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However, regardless of whether you're after a 3 course meal or a few pints down the pub, a good time depends on two more things and that's venue and location. As with restaurants, bars and pubs are plentiful, most run an early evening "happy hour" entitling you to half price drinks, but in other respects, they vary. Some double as music venues whilst others are more town than (as the student community is called) gown, look for a smart dress code and/or security men around the door.
Quieter times can be found in the suburbs, about half a mile out from the city centre. Check out the side streets down Mill Road for a range of pubs, or the Grafton Centre for cocktails and wine.
Finally, location is not just about knowing where to go, its about knowing where you are, and not expecting places to open as late as they may do at home. Unlike more advanced countries, UK licensing laws dictate that alcohol can not be served after 11 p.m. and just about everything shuts soon after. Clubs are an exception but even if they open all night, bars will close at 2am. Welcome to Cambridge, I bet you're glad you came.