The Best Pubs in St Ives (Cambridgeshire)

Whether you’re new to the area or just visiting, St Ives has some great pubs for both booze and food.

I’ve been a local in St Ives since the 1980s, so feel confident the below recommendations are the best by category:

Best Historical Pub: The Royal Oak

For a taste of history with your pint, The Royal Oak on Crown Street is a must.

This recently renovated Grade II-listed building dates back to the 17th century, and its character is undeniable – low ceilings, wooden beams, open fires, and plenty of stories to tell.

The Royal Oak is slightly more expensive than other pubs in St Ives, but it’s well worth it. The sheer amount of money spent on the renovation has really made this pub something special, and it’s worth visiting to savour the decor alone.

It’s the kind of place where you can soak up the atmosphere, and you can sit and imagine the many centuries of patrons before you.

The Royal Oak is a wonderful place to take your spouse for a quiet drink in the week, or to hang out with friends in a stunning historical pub at the weekends.

Best Family-Friendly Pub: The Seven Wives

Have kids?

Head to The Seven Wives a short walk or pram push from St Ives town centre.

The Seven Wives has a fantastic and very spacious beer garden which makes it a winner for families, and it’s an all round good pub ideal for families.

On sunny days, you can sit outside while the little ones play, and if you visit in the evening, you might catch a local quiz night.

Oh, and the Sunday Roast is fab.

Best Quirky Pubs: The Snug & The Bottle Bank

Looking for something a little different?

The Snug, tucked away on Free Church Passage, is the smallest pub in Cambridgeshire, with a select choice of craft beers or cider. It’s only open late in the week and weekends, and you should book an hour slot on their website before you go (although you can usually rock up and sit outside if space permits).

The Bottle Bank is another small drinking venue which a lot of character and extensive range of beer, cider, and wine to choose from. Essentially a beer shop, they have a few tables where you can sit and drink-in, and the vibe is good.

You’ll find The Bottle Bank down the lane behind The White Hart, and it’s quick and easy to walk from The Snug to The Bottle Bank if you want to try both!

Best Modern Pub: The Taproom

Sometimes, you just want a drink without the smelliness of a traditional pub, and The Taproom is an excellent choice.

It’s right by the historic bridge on The Quay, and has a garden tucked away behind if you like fresh air.

It’s the perfect spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a peaceful pint, and dogs and kids are very welcome.

Best Pub with a River View: The Dolphin (Summer Months)

For many years The Dolphin hasn’t been a go to place for the locals, but that changed somewhat in 2024 when the hotel underwent a revamp and re-opened the bar and garden once again, plus the added bonus of kids activities and a bouncy castle.

Think of The Dolphin as more a “pub garden” than a traditional pub, and on a sunny day it’s a great option to sit by the river and enjoy a cool pint. The terrace overlooks the historic St Ives Bridge and Chapel, so you really can’t knock the view.

If you’re looking for a year-round option, The Floods Tavern also provides excellent river views with a superb riverside garden.

Best Pub for Live Music AND River View: The Floods Tavern

What I love most about The Floods Tavern is the garden at the back, right on the River Ouse.

This pub always has a nice vibe, friendly staff, and good food. If you’re into music then they regularly host live music nights which draw in local talent and create a really buzzing atmosphere.

The Floods Tavern is a great spot to relax with a pint after a walk along the river, and your wife, kids, and dog will like it too.

Best Pub for Real Ale AND Live Music: The Nelson’s Head

The word “grungy” springs to mind when I think of The Nelson’s Head, but in a good way – it has that vibe.

The Nelson’s Head is a hit with longstanding St Ivians and younger folk alike, with some great ale on offer.

The pub regularly has live music on Sundays, and if you want atmosphere I highly recommend it.

If you like a really traditional and friendly pub then The Nelson’s Head is a great option. If you want a nice quiet pint, don’t go there on a Sunday when there’s a live band!

Best Budget Pub: The Swan and Angel (Wetherspoons)

If Wetherspoons are your thing, the Swan and Angel offers a lovely setting right in the centre of town.

Dogs aren’t allowed, but kids are, and the food and drinks are cheap.

What more could you want?

Coffee refills?

Best Pub for Food: The Cock (Hemingford Grey)

If you’re after top-notch pub grub with a touch of finesse, The Cock in Hemingford Grey is absolutely fantastic.

It’s a bit of a walk over a big meadow from St Ives, but well worth the effort.

Expect a menu packed with classic British favourites and seasonal specials, all served in a cosy, welcoming setting.

The Sunday roasts and fine dining at The Cock are especially popular, and I strongly advise you book ahead if you’re after food.

Best Dog-Friendly Pub: The White Hart

Bringing your four-legged friend?

The White Hart welcomes dogs with open arms. Not only will you find water bowls and treats for your pup, but the pub also boasts a varied menu and a friendly crowd. It’s the perfect stop after a walk along the river.

In fact it’s not just The White Hart which is dog friendly. The Royal Oak welcomes dogs although can get a bit crowded in the smaller rooms, and The Taproom is another pub which allows dogs indoors.

The Dolphin, The Snug, and others allow dogs in the garden (or in the case of The Snug in the small seating area outside).

Best Pub for a Sunday Roast: The Pike and Eel

I mentioned The Seven Wives earlier which is closer to St Ives and has a fantastic Sunday Roast, but a short drive to The Pike and Eel is definitely recommended for a Sunday Roast.

The Pike and Eel is right by the river with a great garden. You’ll find their roast dinners come with generous portions and all the trimmings, so it’s definitely worth the jaunt.

Runner up: Also check out Hartford Mill about 10 minutes from St Ives on the way to Huntingdon. It’s a carvery restaurant so a great stop for a well-priced roast.