The Best Cafes And Tea Shops In Cambridge England

The university city of Cambridge has a number of beautiful historic attractions and wonderful restaurants. Here is our pick of the best cafes and teahouses to try out while you’re in town.

1. The Orchard Tea Garden

The Orchard Tea Garden

Benet’s

Upstairs, in the right hand corner, in the chair closest to the window which overlooks King’s College Chapel, has to be one of the best spots in the whole of Cambridge. If you’ve had a busy week, there’s nothing quite like a large mug of Twinning’s English Breakfast tea while you enjoy the stunning view, perhaps watching the students, cyclists or excited tourist groups. For those who want a well-earned treat, Benet’s also offer a selection of flavoured hot chocolates such as mint or orange, perfect for a chilly day in Cambridge. Those feeling peckish can try a giant Jammie Dodger with a cute heart centre or a magical slice of carrot cake, which never seems to decrease in size. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, there’s a selection of tempting crepes and pancakes (the blueberry and maple syrup pancake stack is divine). There is also

Benet’s, 21 King’s Parade, Cambridge, England, +44 1223 311000

Overlooking King’s College Chapel, has to be one of the best spots in the whole of Cambridge.

2. Fitzbillies

Cafe, Restaurant, European, Tea

For those who may be less familiar with Cambridge vocabulary, a Formal Hall is an event where the usual dining hall menu of a college is replaced with a special meal for the evening. Fitzbillies’ seating arrangement is reminiscent of a Formal Hall – a series of long tables where you may end up sitting side-by-side with strangers. Fitzbillies also do a lovely range of teas and coffees. It’s always very busy but even if you’re just visiting for a weekend or with a tour group, you should still try to check out this charming spot in Cambridge.

3. Cambridge University Tea Society

Cambridge University Tea Society

Afternoon tea and cakes in the garden © Simon Bratt / Shutterstock

4. The Garden Café, Cambridge University Botanic Gardens

The Garden Café, Cambridge University Botanic Gardens

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden © SadieG / Shutterstock

2nd View Coffee Shop (Waterstones)

While it’s not a library, the real benefit of drinking tea here is the peace and quiet. The cafe is situated upstairs and is small enough that it doesn’t feel like an overwhelming canteen but big enough that you can always get a table. Visitors to 2nd View might enjoy having a tea and a biscuit while finishing off that chapter of their Penguin Classic or perhaps penning that groundbreaking novel. The cafe also serves a small variety of hot food such as bagels, although the tea, books and peace and quiet seem to keep most visitors satisfied. A big plus of this little venue is that the staff never rush their guests, making it ideal for a long, lazy afternoon.

2nd View Coffee Shop (Waterstones), 22 Sidney Street, Cambridge, England, +44 1223 366898

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