About This Pub
Ah, The Elm Tree – it's one of those hidden gems in Cambridge that just hits the spot for anyone who appreciates a good pint in a relaxed setting. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the place really shines with its incredible variety of beers; whether you're into those rich Belgian styles or classic UK real ales, they've got something to suit every taste, and the staff are always up for helping you pick the perfect one. The cosy, candlelit interior with board games and live music on Sundays makes it feel like a proper local hangout, where you can settle in for a chat without any fuss. On the flip side, it's a bit of a shame about the food situation – just bar snacks on offer, or you're welcome to bring your own, which is handy but not ideal if you're hoping for a full pub grub experience. Still, with its moderate prices and that genuine, friendly vibe from the reviews, it's a solid choice for a laid-back evening. All in all, if you're after a spot that's more about the drinks and the company than a big night out, I'd say give The Elm Tree a go – you might just find yourself returning for more.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The beer selection is absolutely fantastic, with a brilliant range of Belgian brews, real ales from small UK breweries, and even tasters available if you're not sure what to go for.
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It's got such a cosy, candlelit vibe that makes you feel right at home, perfect for a relaxed evening with board games on offer and live music most Sundays.
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The staff are super friendly and welcoming, always ready with recommendations or a chat, which really adds to that community feel.
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Prices are moderate, so it's easy on the wallet, and you can even bring your own snacks or food since they don't have a full kitchen – makes it quite flexible.
Cons
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There's no proper kitchen, so you're limited to bar snacks or whatever you bring along, which might disappoint if you're after a hearty meal.
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Opening times can be a bit confusing with variations listed, like being closed on Mondays and Tuesdays according to the website, so it's worth double-checking to avoid a wasted trip.
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It's tucked away in a residential area, which is charming but might not suit if you're looking for something more central or lively in the heart of Cambridge.
Contact Information
16A Orchard St, Cambridge CB1 1JT
+441223322553
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
Monday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Tuesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Friday (Today) | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 22:30 |
Recent Reviews
A good old boozer, with great selection of ales & Belgian beers
The Elm Tree is a North Star of great selection, wide acceptance, and small wallets. Great bar tender, great beer, and great aesthetic.
A pub that is worth visiting when coming to Cambridge, because it offers the classic concept of a drinking establishment that is part of British culture. It is located in an urban residential area but the vibe it offers is a unique situation from a typical British drinking place. There is no food for sale, only drinks –whether containing alcohol such as beer, spirits or wine– or non-alcoholic drinks. This pub has had some positive reviews and when I visited it certainly was. A pleasant conversation with the bartender and the atmosphere typical of a British drinking establishment make for an unforgettable impression. The pub also serves a wide range of Belgian beers, beside British local and general ales. Greetings from Indonesia.
My first time at The Elm Tree but certainly not the last.
My friends and I walked around the center for a bit before going to The Elm Tree; it wasn’t a particularly warm evening and I was feeling rather chill. Was not in the mood for beers and really really wanted something hot to drink.
So while my friends were ordering their ales, I asked a bar keeper if they could maybe make me a cup of tea — and what do you think? They kindly prepared one for me even though it was clear it’s not something they usually serve.
It was genuinely nice and kind thing to do. In addition to that, I got asked if I would like to have a piece of lemon in my tea after I mentioned I didn’t usually drink my tea with milk. Never got asked something like that in all my time spent in the UK and was both happy and nostalgic since that’s how we drink tea in my home country.
It was such a small thing but it meant a lot.
I am looking forward to trying the impressive selection of their Belgian ales — and thank you again for your kindness, The Elm Tree!
I was fascinated by this place and I love it. The treatment was amazing, the guy was super nice to us, the people it is super kind, and seems to be like a big family.
They have a huge variety of Belgian-style beers starting with delirium and finishing with lambic ones, so if you love Belgian beer this is the place for you. I really recommend you some Christmas beer 🍺, they are amazing 🤩🤩.
We will definitely repeat the experience 🥰🤩. They have some events in August so don't miss them!
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