About This Pub
Ah, The Free Press – it's one of those hidden gems in Cambridge that just warms you up from the moment you step inside. I love how they've kept all the original features, like the historic handpumps and that snug area, making it feel like a proper step back in time, while still offering a menu packed with tasty, locally sourced grub that never disappoints. Whether it's the generous portions of fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast that's surprisingly spot-on, the food really shines, paired with a great range of beers that are award-winners for a reason. It's super dog-friendly too, which is brilliant if you're out for a walk and fancy a break. On the flip side, it does get bustling on weekends, so you might end up waiting around, and with it being shut on Mondays, you'll have to plan your visits carefully. All in all, it's a top spot for a laid-back evening with mates, as long as you're prepared for the occasional crowd and a bit of a splurge.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is absolutely spot on – think delicious, locally sourced dishes like crispy fish and chips or a cracking Sunday roast, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
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It's got that cosy, welcoming vibe with open fires in winter and a lovely courtyard garden for summer days, making it perfect for a relaxed catch-up.
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They boast an excellent selection of award-winning beers and ales, which really hit the spot if you're after something traditional and top-notch.
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Being dog-friendly means you can bring your furry mate along, adding to the homely feel.
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The pub's rich history and original features, like the old handpumps, give it a charming, authentic character that's hard to beat.
Cons
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It can get pretty packed on weekends, so you might have to queue or book ahead to snag a table.
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They're closed on Mondays, which is a shame if you're planning a mid-week pint.
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Prices are on the moderate side, so it might feel a tad pricey for a casual night out, especially if you're watching the pennies.
Contact Information
7 Prospect Row, Cambridge CB1 1DU
+441223368337
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday (Today) | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 21:00 |
Recent Reviews
Classic English pub vibes: cozy inside, relaxed atmosphere & the playlist actually fit the vibe. Walked in without a reservation and still got seated. Broke my long-standing no-fish streak for the fish & chips — and honestly? No regrets. Tasty, crispy, and a great-sized portion for the price. All in all, a great spot. I’d absolutely come back 🫱🏼🫲🏽
🙌🏽 Sunday Roast
Lamb is surprisingly better than the beef roast!
Good vibe & good food
This pub gets very crowded on weekends. Really tasty fish and chips and burger. Generous portions. Sides like chips and mushy peas were very good, too.
This pub is delicious!!
Decent scotch egg. Jammy yolk (though not runny), crunchy shell, balanced spice, and not-greasy pork. The salad is great.
“Steak is special, but the risotto will always be there”— that’s why I never get to the classic menu in restaurants haha. Perfectly cooked, lean but tender and juicy. (To be honest I didn’t expect much for a pub but this was a good surprise.) The salad sauce is citrusy and refreshing. It soaked the steak as well so I really didn’t need the satay sauce :3 the chips are dangerously crispy, unlike those in many other British restaurants.
The white sauce for the scallops is delightful, light with a hint of lemon. The scallops are on the slightly undercooked side. I like raw food, but maybe frying it a little longer would work better with the sauce. The mushrooms are lovely.
The staff are friendly, and the young lady at the bar gives god recommendations.
Looking forward to coming back for the regular menu (and specials). (Rarebit and anchovies, Jerusalem artichoke risottos, blood orange scallops… all sound nice too!
Lovely food and beer in a great old Cambridge pub! Dog friendly and a log fire. (Loos currently portaloos) Highly recommended! Returned for Sunday lunch! Yum! (Loos now sorted!)
Returned with friends today. Again lovely beer and great food!
Returned again with family! All standards maintained! Lovely to have a log fire in December!
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