Cambridge's Queer History: A Look Back at Beloved Gay Pubs and Venues
Cambridge, a city steeped in academic tradition and historic charm, also boasts a rich, though often overlooked, queer history. For decades, its LGBTQ+ community found sanctuary and celebration in a network of vibrant pubs and clubs that served as vital social hubs. While many of these cherished spaces have since closed their doors, their legacy lives on through the memories of those who frequented them. From lively disco nights in hidden basements to the welcoming embrace of community-focused establishments, Cambridge's gay scene has evolved, reflecting the changing tides of social acceptance and the enduring spirit of its people.
The Golden Eras: When Cambridge's Pubs Were True Havens
The late 1970s and 1980s marked a significant period for Cambridge's gay venues. The Anchor, for instance, became synonymous with basement discos, offering a pulsating escape where queer individuals could connect and express themselves freely. As one patron fondly recalled, it was a place where "you had to go through the side entrance on Green Street... to access the gay bar." This sense of exclusivity, while perhaps born of necessity, fostered a strong sense of belonging.
The Burleigh Arms stands out as a particularly iconic establishment, especially during the 1980s under the stewardship of Terry, affectionately known as "Mother." His knack for introducing people created an unparalleled sense of community. The pub's unique setup, with separate entrances for men and women and a bar acting as a central island, fostered distinct social dynamics. While the women's side was described as "a lot grottier," it was still a vital space for connection, particularly for "gay bops" that continued until an unfortunate incident involving a thrown brick. The Burleigh Arms, with its striking Tudor exterior, eventually transitioned into the Novi bar and restaurant, a stark reminder of the changing landscape of the city.
Another significant venue was the Fleur de Lys, which, after an initial attempt to establish a more mainstream appeal, ultimately carved out its niche as a vital space for the queer community in the early 1990s. Run by Juliet and Francis, it was a place filled with "disco balls, a flashing 70's dance floor and warm drinks." This venue also served as a sanctuary for drag and cabaret acts, a tradition that continues today at venues like Vinyl. The Fleur de Lys's closure, particularly after a suspected homophobic assault on its final gay owner, Seve Freathy, in 2011, marked a significant loss for the community.
Navigating Challenges: Intimidation and the Search for Safe Spaces
It wasn't always easy for Cambridge's queer community to find and maintain safe spaces. Anecdotes from the era reveal the presence of intimidation tactics, with police cars often seen loitering near venues. One patron shared, "Police would hang around in their cars, tail you and accuse you of being drunk." While for some this felt more like a "joke, a story than something threatening," it underscored the underlying societal pressures and the need for venues that offered genuine protection and acceptance.
The "town and gown divide" also played a crucial role, as noted by Janie Buchanan of the lesbian group Sisters Act. She emphasized that "the pubs were essential because of the town and gown divide. The pubs were a lifeline." This highlighted how these venues provided a critical meeting ground and support system, particularly for those who might have felt isolated within the broader university-dominated city.
The Town and Gown itself was lauded for its incredible variety, meeting "everyone's needs." It was a place where "girls would come from across the county" to find like-minded individuals and forge new friendships. The venue even hosted a Tuesday fetish night, catering to a racier clientele. However, like many such establishments, its fate was tied to the lives of its owners, with the passing of John forcing his partner Roger to give up the pub.
The Enduring Spirit: Current LGBTQ+ Friendly Venues and Nights
While the landscape has shifted, Cambridge's LGBTQ+ scene remains vibrant, with several venues and dedicated nights continuing to foster community. The Blue Moon on Norfolk Street proudly flies rainbow flags, signifying its commitment to inclusivity. It hosts regular events, including its popular monthly "Tap Takeover" on the first Thursday, showcasing craft beers and local food trucks. For those seeking a specific vibe, the first Friday of the month sees "The Calling," a goth club night, while the last Thursday features "Desperate Fleas" open scratch night, and the last Sunday offers "Non de Script," an improvised comedy show. The Blue Moon's dedication to being a "proud safe space" makes it a cornerstone of the contemporary queer scene.
Dedicated queer nights continue to thrive in central Cambridge venues, most notably at Vinyl on Sidney Street. The Glitterbomb night, held every Tuesday, carries the torch of the drag and cabaret acts once found at the Fleur de Lys, offering a space for performance and celebration.
The Dot Cotton Club, a long-standing fixture of Cambridge's LGBTQ+ scene for over 30 years, continues to host events across the city. Despite currently lacking a permanent home, its legacy of bringing "hundreds of happy clubbers" together remains a testament to its enduring appeal.
Finding Community Today: Beyond the Pubs
The quest for queer spaces has also led to the emergence of more diverse offerings. While specific details about venues like The Alley, Cantab Lounge, Dani's queer bar, The White Bull Tavern, Phoenix Landing, and Club Café are limited in the provided information, their existence points to a broader spectrum of LGBTQ+ friendly establishments.
Even pubs that are not exclusively gay venues, such as the Haymakers and the Burleigh Arms (in its current iteration), are recognized for being LGBTQ+ friendly. This signifies a growing trend towards broader acceptance, where inclusivity is valued across a wider range of establishments.
However, the closure of beloved institutions like the Bird in Hand left a palpable void. As David Webb poignantly stated, "After that, there was a void. We've been struggling now for the last 10 years to reclaim space." This sentiment highlights the ongoing need to not only preserve existing safe spaces but also to actively work towards creating new ones, ensuring that future generations of Cambridge's LGBTQ+ community have places to connect, celebrate, and feel truly seen. The journey of Cambridge's gay pubs and venues is a powerful narrative of resilience, community building, and the enduring human need for belonging.