Another new addition to the Cambridge scene, ‘Thirsty Cambridge’ is a conversion from the old Thresher off-licence. Inside is a large range of wines, as well as beers in cans and bottles. At the back is a dispenser for house wines and for craft beers, four on offer when we visited.
Known as the ‘Growler System’ there is a pleasing ritual involved as the beer travels from some distant container, has the fizz of carbon dioxide added (I think?) and then satisfyingly flows into a solid litre or two litre bottle, its potency barely contained by a Grolsch-type ceramic top. This can then be taken home or enjoyed seated at one of the long tables.

We sampled the Fourpure IPA (4.2%) from London (the name coming from “respecting the four core ingredients used to make beer: grain, yeast, hops and water”) . It was very drinkable but didn’t last long…

Also available was Beavertown ‘Neck Oil’ (4.3%) and I think Yeastie Boys Digital IPA (5.7%) will have to be tried next time. The beer is not cheap here but neither is it over-priced, the service is knowledgeable and friendly and there were plenty of customers passing through. Other distinctive features of Thirsty Cambridge is the availability of ‘Hot Numbers’ coffee and the top-end food vans that park directly outside.

Sited in the Mitcham’s Corner area, already with plenty of pubs, it is certainly offering something a bit different.