One of the most popular, prettiest, and most elegant cities in England, Cambridge is world-famous for its stunning collegiate architecture and the prestigious Cambridge University. Its charm also extends to its gorgeous collection of unique places to stay. From chic boutique and historic hotels to trendy and modern accommodation options, here are my favourite cool and unique hotels in Cambridge, England…
Graduate Cambridge
Nestled alongside the scenic River Cam, The Graduate quickly became one of my favorite places to stay. The central location offered me the perfect base for exploring popular attractions, heritage sites, retail outlets, and upscale restaurants.
During my visit, I enjoyed choosing from the extensive lineup of 148 elegantly appointed guest rooms. I must say, each bedroom had its unique charm, and the emphasis on both relaxation and style truly stood out. The luxury amenities, including king-sized beds, fine linens, air conditioning, and smart appliances, made my stay a memorable one.
For honeymooners and those who appreciate a bit of outdoor space, I’d highly recommend exploring the spacious suites with private balconies. They allowed me to relish the riverside setting and the breathtaking gardens.
One of the highlights of my stay at The Graduate was the array of onsite dining options. I loved sipping on locally crafted gin in the Riverview gardens, enjoying the soothing views of the river. The in-house Garden House restaurant offered a delightful experience with locally sourced cuisine. This place truly had it all, and I can’t wait to return.
Pros
Funky styling
Indoor swimming pool
Onsite restaurant bar and garden
Central location
Gonville Hotel
Gonville Hotel, housed in the charming 1880 Gresham House, is one of my favorite places. While visiting Cambridge, I enjoyed staying at this privately owned, family-run establishment on Parker’s Piece, a stone’s throw away from the city’s sprawling gardens and historic sites.
I love this hotel for its opulent décor, which includes lavishly appointed and comfortable guestrooms, each with unique charm. While staying there, I experienced the delight of their uniquely curated travel experiences.
During my stay, I tried the complimentary Cambridge tours in vintage coach-style Bentleys, an excellent way to explore the city’s beauty. Gonville was the perfect base for my adventures, whether I wanted to explore Cambridge on foot or cycle across the vibrant city quarters.
I stayed in one of the eight tastefully furnished bedrooms, and I was delighted by the colorful and romantic floral themes that created a rich, vintage-themed ambiance. The rooms featured premium comfort touches, including Smart TVs and Bose Speakers, making my stay more enjoyable. The indulgent ESPA toiletries and luxurious cashmere bedding added a touch of luxury to my experience at Gonville Hotel. It was truly a remarkable and unforgettable stay.
Pros
Luxurious ambiance
Fresh British cuisine
5-minute walk from historic centre
Complimentary Cambridge tours
Cons
Dim room lighting
Limited Parking
Small bathrooms
The Fellows House Cambridge
I love this place, The Fellows House Cambridge! It’s just a mile away from the lively heart of Cambridge City Centre, making it the perfect spot for anyone who wants to be right in the action of the town center while also enjoying some peace and privacy in a calm setting.
While staying at The Fellows House, I enjoyed experiencing its modern and stylish atmosphere. It’s a great choice for both leisure and business travelers, whether you’re planning a quick visit or an extended stay.
The apartments at The Fellows House are a real treat, with well-furnished studios and one-bedroom options with state-of-the-art stainless-steel kitchens. During my stay, I tried out their fitness center, indoor pool, steam room, and sauna – a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
One of my favorite things about this place is its location. It’s like a bridge between the historic and cosmopolitan sides of Cambridge. I decided to rent a bicycle, which most guests do, to explore the nearby attractions and parks. And when I wanted to unwind, the onsite Fellows Garden provided the perfect idyllic setting to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings after a long day of sightseeing.
Pros
Contemporary design
Well-furnished rooms
Indoor swimming pool
Bicycle rental facility
University Arms, Autograph Collection
As a proud member of the prestigious Autograph Collection, the University Arms quickly became one of my favorite places for an authentic Cambridge staycation. When I arrived, I fell in love with its quintessentially English setting. The traditional Edwardian structure and vintage interiors created an enchanting old-world abode. The expertly placed bespoke furniture, fine leather upholstery, vibrant chandeliers, textured ottomans, and brightly lit spaces made me feel like I’d stepped back.
My room, one of the 189 beautifully appointed ones and suites, was on the fourth floor, and I was greeted with stunning panoramic views of nearby historic landmarks. It was an incredible sight to wake up to.
During my stay at University Arms, I couldn’t resist dining at Parker’s Tavern, one of Cambridge’s finest establishments. The award-winning Chef Director, Tristan Welch, ensured my culinary experience was extraordinary. I tried some sumptuous British specialties, including suckling pig, Norfolk-style seafood, and the chef’s special spaghetti Bolognese. Each dish was a true delight for my taste buds, and it left me craving for more.
Pros
Striking upscale design
Onsite brasserie and cocktail bar
Charming Edwardian interiors
Views over Parker’s Piece
Cons
Some rooms without views
Dim room lighting
Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cambridge
Hotel du Vin & Bistro on Trumpington Street in Cambridge is one of my favorite places. It’s a charming boutique hotel surrounded by breathtaking spires and historic architecture. I love its elegant ambiance and unique character.
During my stay at this exquisite establishment, I couldn’t help but admire its old University building, lovingly renovated while maintaining its vintage charm. The vintage interiors are simply enchanting.
What I experienced here was top-notch service and style, catering to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere, tech-savvy amenities, and a sought-after location. It’s a complete package.
There are 41 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, each with bespoke furniture, luxurious Egyptian cotton bedding, and spa-like towels. It’s all about comfort and luxury.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Cellar Bar, where I tried rare wine varieties and locally crafted spirits. It’s a cozy spot to unwind after a day of exploring the snake-like cobblestone streets of Cambridge. This place exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to return.
Pros
Elegant architecture
Custom-made beds
Historic location
Classic bistro dining
Cons
No Netflix on TV
Slow breakfast service
The Varsity Hotel & Spa
The Varsity Hotel & Spa quickly became one of my favorite places to stay while visiting Cambridge. Situated in the heart of this vibrant city center, it allowed me to immerse myself in its rich history and lively atmosphere, all within walking distance of prestigious institutions and popular attractions.
While staying at The Varsity, I had the opportunity to explore the mesmerizing architectural heritage, dive into the local nightlife, take on punting adventures, and shop till I dropped. It truly is the place to be for anyone looking to experience all that Cambridge has to offer.
I loved the 48 lavishly designed guest rooms, each boasting artistic interiors that paid homage to Cambridge’s cultural and historical heritage. The hotel’s elegance and chic design made me feel right at home.
During my stay, I tried out the state-of-the-art fitness center, which allowed me to keep up with my workout routine. The world-class Elemis Spa treatments were a highlight, offering a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. And, of course, I couldn’t resist taking a dip in the indoor pool and unwinding in the sauna and steam room.
One of my favorite dining experiences was at the onsite Riverside Steakhouse, highly recommended by fellow travelers who had stayed at The Varsity Hotel. The food was exceptional, and the ambiance was top-notch, making it a memorable part of my Cambridge adventure.
Pros
Elegant and chic decor
Gym Spa Hot tub and Sauna
Quirky artwork
Impressive rooftop terrace with incredible views
Cons
Bar closes early
No minibar in the room
Can get booked up
Turing Locke
Turing Locke is one of my favorite places, nestled right in the heart of the Eddington district, and it’s a fabulous addition to Cambridge’s striking collection of apart-hotels. While staying at this avant-garde hotel, I truly loved that it’s ideally suited for travelers of all kinds, including solo travelers, families, friends, and digital nomads.
Turing Locke became my home during my visit to Cambridge, and I was lucky to stay in one of their 180 generously sized and tastefully designed apartments. I must say, they offer a wide range of accommodation options that suit various budgets. I tried hard to find exactly what I needed, and it was a breeze. I wanted to ensure my family and friends were comfortable and well-supported with modern amenities, and Turing Locke didn’t disappoint.
The best part was that I didn’t need to rent a car or take a bus to reach the vibrant historic quarters or explore the verdant meadows on the city’s outskirts. I experienced the convenience of having these attractions within walking distance, making my visit to Cambridge truly memorable.
Pros
Avant-garde style hotel
Warm cozy apartments
Douce salon & coffee shop
Fully fitted kitchens
Cons
Small couches
Dim room lighting
Self-catering
Christ’s College Cambridge
Staying at one of my favorite places, Christ’s College, was an incredible experience. I love this historic institution, one of the oldest buildings within the prestigious Cambridge University. It’s a unique opportunity to reside in a tranquil abode surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and all the exquisite splendors of collegiate Gothic architecture.
While visiting, I had the chance to unwind in the peaceful ambiance of the college’s courts after a day of sightseeing in the hubbub of the Cambridge city center. It was the perfect escape. I explored a range of suites to address my personal accommodation and budget requirements, including the Superior Double Room, Double Room, and Twin Room.
The Superior Double Room was my choice, and I must say, it was a great decision. Waking up to stunning views of the gardens and college architecture was a breathtaking experience. It made my stay at Christ’s College even more memorable.
Pros
Collegiate Gothic architecture
Unique stay
Peaceful green gardens
Perfect central location
Cons
A bit outdated rooms
No TV in the room
Lots of stairs
West Court
Tucked in the beating heart of Cambridge, West Court is one of my favorite places. I love this spot for its central location, allowing me to explore the city while enjoying the abundant comforts of its luxury accommodations. While visiting, I could book stylishly appointed double and single rooms, some with shared or ensuite bathrooms.
While staying at the place, I opted for one of their limited one-bedroom apartments. These apartments feature ensuite bathrooms, designated workstations, and complimentary bath amenities, making me feel right at home. The modern appliances and fine linens added a touch of luxury to my stay. It was perfect for my work needs and relaxation.
One of the things I tried at West Court was connecting with like-minded locals and fellow travelers. This vibrant community made my solo journey even more enjoyable. Whether I was attending conferences, community events, or just eager to embark on an authentic Cambridge experience, West Court had everything I needed for a well-rounded experience.
Pros
Contemporary traditional rooms
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Central location
Complimentary bath amenities
Cons
No on-site laundry facility
Few street view rooms
Less wardrobe space
Hyatt Centric Cambridge
The Hyatt Centric in the Eddington district quickly became one of my favorite places during my stay. Nestled in this hip neighborhood, it’s just a stone’s throw away from popular attractions and the lush meadows on the city’s outskirts.
While visiting this upscale luxury venue, I fell in love with its elegant design centered around a charming courtyard garden. The interiors are an absolute delight, with various spaces to explore. From elegant rooms to a co-working space, an onsite restaurant, bar, café, and a state-of-the-art fitness studio, Hyatt Centric has it all.
My stay at Hyatt Centric was truly memorable. I experienced the allure of 150 lavishly furnished rooms, each thoughtfully designed to pay homage to the local culture and architectural heritage. These rooms and suites had a distinctive retro-style glamour with bold Art Deco-themed accents and lavish amenities.
Among the many fantastic choices, the Deluxe Courtyard View suite caught my eye. It’s no surprise that it’s the most popular accommodation at the hotel, offering breathtaking views of the manicured gardens.
Pros
Upscale retro-styled hotel
Bold contemporary rooms
Welcomes dogs
Charming courtyard garden
Lensfield Hotel
The Lensfield Hotel, one of my favorite places, is a glorious gem deeply embedded in Cambridge’s cultural fabric, with a rich history dating back to 1850. While visiting this tastefully appointed establishment, I loved its charm. It’s a popular choice among foreign visitors, scholars, corporate travelers, and undergraduate students exploring the prestigious institutions with their parents.
While staying at the hotel, I tried out their 40 elegantly furnished bedrooms and suites, including Standard Rooms, Premier, Deluxe, and Junior Suites. I experienced the luxury of private bathrooms, smart appliances, and complimentary bath amenities.
The onsite Lensfield Spa became a therapeutic haven for me, offering physical, mental, and spiritual healing by harnessing the rituals of ancient cultures. It truly healed my mind, body, and soul. During my stay at the Lensfield Hotel, I enjoyed easy access to the best of Cambridge, from sprawling gardens and parks to museums, art galleries, bars, and retail outlets.
Pros
Relaxing ambiance
Elegantly furnished rooms
Therapeutic Lensfield Spa
Efficient service
Cons
Room is small for big families
No drinking water in the room
Narrow staircase
Pass the Keys Quirky Cabin in Cambridge
Exploring the historic city of Cambridge from the comforts and privacy of my accommodation is one of my favorite experiences. I love this feeling of indulgence and luxury.
While visiting this beautiful city, I preferred the freedom and privacy of luxury holiday rentals over the average standardized commercial hotel. Pass the Keys Quirky Cabin became my sanctuary for the trip. It’s a beautifully designed property, nestled near the Audley End House, the University of Cambridge, and the stunning Ickworth House.
While staying at this charming cabin, I relished being surrounded by the classical architecture of iconic landmarks and prestigious institutions. The view from its attractive terrace was stunning.
Inside, I discovered comfortably appointed bedrooms with spacious wardrobes, a luxury bathroom that added to the overall experience, smart appliances that made my stay convenient, and fine linens that ensured a restful night’s sleep. It truly felt like a home away from home.
Pros
Funky interior
Well equipped rooms
Smart appliances
Central location
Cons
Compact space
Old style sofa
Less storage
All Hotels in Cambridge Ranked
This table has compared the top 12 cool and unique hotels of the beautiful city of Cambridge.
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attractions (km) Nearby Restaurants
Graduate Cambridge Granta Place Mill Ln $512-$1709 Yes 0.4 1
Gonville Hotel Gonville Place $482-$725 No 0.7 2
The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton 33a Milton Road $397-$1924 No 1.2 3
University Arms, Autograph Collection Regent Street $528-$1628 Yes 0.7 2
Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cambridge Trumpington Street $431-$941 No 0.55 2
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Thompson's Lane $251-$670 Yes 0.65 3
Turing Locke 47 Eddington Avenue $147-$279 Yes 2.6 3
Christ's College Cambridge St Andrews Street $83-$198 No 0.6 2
West Court - Jesus College Jesus Lane $157-$218 No 0.6 2
Hyatt Centric Cambridge 37 Eddington Avenue $166-$204 Yes 2.6 3
Lensfield Hotel 53-57 Lensfield Road $111-$381 Yes 0.65 2
Pass the Keys Quirky Cabin in Cambridge Cambridge No Info Available No 0.6 2
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Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
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