Pickerel Inn
Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
Tucked away on Magdalene Street near the River Cam and Magdalene College, the Pickerel Inn stands as Cambridge's oldest pub, brewing history since at least the 15th century. This Greene King gem offers a cozy escape with low-beamed ceilings, hearty pub grub like fish and chips and pies, and an excellent range of real ales. A beer garden provides outdoor seating, blending timeless charm with lively local vibes in the heart of the university city.
A brief summary to Pickerel
- 30 Magdalene St, Cambridge, CB3 0AF, GB
- +441223355068
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Opt for a real ale flight to sample Greene King's finest cask offerings, pulled fresh daily.
- Visit the beer garden on sunny afternoons for riverside views and a relaxed outdoor vibe.
- Try the hand-battered fish and chips or pie of the day for authentic British pub comfort food.
- Arrive early on weekends to snag a table in the cozy interior during peak hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
Pickerel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pickerel
Ancient Origins by the Cam
The Pickerel Inn traces its roots to the 1400s, making it Cambridge's oldest continuously operating pub and predating even the storied Eagle by centuries. Nestled at 30 Magdalene Street, it sits in the shadow of Magdalene College and mere steps from the winding River Cam, where punts glide past medieval bridges. Low wooden beams overhead and flagstone floors underfoot evoke the coaching inn era, when travelers sought refuge amid the university's scholarly bustle.Cozy Interiors and Riverside Allure
Step inside to find a warren of snug rooms lit by soft lamps, where the scent of roasting meats mingles with the malty aroma of cask ales. The pub's traditional decor—dark wood paneling, open hearths, and mismatched stools—creates an intimate haven against Cambridge's often brisk winds. Outside, a welcoming beer garden spills onto the street, perfect for summer pints under string lights, with the river's gentle murmur just beyond.Hearty Fare and Ale Heritage
Greene King ownership ensures a stellar lineup of real ales, from crisp bitters to seasonal specials pulled fresh from the pumps. The menu champions British classics: hand-battered fish and chips with mushy peas, steaming pie and mash, and Sunday roasts that draw locals and visitors alike. Portions are generous, flavors robust, reflecting the pub's role as a reliable pitstop for hearty sustenance after punting or college tours.Hub of University Life
Proximity to Magdalene College infuses the Pickerel with academic energy—students debate theses over pints, while tourists soak in the atmosphere near iconic sights like the Bridge of Sighs. Its location on the bustling Magdalene Street bridges the historic core with riverside paths, making it a natural gathering spot. Evenings hum with conversation, laughter, and the clink of glasses, embodying Cambridge's blend of intellect and informality.Timeless Traditions Endure
From its days as an alehouse serving pilgrims and scholars to today's vibrant scene, the Pickerel embodies enduring pub culture. Wood-fired warmth in winter, garden revelry in summer, and year-round commitment to cask quality keep it relevant. It's more than a drink—it's a slice of Cambridge's living heritage, where past and present pour together seamlessly.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalene Bridge
0.0 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Bridge of Sighs
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A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
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Explore Castle Mound, the grassy remnant of Cambridge’s medieval fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of rich history.
Westminster College
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Jesus Lock
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Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
The Old Schools
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Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Senate House Hill
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Castle Park
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Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Mathematical Bridge
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Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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Explore the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge – a treasure trove of global history and culture that captivates every visitor.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
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Duke House
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Midsummer Common
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Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Arts Picturehouse
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Discover a unique cinematic experience at Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge's historic cinema showcasing independent films and classic favorites.
Little St Mary's Church
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Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of Little St Mary's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of Cambridge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Magdalene College
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Discover Magdalene College, a serene riverside Cambridge gem blending medieval charm with academic heritage and stunning architecture.
Museum of Cambridge
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Discover the rich tapestry of Cambridgeshire’s everyday history in a charming 17th-century coaching inn just steps from the city centre.
Kettle's Yard
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Discover Kettle's Yard, where modern art meets historic charm in a serene Cambridge home and gallery.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
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Historic Kitchen Bridge at St John's College, a serene stone span blending early 18th-century craftsmanship with Cambridge's timeless academic heritage.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover Cambridge’s historic charm on a serene, expertly guided punting tour along the iconic River Cam.
Christian Heritage
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Discover Cambridge’s iconic 12th-century Round Church, a rare Norman circular landmark rich in history, architecture, and Christian heritage.
The Round Church
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Explore Cambridge’s medieval marvel: a rare 12th-century round church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, rich in history and Norman architecture.
Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cambridge's waterways with Rutherford's Punting, offering guided tours and boat rentals for all visitors.
St John's College
0.3 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.
Castle Mound
0.3 km
Historic Norman motte offering panoramic views over Cambridge’s skyline and countryside from the city’s highest point.
Scholars Punting
0.3 km
Experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a handcrafted punt with expert guides on the tranquil River Cam.
All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s charming Saturday market where local artisans showcase unique handmade crafts in a tranquil garden setting.
Wren Library
0.3 km
Discover the historic Wren Library at Trinity College, Cambridge—home to rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and centuries of intellectual heritage.
Newton's Apple Tree
0.3 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.
Trinity College
0.3 km
Explore Trinity College, Cambridge’s grandest college, where history, architecture, and genius converge in stunning courtyards and timeless halls.
Essential places to dine
Galleria restaurant cambridge
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Elegant continental dining with riverside views and romantic balconies in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Las Iguanas - Cambridge
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Experience a vibrant Latin American fiesta with bold flavors, lively cocktails, and riverside views at Las Iguanas Cambridge.
Côte Cambridge
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Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Cambridge, with inclusive menus and a warm, romantic atmosphere.
The Riverbar Steakhouse and Grill
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Upscale riverside steakhouse in Cambridge with expertly cooked steaks, scenic river views, and a lively rooftop cocktail terrace.
Gastrono-me
0.2 km
Vibrant brunch and cocktail bar in Cambridge offering generous portions, vegan-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
Byron
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Savour expertly crafted, indulgent burgers in a stylish, cosy setting at Byron Cambridge, the home of proper burgers since 2007.
The Punter
0.2 km
A cozy gastropub blending classic British fare with quirky charm and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
The Orator
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Historic Cambridge Union’s stylish bar and brasserie blending tradition with modern dining and a lively beer garden.
La Mimosa
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality by the scenic River Cam at La Mimosa, Cambridge’s cherished family-run restaurant.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
The Architect
0.3 km
Cambridge’s vibrant gastropub serving classic fish & chips and pies with a modern, inclusive twist in a welcoming setting.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.4 km
A vibrant British brasserie in Cambridge city centre, blending classic elegance with lively atmosphere and exceptional dining.
Trinity Restaurant
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Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
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Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
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Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bowns
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Discover luxury and elegance at Bowns, Cambridge's premier designer clothing boutique, where haute couture meets personalized service.
Fridge
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Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
Typically British
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Discover authentic British and Cambridge souvenirs in a welcoming shop full of heritage and charm at 29 Bridge Street.
Lilac Rose
0.3 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories in a charming independent boutique in the heart of Cambridge.
Heffers Bookshop
0.3 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.
Jacks on Trinity
0.4 km
Authentic Cambridge gifts and official university apparel in a charming Trinity Street shop blending tradition with modern British style.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and premium ladies' fashion in the heart of historic Cambridge at Jigsaw on Trinity Street.
Bring It Back Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
White Stuff Cambridge
0.4 km
Discover vibrant, stylish fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Cambridge, nestled in the city’s historic shopping heart.
The Department of Magical Gifts
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Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.4 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
Fantasia
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Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
Giles & Co
0.5 km
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Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
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A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Urban Outfitters
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pickerel
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Cambridge's oldest pub pours history from 15th-century beams: real ales, riverside garden, and classic grub near Magdalene College.
The Castle Inn
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Traditional Cambridge pub on Castle Street serving classic British fare, local ales, and cozy vibes in the shadow of historic landmarks—a perfect pitstop for explorers.
Modern Jazz
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Hidden Rooms
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2648 Cambridge
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La Raza
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Town and Gown
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Sir Isaac Newton
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Ta Bouche
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The Cambridge Brew House
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Glitterbomb
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Champion Of The Thames
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Bath House
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Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
The Tivoli
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A vibrant four-floor venue in Cambridge offering mini golf, shuffleboard, rooftop views, craft drinks, and casual dining for memorable social experiences.
Eagle
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Historic Cambridge pub where DNA’s double helix was announced, blending scientific legacy with classic British charm and lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
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
