Best Specialty Coffee in Cambridge
Country: United Kingdom (6 cafés)
Updated February 2026
Cambridge offers a variety of spaces for those looking to enjoy a coffee while exploring the historic streets. You can find thoughtful preparations at Flux Coffee, Bould Brothers Coffee, and Urban Larder. Kerb Kollective, Florey, and Hot Numbers also provide consistent options for your daily cup.
Many locals enjoy grabbing a drink while walking through the city centre or visiting nearby parks. You will often find that independent shops here focus on providing a balanced flat white alongside a selection of cakes.
Cafés
Of 6 cafés, 3 serve filter coffee and 3 have outdoor seating.
Top rated Bould Brothers Coffee
16 Round Church Street, CB5 8AD Cambridge, United Kingdom
Bould Brothers Coffee is a small shop located on Round Church Street in Cambridge. The cafe serves coffee roasted by Colonna and Small and offers a selection of pastries. Visitors often mention that the staff is friendly and the upstairs seating area provides a comfortable space to relax. The shop is popular and can get crowded, so you may encounter a wait during busy times. Note that the cafe does not accept cash payments.
Florey
Harvey Court, West Rd, CB3 9DS Cambridge, United Kingdom
Florey is a campus-edge cafe located inside Harvey Court on West Road. It serves espresso, filter coffee, and matcha alongside a selection of pastries and light lunch items. The space features an indoor-outdoor layout with views overlooking the college gardens. Visitors often note that the staff is friendly and the atmosphere is quiet enough for studying. It provides a practical stop for those walking the Backs or needing a workspace away from the city centre.
Kerb Kollective
Cambridge Museum of Technology, CB5 8HN Cambridge, United Kingdom
Kerb Kollective is a coffee shop located at the Cambridge Museum of Technology. Visitors often mention the friendly staff and the quality of the coffee, which includes espresso and filter options. The cafe is well known for its variety of freshly baked pastries and cakes. It offers outdoor seating in a courtyard setting by the river, making it a convenient stop for those walking nearby. The space is laptop friendly and welcomes dogs.
Urban Larder
9 The Broadway, CB1 3AH Cambridge, United Kingdom
Urban Larder is a compact, bustling cafe located on The Broadway in Cambridge. It serves coffee from Butterworth and Son and is known for its extensive menu of sourdough cheese toasties. The space is small with limited indoor seating, though it offers additional tables on the pavement for sunny days. Visitors often praise the friendly staff and the variety of toastie fillings available. You can also purchase pantry staples like flour, eggs, and sauces from the shelves near the counter.
Hot Numbers
192 Gwydir St, CB1 2LJ Cambridge, United Kingdom
Hot Numbers roasts their own coffee on site and operates two locations in Cambridge. The Gwydir Street shop is housed in a former brewery and features long communal tables, while the Trumpington Street branch includes an in-house roastery. Visitors often praise the friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of single-origin coffees, alongside brunch dishes like Turkish eggs and pancakes. The space can get busy, so mornings are typically quieter if you are looking for a seat.
Flux Coffee
31B Eltisley Ave, CB3 9JG Cambridge, United Kingdom
Flux Coffee is a small, owner-operated shop located on Eltisley Avenue in the Newnham area of Cambridge. The menu focuses on specialty espresso, filter coffee, and cold brew, with plant-based milk and decaf options available. Visitors often note the intimate atmosphere and the owner's practice of serving drinks in handmade ceramic cups. The space is compact with limited seating, so it fills up quickly at weekends. You can find outdoor seating available for a quieter experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard coffee order in Cambridge?
The flat white is a common choice at most independent shops. You will find that many cafes offer oat milk and other alternatives as well.
Are there good places to sit and work?
Several shops provide seating, though space can be limited depending on the time of day. It is helpful to check the specific layout of places like Hot Numbers or Urban Larder if you plan to stay for a while.
Do cafes in Cambridge serve food?
Yes, many shops pair their coffee with cakes, pastries, or light snacks. Urban Larder and other local spots often have a rotating selection of treats.
Is it easy to find coffee while walking around the city?
The city is quite walkable, and you will find independent cafes scattered throughout the central areas. Bould Brothers Coffee and other nearby options are often situated along popular routes.
Should I expect long queues?
Popular spots can get busy during weekends or mid-morning hours. If you are in a hurry, many cafes are well-equipped to handle takeaway orders efficiently.