The Granta, Cambridge – 47 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing
The Granta — student bar photo

The Granta -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 47 user ratings

14 Newnham Rd, Cambridge CB3 9EX, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Granta is a popular riverside pub located at 14 Newnham Rd, Cambridge, that has become a staple for students from the University of Cambridge. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, this venue offers a perfect blend of good drinks, classic pub food, and stunning views of the River Cam. The Granta is not just a place to grab a drink; it's a vibrant social hub where students often congregate to kick off their nights out. With a reputation for being packed with energy, it’s a spot where students can enjoy a buzzing atmosphere and make unforgettable memories with friends.

The overall vibe at The Granta is described as lively and friendly, making it an ideal location for students looking to meet new people or catch up with friends before heading to other venues. Many reviews highlight the welcoming crowd that frequents the pub, which contributes to its lively and inclusive atmosphere. Students frequently mention that it’s easy to relax and feel at home here, with many feeling that they can let loose and enjoy themselves without any pretensions. The combination of a chill ambiance and a student buzz creates a unique experience that keeps patrons returning.

When it comes to music, The Granta has received positive feedback for its well-curated playlists. The DJ is noted for playing tracks that keep the energy high and the dance floor lively. Students appreciate that the music is upbeat and perfectly complements the atmosphere, making it easy to get lost in the moment. The sound quality is generally praised, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the night. However, it can get quite packed, which some students found a bit overwhelming at times. Still, the vibrant energy of the crowd often outweighs any discomfort from the crowding.

In terms of drinks, The Granta is lauded for its reasonable pricing, which is a significant plus for students on a budget. Many reviews highlight the good mix of cheap drinks available, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The selection of drinks is diverse enough to cater to different tastes, and students often mention that the drinks flow freely, contributing to the fun and social atmosphere of the pub. While some may argue that it’s not the cheapest venue around, the overall experience and atmosphere are considered to justify the prices.

The queue and entry experience at The Granta are generally rated positively. Students appreciate that the venue is accessible and that the queue moves relatively quickly, allowing them to get inside and start enjoying their night without long waits. The friendly staff also contribute to a welcoming entry experience, which is often noted in reviews. Many students feel safe and comfortable here, which is an essential factor for a good night out.

Students have shared a variety of experiences from their nights at The Granta. Many emphasize that it’s the perfect spot to start a night out, often ending up spending more time than they initially planned. The atmosphere is described as buzzing, with students dancing and enjoying themselves, creating an infectious energy that makes it hard to leave. Some have mentioned that it’s the kind of place where stories are made, even if the details of the night become a bit hazy. This speaks to the fun and carefree spirit that The Granta embodies.

However, it’s important to note that while The Granta excels in many areas, it may not suit everyone. For those looking for a more extravagant or upscale night out, this venue might feel a bit too casual. Additionally, while the atmosphere can be vibrant and exciting, the size of the crowd can sometimes lead to a less comfortable experience for those who prefer quieter settings. Overall, The Granta is best suited for students who thrive in lively environments and enjoy a good mix of music, drinks, and social interaction.

In summary, The Granta stands out as a highly rated venue for students at the University of Cambridge. Its combination of a friendly atmosphere, good music, and reasonably priced drinks makes it a go-to spot for many. Whether you’re looking to start your night out or just unwind after a long week, The Granta offers a welcoming and enjoyable experience that captures the essence of student life in Cambridge. With its riverside location and vibrant energy, it’s a place where memories are made and friendships are nurtured, making it a must-visit for any student in the area.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere that fosters social interaction
  • Reasonably priced drinks that appeal to student budgets
  • Good music selection that keeps the energy high
  • Quick-moving queues for easy entry
  • Stunning riverside views that enhance the experience
  • Welcoming crowd that makes everyone feel included

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded, which may be uncomfortable for some
  • Not the cheapest venue in town, though value is considered good
  • Casual vibe may not suit those looking for a more upscale experience
  • Music volume can be overwhelming during peak times
  • Some students report mixed experiences with finding seating

🎯 Best For

Students who enjoy a lively atmosphere and want a fun place to socialize with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, making it easy to fit in after classes.
  • Arriving early can help avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
  • The music style is upbeat and varies, often featuring popular dance tracks.
  • Be prepared for a bustling environment, especially during peak hours.
  • Consider checking the drink specials to maximize value.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Granta like?

The Granta is a lively riverside pub known for its friendly atmosphere and good music, perfect for students.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally quick-moving, allowing for easy entry, especially during weekdays.

Is it good value?

Yes, many students find the drinks reasonably priced, making it a good value for the overall experience.

What music does The Granta play?

The music is upbeat and varies, often featuring popular dance tracks that keep the energy high.

Is there a smoking area?

Yes, The Granta has a designated smoking area that is well-rated by patrons.

The Granta — student bar photo
Reviews
1 of 47
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Weekends at The Granta are incredibly vibrant, with an atmosphere that just draws you in. The energy is so infectious that it's hard to resist joining in the fun, especially with the music setting the perfect backdrop for some unforgettable moments.
By user945537 (Cambridge) on Aug 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking in, the lively atmosphere caught me off guard; everyone was mingling and having a great time, which felt refreshing compared to the quieter places I usually frequented. It made my first visit really memorable.
By user757880 (Cambridge) on Jul 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A laid-back crowd seems to fit best here, perfect for students who want a casual place to unwind without the hype of other spots around.
By user516213 (Cambridge) on Jul 22nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
For a night out that won't break the bank, The Granta is a solid choice. The crowd's decent, and the music adds to the fun. I'd definitely return for another enjoyable evening. 🎶
By user417082 (Cambridge) on Jul 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta really creates a cozy vibe with its inviting lighting that puts you right at ease. I love how, even when it gets busy, the atmosphere remains comfortable and not at all overwhelming, which I really appreciated.
By user520676 (Cambridge) on Jul 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
You really feel the energy at The Granta, and it totally blew me away! The crowd is so lively, and the pulsing music creates such a dynamic vibe that I instantly knew I was in the right spot. 🎉
By user288943 (Cambridge) on Jul 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta offers a refreshing vibe that's unique in the area. The blend of students and locals creates an interesting atmosphere, and each night brings something new. Socializing is easy here, thanks to the friendly crowd that makes chatting enjoyable. 😊
By user120701 (Cambridge) on Jun 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
There's a sense that people genuinely care about The Granta, which is refreshing compared to some other spots in Cambridge. You can see it in how the staff interact with everyone, whether it's remembering orders or just sharing a laugh. That attention makes the place feel welcoming and like it matters, turning a casual night out into something a bit more special.
By user251013 (Cambridge) on Jun 21st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Wasn't expecting it to be this clean and organised for a night out. drinks were reasonably priced, and the music was just right for keeping the mood lively without drowning out conversation
By user835906 (Cambridge) on Jun 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
A visit to The Granta is worthwhile for a relaxed evening. The setting is chill, but the music can occasionally be too loud for conversation. If you're after a night with no frills and few expectations, it's a good spot.
By user240838 (Cambridge) on Jun 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The staff at this place make a real effort to ensure you have a great experience. It's more than just a spot to grab a drink; the sense of community here truly stands out and makes it worth visiting.
By user730490 (Cambridge) on Jun 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Crowd can be a bit rowdy at times, which makes it tough to chat without yelling. Still, the atmosphere is lively enough to keep you engaged.
By user601951 (Cambridge) on May 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Music fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere that feels really fitting for student life. It's the kind of place where you can unwind after lectures, sharing laughs and drinks with friends while the energy keeps rising throughout the night. Staff are laid-back, which adds to the easygoing nature, making it a usual hangout for many, where it all feels pretty familiar.
By user480432 (Cambridge) on May 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta's location on the river offers a laid-back atmosphere that elevates the overall experience.
By user202450 (Cambridge) on May 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found this place a solid hangout after late studio sessions, where it’s nice to unwind and catch up with mates. the atmosphere feels lively but laid-back, which is great when you need a break from all the design stress.
By user778782 (Cambridge) on May 5th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I didn't expect the lively atmosphere here, considering its relaxed look from the outside. The music was loud, and people were socializing, creating an infectious energy. It was such a pleasant surprise that it quickly became a favorite spot to unwind after early mornings.
By user933249 (Cambridge) on Apr 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The relaxed murmur inside this place creates a soothing atmosphere where stress just seems to melt away. It's a welcome break from hectic university life. Whether you're sipping a drink or grabbing a snack, here offers a refreshing escape with its unbeatable scenery.
By user108500 (Cambridge) on Apr 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hanging out by the river here is something everyone should experience at least once because the views are unreal. It's a relaxed spot for grabbing a decent pint and chatting with friends, all while watching the punts drift by. 🌊
By user205646 (Cambridge) on Apr 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta's location genuinely surprised me with its beauty. It's a laid-back spot, but the real highlight was the crowd—a refreshing mix of students and locals. After visiting many pubs that feel skewed to one group, this was a welcome change.
By user137524 (Cambridge) on Apr 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The location by the river really sets this place apart, creating a unique vibe that's hard to find elsewhere. It's always buzzing with students, which adds life and energy. Whether you're sharing a table or just soaking up the atmosphere, there's a welcoming feel that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy yourself.
By user236338 (Cambridge) on Apr 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
There's a special vibe here at sunset, when everything seems to glow magical and laughter fills the air. Students gather on the terrace, drinks in hand, creating a relaxed, low-key party atmosphere. The River Cam provides a stunning backdrop, making it feel like an evening that's both chill and memorable 🍹.
By user533617 (Cambridge) on Apr 2nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
I find myself heading to The Granta for a break during busy lecture days. The staff is consistently friendly, and they really know how to whip up a good drink. The more I come here, the more I enjoy everything it has to offer. ☕️
By user490552 (Cambridge) on Apr 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
After a long day of classes, The Granta is a go-to for students looking to unwind. The buzz in the air is contagious, especially when the sun is out, making the views really enjoyable. 🌞
By user907111 (Cambridge) on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
With its inviting atmosphere, it has quickly become one of my preferred spots instead of the usual hangouts. The riverside location is a bonus, but it's really the laid-back vibe that keeps me coming back. 😊
By user865842 (Cambridge) on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Having to wait forever to get a table on nice days by the river is a bit of a drag.
By user782423 (Cambridge) on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The little tables by the window inside this place are seriously underrated. They're perfect for people-watching, especially if you enjoy a bit of tranquillity amid the usual hustle and bustle. It’s surprising more people don’t snag these spots.
By user480682 (Cambridge) on Mar 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Weekends have become so much better here. The crowd offers a fun mix of lively and relaxed vibes, and it's been great becoming a familiar face among other regulars.
By user204210 (Cambridge) on Mar 12th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff seems genuinely happy, which adds to the chill riverside vibe.
By user406069 (Cambridge) on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
There's something about this place that feels like a natural part of the Cambridge experience. It's a popular spot for students to unwind after lectures, offering a chill vibe and good company. It's easy to see why people keep coming back 🌙.
By user554213 (Cambridge) on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Spending time here is a real treat! This place stands out because of the amazing atmosphere and the view of the River Cam adds to the charm. Perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon when you want to relax and unwind.
By user776273 (Cambridge) on Feb 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard some friends say the granta's especially chill during the week. went on a wednesday and it was pretty laid back, with plenty of space to grab a table by the water. weekends can be packed though, just heads up it might get a bit crowded.
By user159824 (Cambridge) on Jan 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding this place by chance turned out to be a lucky discovery. The atmosphere is a rare mix of chill and lively, making it an excellent escape from campus chaos. It’s the kind of spot where you can sip a pint and genuinely relax.
By user256300 (Cambridge) on Jan 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
For anyone wanting to chill out, it’s perfect. A friend pointed out how laid-back and easygoing everyone was, without any hurried vibes. It’s certainly a place to kick back and take a proper break.
By user453103 (Cambridge) on Jan 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are absolutely sound, always up for a chat or spotting a refill before you even know you need one. feels more like your mate serving rather than someone just doing their shift.
By user907288 (Cambridge) on Jan 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta has quickly become my favorite chill spot in Cambridge. I never expected to find such a peaceful escape from the city's bustle while enjoying a pint. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and watching the punts glide by, making it an ideal spot to relax.
By user664148 (Cambridge) on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Feels a bit cramped inside when it's busy, especially during term time. sometimes hard to find a seat, and queues can get long. outside is lovely, but when it rains, there's not much cover.
By user593591 (Cambridge) on Jan 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Unwinding with friends is easy here. We ordered some drinks, and the relaxed vibe from the staff made sure we never felt rushed. It allowed for a perfect evening to just chat and hang out, enjoying every moment without any pressure. 🍻
By user616919 (Cambridge) on Dec 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The welcoming vibe here effortlessly makes you want to stay longer than planned. If you're in need of a mini escape or just a chill space, it's definitely the right atmosphere for unwinding. When the weather's nice, there's something magical about it, making it a great spot to relax away from the usual hustle. 🌞
By user876899 (Cambridge) on Dec 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grabbing a drink here can sometimes feel like being in a parallel universe where everyone seems familiar. It's as if every other person is someone from your lectures or tutorials.
By user261684 (Cambridge) on Dec 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
If you’re looking to meet new people, The Granta is definitely the spot for you. The vibe really fosters friendly conversations with others. Plus, on a sunny day, enjoying a drink there makes the experience even better!
By user723752 (Cambridge) on Dec 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta is a fantastic place if you enjoy meeting new faces, as there's always a lively mix of students and locals engaging in conversation. It's perfect for those times when you want to relax with a drink and soak up some casual camaraderie.
By user543643 (Cambridge) on Dec 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
The Granta is such a great spot to unwind in the city. Holding a pint, you can really soak in the calm vibe that makes it feel like a little getaway. It's perfect for taking a break and escaping the everyday hustle and bustle 😌.
By user590716 (Cambridge) on Nov 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
One afternoon after lectures, I caught up with a coursemate here. This place provided a perfect setting for a break, creating a moment that felt like pure bliss.
By user565864 (Cambridge) on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
It’s amazing how being just minutes from the city center can feel like a holiday. This place has a vibe that really transforms your mood with its beautiful river view. Even a short visit leaves you feeling relaxed and refreshed. 🌿
By user974149 (Cambridge) on Nov 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
One of my favorite spots in Cambridge has to be The Granta. My typical mornings are filled with training sessions, but when I finish early, it's so refreshing to head over there. The Granta offers a perfect little retreat to soak up the sun and unwind, and I love that there's more to it than just the drinks. It's become a great way to ease into relaxation mode after a busy start to the day.
By user834061 (Cambridge) on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Sitting by the river at the granta is just peaceful. went there during fresher’s week and ended up people-watching with some new uni mates, which made for a chilled evening.
By user932789 (Cambridge) on Oct 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
By user228546 (Cambridge) on Apr 2nd 2025