Maypole, Cambridge

The Castiglione family, who have run this city centre pub since 1982, bought the freehold from Punch Taverns in 2009. It has since become a showcase for quality beers. The family has won two Branch Real Ale Champion awards, first Vincent on his own in 2010 and then the whole family in 2024. The eight cask beers on the main bar are conveniently arranged from pale to dark. They include LocAles, with an emphasis on microbreweries. The fifteen or so keg beers include several of interest. Weston's Old Rosie cider is available. There is also a range of world bottled beers, including Belgian and Dutch, canned beers, an extensive list of single malt whiskies and many gins. They have three beer festivals a year - one of which coincides with the nearby Cambridge Beer Festival in May.

The interior comprises a main room featuring a large mural of a village scene with maypole dancing. To the rear is a smaller room and a function room upstairs. A pleasant sun-trap patio also provides covered space with heaters. Food focuses on home-cooked Italian dishes, though traditional pub food is also available. There is step-free access to the front bar but no accessible WC.

Awards

• Cambridge & District Branch City Dark Beer Pub 2025