Cambridge might be famous for its academics, but its actually got a pretty good nightlife. It’s not as expansive as the likes of London or other major cities in the UK, but there’s a good selection of clubs and club nights to choose from for any music taste. Whether you like throwback-style events or student nights with cheap drink deals, you’ll be sorted in Cambridge. It is a famous student city after all. So, if you’re ready to dance, sing, and make some questionable late-night decisions, check out this guide to the best nightclubs in Cambridge.
1. MASH
MASH is the ultimate spot for students looking to let loose after a long week of lectures. It proclaims to be the only independent nightclub in Cambridge, It’s a huge venue, and a popular one for students too. The club nights are all different, where some are like a 90s rave with smoke and lasers, and others are all funk and soul. Let’s Kill Disco on Fridays are particularly studenty, with amazing tunes and drinks deals.
Address: 15 Market Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PF
2. Revolution Cambridge
Revs is a go-to for a classy yet fun night out. It’s a well known chain across the UK that’s always popular with students. Mainly because they have great drink offers, as well as good club nights. There’s resident DJs, a rooftop bar and VIP areas, as well as a karaoke pod.
Revs is a great place for bottomless brunch (check here for other top brunch places in Cambridge) and food, as well as pre-drinks and watching live sport. But it’s worth remembering that it’s a great place for dancing too! It’s pretty much a stay-all-day kinda place.
Address: Downing Pl, Cambridge CB2 3DS
3. Vinyl Club Cambridge
If you’re all about throwback tunes and glittery vibes, Vinyl is your dream destination. It’s a really popular nightclub in Cambridge for students, and has 241 drink offers most nights. Open three nights of the week, you can find regular club nights like Smash Hits Fridays, Rewind Saturdays and Tipsy Tuesdays. They’re all about feeling nostalgic, with the constant throwback tracks played from different decades – depending on what night you go. What’s not to love?
Address: 22 Sidney St, Cambridge CB2 3HG
4. Cambridge Junction
For something a little different, Cambridge Junction isn’t a nightclub per se, but more of a performing arts theatre. They hold all sorts of events, including lots of gigs and concerts, comedy, workshops and more. So there’s not as many regular nightclub events as other Cambridge venues, but it’s still a top choice. The best way to find their clubnights is through heading to their ‘what’s on’ page and filter event type to ‘club’. The best part is you can see quite far in advance, which helps with planning.
Address: Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX
5. KIKI
KIKI is tropicana in Cambridge. It’s all coconuts and cocktails and beachy vibes. Although the music at its clubnights can be anything from Afrobeats and Reggaeton to house and D’n’B. It’s one of the main student nightclubs in Cambridge, and one any current student probably ventured into during Freshers’ Week. The weekly Motive Monday is particularly popular – it’s practically a rite of passage as a student to start the week off partying so it makes sense!
Address: Guildhall Chambers, Guildhall St, Cambridge CB2 3NH
6. Hidden Rooms
Hidden Rooms is the perfect spot to kick off your night in style. This underground gem is known for its cocktails and laid-back vibe. It typically hosts funk, jazz or soul-type nights at the weekend as well as seasonal big events. They’re a great place for students, known for hosting some of Cambridge University societies’ nights (hence the Taylor Swift appreciation night video above). And if you’re a student planning a birthday or celebration, they’re worth considering as they offer discounts too.
Address: 7b Jesus Ln, Cambridge CB5 8BA
Cambridge might be known for its libraries and lecture halls, but its nightlife proves the city knows how to party too. Whether you’re dancing under disco balls, sipping on cocktails, or enjoying live performances, there’s no shortage of ways to let your hair down. From the retro fun of Vinyl to the inclusive energy of KIKI, every club offers its own unique vibe, so you’re bound to find your go-to spot.
So, whether it’s a mid-term blowout or a Friday night tradition, Cambridge’s nightclubs are ready to deliver unforgettable nights with your mates. The only question now is – where’s the after-party?
For more local inspiration, check out our pick of fun things to do in Cambridge too.
Topic expertise: Student Cities, Cost of Living, Nightlife, Wellbeing, Accommodation
FAQs about Cambridge nightclubs and student nights
Midweek is heavy on student themes and cheaper tickets; weekends bring bigger crowds and guest DJs. Check event pages for genres (chart, house, R&B, disco) and grab pre-sale to dodge midnight queues and surge pricing at the door.
Most nights are smart-casual with clean trainers fine. Avoid sports shorts/caps at stricter venues and check themed-night posts for specifics. Layers help for chilly queues then warm dance floors inside.
Buy ahead for Fridays/Saturdays or special events; door works for early midweek arrivals. Screenshot tickets, bring ID, and set a group meeting point inside in case the signal drops or the crowd separates you.
Go out with friends, share location, keep drinks in sight and plan your last bus/train. Use licensed taxis, carry a small charger and agree a regroup spot before you hit the dance floor.
Target student nights, arrive for early entry pricing, and alternate drinks with water. Walk between venues and split a taxi at the end — your wallet and morning self will thank you.
Last Updated on August 18, 2025
Published on December 17, 2024