From the iconic spaceship McDonald’s to beloved local haunts like Howes Cycles and Waffle’s Cafe, we look back at the Cambridge institutions that defined our childhoods but have now disappeared
Cambridge, a bustling hub of business and innovation, is in a constant state of evolution. Do you remember the extensive revamp of the city’s station square and the unveiling of the striking eco-mosque?
Or perhaps The Grafton Centre’s significant facelift and the construction of Cambridge North station spring to mind? On a smaller scale, there’s always a new snug cafe or shop making an appearance.
We thought it would be nice to take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about some beloved spots from yesteryears.
While we’re excited about all the new developments in the city, sometimes it’s lovely to look back on the nostalgic elements of our childhood.
Here are 21 things you used to be able to do in Cambridge but can’t anymore – do any of these ring a bell?
1. Dine at the spaceship McDonald’s
It was hands down the best McDonald’s and we miss it dearly. The futuristic restaurant, once located in Alconbury, was initially built in 1990 as a Megatron, an American burger establishment.
Later, the building transitioned into a McDonald’s, and it holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in Cambridgeshire. One reader fondly recalled the restaurant’s pulsating lights at the entrance and the robot rides.
2. Celebrate a birthday party at Chili’s
The American chain restaurant on East Road near the Grafton Centre was the go-to spot for every birthday bash and pre-cinema indulgence. We still daydream about their molten chocolate cake!
Readers have shared with us in the past that they pine for their enormous nacho trays and delicious cocktails. A former employee reminisced about how the place was always bustling during football matches in the 90s!
3. Indulge in pick n mix at Woolworths
Every child’s dream and every parent’s worst nightmare.
4. Rent a video from Blockbuster
After a trip to Woolworth’s, you could pop over to Blockbuster and select a film for your cosy Friday night in with the family.
5. Purchase a bike from Howes Cycles
It was almost a rite of passage for every Cambridge cyclist to patronise this shop. The closure of the long-standing bike shop on Regent Street in 2013, after 173 years of keeping locals cycling, was a sad moment for many.
6. Park for less than £25
Currently, parking in the city centre feels like it requires a loan, but it wasn’t always so. Oh, how we yearn for the old rates.
7. Enjoy a sweet treat from Waffle’s Cafe
Everyone used to adore the one topped with butter, maple syrup and cream!
8. Plan a date night at The Arts Cinema
This classic date night spot has now been replaced by the new Arts Picturehouse on St Andrew’s Street.
9. Embark on a shopping spree at Robert Sayle
Who can forget its high-quality goods and that charming spiral staircase? Thankfully, we now have its successor, John Lewis, in the Grand Arcade.
10. Dine at Old Orleans
One must never forget the bibs for the ribs at this establishment!
11. Pay a visit to the Disney Store in Petty Cury
It felt like stepping into a magical wonderland every time you walked through the door, even though everything was a bit too pricey for a gift.
12. Throw a birthday party at Funky Funhouse
We’re still not over the fire that shut down the Funhouse in 2017.
13. Whip up an outrageous milkshake at Shakin Moos
You could choose from every flavour imaginable and it was simply the best place.
14. Shop at BHS
Your mum probably dragged you around this shop more than once when it was time to buy Christmas presents.
15. Spend endlessly in the Evolution shop
We can still recall the scent of the incense and we miss it dearly.
16. Enjoy drinks at Henry’s
Either you or your parents would have been regulars here every Friday night.
17. Have dinner at Pizza Hut, Leisure Centre
The ‘go-to’ spot for birthdays and post-cinema (Cineworld) treats.
18. Sip Guinness at Quinns Irish karaoke bar
Perhaps you had one too many and thought belting out ‘Dancing Queen’ was a brilliant idea at the time.
19. Covet everything in the Pylones shop
Everything seemed so unnecessary but you wanted it all regardless.
20. Purchase a house on Mill Road
*Sheds a tear*. Let that sink in. Unfortunately, this is far from reality these days.
21. Experience a night out at Kuda
Yes, Vinyl is great fun but we can’t help but miss the red doors of Kuda.
