Cambridge's Vibrant Queer Past: A Nostalgic Look at Lost Gay Pubs and Clubs

Cambridge, a city steeped in history and academic prestige, also boasts a rich, often unspoken, LGBTQ+ heritage. For decades, its queer community found solace, celebration, and a vital sense of belonging in a network of dedicated pubs and clubs. While many of these beloved establishments have faded into memory, their legacy continues to resonate. Let's journey back in time and explore the pubs that served as lifelines, the clubs that pulsed with energy, and the enduring spirit of Cambridge's queer scene.

The need for these spaces was particularly acute in Cambridge, as Janie Buchanan, a long-term member of the lesbian group Sisters Act, recalls. She explained that pubs were "essential because of the town and gown divide. The pubs were a lifeline." This sentiment underscores the crucial role these venues played in fostering community, offering a safe haven where individuals could connect and express themselves freely.

Echoes of the Past: Cherished Venues That Shaped the Scene

The memories shared by the Cambridge community paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. From the lively discos in basement rooms to the unique traditions that defined certain establishments, these stories offer a glimpse into the heart of the city's queer history.

The Anchor: Disco Beats and Bold Statements

In the late 1970s, The Anchor became a focal point for discos held in its basement. Pauline, a queer woman who frequented the pub during its heyday, described it as a place filled with fun, albeit with its share of drama. She even recounted an instance where a "butch woman, strolled up to two policemen...and asked one of them to dance," a testament to the spirit and defiance that characterized the era.

The Six Bells: A Community Hub with a Discreet Entrance

The Six Bells, with its distinctive 17th-century Tudor exterior on Trinity Street, was another cornerstone of the Cambridge queer scene. To access its gay bar, patrons had to use a side entrance on Green Street, now occupied by a Jigsaw store. Locals remember having to knock on a specific door, which would then open for a bouncer to assess whether you were a welcome visitor. While the exterior remains, the interior's transformation, including whispers of a stark shift in ownership with a rumoured attempt to identify and remove gay patrons, marks a poignant change.

The Burleigh Arms: A Beacon of Inclusivity

The Burleigh Arms, located on Newmarket Road, holds a special place in many hearts. Its finest days were in the 1980s, under the management of Terry, affectionately known as "Mother." Terry was renowned for his ability to connect people, acting as an ultimate community builder. The pub featured distinct sections: a men's side and a women's side, separated by the bar, with the women's area even boasting a coveted pool table. Janie Buchanan remembers the women's side as "a lot grottier" but still a vital gathering place for the "gay bop" until a brick was thrown through the window, marking a sad turning point.

The Fleur de Lys: A Shifting Landscape of Acceptance

Throughout the early 1990s, the Fleur de Lys became a hub for the queer community, particularly after an initial venture there proved unsuccessful. Owned by Juliet and Francis, the pub was known for its welcoming atmosphere, complete with disco balls and a flashing dance floor. However, like many venues, it experienced shifts in ownership. When the landlord passed away, the pub changed hands, and the community reported feeling unwelcome, eventually leading to its transformation into a bistro and bar. Some recall it as a "spit and sawdust pub," but for many, it offered a much-needed sanctuary and a place to host events, including parties and dinners that sometimes caused friction with neighbours.

The Town and Gown: A Melting Pot of Connections

Described by long-term Cambridge resident Graham Lewis as "the best of its kind" due to its "huge variety," the Town and Gown catered to diverse needs within the community. It was a place where "girls would come from across the county" to meet like-minded individuals and forge new friendships. The venue even hosted a Tuesday fetish night for its more adventurous clientele. The happy days at the Town and Gown concluded when owner John passed away, forcing his partner Roger to give up the pub.

The Bird in Hand: A Final Stand and a Lingering Void

The Bird in Hand was another venue that served the LGBTQ+ community. Lara remembered it as a place where she met her first girlfriend. However, with the landlord's passing and subsequent changes in ownership, the queer community felt compelled to relocate. David Webb poignantly noted that the closure of The Bird in Hand was "the last straw," leaving a void in the city and a struggle to reclaim space for the community that has persisted for the last decade.

The Enduring Spirit: Current LGBTQ+ Spaces in Cambridge

While the landscape of Cambridge's queer nightlife has evolved, the spirit of community and celebration continues. Dedicated queer nights are still a vibrant part of the city's cultural fabric, offering welcoming spaces for connection and enjoyment.

• Vinyl (Sidney Street): Hosts Glitterbomb every Tuesday, featuring drag and cabaret acts reminiscent of those once seen at the Fleur de Lys.
• The Blue Moon (Norfolk Street): This pub proudly displays rainbow flags and hosts its own events, including a regular queer night on the second Saturday of each month.
• Dot Cotton Club: Though currently without a permanent venue, the Dot Cotton Club remains a significant presence, continuing to host events around Cambridge and carrying over 30 years of history.

These contemporary venues, along with other LGBT-friendly establishments like Haymakers, ensure that Cambridge continues to offer spaces where the queer community can gather, socialize, and thrive. The journey of Cambridge's queer pubs and clubs is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of its LGBTQ+ community, a history etched not just in brick and mortar, but in the shared memories and ongoing connections forged within these vital spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cambridge's Gay Pubs

Are there still gay pubs in Cambridge?

While many historic gay pubs have closed, Cambridge still offers LGBT-friendly venues and dedicated queer nights. Establishments like The Blue Moon and recurring events at venues like Vinyl ensure there are spaces for the community to gather and celebrate.

What was the most popular gay pub in Cambridge?

Popularity can be subjective and vary by era. However, venues like The Burleigh Arms, known for its community-building under Terry, and the Fleur de Lys, which served as a vital hub in the 90s, are frequently cited as significant and beloved establishments.

What happened to the old gay pubs in Cambridge?

Many of Cambridge's former gay pubs have closed due to changing social dynamics, economic pressures, or shifts in ownership. Some have been redeveloped or reopened under new management and different concepts, while others have simply ceased to exist as nightlife venues.

Where can I find current LGBTQ+ events in Cambridge?

Regular events are often advertised on social media, local LGBTQ+ community pages, and through venues like Vinyl and The Blue Moon. Keeping an eye on these platforms is the best way to stay updated on upcoming gatherings and celebrations.