The Tickell Arms — Restaurant in South Cambridgeshire

So I like to be as honest as I can when writing a review in the hope the place I visit can take the feedback and improve where needed.

Firstly, lovely pub in a lovely setting and the garden is absolutely gorgeous with a very nice water feature, lots of seating and plenty of cover, it was a perfect summers evening setting.

The service, where this was quite attentive the lady who serviced us should practise smiling a bit more and being a little bit more enthusiastic about her job, even if she does have to do a bit of acting, it really makes the difference to have a bubbly server who is as excited about your night out as you are, rather than someone who looked quite miserable, and generally seemed a bit annoyed with not much personality, but nevertheless she bought our food promptly, visited the table frequently enough that we didn't need to hunt someone down (which I hate) but a little more happiness wouldn't go a miss.

Food, a little disappointed but still very enjoyable and the presentation was lovely I must say. My starters were fine and what I would expect. My sea bream was a little shy of food on the plate, literally a couple of potatoes, couple of peppers and onions, some sauce which I am still not sure what it was but it was grey and a bit gloppy with an average sized bit of fish, all for the pleasure of £23, either overpriced food or food not matching the price! We all had this and all had the same opinion. The king prawn starter my friends had really did look lovely and they both really enjoyed it. We did not have a desert.

My last negative feedback is adding a charity donation on the to the bill, this really gets me going, I do not go out to fund a charity nor do I expect someone to make the decision that I am going to, just don't do it, everyone has come out for a meal and we aren't here to squeeze an extra bit of money out for some charity that we have no details on what we are even giving to, so you have to ask to have this removed and you look mean but the truth is, I give to a charity I choose monthly, I don't expect to be doing this when eating out.

We also opted to have to £13.50 service charge removed given the waitress we had and I would only ever pay that if I felt someone went above and beyond what their actual job is and one which I don't expect to have to pay extra for, more so adding this on to the bill is enough to make me have it taken off in itself, don't add it on and you are far more likely to get a nice cash tip because you aren't forcing it and because we decide as the customer that it either is or is not deserved.

All in all I had an OK evening, with OK food and a great atmosphere in a lovely location.

Would I come back, probably not in a rush as there are other eating places around which have a better feel about them as an overall package, but I would go back if someone chose this venue, I certainly wouldn't put them off going.

I gave this a 3* based on I felt this was an average rating which matched the average night out I had.

I totally understand everyone has a different experience, we could have had a different server, different food and it could have been a totally different outcome so I write this with a...

Nestled in the charming outskirts of Cambridge, The Tickell Arms is a true gem that perfectly encapsulates the quintessential English pub experience. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere and a beautiful setting that promises a delightful visit.

The pub itself boasts a wonderful blend of traditional charm and subtle sophistication. The interior is cosy and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a buzzing yet relaxed ambiance – perfect for everything from a casual pint to a special celebratory meal. The real star, however, is often their gorgeous garden. It’s a beautifully maintained space, offering plenty of seating both in the sun and under shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for al fresco dining or simply enjoying a drink on a pleasant day.

Now, onto the food and drink! The menu at The Tickell Arms consistently impresses with its focus on high-quality, seasonal ingredients and beautifully executed dishes. Whether you're after classic pub fare elevated to new heights or something a bit more adventurous, there's always something delicious to choose from. Their Sunday roasts, in particular, come highly recommended – generous portions, perfectly cooked meats, and all the trimmings you could wish for. The drinks selection is equally impressive, with a great range of local ales, a thoughtful wine list, and all the usual favourites.

What truly sets The Tickell Arms apart is the impeccable service. The staff are incredibly friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, always making you feel genuinely welcome and ensuring your experience is nothing short of excellent. Whether you're a local looking for your new favourite haunt or a visitor to Cambridge seeking an authentic and memorable pub meal, The Tickell Arms is an absolute must-visit. It's a place where quality food, great drinks, and a wonderful atmosphere combine to create a truly outstanding experience. Highly...

Disappointing return visit.

We visited The Tickell a few weeks back and thoroughly enjoyed it, we arrived to first class front of house greeting and seating in the conservatory, very good service throughout and lovely food. We therefore had no hesitation in booking again for a family celebration last weekend.

There was no-one to greet us this time and we waited for a waitress to come over to seat us in a gloomy corner of the not busy restaurant whilst tables were free in the lovely conservatory, they said it was too hot to sit in there? We ordered wine and our starters which came in good time, then came the wait for the mains which took almost an hour. Three of the meals were good but mine, the tarragon gnocchi was burnt and smothered with red pepper veloute (presumably to cover up the scorch marks!) It looked and tasted dreadful, it should not have been sent out.

The waitress who took it away mumbled sorry and would I like anything else. Given the fact that we had waited an hour already I declined. The young lady came back and said I wouldn't be charged for the meal, how kind, and did I realise it was a charred gnocchi :). No, I said I didn't as it didn't say on the menu but I also know the difference between charred and plain burnt and bitter.

So I sat, at my birthday lunch with no food, but the wine was good. We had expected a goodwill bottle of wine or free desserts maybe but nothing was forthcoming until we asked for the manager who, in all fairness was most professional and took some money from the bill. It was a shame, spoiled the lunch with family and a complete contrast to our first visit.

Unfortunately the establishment was poorly run by inexperienced staff on this occasion and it showed, consistency does seem to an issue in so...