Have you ever heard the tale of a pilot nicknamed “The Pig”? Right here on Hills Road stands The Flying Pig a pub with a history as rich as its ale. The Flying Pig wasn’t always known by that name. For years it was called The Engineer. Then in the 1980s a pilot Mick Clelford took over. He was known as “The Pig”. He gave the pub its current memorable name. The Flying Pig quickly became a favorite among Cambridge locals and students. Its location near Homerton College made it a popular hangout. Even Pink Floyd’s Syd Barrett and David Gilmour are said to have met here in the 1950s.
The Flying Pig is more than just a place to grab a pint. It’s a hub for community. It’s known for its locally sourced beers. It also boasts a quirky interior filled with beer bottles and posters. It even has a beer garden though some consider it more of a “beer parking-lot-with-some-potted-plants”. Live music often fills the air adding to its lively atmosphere. The Flying Pig has hosted many memorable nights.
However The Flying Pig hasn’t always had smooth sailing. In 2021 redevelopment plans threatened its existence. The pub closed facing possible demolition. A petition with almost 16000 signatures showed how much it meant to the city. Cambridge’s Strawberry Fair even honored it with a “Flying Pig Stage”. The pub’s closure caused widespread upset. Fortunately a revised plan was approved. The pub will be retained. It will even be brought back to life while adhering to modern regulations. The developer promises pints will flow soon.
The Flying Pig embodies Cambridge’s spirit. It’s a place where history and community intertwine. This pub offers more than just drinks. It offers a piece of Cambridge’s vibrant past and a promise of a lively future. So raise a glass to The Flying Pig may its story continue for years to come.