What is the best walking tour Cambridge has for ghost stories?

This self-guided audio walk is one of the best options for those seeking ghost stories, specifically focusing on the haunted legends of The Eagle and The Mitre. It allows you to explore these 'haunted' locations at night when the atmosphere is most fitting.

Is the Eagle pub in Cambridge really where DNA was discovered?

Yes, while the laboratory work happened at the nearby Cavendish Laboratory, The Eagle is where Watson and Crick famously announced their discovery to the public in 1953. There is a blue plaque outside the pub commemorating this event.

Can I do this walk with children?

While children are allowed in most Cambridge pubs during the day and early evening (usually until 7:00 PM or 9:00 PM), this route is best suited for adults due to its focus on nightlife and ghost stories. Always check individual pub policies regarding minors.

What is the most haunted pub in Cambridge?

The Eagle is frequently cited as the most haunted due to the legend of the cursed window and the spirits of WWII pilots. The Mitre also claims a dark history associated with the 'Hanging Judge' Jeffreys.

Is the route accessible for wheelchairs?

The streets themselves are accessible, but many of Cambridge's historic pubs have narrow entrances and steps. The Eagle and The Mitre have limited accessibility in certain older sections of their buildings.

What is the best time to start this audio walk?

Start around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. This allows you to see the historic architecture in daylight before the pubs transition into their atmospheric evening 'haunted' vibe.

Do I need to buy a drink at every stop?

There is no requirement to purchase drinks to follow the walking route on the street, but to experience the interior highlights like the RAF ceiling at The Eagle, it is polite to patronize the establishment.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step away from the lecture halls and into the flickering light of Cambridge’s most storied alehouses. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the city's darker side, where centuries of academic rivalry, scientific breakthroughs, and ghostly apparitions reside within the thick stone walls of its oldest pubs. Cambridge is famous for its university, but its history is equally written in the pints poured at establishments like The Eagle or the Bath House. On this neighborhood stroll, you’ll discover where Watson and Crick announced the secret of life and hear tales of the 'hanging judge' and restless spirits that supposedly still linger by the bar. Moving through the historic City Centre, the route balances the vibrant atmosphere of modern nightlife with the weight of the past. From the narrow alleyways near the river to the cozy corners of side-street locals, this experience offers a unique perspective on the city. It’s perfect for those who want to explore independently, stopping for a drink whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're a fan of local lore, a history buff, or simply looking for the best atmospheric spots in town, this walking route through Cambridge’s historic pubs provides an unforgettable evening. You can start exploring with Zigway at any time, allowing you to linger in a cozy snug or move quickly between the haunted highlights. This walking tour Cambridge experience is designed for the curious traveler who prefers to discover at their own pace without the constraints of a group.

Highlights

The Eagle's RAF bar with WWII pilot graffiti
The discovery site of DNA's structure
The legend of the 'hanging judge' at The Mitre
Atmospheric narrow lanes of the historic core
The cozy, hidden-gem vibe of The Free Press
Tales of poltergeists and historical pints

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Bath House

This building stands on the site of the original 18th-century public baths, intended to improve the hygiene of the local population. By 1898, it became a pub, serving as a much-needed social anchor for the city. Its location on Bene’t Street puts it right in the heart of the historic action. As you stand outside, imagine the shift from the steam of the baths to the steam of a hot meal and the froth of local ale. It’s a classic example of Cambridge's architectural evolution—repurposing space while maintaining its character as a community hub for over a century.

2

Eagle

This is perhaps Cambridge’s most legendary pub. Inside, you’ll find the RAF bar, where World War II pilots used lighters and candle smoke to write their names and squadron numbers on the ceiling. But its fame isn't just military; in 1953, Francis Crick and James Watson burst in here to announce they had 'found the secret of life'—the double helix structure of DNA. Listen for the story of the 'perpetually open window' in the upper room; legend says if it's closed, a ghostly chill fills the building, a remnant of a tragic fire that claimed a young girl's life centuries ago.

3

Little Rose

Located near the historic Old Addenbrooke’s Hospital, the Little Rose has stood here in some form since the 16th century. It originally served as a coaching inn, a vital stop for travelers entering the city from the south. Its proximity to the old hospital has led to numerous reports of sightings—shadowy figures believed to be former patients or weary travelers. Today, it’s a beautifully preserved space that captures the transition between the university’s academic zones and the bustling commercial life of old Cambridge. Notice the timber-framing that hints at its medieval roots.

4

The Free Press

Tucked away from the main tourist drag, The Free Press has a cheeky history. Its name is a tribute to a 19th-century temperance newspaper that occupied the building; the paper lasted only one issue before the building was converted into a pub—the very thing the paper was meant to discourage! This 'hidden gem' is known for its quiet, traditional atmosphere and lack of modern distractions like televisions. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the city's quirky resistance to the temperance movement while enjoying the cozy, wood-paneled interior that feels like a step back in time.

5

The Mitre

The Mitre occupies a site that once housed two separate 17th-century inns. It is steeped in dark legends, most notably its association with the infamous 'Hanging Judge' Jeffreys, who was known for his severity during the Bloody Assizes. While the judge's connection is more local lore than documented fact, the pub’s atmosphere—with its low ceilings and dark corners—makes the ghostly tales feel entirely plausible. It’s a cornerstone of Cambridge's pub culture, sitting right on the edge of the historic university precinct where town and gown have met for centuries.

6

Baron of Beef

Standing right next to its neighbor, The Mitre, the Baron of Beef has long been part of a friendly rivalry. The name itself is said to come from King James I, who supposedly knighted a particularly good loin of beef during a banquet. This pub marks the northern end of our route through the historic core. It’s a vibrant spot that balances the student energy of modern Cambridge with a lineage that stretches back centuries. Take a moment to look at the surrounding architecture of Bridge Street, a gateway to the River Cam and the ancient heart of the city's trade.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk itself takes about 30 minutes of movement, but with stops for drinks and narration, most people spend 2 to 3 hours completing the route. The total distance is approximately 1.2 miles (2km) through the City Centre.