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Explore Cambridge’s Historic Pubs: Unique Brews and Atmospheres
Today I have a tour of various historic pubs and breweries in Cambridge, each with unique backstories and atmospheres. Starting with The Elm Tree, known for its vintage décor and selection of cask ales, the journey highlights The Cambridge Brew House’s microbrewery and quirky interior, as well as Pint Shop’s blend of historical charm and modern design. Other notable stops include The Free Press, The Tram Depot, and The Blue Moon, each featuring distinctive features and local brews. I emphasise the community vibes, live music, and a variety of beer choices across these establishments, culminating in a visit to The Broken Seal Tap Room in Stevenage.
Cambridge has a rich history cantered around the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209 by scholars fleeing Oxford. The city flourished as a centre of learning, contributing significantly to the Renaissance, Reformation, and scientific revolution. Influential figures like Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking studied or worked there. Cambridge played a role in the English Civil War and industrial development, though it remained more academic than industrial. Its picturesque medieval architecture blends with cutting-edge research and innovation, especially in technology and biosciences.
The Elm Tree
My first call in Cambridge was to The Elm Tree, located on Orchard Street. This is a beloved local pub with a fascinating backstory. It was first mentioned in 1886 and has weathered many challenges, including a big fire in the 1970s that caused it to close for a while and get a makeover. The pub is named after a famous elm tree that used to be a local landmark until it was taken down in the 1950s because it was diseased.
Inside, the place has a quirky vibe with a cosy feel. The walls and ceiling are adorned with vintage beer memorabilia, gothic art, and Belgian flags. Pictures of regular customers bring a sense of warmth, and there are board games and live music that create a friendly, communal atmosphere. The layout is simple and inviting, making it a great spot to visit.
On the bar a selection of 7 cask ales to choose from alongside a number of keg options. My beer choice in here was “Anchorman” from Brewpoint Brewery. A fresh, fruity and refreshing IPA. Lots of flavour coming through from this beer.
The Cambridge Brew House
Next was a walk to The Cambridge Brew House. This place kicked off in January 2013 as a brewpub with its own microbrewery. This spot has a cool history, having been home to pubs like the King’s Arms, the Bun Shop, and the Jolly Scholar. Brewing here goes way back to at least the 15th century, with a brewer named John Chapman popping up in records from 1446. The current building, built in the 1970s, got a makeover to create a roomy interior with a big bar downstairs and two upstairs spaces, including the ‘Locker Room’ for private gatherings.
Inside mixes old-school charm with a modern twist. The quirky décor showcases a variety of vintage furniture, from rustic dining chairs to metal seats that remind you of classic theatres. The walls are decorated with craft beer memorabilia—think cans, pump clips, and bottle labels—that highlight its brewing roots. The main bar has glass panels that let you peek into the on-site microbrewery, adding to the lively vibe. Upstairs, the Locker Room features tall ceilings and a private bar, perfect for events, while the Tank Room offers a snug atmosphere with retro décor and easy access to the bar.
There was a selection of 5 cask ales along with a great keg selection including 6 made by themselves. I opted with one of their own cask beers, “SESH – Session IPA”, a delicious and super tasty Pale Ale that has been hopped using Mosaic, Amarillo and Citra, giving some great flavour.
Pint Shop
Onto Pint Shop which kicked off in November 2013, breathing new life into a historic Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse at 10 Peas Hill. This building, which goes back to around 1830, has had a colourful history, serving as a merchant’s residence, a bank, a cabinet maker’s workshop, and even a university office. It was also the residence of novelist E.M. Forster and has ties to the famous diarist Samuel Pepys. The Pint Shop takes cues from the beer houses of the 1830s, known as ‘Tom and Jerry Shops,’ which popped up after the Beer Act of 1830 allowed folks to brew and sell beer right from their homes.
Inside, the Pint Shop mixes historical charm with modern flair. It showcases original features like marble fireplaces, parquet floors, and Doric columns, all beautifully restored, alongside contemporary industrial lighting and a soothing colour scheme of warm browns, greys, and whites. The ground floor boasts a snug bar area with white-panelled walls and parquet flooring, while the back dining room offers a view of a quiet courtyard garden. Upstairs, there are two private dining rooms that provide cosy spots decorated with original beams uncovered during renovations.
A stunning line up of 17 keg beers, 4 cask beers and a range of ciders to choose from. “Juice Rocket” from local brewery Three Blind Mice who are based in Little Downham. A juicy and hoppy delight of a beer. Hopped using Mosaic, Citra and Columbus.
BrewBoard
Over the road brings me to BrewBoard, an independent craft brewery founded in 2017 in Harston, Cambridgeshire, expanded its presence in 2024 by opening a pop-up taproom and bottle shop on Peas Hill in central Cambridge. Now it is looking to continue this and stay as a permanent venue.
Located near the market square, it blends modern design with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. This venue showcases BrewBoard’s ongoing mission to create inclusive environments where people can connect, relax, and enjoy Cambridge’s dynamic local culture.
Drink wise a selection of 6 keg beers to choose from alongside a fridge packed full of cans. “Ripchord” was my beer choice. A fantastic, easy drinking and full of flavour Session IPA. Hopped using Mosaic, Citra and Cascade hops.
The Free Press
Another walk brings me to The Free Press. This is a historic pub that first opened its doors in 1834. Its name is thought to be a playful nod to a temperance newspaper that was launched around the same time but only lasted for one issue. The pub narrowly avoided being torn down during the redevelopment of the Kite area in the 1970s; it closed in 1975 but made a comeback in 1978 after a careful restoration that kept much of its original charm. Nowadays, The Free Press is celebrated by CAMRA for its remarkable historic interior, which includes original 1940s handpumps and a snug that used to host 59 students from Downing College.
Inside, the pub radiates traditional appeal with its wood-panelled walls, an open fireplace, and a snug decorated with old newspaper clippings on the ceiling. The main bar features printing memorabilia and the bow of a Cambridge boat that was wrecked in the 1984 Boat Race. There’s also a cosy courtyard garden at the back that provides extra seating, adding to the pub’s warm and historic vibe.
A great line up of 7 cask ales alongside a range of keg beers. I decided to go with “Swifty Session IPA” from Jiddler’s Tipple who are based in London. A super tasty, fresh and refreshing Session IPA with some great hoppy flavour coming from the Nelson Sauvin, Motueka and Sabro hops used.
The Tram Depot
Next is onto The Tram Depot. This is a historic pub that originally served as the stables and offices for the Cambridge Street Tramways, it operated horse-drawn trams from 1880 to 1914. After various uses, including as a fish market and furniture warehouse, the building was converted into a pub in the late 1980s by Earl Soham Brewery and later acquired by Everards in the 1990s.
The interior retains features like exposed brickwork, timber beams, and a tiled floor, reflecting its historical roots. Sitting outside at the front you can still see the tram lines.
On the bar a range of 4 cask ales, 2 ciders and a range of keg beers to choose from. “Across the Pond” was my beer selection in here, being one of Everards special beers. A very light, tasty and fresh Session IPA.
The Blue Moon
A short walk brought me next to The Blue Moon. This pub has a fascinating past that goes back to the 1800s. It started out as the Norfolk Arms and has changed names a few times over the years. In 1964, it was rebuilt and became the Man on the Moon, featuring a cool space theme with astronaut murals and model rockets. Then in 1998, it was called The Office, but by 2000, it switched back to the Man on the Moon. In 2013, it got a fresh makeover and reopened as The Blue Moon, joining the Cambridge Blue family. Nowadays, The Blue Moon is famous for its welcoming vibe and lively events like live music, comedy nights, and themed parties.
Inside, The Blue Moon mixes vintage style with a modern touch. The front bar has old photos of Cambridge pubs and a quirky wall clock, giving it a nostalgic feel. The bigger back bar is an event space for live music, comedy, and other shows. The décor includes wooden floors, cosy lighting, and a collection of vintage pub photos from Cambridge. At the back, there’s a courtyard with colourful tables and flower pots, perfect for a laid-back outdoor experience.
A selection of 3 cask ales alongside a brilliant choice of 10 keg lines. “Gina” from local Waterbeach based Pastore Brewing and Blending was my choice of a keg beer. A cloudy natural orange soda sour, with a nice hint of orange flavour coming through this beer.
The Alex
The Alex is a historic pub which was established around 1870 and named after Princess Alexandra. It was a lively community hub, once home to a popular skittle club. Despite widespread redevelopment in the 1960s, the pub remained a favourite with locals, many of whom returned regularly even after moving away. The Alex is known for its friendly atmosphere and community gatherings, like the yearly ‘Alexfest’ music festival that highlights local artists in its outdoor patio.
Inside, The Alex Arms combines classic and modern design. It has three unique areas spread over two levels, with wooden floors and tables that create a cosy feel. The bar, made of wood, faces the street and is paired with an extra serving counter in the back. Unique features include two small snugs by the stairs, a log-burning stove, and walls decorated with vintage photos and local maps. At the back, there’s a private garden with a newly built garden room that serves as a flexible space for different events.
Drinks wise a choice of 3 cask ales alongside a choice of keg beers. My beer choice in here was “Hop Lobster” from Norwich based Golden Triangle Brewery. A great premium ale, hoppy and super tasty and very heavily hopped. Delicious!
The Geldart
Next is onto The Geldart. This is a unique corner pub tucked away on a backstreet, boasting a fascinating history that goes back to the 1870s. Named after James William Geldart, who was once a Fellow and Vice-Master at Trinity Hall, this pub has been a beloved part of the local scene for ages. It’s well-known for its community involvement, even snagging a runner-up spot in the Cambridge & District CAMRA Community Pub of the Year awards. The Geldart is famous for its dedication to live music, frequently showcasing local bands and artists, which has helped it become a lively cultural hotspot in Cambridge.
Inside, The Geldart has a special musical vibe. The pub features three distinct areas: the main bar with a warm open fire, a dining space, and a cosy nook that boasts a glass-topped grand piano table, a record player, and a classic jukebox. The walls are decorated with musical instruments, and even the beer taps are made from brass instruments. Menus are creatively displayed on vinyl records, and the décor is filled with film and music memorabilia. Plus, there’s a charming enclosed courtyard garden that features a quirky 1970s Ford Cortina as a centrepiece, making it a fun outdoor spot.
Drinks wise a selection of 8 cask ales to choose from, ranging in styles alongside a keg selection. In here I opted to go with “Prismatic” from Newark based Beermats Brewing Co. A deliciously tasty and easy drinking single hopped Pale Ale using Simcoe hops.
Calverley’s Brewery
Another short walk around the corner brought me next to Calverley’s Brewery. The brewery was established in 2014 by brothers Sam and Tom Calverley and is a small-batch brewery. Housed in a converted stable yard near Mill Road, it draws inspiration from global beer styles to craft a diverse range of brews.
Inside, Calverley’s Brewery features a cosy taproom with wooden tables and ambient lighting, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The space includes an adjacent seating area and an outdoor courtyard for customers to enjoy. The brewery also offers a unique experience at The Engineer’s House, a riverside venue with a relaxed setting.
Drinks wise an offering of 12 keg lines featuring a wide range of styles and strengths from the brewery. “White Haze” from their own brewery was my beer choice. A super hazy and super tasty New England IPA showcasing Eldorado, Citra and Equinox hops.
The Petersfield
Onto The Petersfield. This has a fascinating history that goes back to at least 1879. It was originally called the White Hart and moved from King Street to its current location in 1873 to cater to the expanding community. Over time, it changed hands multiple times, with notable owners like George Cooper and Richard Bigsworth. In 2004, it became the Backstreet Bistro, a popular restaurant, before reverting to its pub identity in 2017 as The Petersfield, now part of the City Pub Company.
Inside, The Petersfield offers a roomy and welcoming vibe. The main bar area is L-shaped, featuring a central bar and a cosy little room at the back. The décor mixes traditional and modern styles, highlighted by a ceiling decorated with wine bottles. The outdoor courtyard is enhanced by a mural showcasing scenes from Cambridge life, giving the pub a unique and artistic touch.
3 cask ales available on the bar in here to choose from alongside a wide selection of keg options. Another Norfolk based beer in here, this time from Barsham Brewery. “Swallow’s Gulp” is a very light, fresh and easy drinking Pale Ale.
The Cambridge Blue
Next up is The Cambridge Blue. This pub has been around since the 1870s. It started out as the Dew Drop Inn, one of the first pubs in the area as Gwydir Street grew. By 1950, it got its full license and moved on from being just a beerhouse. In the mid-80s, it was renamed the Cambridge Blue to honour the university’s sports colours. They even added some cool rowing-themed décor, like a Cambridge Eight boat hanging from the ceiling, signed by the crew.
Inside, the Cambridge Blue has a warm and welcoming vibe. The single-bar setup is filled with brewery memorabilia, old Cambridge Beer Festival posters, and pump clips that highlight its brewing history. There’s a big extension that leads to a spacious garden, complete with a heated marquee for the winter. The garden is a favourite hangout for people to enjoy the outdoors when the weather’s nice. The inside still has that classic pub charm.
A fantastic line up of 9 cask ales, lots of ciders and a keg selection. Great to bump into follower David in here aswell, managed to catch up with you. My beer choice was from Tring Brewery Co, named “Sheddler’s Pale”. A fantastic American IPA hopped using lots of Comet hops. Very easy drinking and refreshing.
The Kingston Arms
The Kingston Arms opened its doors in the early 1870s as the area was rapidly growing. Local landlord Thomas Kingston, who was often called the ‘Miser’ due to his shy demeanour and charitable actions, originally built the pub. In 1873, George William Todd got a license to sell beer there. Over the years, the pub changed hands multiple times, including a stint as the Haslop Arms from 1881 to 1895 under James and Caroline Haslop. By 1901, John Wallis was running the place, and in 1911, it was taken over by William and Alice Swann. The Panton Brewery bought it in 1918, followed by Bailey & Tebbutt in 1925, and eventually Greene King. Today, the Kingston Arms is a free house that prides itself on being a community hub with a classic pub vibe.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy and traditional atmosphere, decorated with vintage local photos, historic Cambridge Beer Festival posters, and breweriana that add to the nostalgic feel. The ceiling is filled with pump clips, highlighting the pub’s wide selection of beers. A fantastic beer garden at the rear with part of it being covered.
A selection of 7 cask ales on the bar along with a selection of keg beers. In here I went with “Yorkshire’s Best Bitter” from Harrogate based Rooster’s Brewing Co. A classic, easy drinking and tasty traditional Bitter.
The Live and Let Live
Next us is The Live and Let Live. This is a beloved pub tucked away on a side street, boasting a rich history of almost 150 years. It started as a small beerhouse and gradually took over nearby spaces, becoming a free house in the late ’80s. Known for its dedication to traditional pub culture, it provides a welcoming spot for chatting and connecting with others. The name and sign draw inspiration from a 19th-century painting called ‘The Man Loaded with Mischief’ by Richard Hopkins Leach, highlighting its strong ties to local history.
Inside, the pub radiates rustic charm with its wooden walls, basic wooden furniture, and a warm wood-burning fireplace. The layout features a single bar with a cosy snug at the back, perfect for a more private experience. Adorned with brewery memorabilia, old railway artifacts, and vintage gas lights, the atmosphere takes you back in time. The etched glass door adds a classic touch, and the lack of modern distractions like music or TVs encourages genuine conversation and community bonding. This timeless vibe truly captures the essence of a classic Cambridge pub.
On the bar a selection of 5 cask ales alongside a choice of keg options to choose from. I chose “Rambling Rangers” from Nottingham based Castle Rock Brewery. A beer that has been brewed in collaboration with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. A delicious, well balanced traditional Bitter.
Old Ticket Office
My last call in Cambridge was to Old Ticket Office at Cambridge Railway Station. This opened its doors in June 2018 as part of the City Pub Company’s growth in the area. Set in a beautifully restored historic ticket hall, this pub embraces its railway roots while providing a friendly atmosphere. The renovation kept the building’s charm intact, with design touches that remind you of classic station bars. Its prime location makes it a great spot for both travellers and locals.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious main area with a long bar that showcases the original architecture. The décor features lively green walls inspired by old railway colours, vintage-style seating, and antique pieces, all contributing to a warm, nostalgic vibe. There’s also a cosy area for private events and an outdoor seating area on Station Square, giving guests a comfortable and historically rich place to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.
Drinks wise a selection of 4 cask ales alongside a great choice of keg options to choose from with a wide range of styles. “Juice Rocket” from local brewery Three Blind Mice who are based in Little Downham. A juicy and hoppy delight of a beer. Hopped using Mosaic, Citra and Columbus. This time I had the beer on Cask rather than Keg which I had earlier on today.
The Broken Seal Tap Room
My final call of the day was in Stevenage to The Broken Seal Tap Room. This opened in September 2019 as the tap room for Bog Brew Brewery, subsequently renamed as Six Hills Brewing. Six Hills Brewing was established in 2017 as Bog Brew Brewery and was Stevenage’s first craft brewery. Initially brewing on a two-barrel system, it has since expanded to produce up to 2,500 litres per month. In 2021, the brewery rebranded to Six Hills Brewing, drawing inspiration from local folklore and adopting a distinctive visual identity.
Inside offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere with a modern yet rustic design. The interior features light blue tones, clean lines, and a functional layout that includes a bar area, brewery seating, and an outdoor patio. The space is well-lit and tidy, providing a comfortable environment.
On the bar 2 guest cask ales, alongside 10 keg options, a number being from Six Hills Brewery. I went with one of their own beers “Running With the Big Dog – Citra”. A super tasty dry hopped American Pale Ale. Packed full of flavour and very enjoyable.
Micropub Adventures 