Our Cambridge Partners
We work with a small number of trusted local businesses to help you get the most from your Cambridge visit. These are places we genuinely recommend — independent, locally owned, and worth your time.
Interested in a partnership with Cambridge Tours? Get in touch.
See Cambridge from a Different Perspective
Some Cambridge experiences deserve more than a passing mention. Our featured selection highlights a particularly memorable way to discover the city—offering a fresh perspective on its colleges, architecture and history.
Scudamore’s Punting Company
Category: Punting
Few experiences feel more quintessentially Cambridge than seeing the College Backs from the River Cam. Founded in 1910, Scudamore’s offers chauffeured shared and private tours, family options and self-hire punts.
Sit back while your chauffeur handles the pole—or try punting for yourself—and enjoy a wonderful river-level view of Cambridge’s historic colleges, bridges and gardens.
Ready to take to the river? Book your Cambridge punting tour through Cambridge Tours.
Recommended Local Businesses in the Area
Discover some of our favourite independent cafés, pubs, restaurants, and hidden spots in and around Cambridge. Whether you’re after a bite to eat, a relaxing drink, or something special, these trusted local businesses are well worth a visit during your stay.
The Geldart
Tucked away on Ainsworth Street, this award‑winning backstreet pub hums with live music, local art, and a vibrant community spirit.
Enjoy a rotating selection of real ales and ciders on hand‑pump, alongside home‑cooked dishes like “hot rocks” and biltong snacks.
The retro decor – think vinyl menus, a glass piano table, courtyard garden, and film‑memorabilia – makes it one of Cambridge’s most memorable pubs.
Address: 1 Ainsworth St, Cambridge CB1 2PF
The Oak Bistro
The Oak Bistro in Cambridge offers a dining experience with a focus on British and European cuisine, set in a charming, historic setting. Known for its warm atmosphere and a diverse menu that caters to various dietary needs, this establishment promises an elegant yet comfortable dining experience. With options for private dining and a garden area for outdoor enjoyment, it’s a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. For more details on their offerings and to book a table, please visit their website for more information.
Address: 6 Lensfield Rd, Cambridge CB2 1EG
The Rupert Brooke
Discover The Rupert Brooke, a cherished Grantchester pub that seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary comforts. Named in honour of the celebrated poet, this welcoming venue offers a warm atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Savour a thoughtfully curated selection of local ales, fine wines, and delectable pub fare crafted from fresh, regional ingredients.
Address: 2 Broadway, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9NQ
Ancient Shepherds By Mark Poynton
Step into this cosy, historic venue in Fen Ditton, where chef‑patron Mark Poynton elevates simple, seasonal British fare with exquisite technique and a warm, relaxed style.
And his new venture, Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall (Norwich), earned a Michelin star in February 2025, cementing his reputation for excellence.
Expect plates that balance rustic comfort with refined technique—anchored in local ingredients and served with genuine hospitality.
Address: 5 High St, Fen Ditton, Cambridge CB5 8ST
Jack’s Gelato
Award-winning, artisan gelato in small batches using mostly organic, local ingredients—including herbs from Jack’s own allotment.
It’s the perfect stop for a sweet evening treat after your tour.
A true local institution—prepared by hand, scooped with care, and celebrated as one of Cambridge’s must-visit food gems.
Address: 6 Bene’t St, Cambridge CB2 3QN
Address: 7 All Saints Passage, Cambridge CB2 3LS
King St Cellar
An independent wine merchant on King Street, with shelves that run from a reliable everyday red to something orange, biodynamic and slightly odd. Nobody here makes you feel foolish for asking. Fine wine, craft beer and specialist spirits, chosen with a clear lean towards organic, sustainable and low-intervention producers. Run by two Cambridge lads, Ben Thurbon and Lexington Thomas, who will talk you to the right bottle at any budget. Tastings, a Book and Wine club, and private events run through the year. It also offers outdoor sitting all year long! Get your vino there and enjoy it on a table just outside the shop.
Address: 99 King St, Cambridge CB1 1LD
We support and showcase quality independents—no affiliations, just genuine recommendations.
Yippee Noodles
Address: 7-9 King St, Cambridge CB1 1LH
A reliable city-centre go-to when you want something warming, quick and properly satisfying. The focus is fresh Asian flavours—noodle soups, colourful ingredients, and a buzzing open-kitchen energy that suits casual dining. Ideal for refuelling between college-hopping and city exploring.
The Orator
Address: Round Church St, Cambridge CB5 8AD
A distinctive Cambridge setting inside the historic Cambridge Union—part brasserie, part cocktail bar, with the city’s debating heritage baked into the atmosphere. Drop in for polished drinks, a sociable meal, or a slower evening that feels quintessentially Cambridge (especially if you like your venues with a story).
The Plough
Address: 2 High St, Coton, Cambridge CB23 7PL
A classic “country pub done properly” just outside Cambridge—perfect after a walk, bike ride or an afternoon exploring West Cambridge. The setting is village-pretty, the feel is rustic-smart, and the menu leans seasonal and locally sourced. If you want a proper pub lunch with a destination vibe, this is a strong contender.
The Tiffin Truck
Address: 22 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1DB
Address: Unwin Square, Cambridge CB4 2AD
Fast, fun and full of flavour—this Regent Street spot brings the buzz of Indian market food to the heart of Cambridge. Expect street-food favourites, tiffin-style comfort dishes and a drinks list that goes beyond the obvious (including Indian craft beers and cocktails). Great for a speedy lunch or an upbeat evening meal.
The Pint Shop
Address: 10 Peas Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PN
Right in the thick of central Cambridge, The Pint Shop is a smart pick for craft beer lovers who also care about what’s on the plate. It’s brilliantly placed for a pre-theatre bite (Arts Theatre and the Corn Exchange are close by), with a beer-house atmosphere that feels lively without being chaotic.
Al Casbah
Address: 62 Mill Rd, Petersfield, Cambridge CB1 2AS
A Cambridge favourite on Mill Road for charcoal-grilled North African and Levantine flavours—warm hospitality, vibrant spice, and plenty to share. Think mezze, tagines, couscous and sizzling grill dishes in a room that feels like an escape from the everyday. Perfect for an easygoing evening with big flavour.