The Best Hotels to Book in Cambridge

Built in 1830, the Gonville was originally a senior fellows house for academics; it was converted to a hotel in 1972, since when it has cultivated a reputation as one of the most upscale hotels in the city. It’s conveniently located on the south corner of Parker’s Piece, around a 10-minute walk from the centre of Cambridge. The hotel exudes style both inside and out, with the well-preserved architecture and recent refurbishments complimenting each other beautifully. The Atrium restaurant has a classy mid-20th-century atmosphere – further enhanced by the in-house jazz band – and the rooms are sleek and modern without clashing with the rest of the decor. If you really want to feel spoilt, take a complimentary ride in the hotel’s own Bentley S1.

Who could argue with a hotel that offers a central location, incredible views and a luxurious feel all at once? The Varsity Hotel & Spa sits right next to the River Cam and is only a five-minute walk from Jesus Green. Its proximity to the punt station also means tat you have an authentic Cambridge experience mere feet from your door. Some of the sizeable rooms come with a wood-panelled balcony and a monsoon shower in the bathroom. The casual restaurant is twinned with a rooftop cocktail bar, and guests have free use of the Glassworks gym and spa.

The University Arms is the oldest hotel in Cambridge and while for some that might be reason enough to stay all by itself, there is plenty more to entice guests through its doors. Sitting on Regent Street, right next to Parker’s Piece and tracing an easy route into Market Square and the colleges, the hotel was recently refurbished with great care taken to maintain authenticity. The rebuild was done by architect John Simpson, and the new interior now feels like a tribute to Cambridge itself, with the Library public sitting room, Cambridge-blue adorned rooms with curated library, and the crown jewel, the Parker’s Tavern, a university watering-hole right in the middle of the hotel.

Blending contemporary style with rustic touches is always a risky move, but the Waterman manages it admirably. Overlooking Midsummer Common, one of the most recognisable green spaces in Cambridge, it offers eight rooms with lots of space, comfy beds and eye-catching artwork, as well as smart TVs and Roberts radios. The bar has a huge selection of craft beer and fine wines, and the restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including some great vegetarian and vegan options. Special events include sports screenings, bottomless brunch and seasonal menus.

Dating back to the 17th century, Anstey Hall, in one of the greener parts of Trumpington, is one of the most prominent Grade I-listed buildings in Cambridge. The owners have done their best to maintain the illusion that it is, in fact, still the 17th century here – think high tea, croquet on the lawn, four-poster beds and vintage furniture in the rooms and hallways. There’s no restaurant, but the hotel does have a bar and lounge where breakfast is served, or you can have it brought directly to your room.

With 102 rooms, the Arundel is one of the largest hotels in the city. Across the river from Jesus Green, it tries to embody Cambridge’s classical notes, while also providing as much space and comfort as the antiquated building will allow. The coach house behind the hotel is also set up with rooms, and guests there can rest in the knowledge that they’re inside the HQ of one of Cambridge’s earliest transport companies. The hotel boasts a bar, main restaurant and brasserie, allowing for top dining any time of year. The menu is varied, and includes a broad range of international dishes.

The rolling lawn leading up to Rectory Farm resembles something out of a period film, with the Georgian-style frontage beckoning you inside. A countryside walk will lead you to King’s College in around 40 minutes, and you can expect to see sheep and horses grazing around the perimeter of the gardens. Alongside the 20ha (50 acres) of meadow are croquet hoops and a heated outdoor pool, while the rooms are split across the main house and a few contemporary chalet buildings. A continental breakfast is offered in the lounge, and special seasonal events are always happening, so it pays to keep an eye on the website to find out what’s going on.