The Orator: Cambridge Union’s Historic Bar and Brasserie
Historic Cambridge Union’s elegant bar and brasserie blending tradition, modern dining, and a vibrant drinks scene in the heart of Cambridge.
Located on Round Church Street in Cambridge, The Orator is a stylish bar and restaurant housed within the historic Cambridge Union. Open to the public since 2021, it blends contemporary and traditional design with a menu offering British classics and European-inspired dishes, alongside an extensive drinks selection including cocktails and local beers. With a spacious beer garden, it offers a unique dining experience steeped in over 200 years of debating society heritage.
A brief summary to The Orator
- Round Church St, Cambridge, CB5 8AD, GB
- +441223417142
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday for the traditional Sunday roast, a highlight of the menu.
- Try the cocktail ‘The Courtside’ for a refreshing raspberry-flavored drink.
- Allow extra time for service during busy periods, especially when settling the bill.
- Explore the spacious beer garden for a relaxed outdoor dining experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Orator location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Orator
A Heritage of Debate and Hospitality
The Orator is nestled within the Cambridge Union, one of the world’s oldest debating societies, whose legacy of hospitality spans over two centuries. Originally exclusive to members, this elegant bar and brasserie opened its doors to the public in 2021 after a meticulous two-year renovation costing £3.4 million. The space honors the Union’s rich history, with walls adorned by photographs of famous speakers and an ambiance that evokes intellectual exchange and tradition.Design That Marries Tradition and Modernity
The interior of The Orator artfully combines rustic and modern elements with touches of vintage glamour. The renovation preserved key historical features while introducing light, open spaces filled with contemporary furniture and fittings. This blend creates a welcoming yet refined atmosphere, where fine dining settings coexist with casual service, offering a versatile environment for both formal meals and relaxed socializing.Culinary Offerings with Local and European Flair
The Orator’s menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring British classics such as Sunday roasts and fish & chips on designated days, alongside a selection of European-inspired starters like bruschetta, tempura squid, and pea and courgette arancini. The restaurant also offers vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity. Signature dishes include the ‘1815 beef burger’ and a variety of small plates like crispy gnocchi and tiger prawns. Desserts such as salted brownies and lemon pots complement the savory courses.A Drinks Selection to Match the Setting
Claiming the largest beer garden in central Cambridge, The Orator boasts an extensive drinks menu. Highlights include a broad gin selection, expertly crafted cocktails priced around £9, and local beers averaging £4. The bar’s cocktail ‘The Courtside,’ featuring raspberry flavors, is particularly popular. This diverse beverage offering enhances the venue’s appeal as a social hub for both casual visitors and Union members.Visitor Experience and Service Nuances
While the ambiance and food receive praise for quality and presentation, service experiences have been mixed. Initial professionalism can give way to slower responsiveness, particularly during busy periods. The Orator’s blend of formal and casual elements sometimes creates a unique but occasionally confusing customer experience. Nevertheless, the venue remains a favored spot for those seeking a historical setting with quality dining and drinks in Cambridge.Location and Accessibility
Situated on Round Church Street, The Orator is easily accessible within central Cambridge. The nearby Park Street Car Park offers convenient parking options. The venue operates daily with extended hours on weekends, serving food primarily from midday to evening. Its location within the Cambridge Union adds a layer of cultural significance, making it a destination for visitors interested in the city’s academic and social heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalene Bridge
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Bridge of Sighs
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Senate House Hill
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The Old Schools
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Jesus Lock
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Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
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Westminster College
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Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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Midsummer Common
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Arts Picturehouse
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Castle Park
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Mathematical Bridge
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Little St Mary's Church
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The Fitzwilliam Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Round Church
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St John's College
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All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market
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Newton's Apple Tree
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Scudamore's Punting Company
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Glide through Cambridge's historic waterways aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by knowledgeable locals or steering your own course.
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.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
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Trinity College
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Explore Trinity College, Cambridge’s grandest college, where history, architecture, and genius converge in stunning courtyards and timeless halls.
Market Passage
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Gardenia
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All Saints Church
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Lets Go Punting Cambridge
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Jesus College, University of Cambridge
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Rutherford's Punting Cambridge
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Magdalene College
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Essential places to dine
The Orator
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Typically British
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Heffers Bookshop
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Bring It Back Cambridge
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Jigsaw
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Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
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Jacks on Trinity
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White Stuff Cambridge
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Bowns
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Fantasia
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The Department of Magical Gifts
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The Cambridge Gift Shop
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Urban Outfitters
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Fridge
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
