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The Cambridge Tap

Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.

4.3

A converted bank-turned-bar in central Cambridge, The Cambridge Tap combines exposed brick and high ceilings with a lively drinks-led menu of craft beers, cocktails and hearty burgers. Upstairs seating overlooks a college courtyard and the layout suits groups, after-work pints and casual dinners in the city centre.

A brief summary to The Cambridge Tap

  • 32 St Andrew's St, Cambridge, CB2 3AR, GB
  • +441223679349
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
  • Thursday 12 pm-12 am
  • Friday 12 pm-12 am
  • Saturday 11 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-12 am

Local tips

  • Book the upstairs room for groups — it offers more space and privacy and is often available for private hire.
  • Try a beer on handpump when available to sample local cask ale alongside the craft selection.
  • Evenings are lively with music; if you want quieter conversation opt for daytime or the upstairs seating.
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The Cambridge Tap location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Cambridge Tap

From bank to bar: a space with a past

The Cambridge Tap occupies a changed-purpose building in the civic heart of Cambridge that retains traces of its former life in its high ceilings and solid architectural details. Where a bank once held counters and vaults, the pub now sets booths and an elongated bar beneath exposed stonework and discreet period flourishes, giving the interior an unexpectedly roomy, confident character.

What you’ll find on the menu and at the bar

The offer centres on a drinks-first approach: a rotating selection of craft and world beers alongside classic spirits and handmade cocktails prepared to order. The kitchen specialises in generous burgers served in buttered brioche, alongside sharers such as wings and “dirty” fries; the overall tone is comfort-forward, designed for sharing and group dining rather than fine dining.

Layout and atmosphere across two levels

A main ground-floor bar area provides dense seating and social bustle, while an upstairs room gives quieter seating and views over a neighbouring college courtyard. The upstairs space is commonly used for private hire and group bookings, and it has a flexible feel that can shift from daytime catch-ups to evening socialising. Lighting is warm and the soundscape leans towards lively music rather than hushed conversation.

Character and audience

The Tap sits squarely in the social-centre category: casual, energetic and friendly. It works for groups meeting before evening plans, couples wanting a relaxed drink, or anyone seeking an informal meal with craft-beer options. The interior’s mix of reclaimed features, wooden tables and warm finishes gives it an accessible, slightly contemporary-pub aesthetic rather than a pristine gastropub formality.

Local context and beverage note

Situated close to Cambridge’s market and colleges, the pub has a centre-of-town feel that blends student, local and visitor crowds. The bar places emphasis on beer variety and — at times — cask options alongside keg and bottled choices, reflecting the broader British contemporary pub trend of combining classic pub ales with world and craft beer offerings.

Practical vibe and private hire suitability

Beyond casual drinking and dining, the venue offers an upstairs area suitable for private events and small group bookings, with AV facilities and room configurations that fit seated meals or more informal standing parties. The general practicalities — sturdy seating, a long bar and a menu built around shareable dishes — make it an easy choice for groups looking for a reliable, sociable spot in Cambridge.

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