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The Varsity Hotel & Spa

Cambridge · United Kingdom

Thompson's LaneView location

8.8/10Excellent922 Reviews
Cleanliness9.2/109.2
Service9.0/109.0
Comfort8.6/108.6
Condition8.8/108.8
Location9.2/109.2
Neighborhood9.4/109.4
Amenities8.6/108.6
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About The Varsity Hotel & Spa

The Varsity Hotel & Spa is located on the edge of the picturesque River Cam, with Valet Car Parking. In the heart of Cambridge and just yards from St John's, Trinity and Magdalene College.

The Varsity is a boutique hotel with just 48 individual rooms, each room is named after a different college, and features an LCD TV, DVD library, free Wi-Fi, and an iPod dock. Most rooms offer monsoon showers and under-floor heating. Some rooms have balconies and views of the college rooftops.

The hotel offers an impressive rooftop terrace with uninterrupted views, great for those warm summer nights. The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill is located on the Quayside, with breathtaking views of the river.

Inspired by traditional Cambridge, The Varsity offers guests access to the manned onsite Glassworks Gym and Elemis Spa, with hot tub, steam room, sauna and exercise classes. Ideally situated for punting, shopping, sight-seeing and nightlife, The Varsity hotel guests are truly immersed in the culture and charm of Cambridge.

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With a stay at The Varsity Hotel & Spa, you'll be centrally located in Cambridge, steps from University of Cambridge and River Cam. This luxury hotel is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Jesus Green and 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Jesus College.

Make yourself at home in one of the 44 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring tablet computers and DVD players. 32-inch Smart televisions with digital programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature designer toiletries and hair dryers.

Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Planning an event in Cambridge? This hotel has 614 square feet (57 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Spa
Gym
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Business facilities
Banquet facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 3:30 PM
Check-in until anytime
Check-out until 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

Professional property host/manager Pets not allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-out is available

Important information

  • You need to know
    • Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments. Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
    • Contactless check-out is available.
  • Special Instructions
    Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
    • Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and window guards
    • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
    • Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
    • Guests who may encounter issues with stairs should contact this property in advance. Elevators are not available.
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately GBP 25 for adults and GBP 25 for children
    • Valet parking fee: GBP 39.00 per night
    • Rollaway bed fee: GBP 50.0 per night

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    Portuguese

    English

    Italian

    French

    Hungarian

    Spanish

Nearby attractions

University of Cambridge 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
River Cam 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
The Backs 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Jesus Green 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Jesus College 0.2 km / 0.1 mi
Magdalene College 0.2 km / 0.1 mi
Round Church Visitor Centre 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
ADC Theatre 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
St. John's College 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Trinity Hall 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Sidney Sussex College 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Kettle's Yard 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Gonville and Caius College 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Church of St Mary the Great 0.6 km / 0.3 mi
Cambridge Market Square 0.6 km / 0.4 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 44
  • hotel
  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa
  • Maestro
  • Visa Electrón
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
Show 27 more facilities & services
  • Laundry service
  • Multilingual staff
  • Bellboy service
  • Lift access
  • Terrace
  • Concierge
  • Gym
  • Luggage room
  • Clothes dryer
  • Bikes available
  • Bar
  • Restaurant: 2
  • Banquet hall
  • Conference room
  • Meeting room
  • Sauna
  • Steam bath
  • Solarium
  • Massage
  • Spa treatments
  • Hairdressing salon
  • Beauty salon
  • Breakfast
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Aerobics
  • Fitness
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

CE

Dinner Included

This meal plan may be available depending on the selected room/rate.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • TWIN STANDARDTWIN • STANDARDTWN.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Varsity Hotel & Spa

    TWIN STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BEDDOUBLE • QUEEN SIZE BEDDBL.QN

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Varsity Hotel & Spa

    DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.QN

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARDDBL.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Varsity Hotel & Spa

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE KING SIZE BEDDOUBLE • KING SIZE BEDDBL.KG

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Varsity Hotel & Spa

    DOUBLE KING SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    KING SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.KG

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE QUEEN SIZE BEDSUITE • QUEEN SIZE BEDSUI.QN

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Varsity Hotel & Spa

    SUITE QUEEN SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.QN

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about The Varsity Hotel & Spa

8.8
Excellent
922 Reviews
Cleanliness
9.2 /10
Service
9.0 /10
Comfort
8.6 /10
Condition
8.8 /10
Location
9.2 /10
Neighborhood
9.4 /10
Amenities
8.6 /10
100 reviews shown
8/10
Excellent
06 Jul 2026
Rob
Great location and brilliant room
10/10
Exceptional
01 Jun 2026
Kelly
The hotel was situated in town centre. Walkable to the river, local attractions and restaurants.
We had a lovely stay and they have a small spa located next door which we used one morning.
We did not eat breakfast there so unable to comment on food, the rooftop bar was lovely for drinks.
Our door was difficult to open but staff were helpful and efficient.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 May 2026
Lisa
Polite and helpful staff, clean and spacious rooms.
Partner
4/10
Poor
17 May 2026
Vik
We stayed on the 5th floor for two nights and unfortunately were disappointed by the noise levels throughout our stay. On both nights, there was significant noise coming from the kitchen/restaurant area above us between midnight and 1am, which sounded like tables being moved and loud knocking.

The same issue happened both mornings between 6:30am and 7:30am, waking us up and making it impossible to have the relaxing mornings we had hoped for. This was especially frustrating as the noise continued for around an hour each time rather than being a brief disturbance. The restaurant staff need to be more mindful that there are guest rooms directly below. Sound proofing is not great in the hotel at all.

There were also building works taking place opposite the hotel, which added further noise disruption. I would recommend checking whether these works are still ongoing before booking.

The constant disturbances unfortunately affected our overall experience, and we returned home feeling tired and unrested rather than refreshed.

On a positive note, the gym was well equipped with a good range of facilities. The only downside is that you have to step outside the hotel to access it, which isn’t ideal.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
10 May 2026
Louise
Friendly and helpful staff. We borrowed bikes and had a great trip out to the meadows for a picnic
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 May 2026
Svjatoslavs
Great location for touristy attractions, easy to find. Clean and spa available, as described,
Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 May 2026
Thomas
Great rooftop terrace. Staff good when you're dealing with them (checkin, room service, etc), but too many staff hanging around, using the lifts, talking in the corridors, chatting in their staff rooms with the doors open to the public, expecting you to get out of their way, etc. Who is the customer here?
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
27 Apr 2026
Antony
Rooms are lacking character and more motel-like than I would have expected from a
Boutique property.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
20 Apr 2026
Amanda
Loved our stay x
8/10
Excellent
20 Apr 2026
Anna
Nice hotel, very close to the university campus.
8/10
Excellent
09 Apr 2026
Jonathan
Good
Friends
6/10
Pleasant
05 Apr 2026
john
Location excellent, room, may as well roomed with next door as walls are paper thin, we booked the hotel steakhouse, should have realised it was going to be an issue when we were only customers on an Easter Friday, highly disappointing and hugely overpriced. Staff were excellent though but certainly does not make up for excessive pricing sadly.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
29 Mar 2026
Steven
The hotel and staff were incredible. The level of service was amazing. Nothing too much trouble.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Mar 2026
Mark
Great place to celebrate my birthday a wonderful couple of days to explore Cambridge, this was an excellent base.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Feb 2026
Laura
When I got my electric car back from valet parking, they had fully charged it! Also the location is great and everyone was friendly.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
26 Feb 2026
Alex
Staff were great, the room was clean. Location was perfect and views for breakfast were great! Would definitely comes back. Only a couple of minor gripes. The room pictured on the site was not the panoramic penthouse i was expecting, which was misleading. The other thing was driving to the hotel, there is a bus lane camera on the way unless you take a very curcuitous route, and the hotel could have provided a map and made it very clear to not go down that road, unless you want a ticket. Which I got. Having said that, we loved our stay and the spa really made it! thank you
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
16 Feb 2026
Tamara
We throughly enjoyed our stay , lovely comfortable bed ,staff were very friendly and helpful, we loved the spa and the gym ,will definitely visit again.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
25 Jan 2026
Laura
The hotel itself is lovely. The reception staff were really welcoming and helpful. The room itself was nice. The bed and pillows however were really uncomfortable. We were also on the 5th floor and there was a lot of banging from the restaurant above until late. We would stay again but in a different room/floor.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
18 Jan 2026
David
Our stay was pleasant overall. The room was decent, though it would have been nice to have a fridge bar. The bed could have been more comfortable, and the pillows were a bit too soft for our liking. Breakfast was enjoyable—I had the egg royale, and my partner opted for the smashed avocado, both of which we really liked. The spa was nice, but it was quite busy when we went, so we couldn’t fully relax as we had hoped. However, the treatment we received was wonderful and very relaxing. All in all, we had a lovely weekend, and the staff were welcoming.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
18 Dec 2025
Chrysanthi
Clean room, very friendly staff, elemis toiletries and well equipped coffee/tea station. Only issue is the poor reception in the room.
Business
8/10
Excellent
16 Dec 2025
julia
Lovely hotel, great position
Business
6/10
Pleasant
12 Dec 2025
Amanda
The room was lovely, bed very comfy, but room was at front of hotel and very noisy, even for a city hotel. Staff were good and helpful.
Spa treatment was amazing but spa needs some refurbishment as was a little tired.
But we did love our little stay in Cambridge
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 Oct 2025
Susan
Amazing staff, huge room, great dining.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
22 Oct 2025
Nicola
Lovely hotel, great location, Room upgrades foc which was a bonus, disappointed that the hot tub jets wasn’t working and was also disappointed that on advice by the hotel told to use park street car park, I was parked for less than 24hrs and charged £58!! I nearly fainted.. absolutely extortionate.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
13 Oct 2025
Simon
Roof bar shut , don’t have many beers available from menu and burger overcooked and dry. Great location Parking extremely expensive
Business Partner
6/10
Pleasant
24 Sep 2025
Alison

Lovely venue and room

The rooms are lovely, views amazing and I used to stay here frequently a few years ago, so was an easy go to when visiting Cambridge after being away for several years.

My challenge was the level of noise that disturbed me overnight, I am a light sleeper so used to being disturbed, however it was several times during the night and early hours. Usually a small lie in keeps me going however again the noise disturbance prevented that too … I wasn’t asked how my stay was to provide feedback as I checked out … or I would have done and may have just been the room I booked which was beautifully decorated, comfy bed, great temp control and spacious … I should take ear plugs with me and be able to give a glowing report as everything else was great
Self
8/10
Excellent
16 Sep 2025
Feargal
Very convenient. Helpful staff. Great views.
8/10
Excellent
14 Aug 2025
James
The hotel is a nice hotel, the staff were very friendly and efficient, it’s a great location for everything in Cambridge. The room was excellent.
The food in “Six” was not very good. We ordered 4 different starters, as a snack - Tapas style, however they were all poor, and you could buy better at M&S.
sorry, the rest of the stay was very good, the food let it down a bit.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
05 Aug 2025
Verified traveler

Poor service and poky rooms

Very expensive and not worth the money. Rooms are small for the price you pay. Rooftop cocktail bar had very unhelpful staff - disappointing that all the cocktails were from premixed bags and you could only order from the limited drinks menu. Took a month for my £50 holding deposit to be returned. Avoid.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 Jul 2025
Pranavan
Thanks to the team for having us. Great stay with great staff who gave us a complimentary upgrade for our anniversary. Would highly recommend!
8/10
Excellent
11 Jul 2025
True Refrigeration

Good

Good location, premium hotel. Tv not great.
Business
6/10
Pleasant
06 Jul 2025
Julia
Not great for the price - no room cleaning for two night stay and breakfast options were lacking. Hotel is tired and a little disappointing
Friends_and_family Friends
6/10
Pleasant
05 Jul 2025
David

A bit disappointing

A bit disappointing. We have stayed here before and it was much better then. For the amount of money that we spent it could have been better. Communication sub-optimal regarding check out.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jun 2025
Martin
Fabulous
Business Friends
8/10
Excellent
16 Jun 2025
Carrie
The roof terrace and dining options offer fantastic views that make it hard to beat. The location is a short walk from the city centre.
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
01 Jun 2025
Daniel
Breakfast was delicious.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
29 May 2025
Verified traveler
Hotel was good, Six restaurant - food great, service great, can’t fault the staff, always helpful and happy! Spa was an external facility next door. Would not use this again as was small and the jacuzzi needed a good clean. Front of desk staff at hotel were very helpful and accommodating and we could not fault the hotel.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
11 May 2025
Mark

Improve the pillows and it’s perfect

Great hotel, great staff and great location. Only downside was the pillows, everything else was perfect.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 May 2025
Amy

Excellent stay in Cambridge

We were greeted by two lovely men at reception. They gave us information regarding the spa opening times and were very pleasant. We spoke with them multiple times throughout the evening durning our comings and goings. They even gave my son a fresh bathrobe, as his was wet after a visit to the connected spa.

The spa is small but clean and comfortable. Cucumber and lemon water free for the taking. Towels on hand. We enjoyed an hour of downtime after walking extensively through Cambridge.

The room was simply lovely. Very clean, spacious and nicely decorated. There was a clawfoot tub.

The only min points could possibly be some street noise the following morning and not enough toiletries for 2 people... one tiny shampoo, conditioner, etc.

We will absolutely stay here again and recommend this hotel.



Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
04 May 2025
Scott
Came to celebrate our anniversary. Booked a senior fellows room and was upgraded to a suite. Arrived early and took advantage of the valet parking while we explored the town. Had a drink on the roof terrace before getting ready to eat out in town. The room was great, service was friendly and attentive, we enjoyed breakfast in Six the next morning. 5 star stay, can't fault anything about the stay, highly recommend and we would definitely return.
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 Apr 2025
SIMON

Lovely hotel

Ideal place in Cambridge, really central with incredible views from the terrace with coctails in hand!
Really quiet and comfy.
Loved it
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
21 Apr 2025
William

Perfect Stay in Cambridge

We booked two rooms for one night at the hotel. The rooms had everything you needed and were very clean and comfortable. The staff are all excellent and extremely helpful. The valet car parking is very easy and worked well. We ate in No 6 and this was very good too.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
13 Apr 2025
richard
Maybe it was just had bad luck, could be a great hotel but was seriously lacking.
Aircon and hot water stopped working in my room, but didn’t seem like an urgent matter to resolve, moved room after a protracted process.
Six was a disappointment, service was seriously lacking with both food and drinks, staff seemed fair more interested in talking to one another.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
25 Mar 2025
Gordon
Located very near Magdalene College.
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
24 Mar 2025
Nicola

Wouldn’t bother

Travelled for a friends birthday. We paid over £260 for our room for the night, this did not include breakfast. The room was ok nothing great, the bed was so hard we slept terribly, the air con didn’t work, we opened the window and on the Sunday at 7am the rubbish collectors spent over 10 minutes collecting bottles and rubbish right below our window. We booked a pod on the roof for dinner at 8 and couldn’t get our table until 8.40 as the previous customers were still there. We didn’t get our mains until nearly 10.30 way to late for us to eat we were past being hungry at that point and we all barely ate. Such a shame. Breakfast service was just as bad, waited nearly 45 minutes for our breakfast, had to go up and ask to order coffees and teas. Wouldn’t be returning.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
22 Mar 2025
Sanchay
Perfect place to stay in Cambridge city.
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 Mar 2025
Anish
Good clean hotel. No issues.
Business
10/10
Exceptional
12 Mar 2025
Liam
We stayed for the Half Marathon was super close and the start, great location and the staff were brilliant, especially Dave who was super helpful with the amount of luggage we had!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
03 Feb 2025
Susie
Great couple of nights in a perfect location to explore Cambridge. Staff excellent and nothing was too much trouble. Very quaint and charismatic hotel with good facilities. Spotlessly clean, couldn’t fault it
Leisure Friends
6/10
Pleasant
26 Jan 2025
Ian
First time staying at The Varsity and overarching feeling was, I wish I'd come 20 years ago or whenever the main refit was done. Everything now looks tired and cleanliness needs improving.

Cost of stay reflected this to a certain extent. Breakfast decent.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jan 2025
Ollie

Will Stay again

Amazing hotel, great spot for exploring Cambridge on foot. Lovely facilities, Spa and Restaurant
Business
2/10
Poor
05 Dec 2024
Mitchell
THE HOTEL FOOD WAS DISGUSTINGLY AWFUL,THE TV IN THE ROOM DIDNT WORK AT ALL & THE BED SHEETS SMELT AWFULLY MUSTY & VERY VERY UNFRESH. DREADFUL AWFUL STAY DO NOT STAY AT THIS VILE HOTEL...
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 Dec 2024
Mary
A lovely convenient place to stay, but be prepared to open doors yourself while managing luggage.
Great restaurants, but wait staff need a bit more training. (Knowledge of menu etc., and time management.
Still my top choice of hotels for proximity and cleanliness!
Family
8/10
Excellent
22 Nov 2024
Maurice
Hard to explain but definitely not as good as it looks in pictures. It’s kind of like it’s been repurposed at a hotel but in a cheap way. Fixtures and fittings are cheap kind of way and it’s poorly finished. Poor lighting etc.
no coffee machine in room. Good to have the gym next door and great dining options. Very friendly staff at reception.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Nov 2024
Eleni
We liked the ease of the valet parking. The lovely staff were very helpful.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
11 Nov 2024
Kristy
On arrival there was nowhere to leave the car to unload bags, the hotel is surrounded by resident parking and double yellow lines, even when paying for valet parking you have to risk leaving it on double yellows to hand over to the staff. The staff on reception on arrival were also very unfriendly, barely made an effort to say hello.

We booked this hotel over other choices for the option of the spa, the spa was hugely disappointing. No private cubicles in the changing areas and the spa smelt musty and damp throughout, especially the jacuzzi,
. It was not somewhere you want to sit and relax inhaling unpleasant odours and sitting in stale water.

Finally we were given a room with a balcony, on first impressions a nice upgrade from the standard room we had booked. However soon became a negative once unpacked that we found the external door to the shared balcony area did not lock, leaving us feeling vulnerable that 2 other rooms could access ours. And on top of this the shared balcony brought with it noise from other guests talking outside until 1am. The bed is positioned next to the patio doors to the shared balcony, so their conversation was practically happening at my bedside. After calling and emailing reception no one made any effort to ask the other room to respect the time of the day and keep the noise down or move the conversation inside. This made our plans of a relaxing night away far from enjoyable. We will not be returning.
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
10 Nov 2024
Deborah

Lacking in all areas

Firstly, hotels.com needs to update its description because the ONLY reason I chose this hotel was because of the roof terrace, and when we arrived we found out it was closed.
Then the room. What a letdown. It’s over £200 a night (breakfast not included) and is small, filled with tired, cheap furniture, the plumbing gurgles all night, then at dawn you get woken early because the curtain is too small to cover the window. Really takes you back to student accommodation. It’s like a £40 travelodge. And I’m not saying the room had been neglected for months, but if you do avail yourself of the free water bottles (tepid, because of course there’s no fridge), you’ll find the caps are still detached. So at least 4 months old. The hotel claims each room has a tablet so you can read the papers and order room service, etc. Our room didn’t have one. But the Wi-Fi didn’t work either, so maybe that was intentional. Also no phone signal, so if you’re looking for a digital detox, this is the room for you.
I also asked for bikes - free bike hire is on the amenity list - but the bikes don’t have lights on them, and when you can only check in at 3.30pm there’s not a lot of daylight left in November. I was told by a staff member that I could ‘risk it’ and ride around without lights, but no thanks hun. That would be illegal and I would definitely get into an accident.
The spa is nice, but it’s super small and busy with more than 6 people there so we had to get out of the jacuzzi sharpish.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Oct 2024
Terry
Fantastic -
The Varsity is an experience, not merely a place. Apart from all the comforts of a 5 star hotel, the atmosphere - generated by the artwork and well-crafted design themes of Cambridge academia and Grand Britannia - gives the visitor a sparkle to their stay. Traveling from my foreign field, I will return to this corner that is forever England.
10/10
Exceptional
27 Sep 2024
dawn
Loved our stay there.. staff were polite and friendly customer service was brilliant z would highly recommend the varsity to anyone .
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 Sep 2024
Chris
Loved the location!
Business Self
6/10
Pleasant
24 Sep 2024
Kerry
The service on the front desk at arrival was awful. They gave me a lesser room than what I’d booked (Queen rather than King bed) and then tried to argue that the Queen size bed was actually a King. The room was hot and tiny so I went out for dinner and when I came back they said ‘congratulations, we are upgrading you’ to the room I’d actually booked… like it was a favour! And they made me move my own luggage.

The hotel is near a bus zone that’s 15 metres long and has been set up as a fine sting… you’re forced to drive through it because the Google directions try to lead you through a locked park. £70 fine.
In short: it’s not worth staying here.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
05 Aug 2024
Alex
Hotel in a great location but google maps not helpful so use the hotel instructions. 5 mins walk to the colleges and lots of places to eat nearby. Room good but you could hear others talking adjoining room. Nice facilties in room and staff helpful. Did not eat there so can't comment. Staff helpful and valet parking a bonus.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 Aug 2024
Samantha

Amazing Stay

Staff amazing, early check in and a complimentary room upgrade
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 Jul 2024
Verified traveler
The room was spacious and comfortable, and the staff members were all professional and polite.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
30 Jun 2024
Charles

Disappointing

I paid more than quoted and could not prove it to the property as I did not receive a confirmation from Hotels.com. I’d paid £313 when quoted below £250. Very disappointing.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jun 2024
Jim
all good - great city centre location
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
22 Jun 2024
Bethany

Loud

The hotel in general needed updating and the furniture in the bedroom was very outdated. The bed was very firm and quite uncomfortable but the bedding was good quality. We complained about noise at about 10pm and asked to move as our room was directly above the air conditioning unit which was very loud, but were told there were no alternative rooms available. We were also woken up by lorries in the alley outside our room in the morning.
Staff were lovely but were wouldn’t start again
Partner
2/10
Poor
21 Jun 2024
Caroline
Lots of amenities in our room were broken! Complained but was water off a ducks back, a cursory sorry! Not the best when your toilet seat, bath plug, air conditioning and room safe are broken and that’s before ttd daily morning noise because the room backs into the service area! All in all very disappointing
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
20 Jun 2024
Rashpal
We were not informed when we checked in that there would be a £29 charge for valet parking. As there was a very high cost for the basic room you would think it would be included. Not staying there again.
10/10
Exceptional
16 Jun 2024
Michael
Not quite an old hotel, but not modern either. Best things are the rooftop terrace view and location near several colleges and the Cam River. Six Restaurant also has a spectacular view on the 6th floor. Not much of a lobby, which presents an issue if you want to wait, but it is possible to use one of the restaurants or the terrace.
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 May 2024
Elizabeth
Lovely hotel, great customer care
10/10
Exceptional
21 May 2024
Charlotte

5 star experience - fabulous hotel

The hotel surpassed my expectations. My room was beautiful, very clean, bathroom was lovely. Loved the Elemis toiletries! Really enjoyed the spa, it was excellent. The 360 views of Cambridge from the roof terrace were gorgeous. The staff were so helpful and friendly too.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
21 May 2024
Charlotte

5 star experience - fabulous hotel

The hotel surpassed my expectations. My room was beautiful, very clean, bathroom was lovely. Loved the Elemis toiletries! Really enjoyed the spa, it was excellent. We had drinks on the rooftop terrace which had 360 views of Cambridge, it was gorgeous. The staff were so helpful and friendly too.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
16 May 2024
Troy
Amazing !
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
08 May 2024
stephen
Great place to stay in the centre of Cambridge not far from river and shopping. Brilliant views from the roof top bar and restaurant.
6/10
Pleasant
01 May 2024
Paul
Hotel in need of some moderisation, simple things would improve the look and feel such as upgraded lighting in the room / bathroom and some usb sockets.

Bed extremely noisy, and bottles being emptied into a skip at midnight and again at 0700 resulted in limited sleep.

Only one biscuit and one set of toiletries provided despite a booking for two, all added to the annoyance and disappointment when spending £250 for a single night stay. Poor value for money, there are better options in Cambridge.


Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Feb 2024
Christopher
Great spot
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jan 2024
Anica
Thank you so much for extremely nice service, nice people. Everything
was so nice, i dont have enough words to express my gratitide🤗
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jan 2024
Katherine

Nice boutique hotel

Clean and spacious upgrade. The bed wasn't especially comfortable.
Business
8/10
Excellent
01 Jan 2024
Denise

Central hotel ideal for a comfy stay

Quick helpful check in at reception. Lovely clean room with very comfy bed.
Spa area small but very cosy especially in the jacuzzi viewing the river.
Lovely food served on New Years Eve in Six restaurant although quite chilly seated near windows. Staff friendly -
keen to assist. Enjoyed a very pleasant weekend stay.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
11 Dec 2023
Simon
Room small for price paid, breakfast poor quality, heating didn't work, just one pack of biscuits and poor selection of tea and coffee in room
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
10 Dec 2023
Claire
Great hotel. Great staff. Clean friendly
10/10
Exceptional
08 Dec 2023
Laura

Lovely Stay at The Varsity

I had an excellent stay at The Varsity. Clean and comfortable room with good facilities. Complimentary access to the spa was also nice to have.
Business
6/10
Pleasant
03 Dec 2023
Josh

Cambridge weekender

Pretty hotel in beautiful Cambridge but needing some TLC to command these prices. The valet left my car unlocked and the heating knocked all night long, making it a tricky sleep.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
25 Nov 2023
John
Lovely place very central.
No parking available at property unless you pay £29 for additional parking.

That is a a little hefty to be honest, and if you park in a residential bay outside, Phone is only £35.. breakfast is an additional cost after an already hefty room rate… £247.12 for one night.. without breakfast and without parking..

Nice central hotel- but circa £300 for a night away- is taking a liberty.. even if it did have a roll top bath 🛁
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
30 Oct 2023
Craig
staff was helpful, great location
10/10
Exceptional
27 Sep 2023
Eduard
We were upgraded to a beautiful room and the front desk staff -Ana- could not be more pleasant and accommodating. It’s definitely a nice boutique hotel in a central location. The bar was also very nice with a great bartender and manager and the views were beautiful
Leisure Family
2/10
Poor
25 Sep 2023
Patrick
Ill so didn't stay
8/10
Excellent
15 Sep 2023
Josephine
The staff at this hotel were really lovely and helpful. The rooms could do with a bit of updating.
Leisure Pet
10/10
Exceptional
15 Sep 2023
Joanne

Central hotel but pricey

Great position, lovely room. It was really hot and the AC isn’t great, opened window but really noisy generator.
It’s expensive for what you get though, not able to pre book breakfast so had to pay £19.50 at hotel. Advertised as £15 but told that is the pre book rate. Not worth the money, tea was cold and eggs not cooked. Loads of places outside to eat, wish we had done that. Valet parking handy as nowhere close by to park.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
13 Sep 2023
Sue
Fabulous staff … check in was amazing! Faculties absolutely fine. One disappointment was the roof garden bar closed at 7.30 - we were really sad about that!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Sep 2023
Verified traveler
Good hotel, in a great location in the city centre. Parking 12 min walk away.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
08 Sep 2023
Mark

Meh

This is a pleasant hotel, and the staff were lovely but the decor and fittings are really quite tired. It was fine, I have no complaints; but I really didn't think it was the outstanding luxury hotel which other reviews seem to suggest.
Business
10/10
Exceptional
31 Aug 2023
Alfreluz

Beautiful Cambridge

Superb stay in a beautiful city. We dined at Six and we experienced terrific service and delivious food choices.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Aug 2023
Christopher
Great location and friendly staff
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Aug 2023
Chris
Excellent location with stunning views of Cambridge from the restaurant and roof bar.
Staff service at reception and restaurant was some of the best we have ever received.
Thank you
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
16 Aug 2023
Rosanne
Great property- friendly receptionists - clean rooms. Nothing fancy but happy to stay there!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
03 Aug 2023
Shauna

Lovely place with character

Lovely
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 Jul 2023
Daryl
Close to the Punting. The attached steak Restaurant was amazing
Leisure
6/10
Pleasant
24 Jul 2023
Suzette
The roof deck and dining are great. The rooms are fine but nothing to write home about. The reception area needs an upgrade.
Leisure Partner

Location & surroundings

The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Thompson's Lane, Cambridge, United Kingdom

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The Varsity Hotel & Spa

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