Starbucks opens redesigned coffeehouse at Railpen's Cambridge Retail Park

Railpen, manager of the £34bn Railways Pension Scheme in the UK, has announced the opening of a new Starbucks coffeehouse at Cambridge Retail Park, the first phase of an extensive investment programme in the destination.

Maria Averkina / 15 October 2025

Situated at the entrance to Cambridge Retail Park on Newmarket Road, the refurbished Starbucks now comprises 2,000 sq ft set in a unique café garden and will be open seven days a week.  The landscaped café garden includes a children’s play area, and a pedestrianised link directly from Newmarket Road, providing easy access for local residents.  The planting and green roof contribute to more than 10% biodiversity gain.

Maria Averkina, Asset and Development Manager at Railpen, said: "The opening of Starbucks is the exciting first stage of the transformation of Cambridge Retail Park, and its design and sustainability credentials are of the highest standards.  In addition, we have focused on creating a unique, appealing environment that will appeal to all visitors, whether shoppers or local residents.”

Andrew Ashley, Store Manager at the new Starbucks, added: "We’re absolutely delighted to be opening this totally refurbished coffeehouse. The new design delivers a refreshed look throughout and creates a welcoming and comfortable environment for our customers to relax and enjoy their handcrafted beverages. We’re looking forward to welcoming the local community and becoming part of their day.”

The opening of Starbucks follows the approval earlier this year of Railpen’s proposals to create a 112,000 sq ft six-storey Grade A office building, 230 Newmarket Road, adjacent to Cambridge Retail Park.  Designed by Leonard Design Architects, the building will achieve the highest levels of sustainability, aspiring for a BREEAM rating of ‘Outstanding’ and 20% biodiversity net gain.  Railpen is also onsite with Mill Yard, its 180,000 sq ft mixed-use campus, and Botanic Place, its 330,000 sq ft global standard head quarters development, both just a few minutes’ walk from Cambridge station.