The Portland Arms is a traditional English pub serving fine real ales, specialty beers from around the world and home cooked food in a cosy, friendly setting. For decades the Portland has been an essential part of the Cambridge live music scene welcoming local, national and international acts to our dedicated 200 capacity venue.

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About Report

For decades the Portland has been an essential part of the Cambridge live music scene welcoming local, national and international acts of all genres and backgrounds to play in our dedicated venue space. In 2012 the small 100 capacity venue space was enlarged and expanded and now can accommodate upto 200 people in a modern high-tec space that can adapt to almost any purpose.

How to hire Report

However we will still have some procedures in place for the next few months as we encourage people to return with confidence and for the well-being of our staff, customers, artists and crews. Having longer change-overs between bands (around 25min) so the room can be vented and any shared equipment sanitised.

Access Info Report

The main entrance of the Portland Arms is not step free. There is one step up into the venue. However, there is a step free route available via the courtyard. There is signage to this entrance available from the front door. If you plan on arriving before the gig, please let us know where possible, so we can make sure the courtyard gates are open for your arrival.

Reviews (8)

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Dave Breed

Jan 14, 2022

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A good place for a quick lunch. Nice 2-for-1 burger offer and a decent pint.

Justin Carroll

Jan 01, 2022

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I absolutely adore The Portland Arms. For on the atmosphere, to the beer, to the vegan food, to the live music venue, to the always great staff. There is nothing I don't like about the place. If I could magically transport it from Cambridge to my home town I would.

Paul McFarlane

Dec 22, 2021

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Excellent music venue. A small and friendly space that offers an opportunity for live music to be enjoyed. It is something that every city needs.

Lauren Snow

Dec 10, 2021

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I can only review the Portland based on drinks and gigs and both are awesome. Seen a few live events here, always well run and organised. Acoustics seem good. Drinks are the same as any other bar. Seems like a really nice, local pub with excellent events!

Antonella Morrone

Nov 29, 2021

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Really nice place and kind people!
I've been there for a coffe with ex colleagues and I really liked it.
I will definitely go back to enjoy live music as well!

Alison Guy

Aug 11, 2021

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Went there for Sunday lunch. Had vegan lentil burger which was delicious. Others in party had cajun chicken burger, and pizza. Everyone seemed very happy with their food.

Theo Dockreay

Nov 22, 2020

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Great pub with strong live music influence. Solid sound system and good facilities, traditional pub to the front with saloon bar and 150-200cap venue to the rear all refurbished

Jon Badley

Sep 22, 2017

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The Portland Arms is a fantastic venue and pub. We visited on a weeknight for a gig in the events room. We arrived an hour ahead, to enjoy some time in the bar, and were greeted by really lovely staff, and a huge choice of drinks. Although we only ordered some snacks, the menu is comprehensive, and there were lots of diners enjoying some great looking grub.
The events room itself is intimate, has its own bar, and is a really stunning place to enjoy live music.
All seven of us commented on the charms of the venue, and will absolutely be back. Highly recommended.

The Portland Arms Cambridge