There is a noticeably different drinking culture in the UK and at Cambridge, in particular. The UK is sometimes described as a country of highly functional alcoholics, a caricature supported by many research studies on their consumption habits. Compared to Americans, Brits tend to drink more heavily and more often. Cambridge has its own subset drinking culture. The open container laws in Cambridge are not enforced so you will see people carrying bottles of wine and liquor on the streets. The ban on public consumption is more regularly enforced. At university or college-sponsored events, it is common to serve wine; there is always a alcoholic option. Most colleges permit students often bring their own bottles to formal hall; some will have a corkage fee or only allow you to buy college-supplied wine. People may choose to share bottles, although more commonly each person drinks one bottle of wine by themselves over the course of dinner. College bars have really cheap drinks compared to bars in the city so they're a fun place for everyone to mingle before hitting up the clubs/whatever else is in store for the night.