The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Quirky academic-chic boutique. Bold colour palettes, college-themed rooms with alumni portraits, and a roof terrace that's become the most iconic drinks perch in Cambridge. Equal parts intellectual nostalgia and proper upscale comfort.
Book a Senior Fellows room or Suite on the upper floors for the best college views — the difference in outlook is significant.
Why It Matters
Best location of any Cambridge hotel — closest to the main colleges — combined with a sixth-floor panoramic restaurant (SIX), a riverside steakhouse in a restored 18th-century bonded warehouse, and an Elemis spa. The roof terrace alone is reason to book.
The Varsity was founded by four Cambridge graduates and sits right on the River Cam — you're practically across the road from Magdalene College and a short stroll from St John's, Trinity and Jesus. The building is modern, but floor-to-ceiling windows frame 800 years of collegiate architecture so effectively that it doesn't matter. Rooms are named after Oxford and Cambridge colleges, dressed in bold wallpaper and quirky artwork, and all fully refurbished in 2024 in collaboration with GP & J Baker.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
Fellows King Room
Mid-size rooms with luxurious king-size beds and bathrooms with underfloor heating. Some feature walk-in showers, some have baths, and select rooms have Victorian free-standing roll-top bath-tubs. Bold patterns and college-inspired decor throughout.
KingGraduate Double Room
The entry-level rooms — labelled 'Cosy' by the hotel. Double beds and walk-in monsoon showers. Each room is individually decorated with bold wallpaper, quirky Cambridge-themed artwork and college portraits. Compact but characterful. All rooms were refurbished in 2024.
DoubleSenior Fellows Suite
An 80sqm corner suite that's the best room in the hotel. Private terrace, a free-standing bath with direct views onto St John's College Chapel, and a separate lounge area with floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides. Champagne-and-dressing-gown territory.
Super King · 80 sqmSenior Fellows Superking Room
The larger standard rooms with super king-size beds. Some feature four-poster beds with bold floral wallpaper; others have underfloor-heated bathrooms with walk-in showers or Victorian free-standing bath-tubs. Floor-to-ceiling windows are standard. Herringbone flooring in select rooms.
Super KingThe Property
Eat & Drink
3 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
The hotel keeps a fleet of bicycles available for all guests to borrow at no charge — the ideal way to explore Cambridge's flat streets and towpaths.
Full-size gym with Cybex resistance equipment, cardiovascular machines with Cardio-Theatre, a stretching zone, and a dedicated studio. Daily complimentary classes include Zumba, Spinning, Box Fit, Tabata, Yoga, Pilates and Body Conditioning.
Multiple punt hire and guided punt tour operators launch from the Quayside, which is right next to the hotel. The hotel provides information and can assist with bookings.
The seventh-floor open-air terrace is the most iconic spot in Cambridge for a sundowner. 360° views, cocktails, gin and champagne. Priority access for hotel guests.
Open-air film screenings on the roof terrace in association with Cambridge Film Trust, running in summer. Cult, classic and contemporary films with cocktails.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
On-site Aveda-accredited hair salon within the Glassworks Spa.
Multiple function and conference rooms including the Trinity Function Room. Can host private dining, corporate events, wedding receptions up to 140 guests at SIX or 75 at River Bar.
Full-size gym with Cybex resistance equipment, cardiovascular machines, free weights, squat racks, TRX and kettle bells. Located in the adjoining restored bonded warehouse building.
Valet parking for hotel guests, available 7am to 10pm. No self-park option on site.
Dogs are welcomed at the hotel. Check specific pet policies and any applicable fees when booking.
Whirlpool hot tub in the Glassworks Spa with views overlooking the River Cam. Complimentary for hotel guests.
BUILD YOUR THE VARSITY HOTEL & SPA PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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