This welcoming pub has a baggy, boho vibe that is quite often hard to find in a city boozer outside of London. A charming courtyard, quirky inside spaces, fab food, and only a few minutes walk from the city centre.

The Punter is full of personality inside and out – the courtyard in particular shows the owner’s love of flora and fauna with plenty of lovely pots and plants all about and is the perfect place to while away a weekend afternoon. As an old coaching Inn, the inside is full of nooks and crannies, and the barn at the back is a great relaxing space with sofas and tables for larger groups too. The owners are also dog lovers, so four-legged friends are very welcome inside or out.

The Punter has had the same talented kitchen team since it opened 14 years ago, perhaps why you can rely on them for consistently good, hearty food, that is also modern and inventive. There is the mighty burger, and fish and chips too, but there are also seasonal dishes like delicious pan-fried hake with chorizo or venison sausage and mash and there is plenty for vegans/veggies too, such as vegan shepherds pie or roasted cauliflower with pistachio & tahini dressing. Portions are generous, so wear that elasticated waist. The wine list is excellent – the Luberon Provence rosé cannot go unmentioned! The cellar is run with ‘obsessional rigor’ so if you like your ales and beer you will not be disappointed.

The Punter is also right near to the wonderful Kettle’s Yard museum and gallery and the Cambridge folk museum so the perfect lunch spot if you want to take in these cultural hot spots.