129 Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 1PG

About This Pub

Ah, The Earl of Derby – it's one of those classic Cambridge spots that really warms you up with its welcoming vibe. I've got to say, the staff are just brilliant; they're always on hand with a smile and make you feel like you're chatting with old mates rather than just grabbing a drink or a room. The full English breakfast is an absolute winner – think generous portions at a price that won't break the bank, and it's served up quickly too, which is a treat when you're in a hurry. Plus, if you're into sports, there are loads of screens to catch the action, and the beer garden is a lovely spot for a relaxed afternoon with a cold one in hand. The rooms are another highlight; they're clean, comfy, and come with thoughtful touches like free tea and coffee, which make for a pleasant stay if you're overnighting. But, let's be honest, it's not all perfect – you might spot some wear and tear, like mould in the bathrooms, which is a bit of a shame and could do with sorting out. Service can hit a snag now and then, especially if tech glitches pop up, and it doesn't quite have that cosy hotel feel for anything more than a short visit. Overall, though, it's a solid choice for a casual outing or a quick break, and I'd recommend giving it a go if you're in the area – just keep those little downsides in mind for a balanced experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The staff are absolutely lovely and make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
  • They serve a cracking full English breakfast that's generous and great value for money – perfect for starting your day.
  • The rooms are clean and comfy, with nice little extras like complimentary toiletries and sweets to make your stay feel special.
  • It's got a brilliant atmosphere with plenty of screens for catching the latest sports, plus a beer garden for enjoying a drink outside.
  • Free WiFi and parking are a real bonus, making it super convenient for popping in or staying over.
Cons
  • There can be some maintenance niggles, like mould in the bathrooms, which might put a dampener on things.
  • Service occasionally drags a bit, especially if they're dealing with technical issues or a rush.
  • It doesn't quite feel like the spot for a longer getaway – more of a quick stop than a proper retreat.

Contact Information

129 Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 1PG
+441223352785
Pub
Hours not available

Opening Hours

Opening hours not available

Location

Recent Reviews

Staff were lovely and friendly on arrival and throughout our stay. Rooms were clean and beds very comfortable. Nice extra touches when we first got in the room such as complimentary toiletries, ear plugs and sweets. Only negative was the bathroom had mould on the ceiling but this didn't affect or stay.
ED
Emma Dalton
We went to the pub and it was good, but not somewhere I would come and stay for a long time. You have screens to watch football and some eating area outside, with cars parking around. The toilets were easily accessible. Bar staff was friendly, but needed to wait a bit as they were showing some rooms for the guests. The drink choice was good.
IR
Indy Ro
5/5 Stars – Great Breakfast, Great Value Popped into The Earl Of Derby in Cambridge for their full English breakfast and was really pleased. At £7.95 including tea or coffee, it's a great deal. The food came out quickly and the portion was generous — big sausage, plenty of bacon, hash brown, egg, beans, toast, and tomatoes. I asked for no mushrooms and they got that spot on. Tasty, filling, and in a relaxed pub setting — exactly what you want from a proper breakfast. Will definitely be back!
TC
Tom Clark
I didn’t stay at the hotel, but the breakfast and service was phenomenal. Unfortunately their ticket system went down and my order didn’t get sent to the kitchen when I first ordered. However, due to previously working in hospitality myself, I perfectly understood as this had happened many times where I used to work. The staff were so apologetic about this mistake and quickly offered me a free wine and brought out the breakfast, cutlery and sauce to me in no time at all. Fantastic service and the breakfast tastes even better than how I remember!!!! Date of visit: 01/04/2025 Time: 11:40 AM
T
Taz
Just left this venue and have nothing but positive feedback! Affordable prices, great atmosphere, lovely decor. Taylor, who was running the place during my visit, was consistently available, constantly kind and impressively personable. My visit was full of the regular oddities that any pub must face, but Taylor remained professional whilst retaining her enthusiasm. I don’t want to sound condescending but this is an incredibly difficult feat in this sort of environment, I was very impressed by this and it made me feel very comfortable in a place I hadn’t spent time in before. Prices good, chips were some of the best I’ve had in my life, and the aforementioned staff were great. I highly recommend The Earl of Derby!
L
luke

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