10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Cambridge

Market Square is home to an outdoor market where you can find food stalls and souvenirs. But after the food and craft market stalls close, the area around Market Square comes to life with many pubs, cocktail bars and nightclubs to choose from. Located in the centre of town, this location has been a trading spot since the Saxon times, and the establishments surrounding the square have entertained Cambridge scholars for centuries.

You'll find that the venues around Market Square vary greatly, from traditional pubs to contemporary bars. Places such as La Raza, Cambridge Junction and the Arts Theatre will offer live music or comedy shows with your beverage. Meanwhile, The Haymakers, Flying Pig, and The Eagle are about as traditional as they come, with the latter known as the oldest pub in Cambridge.

Whether it's romance, family fun, or a laugh with friends you're after, punting along the River Cam on a summer evening should not be missed. With many punting companies closing after peak hours, the river is less congested and allows you to take in the beautiful architecture and scenery with a tranquil sunset backdrop.

Evening punting in Cambridge runs between April and September, and most companies let you bring food or drinks on board and accommodate up to 12 people. You can hire a boat on your own or arrange for a punter to push you along while you sit back and enjoy a magical evening.

The Cambridge Corn Exchange is one of the UK's leading venues for music, comedy, and entertainment. It is located near Market Square in the heart of the historic university town. Housed in a listed Victorian building, this remarkable place might look old on the outside, but it is equipped with all the latest technology.

Shows are on offer most nights of the week ranging from ballet to rock or comedy to educational lectures. The venue can hold up to 1,849 people, which is large enough to host big names in entertainment but also contains intimate meeting rooms that are perfect for receptions, dinners or other group events.

Although Cambridge is best known for its prestigious university, its historical past is also part of its intrigue. For a unique experience, prepare yourself for unusual, gruesome tales told by experienced guides and excellent storytellers.

Tour groups such as Haunted Cambridge, Terrible Tours, and Black Shuck Cambridge Ghost Tours provide evening excursions full of local knowledge, legendary tales, and spooky fun. You'll see a different side of Cambridge and hear accounts of witches, magic, and hauntings, as well as stories about famous people who once roamed the cobbled streets of Cambridge.

Cambridge has a great live music scene, and the wide variety of venues means you can find a gig on any night of the week. They’ll provide the perfect nightcap for your evening. Everything from jazz, folk, rock, or hip hop is on offer in establishments that range from pubs and cafes to nightclubs and large concert halls.

Cambridge Junction is an artsy place that attracts well-known bands and up-and-coming musicians across different genres. Big names often play at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, which can hold about 1,800 guests, while The Portland Arms is a pub that holds up to 200 people and is known for hosting budding artists in its lively venue.

The Institute of Astronomy has an observation centre ideal for a quiet evening of stargazing. It’s located on the Cambridge University campus. You won't have to worry about light pollution due to the large aperture telescopes available on-site.

The observatory website provides weather forecasts and when the sky will be at its darkest for optimal viewing. You can join a free public open night with no booking required; or take part in one of the many events at the observatory, including evening opportunities to learn how to use computerised telescopes.

The Town and Gown Theatre is a traditional British pub with a twist. As a former arts cinema, the theatre within the pub is a nod to the historical roots of the building. The Fringe Theatre venue, located upstairs, is where you will find entertainment that is far from traditional. Ranging from piano acts and in-house plays to hysterical singalongs and comedy shows, Town and Gown is a local favourite for all things quirky and fun.

Book tickets for a show at the intimate fringe theatre or drop in for free on Friday nights when the resident DJ gets the party started. Enjoy locally brewed beers, cocktails, gin tasting or nibbles and expect the unexpected.

Regent Street is known for having the best nightlife in Cambridge and offers a cluster of bars and nightclubs that won't disappoint on a night out. As part of the city's historic core, it has undergone many changes over the years but has remained a local hot spot. From trendy rooftop bars to dark cavernous pubs, you don't need to wander far to find the vibe you're looking for.

The Lab is a cocktail bar serving unique concoctions among cosy booths with velvet seats. Novi has a rooftop bar that is enjoyed all year round under heaters and fairy lights. Parker's Tavern cocktail and wine bar inside the University Arms hotel is a sophisticated experience of old-world charm.

Hidden Rooms cocktail bar in the heart of Cambridge crafts speciality drinks with high-end spirits in a cosy atmosphere. Located in the basement of Victorian-era Roman Baths, this spot is known for its creative concoctions and special events. Although not a nightclub, Hidden Rooms occasionally offers live music and is a popular venue for functions and parties.

This intimate lounge provides table service from its knowledgeable and friendly staff. You must be over 18 to enter and it’s a good idea to make a booking for Friday or Saturday nights.