To walk through the streets of Cambridge is to possibly walk in the footsteps of great minds past, present and indeed future. The palpable sense of greatness can also be felt in the hotels, where such luminaries who have graced these college cloisters may have stayed.
A good room is not hard to find. A great one is, especially in the luxury category. We have pored over the details of all of Cambridge’s luxury hotel options to bring you five of the best. In consideration are factors such as the hotel’s amenities, location, breakfast services and ambiance.
The Gonville Hotel
Privates from £180/ night
The Gonville Hotel is housed in a lovely old building with an expertly refurbished modernity. Take, for example, the iPad installed in each room, which allows guests to access the hotel’s valet system for room service. Rooms have plush furnishings and are ensuite. The bathrooms have a walk-in shower and free toiletries. Communal areas of the hotel include a bar and restaurant, seating area and a garden. There is also free bicycle hire from the hotel, which provides guests with a classic mode of transport for any Cambridge trip.
Tamburlaine
Privates from £180/ night
Doused in luxury, the spacious Tamburlaine is every bit a hotel belonging to a city that boasts a great educational institution like Cambridge. The hotel has its own library, in addition to a bar, restaurant and fitness centre as the main communal areas for guests. Wall-to-ceiling windows bathe the elegantly furnished rooms in light during the day. Tea and coffee making facilities, a comfy seating area and desk are all lovely ancillary features added to each room.
The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Privates from £255/ night
Work out under wooden beams in a spacious and extremely well-equipped fitness centre, get pampered in the spa and wellness centre or simply sit back in the hot tub. The extra cost goes a long way at The Varsity Hotel & Spa. Located right across the River Cam from Magdalene College, next to Jesus Green, The Varsity’s rooms are fresh and current; each is decorated with an original motif, quality bedspreads and come with flatscreen TVs, safety deposit boxes and kettles, among other amenities.
Hotel Felix
Privates from £195/ night
Located a little way from the city centre, Hotel Felix exudes an inviting, warm vibe. The benefit of being a mile and a half from the city centre is that there is free private parking at the hotel. Other good facilities for guests include the sun terrace and garden, bar and restaurant, and the fact that pets are allowed here on request. Breakfast is included in the price of each room at Hotel Felix. This hotel also has good facilities for disabled guests.
Hotel du Vin & Bistro
Privates from £185/ night
Every little detail screams luxury at Hotel du Vin & Bistro, from the Egyptian sheets to the monsoon shower in each room. The rooms are elegant and some even have an old fireplace in them. Room service is available and the French bistro has a good range of options from the à la carte menu, which also caters to special dietary requirements. The hotel also has a bar and library, all housed in a Grade II listed building five minutes’ walk from the centre of Cambridge.