The Portland Arms — Restaurant in Cambridge

Great little pub with a real character and one of the best small live music venues I've been to. I came here for a gig and ended up staying way longer than planned because the atmosphere was just that good. The staff were friendly, drinks were fairly priced (solid selection of local ales and some decent ciders), and the sound quality in the venue space was surprisingly good for its size.

It’s a bit tucked away compared to the pubs in the city centre, but totally worth the short walk. The performance room is intimate, so you really feel close to the bands; I saw a couple of up-and-coming indie acts and the energy was amazing.

There’s also a beer garden out back which is great for pre-show pints or a chilled evening. Didn’t try the food this time, but I’ve heard good things about their burgers and nachos.

If you're into live music or just want a proper pub with a welcoming vibe, this is a gem...

Excellent venue to see a band. Tried the Plectrum beer. Wasn’t that impressed with it until I had the nacho cheese tortillas with chilli. Then it took on a taste of its own. I’d have had a couple more had I not been driving. The only downside is if you’re coming to see a band, from afar,you need to find somewhere else to park. But that’s not a problem really as there is plenty of on street parking. The Boathouse pub is a recommendation for parking, but don’t. You’ll not find a place. The staff were excellent and friendly. I’m not a burger fan, but they did look really nice. Ordering food from the table was an excellent idea. Simple to do once you’d loaded the menu. All in all, a very good evening out and will be looking forward to seeing some more live music there again...

Great cosy pub , nice atmosphere, staff friendly good customer service 👍 This is suitable for everyone including all disabilities. The have sound proof venue to hire and out door garden at the back of the pub . Car park is some what tricky in that area but there's plenty of buses and taxis. I walked from Cambridge train station to Chesterton road Portland Arms and took me 35 minutes and enjoyed taking photos on my walk too . Portland Arms had a great gig playing on 6th of August 2025 I saw Dr Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) from Neighbours Australian soap series. It was amazing . Thankyou Portland Arms. I definitely recommend...