The Eagle pub in Cambridge, England ()
Picture yourself ducking through a crooked doorway into a dimly lit room. As your eyes adjust to the cozy ambiance, you notice the eclectic décor – wooden interiors with framed photographs capturing moments of the past and perhaps a fireplace crackling in the corner. The low hum of conversation surrounds you, interrupted by bursts of laughter and the clinking of glasses. The atmosphere is filled with the comforting scent of well-worn leather upholstery, aged timber, and a hint of malt from the ales on tap. A pub is the perfect place to enjoy a round of pints and top-notch grub.
So, what’s a pub crawl?
At its essence, a pub crawl is when you visit a few pubs and have at least one drink in each. It’s about meeting new people and enjoying shared experiences. There is rarely any actual crawling unless you drink so much that you eventually can no longer remain upright. In Cambridge, a pub crawl offers a delightful experience with over a hundred pubs, conveniently located a few yards apart.
Getting started
My first pub crawl was spontaneous. My friends and I casually moseyed from one pub to the next and enjoyed a brew at each one. Enticed by crafted signs showcasing whimsical and eccentric names, we ventured into each establishment with no knowledge-led expectations.
My familiarity with British ales and cider was nonexistent. I asked a ton of questions while staring at the wide selection of drinks available. I may have, not-so-politely, resorted to ordering by way of pointing in an “I’ll have what he’s having” fashion.
Going Pro
During another visit to Cambridge, we booked an organized crawl. Our guide, William (nope, not that William), was so much fun and knowledgeable about the history of each pub.
Our itinerary, near Parker’s Piece, included unique and cozy pubs like The Clarendon Arms, The Elm Tree, The Free Press, The Tram Depot, and The Old Bicycle Shop. All are notable pubs with great atmosphere. Our group sipped through a selection of real ales, draught beer and wines, all while feasting on hearty British favorites such as fish and chips and Shepherd’s pie.
Off-the-beaten-path recommendations from our guide added a layer of adventure. The Old Ticket Office, near the Cambridge Rail Station, is pure eye candy with its stunning restoration and a diverse lineup of craft beer, cider and spirits.
The Eagle, dating back to the 14th century, stands out as one of the oldest pubs. During World War II, Allied airmen used wax candles, lighters, and lipstick to write their names and other doodles onto the ceiling. Boasting even more historical significance, it was here in 1953 that scientists Francis Crick and James Watson announced the discovery of DNA, thus immortalizing the pub forever.
The pub crawl captures the essence of Cambridge’s history and provides a memorable exploration of the city’s rich drinking culture. Each pub is unique. The walls tell stories, and every piece within seems to have a history. Even if you have no interest in drinking, it’s worth a peek inside.
