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From192US$ /night
Check-in
31Dec2025Select date
Check-out
01Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ
-
Close to the colleges
Great
8.4
8.4
/10
4.8
3.9
/5

Location

The Varsity Hotel & Spa is the closest Cambridge hotel to several prominent colleges, including St John's, Trinity, and Jesus College. A leisurely walk leads guests to nearby sights such as King's College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum. Positioned along the River Cam, the hotel offers direct access to punting activities, enhancing the local cultural experience.

Rooms

The hotel features 48 uniquely designed rooms, celebrating the heritage of the city with distinctive artwork. The Senior Fellows Suite offers 80sqm of space, including a private terrace with views of St John's College Chapel. Selected rooms also provide amenities such as underfloor heating and Victorian free-standing bathtubs.

Dining

The SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie serves a diverse menu from its vantage point, providing impressive views of the city. Guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea, defined by freshly made finger sandwiches and scones, served warm. The River Bar Steakhouse specializes in 28-day aged steak and fresh fish options.

Wellness

The Elemis Spa provides a range of treatments along with access to a SPA pool that overlooks the River Cam. Guests can unwind in the sauna, steam room, and whirlpool hot tub, all designed to enhance relaxation. Daily fitness classes are available in the fully equipped gym, featuring the latest cardiovascular and weights machines.

Amenities

The hotel offers complimentary bicycle rentals, allowing guests to explore the city with ease. Valet parking services are available for added convenience during stays. A business conference area is equipped for events, accommodating up to 60 participants with natural light and audio-visual equipment.

Highlights

Location: closest Cambridge hotel to St John's, Trinity, Jesus and Magdalene College

Rooms: Senior Fellows Suite

Dining: SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie

Wellness: Elemis Spa

Amenities: complimentary bicycle rentals

Business: business conference area

“The Varsity Hotel & Spa places you perfectly for exploring Cambridge's historic core. I'm particularly drawn to the rooftop terrace, imagining the city views during private events. Its city-center location, combined with the rarity of a full-size gym and spa, makes it a serious contender for stays in the city.”
Hotel logo
Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels
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Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals
Double Room
2 persons
16 m² 
1 Double bed
King Room
2 persons
19 m² 
1 King-size bed
Superior King Room
2 persons
22 m² 
1 King-size bed
Senior Fellows Twin Room
2 persons
22 m² 
2 Single beds
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Price and room availability calendar

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Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Barber shop
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Cycling
  • Tennis
  • Sports trainer

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Direct dial telephone
  • CD player
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Dining Onsite

At The Varsity Hotel & Spa, dining transcends the ordinary with an exquisite blend of cuisines offering both comfort and sophistication. With stunning views over the historic Cambridge skyline and a diverse menu, guests can indulge in vibrant culinary experiences tailored for every palate.
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British, French, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Scottish
Ambiance
Modern setting, just steps from the tranquil Jesus Green park and lively Quayside.
Key Offerings
Sample a casual menu featuring hearty pizzas, comforting lasagne, and gourmet burgers alongside chef-inspired dishes like chargrilled leg of saltmarsh lamb. Afternoon tea elevates the experience with a choice of traditional or luxury options, including a selection of sandwiches, warm scones, and specialty teas.
Reservation
recommended
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Monday to Sunday; hours vary by day.

Location

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ
Map view
Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ
Nearby
Park
Jesus Green
410 m
St John's St
St John's College
160 m
Museum
Museum of Cambridge
560 m
University
Magdalene College
240 m
University
Trinity Hall Cambridge
220 m
University
Gonville and Caius College
530 m
University
Sidney Sussex College
540 m
Gallery
Kettle's Yard
560 m
Restaurants
River Bar Steakhouse & Grill
60 m
3 Thompsons Lane Quayside
The Roof Terrace
40 m
24 Thompsons Lane The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Thaikhun Cambridge
80 m
3-5 Quayside
The Punt Yard
70 m
6-8 Quayside
Wildwood Restaurant
80 m
27-28 Bridge Street
Cafe Rouge Cambridge
160 m
24-26 Bridge Street
Costa Coffee
150 m
1-2 Market Hill Grand Arcade
Prezzo - Cambridge
130 m
32 Bridge Street
Cambridge Wine Merchants
150 m
32 Bridge Street
Explore Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)
Your Cambridge Experience
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
King's College Chapel
King's College Chapel
10-minute walk
Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass define this iconic chapel, a must-see for its historical significance and beauty.
Fitzwilliam Museum
Fitzwilliam Museum
15-minute walk
Home to a rich collection of art and antiquities, this museum offers free admission and features regular guided tours.
Cambridge Market Square
Cambridge Market Square
8-minute walk
A bustling hub full of local vendors and unique crafts, perfect for experiencing the city's vibrant culture and sampling local foods.
Jesus Green
Jesus Green
5-minute walk
This scenic park along the River Cam offers lovely walking paths and picnic areas, ideal for a family outing or a quiet retreat.
Punting on the River Cam
13-minute walk
A thrilling experience gliding through Cambridge's waterways, rental services are available nearby for an unforgettable outing.
Yoga at The River Bar
1-minute walk
Relaxing yoga sessions with river views, offering a peaceful escape after a day of exploration; check for class schedules.
River Bar Steakhouse & Grill
River Bar Steakhouse & Grill
1-minute walk
A casual steakhouse with fresh meats and a warm ambiance; famous for their delicious grilled cuts and river views.
Thaikhun Cambridge
Thaikhun Cambridge
1-minute walk
Authentic Thai cuisine in a vibrant setting, known for flavorful curries and noodles; vegetarian options are available.
Cambridge Arts Theatre
10-minute walk
A versatile venue for plays and performances, featuring an energetic atmosphere; popular shows are staged regularly.
The Corn Exchange
12-minute walk
A vibrant venue hosting live music and events; ideal for nightlife with a diverse range of performances throughout the week.
Getting around
City Centre
Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)23 min  ·  1.9 km
Airports
Cambridge Airport (CBG)7 min  ·  4.5 km
London Stansted Airport (STN)75 min  ·  50.0 km
Train
Cambridge Train Station28 min  ·  2.3 km
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  200 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:30-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 33 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP15 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian
Number of floors:
6
Number of rooms:
44
FAQs
About The Varsity Hotel & Spa
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is from 15:30 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is The Varsity Hotel & Spa from Cambridge city center?
The hotel is located approximately 5 km from the city center.
What nearby attractions can be visited from The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Popular nearby attractions include King's College Chapel (0.5 km), Trinity College (0.5 km), and Cambridge Castle (1 km).
What dining options are available at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers on-site dining at SIX Panoramic Brasserie and The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill, both located in the adjacent building.
Are fitness facilities available at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Guests have access to a fully equipped gym, daily fitness classes, a sauna, steam room, and a whirlpool hot tub.
What amenities are included in the rooms at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, and Elemis toiletries.
Is breakfast offered at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.
Does The Varsity Hotel & Spa provide any spa services?
The hotel offers a spa with a range of Elemis treatments, including massages, facials, and wellness packages.
What is the nearest airport to The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The hotel is approximately 2 km from Cambridge train station.
Is there parking available at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Valet parking is available for 33 GBP per day, and reservation is not needed.
What languages do the staff at The Varsity Hotel & Spa speak?
The staff primarily speaks English.
What unique views can guests expect from The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the historic Cambridge skyline and the River Cam.
Are there opportunities for punting near The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The hotel is the only Cambridge hotel directly on the river, allowing guests easy access to punting.

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