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What are the oldest pubs in Cambridge?

The old ones are the best, right? It’s a saying that’s often true, and it certainly applies to pubs. There’s something about the atmosphere of a pub soaked in history that you just can’t replicate when you build a new one. Almost as if the great times that’ve been shared in there have seeped into the walls. So here they are, five of the oldest pubs in Cambridge. If they’re new to you, what are you waiting for? Get yourself booked in. 
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The Baron of Beef

A traditional pub in the heart of Cambridge, the Baron of Beef has been serving pints to locals since 1752. With its low ceiling and characterful oak beams, it still feels like an old 18th-century ale house. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly bar staff, the Baron is also a great shout if you’re looking for some of Cambridge’s best traditional pub food. It’s also only a short stroll from the River Cam, as well as Jesus Green and Midsummer Common. 

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The Bath House

Built on the site of some ancient Roman baths, this is one of the best pubs in Cambridge for a couple of drinks and a bite to eat. The Bath House is just over the road from the famous Corpus Clock and traces its history back to the 17th century. Charming features include rustic timber beams and exposed brick walls, as well as some original wood panelling. Don’t miss the house and guest cask ales, as well as the reasonably priced food menu

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The Fort St George

Lying on the south bank of the Cam on the edge of Midsummer Common with its grazing cows, the Fort St George is the oldest riverside pub in Cambridge. Its Grade II listed timber-framed building dates back to the 16th century, and bears a resemblance to a fortress in India. The pub has obviously changed over the years but still retains plenty of charm with its wooden beams, original panelling and open fireplace for those cold winter nights.

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The Eagle

Thanks to the fascinating story it has to tell, the Eagle is not only one of the most historical pubs in Cambridge, but anywhere in the UK – if not the world. It opened its doors in 1667, and welcomed hundreds of RAF pilots during the Second World War who left behind messages on the wall. The Eagle’s biggest claim to fame came in 1953, when scientists Francis Crick and James Watson announced to the pub they had “discovered the secret of life”, after working out the double-helix structure of DNA.

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The Pickerel Inn

Tracing its roots all the way back to 1608, the Pickerel Inn is the oldest pub in Cambridge. Just steps from the River Cam and the Magdalene Bridge that crosses the water, the pub started life as a lavish gin palace, before becoming an inn when the spirit fell out of fashion. Nowadays the pub serves a range of drinks and meals, including a traditional Sunday roast. It’s incredible to think just how many people and drinks have been served at the Pickerel over the last 400-plus years. Will you be next?

Want to know which of these pubs is the closest to where you live in Cambridge, or where you’ll be staying when you visit? Use the button below to find out.

Pubs Near Me In Cambridge