Are you planning to visit Cambridge soon and are you wondering how to escape the crowds?
Cambridge is a stunning place to visit any time of the year, but it is even better when the skies are blue, and the sun is out. Take a stroll along the River Cam, meander around the commons, admire the Red Pole cattle and discover quaint cobbled streets searching for the best Cambridge has to offer.
It’s often not easy to find lovely independent places if you don’t know a city very well. So let me help you to find the best secret gardens in Cambridge. It’s easy to miss these local gems as they’re often tucked away on a side street or off the beaten track.
Public dining areas have been created throughout the historic centre, from the market square to Peas Hill and the Round Church garden. As you can imagine, these places are hugely popular over the weekends, but where to go if you are keen to get away from the crowds?
Here are my favourite secret gardens in Cambridge. Some of them are very popular with the locals, so I suggest booking a table to avoid disappointment.
Sip Cocktails and play Croquet on the Lawn
Tucked away behind the green foliage of the pretty garden of the Gonville Hotel close to Parkers Piece, this fantastic Al Fresco dining area and terrace has popped up. On the lawn at the Gonville is perfect for cocktails, lunch or dinner. Featuring a lavishly decorated marquee on the Lawn, deck chairs where you can sip cocktails, play a game of Croquet before lunch and feast on local produce.
Sip cocktails and dine at one of Cambridge’s landmarks
Part of the Cambridge Union Society, this stunning venue has had a stunning revamp recently. You can relax with a drink or a book in the bar area or enjoy a cocktail and dine in the Brasserie. If you prefer to be outside, then their secluded garden is the perfect place in the bustling centre of Cambridge.
Italian vibes in Mill Road
The newly created terrace of this Mill Road institution for casual Al Fresco dining and with a cracking Deli, Limoncello, is an excellent spot to relax on Mill Road. This vibey part of Cambridge is where the locals like to hang out. Limoncello should be on the cards if like to be transported back to Italy and not only for an Aperol! Their anti-pasta platters, pizzas and pasta come highly recommended.
The best Porchetta in Cambridge
Locally famous for serving the best sandwich in Cambridge! The stars of the show at Bread and Meat are the Porchetta, honey soy chicken and the top side beef. It’s the only place in Cambridge serving Poutin, which is made with fresh curd. Their secret garden is tucked away behind St. Bene’t’s Church across the street.
Sip tea in the magic garden of a unique museum
One of the most unique museums in Cambridge, Kettles Yard, has a delightful secret garden. This lovely area is situated next door to them on the grounds of a church. You can look forward to delicious food from one of Cambridge local favourites, the Garden Kitchen.
Craft beer and fine wines at a quirky bar
One of the quirkiest hangouts in Cambridge. Also known as a bottle shop for their excellent wines and craft beer. In the evening, local food trucks pull up on the kerb to serve you various street food. Check out their social media for the latest updates. Their tiny secret garden is tucked away at the back of the building
New York style roof terrace for late night cocktails
Situated on one of the major streets in Cambridge, Regent Street, this quirky terrace is easy to be missed. Tucked away on the first floor at the back of the building, it feels more like a terrace in New York city than Cambridge. Serving modern cuisine, excellent coffee and cocktails.
Gerla
