About This Pub
Ah, Byron's Bear – what a gem of a spot down by the River Cam in Cambridge. I have to say, it's one of those places that really pulls you in with its prime location overlooking Jesus Green; imagine sipping a cold pint while watching the world go by, or grabbing a coffee from the Bear Hatch for a quick riverside pitstop. The beer selection is spot on, with fresh real ales and ciders that beer lovers will rave about, and it's lovely to see them embracing events like piano sessions to keep things lively. Plus, being pet-friendly means you can pop in with your dog for a bite without any fuss, which is a real bonus for us animal folks. On the flip side, though, the service can be a mixed bag – some staff are absolute stars, chatting away and making you feel welcome, but others might seem a bit off-hand, like you're bothering them just to get a drink. Prices are fairer than some in the area, but things like a simple side of chips can feel a bit steep, and there have been a few tales of disappointments with the food, so it's worth going in with realistic expectations. All in all, it's a solid addition to the Cambridge scene, especially if you're after a relaxed vibe with mates, but keep an eye out for those little niggles to make the most of your visit. I'd say give it a go; it's got that warm, community feel that's hard to beat.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The location is absolutely spot on, right by the River Cam with stunning views over Jesus Green – perfect for a relaxing pint on a sunny day.
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They've got a cracking selection of beers, real ales, and even some great ciders that are worth seeking out; it's a real treat for beer enthusiasts.
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It's pet-friendly, so you can bring your well-behaved furry mate along for a drink or a meal, which adds a nice homely touch.
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The atmosphere is buzzing with events like piano nights and the option to bring your own vinyl, making it a fun spot to unwind or celebrate.
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Prices are a bit more reasonable compared to some other places in Cambridge, and they've got solid pub classics on the menu.
Cons
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Service can be a bit inconsistent; some staff are brilliant, but others might make you feel like you're interrupting them when you're just trying to order.
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Prices aren't the cheapest, especially for things like a side of chips, which could leave you feeling a tad short-changed if you're not expecting it.
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You might have to hunt a little for certain drinks, like the real ciders, so it's not always straightforward to find what you're after.
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There have been a few gripes about specific food items not living up to expectations, which could dampen an otherwise lovely visit.
Contact Information
3 Thompsons Ln, Cambridge CB5 8AQ
+441223776969
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday (Today) | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Nice new (well re opened) pub on the Cambridge circuit. Grand view across the river and should be a great place to chill when the punting station shuts. Good beer choice, and a very decent real cider choice but you have to look for it a bit- hint to the management, please push this above the Inch's swill please. Well worth a visit
A busy pub right at the side of the river and the park. As you would expect the prices are not the cheapest but the location makes up for this.
The service from the staff was hit and miss, some were excellent but others it seemed like I was bothering them to order a drink.
Tip. Don’t order the bar pork scratching. It was so hard it was almost impossible to eat and way overpriced. If you want to eat order from the pizza menu in the little take away but at the side of the river. Brilliant pizza cooked fresh and reasonably priced.
A lovely new venue.
Hannah doing a great job looking after the place!
Real ales - fresh - bright and very tasty!
Prices slightly cheaper than others.
All round great addition to the Cambridge pub scene.
I was hugely disappointed, I was so excited to visit, the new pub, it was an extremely busy weekend in town, the sun was shining the atmosphere was lovely, we managed to squeeze ourselves onto bench in the garden in the afternoon sun. All was lovely until we ordered a £4.50 side of chips, I foolishly assumed for £4.50 there would be enough for us to share between us on our little table…..Unfortunately, what turned up was a tiny tin tea cup, with a few chips inside! I don’t usually complain, I think things through and give consideration but I was so shocked, I had to take the teacup back and check if I had received the correct order !!! To be fair to the manager, she said what would you like ??? She reappeared with more chips.
Shame on them, the biggest rip off ever, I had been looking forward to trying this place for dinner, but I won’t bother .
Went with my wife and two friends on the opening day. The pub bodes well. Fabulous position, next to the river and on the corner of Jesus' Green. Nice decor inside, plenty of good quality seating outside, with blankets and hot water bottles (!) in case it's chilly. Good selection of beer (I had the Bear's Beer - 3.4% - I could have drunk it all day! A good 'session' ale). Disappointed that they weren't serving the salt beef sandwich that was on the menu, but was very happy with the Cumberland sausage sandwich. Service was good, cheerful smiling staff. Loos impeccable. Top marks all round. I hope the pub is still going in five hundred years! Good luck!
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