“At Cambridge, it was the weirdest culture. Everyone pretended they didn’t do any work, yet it was so competitive.” ― Naomie Harris
Colleges, culture, cafes and cyclists – this is Cambridge. The famous university city located on the River Cam, approximately 55 miles north of London. The only city in the UK where the number of residents who cycle outnumbers those who don’t. It is also home to The Varsity Hotel.
A dog-friendly boutique hotel with 48 uniquely designed rooms, The Varsity Hotel is a fashionable urban hotel in a prime Cambridge location. The closest Cambridge hotel to the world-famous St John’s, Trinity, Jesus and Magdalene Colleges, the latter of which can be seen from the hotel’s rooftop bar. As for the remaining colleges, King’s, Christ’s, Queens’, Gonville and Caius, Clare, Corpus Christi, these are only a leisurely walk away or a sedate cycle utilising the hotel’s complimentary bicycles.
The Rooms at Varsity Hotel
Across the 48 rooms guests can choose between the cosy Graduate Double, the medium Fellows King and the large Senior Fellows super king. For those wishing to make it a stay to remember you can also opt for the Senior Fellows Suite which offers a stunning 80sqm corner suite with private terrace and free-standing bath with direct views onto St John’s College Chapel. All rooms come with complimentary Elemis toiletries whilst some of the room choices also allow dogs for those with furry friends in tow.
In keeping with the hotel’s location, the interior design is uniquely decorated with notable nods to Cambridge’s character and famous history. From royal references to two wheeled artwork, block-printed florals to geometric wallpapers. All of which impose a striking contrast against the light oak floorboards and dark wood panelling.
Amenities & Dining at Varsity Hotel
For those staying at The Varsity Hotel guests also access to the gym and spa. The gym caters for the simple spin session through to daily fitness classes for those wishing to work up a sweat before relaxing on a punt down the river. For a more sedate setting, the spa offers Elemis Spa treatments, a SPA Pool, Sauna and Steam Room.
The hotel’s highlight is the iconic Roof Terrace. SIX, The Varsity Hotel’s 6th-floor Panoramic Bar overlooking the city offers 360° views across the Cambridge skyline whilst enjoying classic cocktails and locally sourced ingredients.
If you’re looking for a meal with more variety, we recommend the The River Bar Steakhouse and Grill. Situated on the Quayside in a lovely 18th century bonded warehouse and next door to the hotel, this restaurant overlooks the River Cam. With a menu focused on dry-aged beef and a wine list carefully crafted to match the food choices, the friendly staff will go out of their way to ensure your time at The River Bar Steakhouse and Grill is as enjoyable as possible.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a place to stay in Cambridge, be sure to check out Varsity Hotel. They offer a wonderful experience for their guests (both human and canine) and the spa and dining options are some of the very best in the city.
Edward Lumley is Editor-in-Chief for Of Wealth & Life and a Freelance Men’s Fashion Writer. Edward has written for publications such as FashionBeans, Harrods and a variety of online outlets specialising in Men’s fashion for the past eight years. Follow Edward on Instagram.
