With a wide range of pubs and bars in Cambridge, it can be difficult to find out which ones are best. With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of my personal recommendations.

The Elm Tree, Orchard Street, describes itself as “an oasis of difference amongst the chain pubs that dominate the city”. While I don’t think that chain pubs ‘dominate’ the city, this one is certainly different to the rest. Stocking 10 micro-brewed real ales, over 50 specialist Belgian beers, as well as traditional cider, perry, wine and mead, The Elm Tree is the place to go if you’re bored of Carlsberg. The slightly dark and dingy interior could be off-putting, but its popularity suggests otherwise. It’s a little hidden away compared to the pubs in central Cambridge, but the trip is worth it.

I must admit to having mixed feelings about the newly opened Pint Shop on Peas Hill, with its tendency towards overpriced food. However, there’s no denying that the drinks selection is great; this place is packed, night after night. The menu boasts 17 types of whisky and a staggering 61 varieties of gin (last time I counted), as well as a regularly changing chalkboard with 10 keg and six cask beers on offer. Admittedly, it attracts the much-maligned hipster crowd, but hey, they seem to have good taste in drinks.

What makes The Brew House on King Street special is its on-site brewing. Head brewer James (who incidentally has a PhD in bio-chemistry from Cambridge) brews three delicious beers on-site: Kings Parade (a classic bitter); Misty River (a hoppy pale ale), and Night Porter (a rich stout). They also stock a great selection of local cask ales and craft beers, so there is always plenty to choose from. While service can be very slow at weekends, the food is good, featuring a menu of British favourites with fish, meat and smoked cheese, as well as a selection of British tapas. With a large space, comfortable atmosphere and homely feel, The Brew House is great for a relaxed drink with friends.