Embarking on a family outing can sometimes feel akin to navigating a labyrinth, where the quest for a location that caters to both adults and children can be fraught with difficulty. Yet, fear not, for within the lush countryside and charming towns of Cambridgeshire lie hidden gems that marry the convivial spirit of a pub with the playful exuberance of children’s play areas. These establishments not only provide a sanctuary for grown-ups to unwind but also ensure that the youngsters have an exquisitely delightful time. Below are ten recommended pubs sprinkled across the picturesque neighborhood of Cambridgeshire, each boasting an enticing play area, perfect for a family rendezvous.
1. The Orchard
Address: 17 Juggs Lane, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9ND
Contact: 01223 845 142
Website: www.orchardpub.co.uk
Nestled in the tranquil village of Grantchester, The Orchard is a delightful blend of pastoral charm and culinary excellence. With its sprawling garden and designated play area, children can frolic beneath the boughs of fruit-laden trees while parents sip on tangy ciders and hearty ales. The ambience is like a warm hug, inviting you to linger on a sun-dappled afternoon.
2. The Anchor
Address: 24 Mill Way, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9ND
Contact: 01223 843 536
Website: www.anchorgrantchester.co.uk
Overlooking the serene River Cam, The Anchor is a quintessential English pub filled with a comforting familiarity. Its play area is a bastion of joy, equipped with slides and swings that transform the garden into a wondrous kingdom. Dine al fresco, allowing the gentle murmur of nature to harmonise with laughter, creating a symphony of familial contentment.
3. The Red Lion
Address: 29 Market Street, Hingham, Norwich NR9 4AF
Contact: 01953 850 206
Website: www.theredlionhingham.co.uk
An oasis of warmth, The Red Lion charms patrons with its rustic interiors and delightful outdoor patio. The dedicated play area encourages creativity and adventure, allowing children to explore while adults relax with a pint. The inviting atmosphere thrum with the hum of community, drawing you in like honey to a bee.
4. The Chequers
Address: 100-102 High Street, Great Wilbraham, Cambridge CB1 0TH
Contact: 01223 880 244
Website: www.chequersgreatwilbraham.co.uk
The Chequers, a beacon of hospitality, delights with its splendid garden and well-designed play area that captures the imaginative spirit of children. Adults can relish a delectable menu rife with local flavours, while little ones can scurry off to play. Here, laughter intertwines with the aroma of sumptuous dishes, and every corner beckons you to sit, enjoy, and unwind.
5. The Castle Inn
Address: 29 Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AH
Contact: 01223 323 092
Website: www.castleinncambridge.co.uk
Perched serenely near St. John’s College, The Castle Inn is brimming with character. The inviting play area, tucked away behind the pub, is akin to a hidden glen waiting to be explored. Parents can indulge in their carefully crafted ales, all while knowing their children are engaged in delightful revelry, making it an idyllic retreat for city dwellers.
6. The Plough
Address: 11 Great North Road, Shepreth, SG8 6DP
Contact: 01763 260 556
Website: www.theploughshepreth.co.uk
The Plough is a true country haven, offering an enchanting play area alongside mouth-watering cuisine infused with local ingredients. The rustic ambiance invites families to relish quality time together, while the play facilities promise hours of fun. It’s a place where traditions are cherished, and every meal is woven with stories and laughter.
7. The Crown Inn
Address: 29 Main Street, Horningsea, Cambridge CB25 9JZ
Contact: 01223 861 018
Website: www.crowninnhorningsea.co.uk
A quaint establishment, The Crown Inn reflects the essence of quintessential village life. Here, the play area is a sanctuary of joy, while the hearty menu tantalises the palate. The charming, rustic décor envelops visitors in a warm embrace, ensuring that the ambiance complements the laughter of children and the chatter of friends.
8. The White Horse
Address: 10 Silver Street, Ely CB7 4JF
Contact: 01353 661 882
Website: www.whitehorseeley.co.uk
In the heart of Ely, The White Horse boasts an enviable play area perfect for little ones. Rustic, quaint, yet undeniably modern, it stands as a testament to the fine beverage offerings that captivate the adult palate. It’s a confluence of past and present, adorned with delightful touches that resonate with warmth and conviviality.
9. The Green Man
Address: 1 Green Hill, Sawston, Cambridge CB22 3NW
Contact: 01223 832 734
Website: www.greenman-sawston.co.uk
The Green Man is a delightful pub that encapsulates the spirit of community and family fun. Children can venture into the play area, a veritable paradise of laughter, while adults sip on a variety of ales or engage in friendly conversation. It’s a dynamic tapestry of experiences, where each visit feels like coming home.
10. The Old Mill
Address: 181 High Road, Willingham, Cambridge CB24 5NH
Contact: 01954 261 155
Website: www.oldmillwillingham.co.uk
Set beside a picturesque stream, The Old Mill combines historic charm with modern flair. The outdoor play area is an invitation for children to frolic, while adults can savour farm-fresh meals prepared with care. Every visit feels like a mini holiday, encapsulating the essence of leisurely happiness with the rustle of trees and gentle laughter in the air.
In the tapestry of Cambridgeshire’s pub scene, these ten establishments stand as vibrant threads interwoven with the joys of community and family togetherness. Each pub, with its unique play area, presents an enchanting experience—where adults can relish a delectable meal while children chase adventure. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a breezy evening, these pubs offer inviting atmospheres that beckon you to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
