gown
- 8 Market Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PF, GB
- +441223309796
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-1 am
- Saturday 10 am-1 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Opt for barrel booths for a snug group experience; they're perfect for lingering over roasts or pre-show drinks.
- Catch molecular mixology events for interactive cocktail-making with musical flair and premium spirits.
- Bring dogs—they're welcome, and the casual vibe suits families playing bar games too.
- Check the theatre schedule for emerging musicals; the intimate black-box setup makes every seat engaging.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Town and Gown location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Town and Gown
Hidden Passage to Pub Revelry
Step into the narrow, evocative Market Passage, and you'll discover the Town and Gown, a lively haven amid Cambridge's medieval charm. Once through the understated entrance, the space unfolds into a stylish bar with warm lighting casting a golden glow over wooden barrel seating and gleaming bar tops. This pub captures the essence of Cambridge's 'town and gown' divide—where locals and university folk mingle over pints of Rivertown IPA or rare AK Mild ale from 1840. The atmosphere hums with conversation, clinking glasses, and occasional bursts of laughter from groups settling into booths.Theatre in the Heart of the Action
Upstairs lies the true surprise: a compact black-box theatre with raked seating and a generous stage, perfect for intimate productions. Emerging talents shine in sung-through musicals like Ordinary Days, weaving tales of New York lives with emotional depth and dynamic staging. Simple set blocks transform into museum benches, taxis, or rooftops under clever lighting, drawing audiences into the drama. Directors maximize the space for fast-paced, immersive experiences that feel like peeking into private worlds.Gin Lab and Craft Cocktails
The dedicated gin bar elevates evenings with molecular mixology events, where guests craft theatrical drinks like Oz-mopolitan with color-changing elixirs and rosemary mist. Paired with live musical performances under a disco ball, these bi-monthly gatherings blend science, spirits, and song. The menu extends to vegan options, Sunday roasts with perfectly crisp potatoes, and generous portions of roast chicken, all served hot amid the buzz.Live Entertainment Hub
From secret cabaret rocking the crowd to bingo nights and comedy showcases, the Town and Gown pulses with entertainment. Hosts keep energy high during hilarious sets, while staff deliver drinks with friendly chat. Dogs roam freely, families play bar games, and the venue welcomes all to its inclusive vibe. Open daily from 10am, it stretches late into Friday and Saturday nights, fueling Cambridge's nightlife.Cambridge's Social Melting Pot
Embodying the city's scholarly spirit, this spot patches old rivalries between townies and gownsmen. Its dimly lit approach belies the revelation inside: a stylish retreat with its own brewery taps and cocktail innovation. Whether for a quick lunch, pre-theatre pint, or full evening of shows, the Town and Gown delivers layered experiences in a compact, character-filled package.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Senate House Hill
0.2 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
The Old Schools
0.2 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Bridge of Sighs
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
0.4 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Duke House
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A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Kettle's Yard
0.6 km
Discover Kettle's Yard, Cambridge's unique art museum blending contemporary art with a serene home-like setting perfect for inspiration.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.7 km
Explore the rich collections of The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting Dinky Doors at Jesus Green Lock House, a charming cultural landmark in the heart of Cambridge, blending history and whimsy.
Westminster College
0.7 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Jesus Lock
0.7 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Castle Mound
0.7 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Castle Mound, a must-visit historic site in the heart of Cambridge.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
0.7 km
Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Reality Checkpoint
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore Parker's Piece, Cambridge's iconic park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Midsummer Common
0.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gardenia
0.1 km
Lively Greek takeaway in Cambridge serving authentic flavors late into the night at budget-friendly prices.
Market Hill
0.1 km
Market Hill is Cambridge’s historic marketplace, alive with centuries of tradition, vibrant stalls, and rich community spirit at the city’s core.
House of Wizard
0.1 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and fantasy treasures in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Hill.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
0.1 km
Historic Cambridge shopping quarter where medieval streets meet independent boutiques and contemporary dining.
Cambridge Market Square
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge
0.2 km
Explore the historic elegance and academic legacy of Gonville & Caius College, a tranquil Cambridge oasis rich in tradition and iconic architecture.
Great St Mary's
0.2 km
Discover Great St Mary’s, Cambridge’s historic university church with stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s charming Saturday market where local artisans showcase unique handmade crafts in a tranquil garden setting.
Newton's Apple Tree
0.2 km
Discover the historic apple tree at Trinity College that inspired Newton’s theory of gravity, a living symbol of scientific genius and Cambridge heritage.
Lion Yard
0.2 km
A vibrant, centrally located shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores from budget to premium in a welcoming community setting.
Christ's College Cambridge
0.2 km
Explore centuries of academic heritage and tranquil gardens at Christ's College, a historic jewel in the heart of Cambridge.
Map of Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of St Mary's Passage, a timeless lane at Cambridge’s heart.
Remember Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s timeless charm and hidden stories on engaging walking tours led by passionate local guides.
St John's College
0.2 km
Walk through centuries of Cambridge history at St John’s College, home to the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a magnificent chapel, and tranquil riverside gardens.
Trinity College
0.2 km
Explore Trinity College, Cambridge’s grandest college, where history, architecture, and genius converge in stunning courtyards and timeless halls.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.0 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
Market House
0.1 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.1 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
Trinity Restaurant
0.1 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.1 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.2 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
0.2 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Pint Shop
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Aromi
0.3 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Byron
0.3 km
Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
The Orator
0.3 km
Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
Gastrono-me
0.3 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
Raja Indian Restaurant Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with vibrant flavours and heartfelt hospitality in Cambridge’s King Street.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
As Seen On TV
0.1 km
Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Bring It Back Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
Fantasia
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.1 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.1 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
Sugarmark!
0.1 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.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.1 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
Jacks on Trinity
0.1 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
Heffers Bookshop
0.1 km
Cambridge's historic book haven since 1876: vast collections, expert staff, lively events, and treasures from academics to games in a scholar's paradise.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.1 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Giles & Co
0.2 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
Lilac Rose
0.2 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories in a charming independent boutique in the heart of Cambridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Town and Gown
0.0 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
Ta Bouche
0.0 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Glitterbomb
0.1 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
La Raza
0.1 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
2648 Cambridge
0.1 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 Brew House
0.2 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Hidden Rooms
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge's underground speakeasy: creative cocktails, live tunes, and intimate vibes in historic vaults on Jesus Lane.
Modern Jazz
0.2 km
Hidden jazz gem on Jesus Lane where modern rhythms pulse amid Cambridge's historic whispers—intimate gigs fueling the city's creative soul.
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.
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.
Eagle
0.3 km
Historic Cambridge pub where DNA’s double helix was announced, blending scientific legacy with classic British charm and lively atmosphere.
Champion Of The Thames
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
Bar -OH
0.4 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
0.4 km
Cambridge’s vibrant cocktail bar and nightclub offering fresh food, rooftop views, and lively nightlife with DJs and karaoke pods.
The Cambridge Tap
0.4 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
MASH
0.0 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.0 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.
High Five
0.1 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Cambridge Lola Lo
0.2 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.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
0.9 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
EBC Shop
1.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
80s karaoke bar
1.2 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit at Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club, a lively venue for live music, events, and friendly gatherings in Cambridge.
The Calling
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Cambridge Junction
2.1 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's nightlife at Cambridge Junction, a dynamic venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
Sing Dizzy
2.1 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
2.1 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Rock
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
18.7 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
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
