The Varsity Hotel & Spa | City stay in Cambridge (Cambridgeshire) | Book Now

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Key details

About the Hotel

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ

Close to the colleges

Great

8.4

/10

4.8

3.9

Loved by The Varsity Hotel & Spa guests

Attentive staff
Spacious rooms
Comfortable beds
Amazing views
Delicious meals
Valet parking

"The roof top bar with its absolutely amazing views of the city."

Hayley from United Kingdom

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"We booked room 516, which is a suite, the top room, it was absolutely amazing, we arrived at lunchtime and our room wasn't ready."

Cheekycheese15

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"Spa area small but very cosy especially in the jacuzzi viewing the river."

Denise

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Location

The Varsity Hotel & Spa is situated along the banks of the River Cam, making it the only hotel in Cambridge where guests can step directly onto a punt. This central location offers easy access to iconic colleges, including St John's, Trinity, and Magdalene College, all within a leisurely walk. The vibrant city center provides ample opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and nightlife.

Rooms

The hotel offers 48 uniquely designed rooms, each celebrating Cambridge's cultural heritage, enriched with quirky artwork. The Senior Fellows Suite provides a spacious 80 sqm with a private terrace and views of St John's College Chapel. Premium amenities include super king-size beds, underfloor heating, and Victorian free-standing bathtubs in select rooms.

Dining

Dining options at The Varsity include the SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie, which serves delicious dishes and cocktails while showcasing breathtaking views of the city. The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill specializes in 28-day aged steaks and fresh fish, with a welcoming ambiance for gatherings. Afternoon tea, featuring freshly made cakes and sandwiches, can accommodate up to 120 guests.

Wellness

The Elemis Spa at the hotel provides a variety of rejuvenating treatments, complete with a whirlpool hot tub that overlooks the River Cam. Guests can unwind in the sauna and steam room, along with access to a fully equipped gym. Daily fitness classes and bespoke spa day packages contribute to a thorough wellness experience.

Amenities

The Varsity Hotel boasts an iconic rooftop terrace for guests to enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping cocktails. Complimentary bicycles are available to explore Cambridge, reinforcing easy access to local landmarks. For added convenience, the hotel provides stress-free valet parking service for a nominal fee.

Highlights

Location: only Cambridge hotel on the river

Rooms: Senior Fellows Suite with river views

Dining: SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie

Wellness: Elemis Spa treatments with river views

Amenities: complimentary bicycles for exploring

Valet Parking: stress-free parking service available

Must-do experiences

Stroll through the beautiful Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
Visit The Fitzwilliam Museum for free access to stunning art.
Try a traditional Cambridge sausage roll at The Old Bicycle Shop.
Row on the River Cam for a quintessential Cambridge experience.
Explore the quirky shops and cafes at the Cambridge Market Square.

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Shine on SocialsPicture-perfect

“Room is comfy, clean and have a good view of the city.”

Bruna from Brazil

Away at HomeLike a warm hug

“We received an unexpected and v welcome upgrade - an airy, super-comfy room, spick and span with fetching botanical wallpaper.”

H A from United Kingdom

Shine on SocialsViews to die

“Brilliant views from the roof top bar and restaurant.”

stephen from United Kingdom

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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Double Room

2 persons

175 sq. feet

1 Double bed

King Room

2 persons

205 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Superior King Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Senior Fellows Twin Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

2 Single beds

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Great

8.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Barber shop
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Cycling
Tennis
Sports trainer

Services

Valet parking
Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Bathtub
Free toiletries

Media

Flat-screen TV
Direct dial telephone
CD player

Dining Onsite

At The Varsity Hotel & Spa, dining is a celebration of both local and international flavors with an array of culinary experiences. From modern British fare to Mediterranean delights, guests can indulge in diverse menus while enjoying stunning views of the historic Cambridge skyline.

The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British, French, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Scottish

Ambiance

Modern and inviting, set against the backdrop of breathtaking views of the Cambridge skyline.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes like chargrilled leg of saltmarsh lamb, alongside a casual menu featuring pizzas, lasagne, and burgers. The luxurious Champagne afternoon tea offers an exquisite selection of sandwiches, warm scones, and specialty teas.

Reservation

Recommended

Open Monday from 5 PM to midnight; Tuesday to Sunday from 12 PM to midnight.

The Varsity Hotel & Spa Location

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ

Map view

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ

City landmarks

Museum

Fitzwilliam Museum

4100 ft

University

Trinity College

4000 ft

Church

King's College Chapel

2600 ft

Market

Cambridge Market Square

2100 ft

Bridge

Mathematical Bridge

3600 ft

Botanical Garden

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

1.3 mi

Landmark

Castle Mound

2100 ft

University

University of Cambridge

2100 ft

Museum

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

4100 ft

Park

Midsummer Common

3400 ft

Landmark

King's College

2200 ft

Landmark

The River Cam

3400 ft

Park

Parker's Piece

4400 ft

University

Pembroke College

3400 ft

Museum

Whipple Museum of the History of Science

4100 ft

University

Corpus Christi College

3100 ft

University

St Catharine's College

2900 ft

University

Emmanuel College

3000 ft

University

Queen's College

3600 ft

Church

Great St Mary's Church

2100 ft

Museum

University Museum Of Zoology

3000 ft

Park

The Backs

4400 ft

Nearby

Park

Jesus Green

1400 ft

St John's St

St John's College

600 ft

Museum

Museum of Cambridge

1900 ft

University

Magdalene College

800 ft

University

Trinity Hall Cambridge

800 ft

University

Gonville and Caius College

1800 ft

University

Sidney Sussex College

1800 ft

Gallery

Kettle's Yard

1900 ft

Restaurants

River Bar Steakhouse & Grill

200 ft

3 Thompsons Lane Quayside

The Roof Terrace

200 ft

24 Thompsons Lane The Varsity Hotel & Spa

Thaikhun Cambridge

300 ft

3-5 Quayside

The Punt Yard

300 ft

6-8 Quayside

Wildwood Restaurant

300 ft

27-28 Bridge Street

Cafe Rouge Cambridge

600 ft

24-26 Bridge Street

Costa Coffee

500 ft

1-2 Market Hill Grand Arcade

Prezzo - Cambridge

500 ft

32 Bridge Street

Cambridge Wine Merchants

500 ft

32 Bridge Street

Explore Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)

Local Highlights

King's College Chapel

10 minutes' walk

Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass define this iconic chapel, a must-see for its historical significance.

Fitzwilliam Museum

15 minutes' walk

Home to a rich array of art and antiquities, this museum offers free admission and special exhibitions throughout the year.

Cambridge Market Square

8 minutes' walk

A bustling hub of local goods, food stalls, and crafts, this market is a vibrant spot for visitors to experience community life.

St John's College

2 minutes' walk

One of the oldest colleges in Cambridge, featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture worth a short visit.

Punting on the River Cam

5 minutes' walk

Enjoy a leisurely punt along the scenic River Cam, offering a unique view of the historic college buildings.

Jesus Green Park

5 minutes' walk

A tranquil green space perfect for picnics and strolls; ideal for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

Cambridge Escape Rooms

10 minutes' walk

An exciting adventure for thrill-seekers where teams solve puzzles to escape themed rooms within a time limit.

River Bar Steakhouse & Grill

1 minute' walk

An upscale steakhouse offering an array of grilled specialties in a cozy setting with river views.

Thaikhun Cambridge

1 minute' walk

A vibrant Thai restaurant featuring flavorful dishes with fresh ingredients, a popular spot for casual dining.

The Punt Yard

1 minute' walk

A casual eatery known for its locally-sourced menu, featuring relaxed seating and a charming riverside ambiance.

Cambridge Arts Theatre

10 minutes' walk

A premier venue showcasing a variety of performances, from drama to comedy, appealing to theater lovers of all ages.

The Blue Moon

15 minutes' walk

A lively bar and music venue known for its eclectic live acts and friendly vibe, ideal for a night out with friends.

Getting around

City Centre

Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)23 min · 1.2 mi

Airports

Cambridge Airport (CBG)7 min · 2.8 mi

London Stansted Airport (STN)75 min · 31.1 mi

Train

Cambridge Train Station28 min · 1.4 mi

Bus

Bus stop3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:30-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 33 per day.

Internet

is available in for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP15 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review score

Based on 386 verified reviews

8.1/10

Great

79%

Recommend

Breakfast

7.2/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Comfort

9.0/10

Facilities

8.4/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.5/10

Staff

9.1/10

Value for money

7.6/10

Pros

Helpful staff

Clean room

Perfect location

Cons

Noise pollution

Dated furniture

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Questions of the users

About The Varsity Hotel & Spa

Is air conditioning available in the rooms?

12 January 2024

All rooms come equipped with air conditioning as a standard feature.

Are twin bed options available for accommodation?

25 February 2024

Yes, twin rooms can be found under the category of Senior Fellow's Double or Twin Room.

What parking options are provided at the hotel?

3 March 2024

While there is no on-site car park, a valet parking service is offered at £29 per car per night, covering from arrival until 5 PM the following day.

Are the gym and spa facilities complimentary for guests?

18 March 2024

Access to the gym and spa facilities is included in all room rates. However, treatments are available for an additional charge.

Are pets allowed at the hotel?

30 March 2024

Small well-behaved dogs are welcome for a surcharge of £20 per dog, and a maximum of one dog per room is permitted.

Is an extra bed available for adult guests?

5 April 2024

Yes, extra beds can be placed in certain rooms for an additional cost of £50 per night.

Is there a gluten-free menu available at the restaurants?

15 April 2024

Menus in both restaurants cater to a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free options for many dishes.

How can luggage be handled if arriving before check-in time?

20 May 2024

It is possible to drop off luggage at reception before check-in, allowing guests to explore the area while waiting for their room.

What unique experiences are offered for guests in Cambridge?

28 June 2024

The hotel is situated close to several famous colleges, and guests can enjoy punting tours, bicycle rentals, and special events throughout the year.

What dining options are available on-site?

12 July 2024

Dining options include the SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie and River Bar Steakhouse & Grill, which serve a variety of dishes suitable for private events.