This is a typical Lloyd’s Number 1 Bar. It has no character, dull decor and very cheap drinks. But those cash tills just keep ringing.

The Venue
This building was once a cinema and although it's huge, Wetherspoons seemed to think they'd be able to fill it with drinkers so they turned it into a Lloyd's Number 1 Bar.

It's set over two floors and it has almost endless amounts of space. However, as you step in, the moody lighting and blandness of the Regal makes it lose any sense of grandeur - it just looks like every other Wetherspoons' venture.

Dark clashing colours seems to be the design theme, so there are blue carpets, dark wood panelling, maroon furniture and almost no lighting except the dull glow of fruit machines.

The long bar is the only flash of brightness and you're drawn to it like a moth, but after waiting there for what feels like forever it loses its appeal.

The People
With the only distinguishing characteristic being the cheap drinks, most of the people who go to the Regal are after a swift one before moving on. And they're not the fussiest bunch.

It seems the dullness of the decor has rubbed off on the few customers who linger at the Regal. They either look bored or moody, or both, and they seem content to stare at their pints or at other drinkers.

The other section of the Regal's clientele is the hardcore party crew who, after taking advantage of a few of the drink deals, seem to be having a good time regardless of their bland surroundings.

Dark corners made for sipping pints attract groups of old men who can sit and drink without being disturbed. And, with such low prices, there are always a few students getting fuelled for the night ahead.

The Food and Drink
The drinks selection in impressive, with multiple choices that offer their clientele a bargain drink and justifies them staying there for one more.

The wine selection is limited, but with prices as low as £8.39 to £14.39, with most bottles coming in at £10, it's hard to complain, unless you haven’t got the hardcore stomach to handle it.

Coffee is 99p for those who want to sober up, and there are even some simple cocktails for £3 for those who don’t.

Beers on tap include Stella, Carling, Fosters, Kronenbourg, Guinness and John Smith, priced at around £2.40 a pint. The simple selection of spirits are also affordable at £2 a measure.

Food, like the drink, is cheap and varied enough to appeal to the masses. Sausage and mash costs £6.79, chilli con carne is £5.69, meatballs with linguine is £5.69 and they also do grilled panini, salads and jacket potatoes. Meal deals include beer and a burger for £4.69, or two meals for £6.69.

The Last Word
If cheap drink is all that you’re after, The Regal might be the best place in Cambridge for your needs.

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