Festive tour of Cambridge pubs launches

Historic England has organised a trail steeped in history including The Eagle and The Pickerel Inn.

As the days grow shorter and there’s a wintry chill in the air, there’s no better time to enjoy the warm glow of a historic pub.

Whether it’s meeting friends and family in a beautiful historic building or taking time out from the hustle and bustle near a roaring log fire, these atmospheric properties, at the heart of local life, connect us to our communities past and present.

To celebrate, Historic England has created a walking route through the heart of Cambridge, to whet your appetite for the local heritage that surrounds us.

The curated historic pub trail will help those who take part to discover the unique charm of listed buildings in Cambridge that are currently, or were once, used as public houses.

Tony Calladine, East of England Regional Director, Historic England:

"Our historic pubs have been part of the fabric of life, and at the heart of communities, for generations. 

"This Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to discover and explore some of the remarkable listed public houses in your local area, where seasonal greetings carry down the centuries. 

"We’d love to see your experiences of the beautiful buildings on these heritage trails and to hear your memories of your favourite historic pub.

"Do add your favourite pub moments to the Missing Pieces Project for everyone to see and enjoy."

Photo: Historic England, The Pickerel Inn

There are six historic sites in Cambridge on the trail, including The Eagle Public House, where Crick and Watson announced the discovery of DNA.

Other notable mentions are 10 Peas Hill, which was once home to the novelist E M Forster, and The Pickerel Inn, dating from 1608 and possibly the oldest licenced ale house in the city.

Historic England has also created trails in Birmingham, London, Bristol, Manchester and Newcastle.