The Cambridge Blue is one of the most beloved pubs in Cambridge, especially famous for its impressive selection of real ales and ciders. Located slightly outside the city centre on Gwydir Street, this pub is a mecca for beer enthusiasts, boasting up to 14 real ales on tap and a substantial cider selection.
Historically, the pub has evolved into a real ale haven, offering up to 14 different ales on tap at any given time. It has become a key part of Cambridge’s real ale scene, cementing its place as one of the top destinations for beer enthusiasts. Despite being slightly away from the central tourist area, it remains popular due to its welcoming atmosphere, spacious beer garden, and community feel.
Key Features of The Cambridge Blue
This pub is an integral part of the local drinking culture, providing a great selection of both British and international brews. Here are some key features that make this place a must-see if you’re into beer or cider:
- Real Ales & Ciders: With its focus on local and regional brews, The Cambridge Blue offers an extensive range of 14 ales on tap and about 6-7 ciders, alongside an impressive bottled beer list that runs over eight pages. It’s a paradise for fans of real ale and craft beers.
- Beer Garden: The pub has a spacious and well-loved beer garden, making it a great spot for outdoor drinking in warmer months.
- Gorilla & Lamb Kitchen: Gorilla & Lamb offers hearty and delicious pub grub that can be ordered via your phone, adding to the casual and welcoming vibe.
- Laid-Back Atmosphere: It’s a pub that attracts a mix of locals and visitors. It doesn’t take table bookings, so you can simply walk in and enjoy the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
What to Order at The Cambridge Blue
At The Cambridge Blue, you’ll want to focus on their exceptional real ales and ciders, as they have a vast selection. Here are some top recommendations:
Real Ales: The pub typically has up to 14 real ales on tap, offering a rotating selection from local and regional breweries. The specific ales available may vary, but they often include both traditional English bitters and innovative craft brews. You can’t go wrong trying a few local favourites or asking the staff for recommendations.
Ciders: If you’re a cider fan, The Cambridge Blue is also known for its 6-7 ciders on tap, ranging from dry to sweet varieties. They’re one of the best spots in town for cider enthusiasts.
Bottled Beer: For those looking to explore further, they have an extensive bottled beer list—around 8 pages long. This includes international options alongside UK craft beers, giving you a wide variety to choose from.
Food: The pub serves hearty pub food from Gorilla & Lamb, including options like burgers, pies, and pub classics. Popular items include beef or veggie burgers and seasonal dishes. Pairing your meal with one of their ales or ciders makes for the perfect pub experience.
How to Get There
The Cambridge Blue is located at 85-87 Gwydir Street, just a short walk from Mill Road, a vibrant area in Cambridge. Though slightly off the beaten tourist track, it’s a well-regarded local gem with a rich history of serving high-quality beer.