Dining Out: The best tables to book in and around Cambridge this Christmas

Planning to dine out this festive season? Whether it’s a work party, a family gathering or an intimate meal for two, Velvet has found the perfect tables to book

From the friendly staff at the bar and a varied home-cooked menu to eclectic background music and the relaxed but efficient service, dining and drinking here is known for being an informal yet enjoyable experience. Serving meals noon to 9pm Monday to Saturday and noon to 6pm on Sundays, the team adds: “Our special Festive Menu is available to everyone, even walk-ins, throughout December - meaning you don't have to order in advance or even commit to a set number of courses, just mix and match from our festive and main menus. If you haven't yet visited, we are definitely worth a drive out!”
Location: 1 Station Road, Willingham
Website: theporterhousepub.com
Telephone: 01954 488080

Spindle Outside Catering
“At Spindle, our ethos is simple: with British inspired menus curated by our chef director Lee Bye and flawless service led by our restaurant manager Will Reyner, it’s the perfect marriage of culinary expertise and operational excellence.”
Sister venture to Tuddenham Mill, home to Suffolk’s only four AA Rosette restaurant, Spindle promises “to provide a seamless and exceptional experience” for every occasion, from intimate at-home dinners to weddings, corporate gatherings, christenings, celebrations of life and, of course, Christmas parties.
“From the moment your guests arrive to the final farewell, we strive to exceed your expectations and create memorable experiences for you and your guests,” add the team. “Share your event details with us and let’s start creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.”
Location: High Street, Tuddenham
Website: tuddenhammill.co.uk/spindle-catering
Email: enquiries@spindlecatering.co.uk

Mercado Central, Cambridge
Inspired by Spain’s historic markets and restaurants, Mercado Central is set in an historic, Cambridge townhouse, where you can enjoy a casual lunch at the open kitchen or a special dinner in the upstairs dining rooms.
Recommended by Michelin, Mercado Central's seasonal menu showcases top quality market produce. Highlights include Wild Cornish Monkfish with Forest Mushrooms & Jamon Iberico; Confit Duck with Morcilla & Pumpkin; and Acorn-fed Iberico Pork Chops.
As well as the evening menu, the restaurant's Set Lunch Menu - excellent value at £28 for two courses or £31 for three - is now available from Tuesday to Sunday lunchtimes. And for larger groups, a three-course Christmas Menu is available for £50 per person.
Location: 24 Green Street, Cambridge
Website: mercadocentral.co.uk
Email: info@mercadocentral.co.uk

The Fellows House, Cambridge
The Fellows House in Cambridge is inviting guests to “celebrate the magic of Christmas and the sparkle of the New Year” with its new festive menus. “This holiday season, indulge in a culinary journey like no other,” say the team. “The Festive Lunch and Dinner menu at the Folio Bar & Kitchen throughout December has been specially designed to enchant your tastebuds and create unforgettable festive memories. . .”
Nestled within the award-winning Fellows House hotel in Cambridge, its flagship restaurant The Folio Bar & Kitchen has become especially popular for its Afternoon Tea – and will have a Festive version starting November 24 and available right through until Christmas Eve. Add the team: “Email us to reserve your place early as you don’t want to miss this!”
Location: 33a Milton Road, Cambridge
Website: thefellowshouse.com
Email: christmas@thefellowshouse.com
Telephone: 01223 949499

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, Newmarket
Newmarket’s Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa invites you to indulge in the award-winning Squires Restaurant this festive season. With an array of delicious menus running throughout December, from a traditional three-course Christmas Fayre Menu to a luxurious Festive Afternoon Tea, it’s the perfect place for all your Christmas dining needs.
On Christmas Day, enjoy a spectacular five-course lunch, or leave the kitchen behind on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day and savour exceptional food in a relaxed setting.
Whether you’re celebrating with friends, colleagues or loved ones, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa offers a dining experience to make your festivities truly special.
Festive Afternoon Tea from £35 and three-course Christmas Fayre Menu from £38.
Location: 11 Bury Road, Newmarket
Website: bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk/christmas-at-bedford-lodge-hotel/
Telephonel: 01638 663175

Graduate by Hilton Cambridge
Celebrate the festive season at Graduate by Hilton Cambridge, an idyllic retreat inspired by centuries of rich traditions, storied histories and academic life. With Christmas party packages, joiner parties, private dining and more, there's something for everyone at the Graduate.
Festivities start at £69.50 per person and include a welcome drink, 3-course meal, DJ, Christmas crackers, novelties and table decoration. Want to make a night of it? Use code PARTY for up to 30% off your holiday stay. They’ve got New Year's covered too, with a casino night and DJ in the waterfront River Suite.
Location: Granta Place, Mill Lane, Cambridge
Website: graduatehotels.com/cambridge
Email: sales@graduatecambridgeuk.co.uk
Telephone: 01223 259933

Hilton Cambridge City Centre
Located in the heart of Cambridge, Hilton Cambridge City Centre specialises in throwing unforgettable parties that take the stress out of your holiday season. Dive into their festive magic with themed parties like ‘A Night at the Movies’, enjoy a delightful Christmas Day lunch (complete with a visit from Santa), and ring in the New Year in style at their glamorous Gala Dinner. “We’ve got the festive season covered from start to finish!” they say. Contact the Christmas events team to find out about Hilton Cambridge City Centre’s fabulous festive offering.
Location: 20 Downing Street, Cambridge
Email: STNHC_EventsCambridgeCity@hilton.com
Telephone: 01223 464491