The Free Press
Cambridge's hidden pub treasure: historic charm, seasonal fusion eats, real ales, and a secret garden oasis for unforgettable local vibes.
Tucked away on a quiet Cambridge backstreet, The Free Press is a cherished traditional pub blending nearly two centuries of history with inventive, seasonal cuisine. This cozy hideaway offers hearty portions of European fusion dishes, a stellar selection of real ales, and a welcoming beer garden, making it a local favorite for relaxed meals and drinks in an authentic British setting.
A brief summary to The Free Press
- 7 Prospect Row, Cambridge, CB1 1DU, GB
- +441223368337
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for meals, especially Sundays, as tables fill quickly with locals seeking the renowned roasts and specials.
- Opt for the scotch egg starter—its crunchy shell and balanced spice make it a standout alongside a pint of real ale.
- Vegans will find marked options like asparagus orecchiette or zucchini and chips, with generous, flavorful portions.
- Leave your phone at the table; the bar's no-phones rule enhances the immersive, conversation-driven atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
The Free Press location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Free Press
Hidden Gem in Cambridge's Backstreets
Nestled on Prospect Row, The Free Press embodies the quintessential British pub experience, concealed from the bustling tourist trails of central Cambridge. Dating back nearly 200 years, this unassuming venue has evolved into a beloved institution, drawing locals with its intimate scale and steadfast charm. The exterior belies a surprisingly spacious interior, complete with a real fire for winter warmth and a secluded courtyard garden perfect for summer afternoons. Its location off the beaten path fosters a sense of discovery, where the hum of university life feels distant yet ever-present.Seasonal European Fusion Fare
The kitchen shines with a rotating menu of thoughtfully prepared dishes, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients in European fusion style. Expect generous portions like battered zucchini with minted peas and chips, asparagus and pea orecchiette, or wild garlic-marinated asparagus paired with tofu sauce gribiche. Daily specials keep offerings dynamic, incorporating vegan options clearly marked for accessibility. Hearty classics such as fish and chips, scotch eggs with jammy yolks, and pork meatballs in dill sauce highlight the pub's commitment to quality pub grub elevated by creative twists. Pies and Sunday roasts, sourced from nearby butchers, deliver comforting flavors with expert execution.Real Ale Haven and Thoughtful Drinks
Ales take center stage at The Free Press, with a curated lineup of rotating real ales alongside ciders, wines, and beers that appeal to discerning drinkers. The no-mobile-phones policy at the bar encourages genuine conversation, while the absence of background music preserves the natural buzz of chatter and clinking glasses. This dedication to traditional pub ethos creates an oasis amid modern distractions, where patrons savor Green King IPA or seasonal brews in a space alive with camaraderie.Cozy Atmosphere and Garden Retreat
Inside, low ceilings, wooden beams, and snug seating evoke timeless pub character, with a crackling fire adding winter coziness. The rear beer garden offers alfresco relief, shaded and inviting for lazy lunches or evening pints under string lights. Whether crammed at peak times or savored in quieter moments, the venue's scale amplifies its intimate appeal, fostering connections in a city steeped in academic heritage.Local Legacy and Enduring Appeal
Over decades, The Free Press has cultivated a reputation as Cambridge's go-to for unpretentious excellence, from beer festivals to live performances that punctuate its calendar. Its resistance to overt commercialization—eschewing loud music and screens—preserves an authentic slice of British pub culture. This enduring spot continues to captivate with its blend of history, flavor, and fellowship, remaining a steadfast anchor in Cambridge's vibrant scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke House
0.3 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Reality Checkpoint
0.3 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Senate House Hill
0.9 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
0.9 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Cambridge Food Tour
1.0 km
Explore Cambridge's culinary scene on a guided food tour, savoring local flavors and discovering hidden gems in this historic city.
Coe Fen
1.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Coe Fen, a city park in Cambridge perfect for nature lovers, walkers, and those seeking tranquil moments in lush surroundings.
Kitchen Bridge, St John's College
1.1 km
Discover the charm and history of the Kitchen Bridge at St. John's College, a picturesque landmark in the heart of Cambridge, England.
Bridge of Sighs
1.1 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Hills Road War Memorial
1.1 km
A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
Mathematical Bridge
1.1 km
Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting Dinky Doors at Jesus Green Lock House, a charming cultural landmark in the heart of Cambridge, blending history and whimsy.
Jesus Lock
1.1 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Magdalene Bridge
1.1 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge from the water with Lets Go Punting, offering serene boat tours past historic landmarks and lush landscapes.
Garret Hostel Bridge
1.1 km
Explore the stunning Garret Hostel Bridge in Cambridge, a picturesque location connecting history, architecture, and breathtaking views of the River Cam.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Grafton
0.3 km
A modern shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse retail, dining, and community-friendly amenities in a vibrant, accessible setting.
Vue Cinema Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience the latest films and special events in the heart of Cambridge at Vue Cinema, where modern comfort meets vibrant entertainment.
Parker's Piece
0.3 km
Historic green heart of Cambridge where modern football was born and community spirit thrives across open lawns and iconic landmarks.
Christ's Pieces
0.4 km
A serene Victorian park in central Cambridge offering mature trees, sports facilities, and a peaceful green escape amid the city bustle.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
0.4 km
A friendly, no-frills social club on East Road offering Motown nights, pool leagues and intimate live-music evenings in a classic community setting.
Arts Picturehouse
0.5 km
A historic Cambridge cinema blending indie films, art deco charm, and a lively café-bar in the city centre.
10 Downing Street
0.6 km
Historic Cambridge street lined with university museums, Georgian architecture, and rich academic heritage in the city center.
Christ's College Cambridge
0.6 km
Explore centuries of academic heritage and tranquil gardens at Christ's College, a historic jewel in the heart of Cambridge.
Grand Arcade
0.6 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Cambridge’s heart offering diverse stores, dining, and festive events in a modern, accessible setting.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.6 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history in Cambridge’s oldest geology museum, featuring fossils, meteorites, and iconic collections.
All Saints Church
0.6 km
Discover Cambridge’s Painted Church, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece adorned with exquisite hand-painted interiors and stunning stained glass artistry.
Midsummer Common
0.6 km
Historic riverside meadow and cultural hub offering pastoral charm, scenic walks, and lively seasonal fairs in the heart of Cambridge.
Cambridge Gateway from India
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant modern heartbeat where contemporary design meets lively urban culture, stunningly lit by night.
Lion Yard
0.7 km
A vibrant, centrally located shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores from budget to premium in a welcoming community setting.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
0.7 km
Explore two million years of human history through captivating artefacts and world cultures at Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
Essential places to dine
Parker's Tavern
0.4 km
Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
Efes Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean flavors in a cozy, family-run setting at Efes Restaurant, Cambridge’s beloved grill house.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Vanderlyle
0.5 km
Creative vegetarian tasting menus crafted from local, seasonal produce in a warm, intimate setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Raja Indian Restaurant Cambridge
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with vibrant flavours and heartfelt hospitality in Cambridge’s King Street.
Maurizio Dining & Co.
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh pizzas and pasta in a warm, rustic setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Navadhanya
0.6 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Cambridge with innovative dishes, elegant ambience, and impeccable service at Navadhanya.
De Luca Cucina & Bar
0.6 km
Experience authentic modern Italian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at De Luca Cucina & Bar in Cambridge’s lively Regent Street.
The Olive Grove
0.6 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Regent Street.
The Old Bicycle Shop
0.6 km
Historic cycling heritage meets modern gastropub charm in Cambridge’s quirky and sustainable Old Bicycle Shop.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.6 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
The Oak Bistro
0.7 km
Classic British bistro with exceptional Beef Wellington, warm hospitality, and a charming heated garden in the heart of Cambridge.
Hungrill
0.7 km
Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and friendly service in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Bedouin
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of North Africa in the heart of Cambridge’s Mill Road at Bedouin.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.7 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Primark
0.2 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
Jemporium Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
The Works
0.2 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
Sense
0.3 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
CJ’s Vintage Store
0.5 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Oliver Bonas
0.6 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Menkind Cambridge
0.7 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
0.7 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Not Listed
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
As Seen On TV
0.7 km
Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Sugarmark!
0.8 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.
Bring It Back Cambridge
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Discover premium vintage and streetwear fashion with a sustainable edge at Bring It Back Cambridge on Green Street.
The Hive
0.8 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.8 km
Discover pun-tastic souvenirs and local crafts on Peas Hill, where Cambridge's witty spirit comes alive in every handpicked gift.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Free Press
0.0 km
Historic Cambridge pub blending cozy charm, local flavors, and a rich printing press legacy in the heart of the city.
The Elm Tree
0.1 km
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The Clarendon Arms
0.2 km
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The Burleigh Arms
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional charm with innovative Pan-Asian and British flavors in the heart of Cambridge.
The Blue Moon
0.4 km
Cambridge's craft beer heartbeat: rotating taps, live gigs, and cozy pizzas in a welcoming pub alive with local energy.
The Castle Bar
0.5 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
Champion Of The Thames
0.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
The Cambridge Tap
0.5 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.5 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Revolution Cambridge
0.5 km
Cambridge’s vibrant cocktail bar and nightclub offering fresh food, rooftop views, and lively nightlife with DJs and karaoke pods.
Bar -OH
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
The LAB
0.6 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.6 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
The Cambridge Blue
0.7 km
Historic Cambridge pub famed for its award-winning real ales, vast beer selection, and vibrant community spirit in a charming Victorian setting.
Glitterbomb
0.7 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
0.2 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.7 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.
EBC Shop
0.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
MASH
0.7 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
80s karaoke bar
0.8 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Calling
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Salisbury Club
1.4 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Sing Dizzy
1.6 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.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.8 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.
Rock
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
Unique Bar Newmarket
19.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Unique Bar Newmarket, where great drinks, dancing, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable evening.
The Lounge
19.3 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
OutOut Nightclub
19.4 km
Vibrant nightlife hub in St. Ives offering dynamic club nights, private events, and a lively atmosphere from 10pm to 4am Fridays and Saturdays.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
