The Varsity

The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge, East Anglia - Explore & Book

"Everywhere, in magnificent Cambridge, narrow side streets wind beguilingly between grand colleges and student digs in Victorian terraces; few of them lead to rooms as splendid as the Varsity’s airy modern suites. Here, in a completely new glass-topped building, rooms span the gamut from swanky expanses you could roller-blade in to more typically student-size rooms; but all are blessed with floor-to-ceiling windows, superb beds and treats such as use of an Aveda spa. Regardless of size, all are impeccably designed, with sleek contemporary furniture, weighty curtains in neutral tones, and a distinctive dash of colour in bold wallpaper or unusual prints. The roof is a stunning, astro-turfed terrace, open to 360 degree views of Cambridge - a wonderful place for an early drink, and just above the SIX Brasserie restaurant and cocktail bar. Next door, their River Bar restaurant serves a reliable menu of steaks, with a superior wine list, while tucked away in their Glassworks spa are tiny havens where expert masseuses work transformative magic. A perfect base for sightseeing, or a great treat for a special weekend. Highs The views: Cambridge has never looked so grand as from the Varsity’s summer roof terrace The location: perfectly situated in the heart of the city for colleges, shopping, and strolls along the Cam Two restaurants: the small but superb steakhouse, with a good wine list too, and the panoramic 6th floor brasserie serving food and cocktails all day The well-equipped gym and spa: great massages, yoga and Pilates classes, plus a hot tub looking over passing punters The overall feel of a smart city-centre hotel with style: something Cambridge has historically lacked Lows Graduate Rooms are small, and lower floor rooms have uninspiring views. Book the best you can afford, and as early as possible (1st come, 1st served) After a period of mixed feedback, service seems to have improved again, though we still witnessed the odd confusion when checking out No parking outside (or anywhere in the historic centre), but there are car parks a few minutes' walk away, or the hotel offers valet parking for a small fee You have to go outside and back in again next door to enter the restaurant, or the spa The Roof Terrace is only open in the warmer months (subject to weather conditions)" - Christabelle Dilks