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

8.5

8.4

/10

4.6

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 in the city center, a short walk from prestigious colleges like St John's, Trinity, and Jesus College. This property is the closest hotel to these historic institutions and overlooks the iconic River Cam. Guests enjoy easy access to local attractions, punting, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.

Rooms

Offering 48 uniquely designed rooms, the hotel celebrates Cambridge's cultural heritage with quirky artwork and special details. Room types include Senior Fellows Superking Rooms with super king-size beds and luxurious bathroom amenities. The spacious Senior Fellows Suite features a private terrace and direct views of St John's College Chapel.

Dining

Dine at the SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie, serving a diverse menu inspired by local ingredients and boasting panoramic views of the city. The River Bar Steakhouse specializes in 28-day aged steak and fresh seafood, making it a prime spot for meat lovers. Afternoon tea is available and can accommodate up to 120 guests, with a selection of traditional items.

Wellness

The hotel's Elemis Spa offers a variety of relaxations, including the SPA Pool, sauna, and steam room, all overlooking the river. Guests can choose from a wide range of Elemis treatments customized for relaxation and rejuvenation. The fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment, along with daily fitness classes, including yoga and spinning.

Amenities

The Varsity Hotel provides complimentary bicycles for exploring the picturesque city, along with valet parking for convenience. Guests can book punting experiences at discounted rates through Rutherford's Punting, located near the hotel. Business travelers can utilize conference rooms with full audiovisual capabilities for up to 60 attendees.

Highlights

Location: closest Cambridge hotel to St John's

Rooms: 48 uniquely designed rooms

Dining: SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie

Wellness: Elemis Spa with SPA Pool

Amenities: complimentary bicycles

Business: conference rooms for up to 60

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

9.3/10Review 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

Shower

Heating

room details

King Room

2 persons

205 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior King Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Senior Fellows Twin Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Click button to see more rooms

Show all rooms

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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

8.5/10Review 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
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.

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 (CBG)7 min · 2.8 mi

London Stansted (STN)76 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

Wireless 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, Romanian, Polish

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently praise the hotel's central location, offering easy access to Cambridge while maintaining a calm atmosphere. Many appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and modern bathrooms, with some upgraded rooms featuring balconies and fantastic views of Cambridge. The rooftop terrace is a highlight for many, and the spa, while noted as small by some, provides a relaxing experience with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.

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Review score

Based on 609 verified reviews

8.5/10

Great

84%

Recommend

Location

9.3/10

Staff

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.5/10

Breakfast

7.4/10

Pros

Helpful staff

Clean room

Perfect location

Cons

Noise pollution

Dated furniture

Joseph from United States

Couple

Superior King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 18, 2026

7/10

helpful stafffree spalacking sugarsoverpriced room

The staff were helpful and pleasant . I got upgraded to a nicer suite and the room had a fantastic view. We had free access to the spa. The spa included a sauna, a steam room, and a jacuzzi.

There were not enough sugars or milk in the room. There was not enough to make even simple hot beverages. The room was not as luxurious as expected for the price. I would have appreciated it more if prices reflected the service.

0 Helpful

Jonathan from United Kingdom

Single

King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 03, 2026

8.7/10

Excellent riverside location

king roomelemis toiletrieswalk-in showerwelcome addition

I received a complimentary upgrade to a king room. it was spacious and well-appointed. i appreciated the plentiful supply of elemis toiletries in the bathroom. the room featured both a bath and a walk-in shower. This was a welcome addition.

the floor in the room was noticeably cold.

Location

9/10

The hotel enjoys a central location with river views. it offers easy access to riverside walks and punting. the historic city center is just a short stroll away from the premises. This is a great advantage.

Facilities

8/10

This hotel features a rooftop bar, which provides great views. valet parking service is available for approximately £30 per day. a sauna is accessible to hotel guests. This is a welcome amenity.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast offers many choices, including cooked options. the sixth brasserie offers excellent food and drinks. the restaurant has a lively atmosphere and fine views. These views enhance the overall dining experience.

0 Helpful

Harper from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:December 12, 2025

6/10

mixed feelings about this stay

central locationsmall roomdifficult address

the location was indeed central and helpful for getting around.

The room was small. Opening suitcases was hard without using the bed. also, finding the gps address proved difficult. it wasn't the relaxing stay i was hoping for.

0 Helpful

Benjamin from United States

Couple

King Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:August 23, 2025

6/10

overpriced barcrowded jacuzzi

I was a bit frustrated with a few things . The valet parking was like a rip-off (especially considering the price). I had to walk a fair distance to my car because of road closures. This was not the service I expected. the rooftop bar prices were ridiculous and the jacuzzi in the spa was always overcrowded, a real letdown.

0 Helpful

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.