Best Bars near The Old Schools

The Eagle is a historic pub located on Bene't Street in Cambridge, famed as the site where Watson and Crick announced the discovery of the DNA double helix in 1953. Dating back to the 16th century, this Grade II-listed pub blends rich scientific heritage with a lively atmosphere, offering traditional British fare, a fine selection of ales, and a welcoming beer garden. Its wartime RAF graffiti and academic ownership add unique character to this cherished Cambridge institution.

A Grade II listed 17th-century pub on Bene’t Street in central Cambridge, the Bath House combines historic timber framing with a standard Greene King menu of cask ales and pub classics. Visitors use it as a convenient stop between colleges, the market and King’s Parade, for a pint, quick meal or sports screening. The compact interior features exposed beams, panelling and modern seating after a 2021 refurbishment. It suits casual breaks rather than extended stays, with lively evening trade from students, tourists and locals. No large garden exists despite some listings; expect a small rear courtyard at best. The location places it steps from St Bene’t’s Church and The Eagle.

La Raza occupies premises at 4-6 Rose Crescent in central Cambridge. It operates as a cocktail bar with additional roles as a tapas restaurant, cafe and live music venue. Opening hours run from 11am daily, extending until 1am on weekdays and 2am on weekends. The venue provides a single location for daytime meals, evening drinks and late music sessions.

2648 Cambridge is a stylish cocktail bar located at 14A Trinity Street, Cambridge. Known for its nostalgic ambiance filled with vinyl records and cozy private rooms, it offers a unique setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. The bar operates primarily on Friday and Saturday evenings, providing a lively yet intimate atmosphere ideal for social gatherings and special occasions.

BrewDog Cambridge is a vibrant craft beer bar and restaurant located at 15 Bene't Street, in the heart of Cambridge. Known for its innovative brews and elevated food menu featuring burgers, pizzas, wings, and vegan options, it offers a lively atmosphere on historic cobbled streets. With a spacious beer garden and a commitment to quality, BrewDog Cambridge blends contemporary craft culture with the city’s rich intellectual heritage.

Pint Shop in Cambridge is a charming gastropub that combines delicious food with an extensive selection of craft beers and traditional ales. It's a must-visit for foodies and beer enthusiasts alike, offering a warm atmosphere and a taste of local culture.

Experience the exquisite atmosphere and delectable British cuisine at The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie, a must-visit for tourists seeking a memorable dining experience in this historic city.

Ta Bouche occupies a compact indoor space with a large outdoor terrace on the narrow pedestrian Market Passage in central Cambridge. The independent bar serves cocktails, draught beer and wine from the mid-afternoon onward, with extended happy-hour pricing that draws students and locals for casual drinks before later crowds arrive. The setting mixes a historic city-centre passage with modern bar fit-out; outdoor tables fill quickly in mild weather while indoor nooks and the bar counter handle overflow. Visits suit groups seeking affordable rounds rather than refined lounge seating or full meals, as the current offer focuses on drinks and light snacks. Service and noise levels vary with the evening, and the venue forms part of Cambridge's compact late-night cluster alongside neighbouring spots.

Town and Gown occupies a restored 1866 building in central Cambridge's Market Passage, functioning as a multi-level gastropub with McMullen ales, British food and an upstairs Black Box Theatre. The venue blends downstairs bar and dining areas with an intimate fringe performance space that hosts comedy, live music and events. Visitors move between casual meals, drinks and ticketed shows in a setting that draws both locals and university crowds. The pedestrianised location places it steps from Market Square, making it a practical stop during a city-centre day or evening.

The basement nightclub at 22 Sidney Street hosts retro-themed nights with 70s to 00s hits on a light-up dance floor. Once home to the weekly Glitterbomb LGBTQ+ club night, the venue now runs Smash Hits Fridays and Rewind Saturdays for students and groups seeking straightforward dancing and drinks in central Cambridge.