Congratulations to the winners and highly commended runners-up of our People’s Choice Awards! Here’s the long-awaited roll of honour…
This issue, we’re celebrating the very best of Cambridge – the businesses, venues and individuals who make our city such a vibrant, welcoming and inspiring place to live, work and visit. What makes these awards truly special is that they are chosen by you – the people of Cambridge. Your votes have recognised the exceptional talent, passion and dedication that make these winners stand out.
From outstanding restaurants and independent cafes to pioneering retailers, cultural gems and community champions, this year’s winners represent the heart and soul of our city. Whether they’re serving up unforgettable dining experiences, providing top-quality services or going the extra mile to support others – as in the case of our Community Hero award – each winner has made a lasting impact. These awards are not just about celebrating success but also about acknowledging the hard work, dedication, creativity and innovation that keep our amazing city thriving.
It is our hope that these inaugural community awards will continue to play a key role in recognising and rewarding the contributions of individuals, businesses and organisations that make a positive impact. They foster a sense of pride and unity, encouraging others to strive for excellence in their own communities. By highlighting achievements in areas such as volunteering, business innovation and cultural contributions, we hope these awards inspire future generations and strengthen local engagement. They also bring well-deserved attention to the work of our often-unsung heroes, reinforcing the value of community spirit.
Ultimately, initiatives like this help build a stronger and more connected society by highlighting the dedication and efforts of those who are making a difference. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners – your excellence has truly earned you the people’s vote.
1. Best Restaurant
Winner: Six
With its exceptional fine dining, commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and atmospheric dining room that boasts breathtaking rooftop views over the city, Six Brasserie at The Varsity Hotel offers an unforgettable culinary experience. A true standout in Cambridge’s dining scene, it’s a perfect blend of elegance, flavour and ambience.
Highly commended: Kibou
2. Best Cafe
Winner: Stir
A cherished local gem, this small chain of independent cafe-bakeries has cultivated a loyal following thanks to their welcoming atmosphere, exceptional bakes and dedication to quality. More than just a cafe, Stir serves as a network of vibrant community hubs, bringing people together over expertly crafted coffee and delicious, freshly baked treats.
Highly commended: Fitzbillies
3. Best Artisan Food & Drink Producer
Winner: The Cambridge Cheese Company
Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to sustainability, quality and animal welfare, The Cambridge Cheese Company has an outstanding selection of delicious artisan cheeses. A true champion of fine food, this independent gem brings the best of British and European cheesemaking.
Highly commended: Cambridge Distillery
4. Best Street Food
Winner: Steak & Honour
Bringing innovation and authenticity to the streets of Cambridge, Steak & Honour has redefined the humble burger with bold flavours, impeccable presentation and top-quality ingredients. With a focus on taste, craftsmanship and outstanding service, it’s no surprise that this iconic street food favourite continues to win hearts – and appetites.
Highly commended: Off the beaten truck
5. Best Bar or Pub
Winner: Pint Shop
A vibrant social hub in the heart of Cambridge, Pint Shop pairs its retro-inspired interiors with an outstanding selection of artisan craft beers, ales and lagers. Its central location and bustling atmosphere make it a go-to destination, buzzing with energy and character all year round.
Highly commended: The Carpenters Arms
6. Best Home or Garden Retailer
Winner: Neptune
Renowned for its timeless craftsmanship, elegant designs and commitment to quality, Neptune creates beautifully curated homewares that combine classic styles with contemporary living. A well-deserved accolade for a brand that truly elevates home interiors. Every visit to its Harston branch leaves customers brimming with inspiration.
Highly commended: M&J Abbs
7. Best Fashion Retailer
Winner: Modish
With a carefully curated selection that reflects seasonal trends and a commitment to ethical sourcing, Modish shoe shop sets the standard for style and sustainability. Led by a knowledgeable and friendly team, its outstanding customer service ensures a personalised shopping experience that makes it a firm favourite among fashion-conscious shoppers.
Highly commended: Iris & Violet
8. Best Tourist Attraction
Winner: Cambridge University Botanic Garden
A true oasis in the heart of the city, the Botanic Garden offers a stunning blend of scientific discovery and natural beauty. Home to more than 8,000 plant species, its curated landscapes provide a tranquil retreat for visitors while supporting vital research in horticulture and conservation.
Highly commended: Ely Cathedral
9. Best Health or Wellbeing Provider
Winner: Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa
Blending indulgence with expert care, Bedford Lodge is a haven of tranquillity. Its beautiful surroundings, outstanding treatments and warm, professional team ensure every visit is restorative. Focused on quality and personalised service, it’s
a standout destination for relaxation.
Highly commended: Cambridge Country Club Health & Wellness
10. Best Hair or Beauty Salon
Winner: CSL Brows & Beauty
Renowned for its expert craftsmanship and personalised approach, CSL Brows & Beauty provides exceptional beauty treatments in a relaxing, yet professional setting. With a skilled and friendly team dedicated to customer satisfaction, every client receives tailored care, ensuring flawless results and a truly indulgent experience.
Highly commended: House of Beauty
11. Best Hotel, Inn or B&B
Winner: Gonville hotel
Combining luxury with friendly service, the Gonville Hotel sets the gold standard for hospitality in Cambridge. With elegant surroundings, personalised comfort and a dedicated team who go above and beyond for every guest, it offers a truly memorable stay where nothing is ever too much trouble.
Highly commended: University Arms Hotel
12. Best Arts & Cultural Venue or Experience
Winner: Fitzwilliam Museum
A jewel in Cambridge’s cultural crown, the Fitzwilliam Museum hosts a quite extraordinary collection of art and antiquities that span centuries and civilisations. Renowned for its world-class exhibitions, stunning architecture and commitment to education and heritage, it’s an inspiring and enriching experience for all who visit.
Highly commended: cambridge Corn Exchange
13. Best Wedding Supplier
Winner: Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery
Known for its creativity and inspired vision, Harriet Kelsall brings artistry and craftsmanship to every design. The team is dedicated to expert guidance and personalised service, transforming ideas into exquisite pieces and ensuring each couple’s love story is captured in their jewellery.
Highly commended: The Old Hall Ely
14. Customer Service Award
Winner: Fiona Cobb, House of Beauty
With her warm and welcoming approach, Fiona Cobb exemplifies excellence in customer service at House of Beauty’s Cambridge branch. Her dedication to client care goes beyond expectations, ensuring every visitor feels valued, relaxed and truly pampered. Through exceptional attention to detail, expert knowledge and a genuine passion for her work, Fiona creates an outstanding beauty experience that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Her kindness, professionalism and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction make her a truly deserving winner of this award.
15. Community Hero Award
Winner: Mary Twitchett – athlete, coach and cancer research campaigner
A true beacon of strength, compassion and inspiration, Mary Twitchett has dedicated herself to supporting individuals affected by cancer, drawing from her own experiences as a two-time cancer survivor. Through her tireless volunteer work and 5K Your Way initiative, she encourages those on their own journeys to embrace movement, positivity and connection. Her kindness, resilience and drive make her a truly worthy Community Hero award winner.
“I’m quite shocked about winning this award – I just do what I do,” says Mary, who works as an advanced nurse practitioner in Trumpington. “It’s always a pleasure to help others. As a nurse, I like to empower people and help them understand that cancer doesn’t define you.
“My own cancer journey began in 2018. I had just completed the LA marathon and was top of the UK marathon runners for my age group. Then, just eight weeks later, I was diagnosed with breast cancer… and my world fell apart. As a fit, healthy person, you never imagine it will happen to you.
“You go through all the emotions, not really knowing what’s hit you. In the same week that my cancer was confirmed, I actually did a cycling time trial, and I remember crying the whole way through. I was thinking that this is the end of the world. But, in time, you realise you have the skills to make something positive out of it.”
After completing a course of chemotherapy in 2018, Mary was approached by two friends – oncologist and Ironman triathlete Lucy Gossage and international athlete Gemma Hillier-Moses – to help set up the Cambridge branch of 5K Your Way.
“It’s a small charity, with about 100 branches across the UK,” says Mary. “The idea is that we all meet up at the Coldham’s Common Parkrun on the last Saturday of each month and walk or jog around the course, one lap or two, depending on how you’re feeling. We walk in our T-shirts at the back, behind the runners. People can see us and realise that there’s still life after a diagnosis. Exercise obviously has enormous benefits, even if you’re fatigued. It helps you cope mentally.
“What I try to instil in people is that, yes, cancer is a club you didn’t want to belong to, a journey you don’t want to take. Very bad days do happen, but we need to remember that the sun always rises the next day. We can choose hope and accept help. Even in those darkest moments, we can still move, smile and be kind to others.”
Award citations for Mary
“Mary has helped me with my personal journey with breast cancer, reaching out when others were too frightened to. She has raised significant amounts for cancer research, is passionate, caring and driven in her mission.”
“Mary deserves this recognition: she is a saint!”
“After battling cancer twice herself, Mary continues to inspire and support others in maintaining positivity and movement to help them through their dark days.”
“Mary is so inspiring in her volunteer work that involves promoting exercise and wellness to individuals with cancer. Her positive attitude has kept me buoyed at times when recovery has been hard. She is awesome!”
“Mary helps run 5K Your Way in the fight against cancer, for anyone it affects: patients, friends or families. We’re encouraged to meet and complete a 5K at whatever pace we can manage, then just go for a coffee and chat.”
