The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photoThe Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Amenities photoThe Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Interior photo
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From192US$ /night
Check-in
03Jun2026Select date
Check-out
04Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Thompson'S Lane, Cambridge (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, CB5 8AQ
-
Close to the city center
Great
8.5
8.4
/10
4.6
3.9
/5

Location

The Varsity Hotel & Spa is situated in the heart of Cambridge, very close to St John's, Trinity, Jesus, and Magdalene College. Popular attractions like King's College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum are only a short stroll away. The proximity to the River Cam allows guests easy access to punting and scenic riverside views.

Rooms

The hotel offers 48 uniquely designed rooms that celebrate Cambridge's cultural heritage. Senior Fellows Superking rooms include super king-size beds, some featuring four-poster beds. The Senior Fellows Suite boasts an 80sqm corner layout with a private terrace overlooking St John's College.

Dining

SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie serves a range of delicious dishes and cocktails with spectacular views over the city from its sixth-floor terrace. The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill specializes in 28-day aged steak, fresh fish, and vegetarian options. Afternoon Tea is also a highlight, featuring a selection of traditional finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones.

Wellness

The Elemis Spa at The Varsity Hotel offers a range of treatments, including massages and facials, in a serene environment overlooking the river. Guests can enjoy the SPA pool, sauna, and steam room as part of their wellness experience. The gym provides state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weights machines, plus daily fitness classes.

Additional Amenities

The hotel provides complimentary bicycle rentals for guests to explore the scenic routes of Cambridge. A valet parking service ensures convenient vehicle management during stays. Private dining and events can be accommodated at both the Panoramic Bar and the River Bar Steakhouse.

Highlights

Location: Close to St John's and Trinity Colleges

Rooms: 48 uniquely designed rooms

Dining: SIX Panoramic Bar & Brasserie

Wellness: Elemis Spa with river views

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll along the River Cam and relax in beautiful Parker's Piece.
  • Visit the stunning King's College Chapel for its breathtaking architecture.
  • Try the iconic Cambridge sausage at the local market on Market Square.
  • Explore Kettle's Yard, a charming house and art gallery oasis.
  • Enjoy a punting tour to see the city from its historic waterways.
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Select your room type

The Varsity Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
King Room
2 persons
205 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior King Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Senior Fellows Twin Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

The Varsity Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score

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
  • 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, guests are invited to indulge in a delightful array of dining experiences that celebrate British, French, Mediterranean, and Portuguese flavors. Whether enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea with stunning views or a vibrant meal at the brasserie, each option is crafted for those who appreciate culinary authenticity and warmth.
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo
The Varsity Hotel & Spa Cambridge  Restaurant photo

SIX Panoramic Brasserie

British, French, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Scottish
Ambiance
Modern venue with breathtaking views of the historic Cambridge skyline
Key Offerings
Casual menu featuring pizzas, lasagne, and aspirational dishes like chargrilled leg of saltmarsh lamb. Afternoon tea option includes sandwiches, scones, and specialty teas.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for lunch and dinner from 12:00 PM to 00:00 AM (17:00 opening on Mondays); High tea available.

The Varsity Hotel & Spa 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
1400 ft
St John's St
St John's College
600 ft
Museum
Museum of Cambridge
1900 ft
University
Magdalene College
800 ft
University
Trinity Hall Cambridge
800 ft
University
Gonville and Caius College
1800 ft
University
Sidney Sussex College
1800 ft
Gallery
Kettle's Yard
1900 ft
Restaurants
River Bar Steakhouse & Grill
200 ft
3 Thompsons Lane Quayside
The Roof Terrace
200 ft
24 Thompsons Lane The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Thaikhun Cambridge
300 ft
3-5 Quayside
The Punt Yard
300 ft
6-8 Quayside
Wildwood Restaurant
300 ft
27-28 Bridge Street
Cafe Rouge Cambridge
600 ft
24-26 Bridge Street
Costa Coffee
500 ft
1-2 Market Hill Grand Arcade
Prezzo - Cambridge
500 ft
32 Bridge Street
Cambridge Wine Merchants
500 ft
32 Bridge Street
Explore Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)
Explore Cambridge
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
King's College Chapel
King's College Chapel
10-minute walk
Remarkable Gothic architecture and world-famous choral services enhance the captivating beauty of this iconic chapel.
Cambridge Market Square
Cambridge Market Square
8-minute walk
Vibrant atmosphere with local stalls offering fresh produce, crafts, and tasty street food in a historic setting.
Trinity College
Trinity College
15-minute walk
One of the largest and most renowned colleges of the University, featuring beautiful grounds and striking architecture.
University of Cambridge
University of Cambridge
8-minute walk
Historic university with stunning colleges that reflect centuries of academic excellence and architectural grandeur.
Punting on the River Cam
13-minute walk
Relaxing punt ride offers scenic views of Cambridge's picturesque riverbanks; available for rentals or guided tours.
Jesus Green
Jesus Green
5-minute walk
Expansive green space perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics; features tennis courts and a playground for family enjoyment.
Cambridge Bike Tours
8-minute walk
Guided cycling tours around the city's landmarks, available for thrill-seekers wanting a unique view of Cambridge.
The Roof Terrace
The Roof Terrace
1-minute walk
Stunning views accompany dishes made with fresh, local ingredients; perfect for casual dining with friends or romantic evenings.
Thaikhun Cambridge
Thaikhun Cambridge
1-minute walk
Authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed setting; known for its vibrant flavors and unique street food-inspired dishes.
The Punt Yard
The Punt Yard
1-minute walk
Casual eatery with riverside views offering delicious brunch and pub fare in a friendly atmosphere, ideal for families.
Cambridge Arts Theatre
8-minute walk
Offers a range of performances including drama, comedy, and musicals in a historic venue, ensuring lively nights out.
The Corner House
10-minute walk
Inviting bar with craft beers and live music, perfect for social gatherings or a relaxed evening with friends.
Getting around
City Centre
Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)23 min  ·  1.2 mi
Airports
Cambridge (CBG)7 min  ·  2.8 mi
London Stansted (STN)76 min  ·  31.1 mi
Train
Cambridge Train Station28 min  ·  1.4 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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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
Wireless 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, Romanian, Polish
Number of floors:
6
Number of rooms:
44

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Varsity Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 609 verified reviews
8.5/10
Great
84%
Recommend
Breakfast
7.4/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Guest reviews
based on 609 reviews
8.5/10
based on 763 reviews
8.5/10
Julie from United Kingdom
Couple
King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 13, 2026
6/10

average stay, issues noted

room privacyimpersonal service
the room lacked proper privacy i could see directly into nearby offices without a net curtain. breakfast service felt impersonal staff seemed uninterested and additional drinks were unexpectedly charged extra. the spa facilities are located separately and felt more like a basic hot tub than a relaxing spa experience. these aspects detracted significantly from the overall experience given the hotel's price point.
0 Helpful
Elijah from Israel
Couple
Senior Fellows Suite
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 31, 2025
9/10

a heavenly escape in the heart

valet servicefriendly check-incomplimentary suiteromantic package
we parked easily with the valet service upon arrival, it felt so smooth. check-in was warm, and i was thrilled with a complimentary upgrade to the senior fellows suite, it was pure magic. rose petals adorned the bed in our suite. champagne chilled on ice, part of a romantic package.
I noticed the bathroom lacked a heated towel rail. It would have added a bit more comfort.
Service
10/10
The staff were cute! they gave lots of useful information about the hotel and spa. the staff explained the procedures and asked about preferences for our chosen massage. The ladies carried out a relaxing and invigorating massage.
0 Helpful
|
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George from United Kingdom
Single
King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 03, 2025
9.0/10

Excellent City Center Stay

helpful staffspacious roomrooftop bar
The staff was helpful, and they upgraded my room. I enjoyed the spacious, clean room, complete with fetching botanical wallpaper. The rooftop bar provided fine views (it was lovely!).
Location
9/10
The hotel is situated centrally, providing easy access to colleges and shops. This location makes it simple to explore various attractions and enjoy the city's amenities. It is very accessible to the center.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel features a spa that adjoins the main building, offering a hot tub, sauna, and steam room. These spa facilities are well kept and of a good standard. A water fountain provides refreshment.
Dining
9/10
The Six brasserie offers tasty food. The rooftop bar provides lovely views (I think it is well worth a visit!). The attentive staff provided excellent service.
Rooms
10/10
The room was spacious and spotlessly clean. The large bathroom included necessary amenities. The bed was very comfortable, which ensured restful nights.
0 Helpful
|
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Rowan from United Kingdom
King Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: July 27, 2025
8.8/10

Solid Stay at City Center Hotel

convenient valet parkingcentral locationspacious roomgood breakfast variety
I used valet parking and the process was convenient. I liked that I could easily walk to the town center. My room was bright and quiet with plenty of space. Breakfast included a good variety of options, all cooked well.
The room's WiFi connection was not strong.
Facilities
9/10
The spa includes a jacuzzi. Valet parking makes arrival simpler. A rooftop bar provides city views. A brasserie is located on the sixth floor of the building.
Location
9/10
The hotel offers proximity to the historic center. The river is within walking distance. Many sights and restaurants are within easy walking distance. Punting on the river is easily accessible.
Service
9/10
The reception staff was friendly. The staff members were efficient. The personnel was helpful and polite. Staff responded with flexibility to requests.
Rooms
8/10
The room has botanical wallpaper. The room includes a kettle. Showers have good water pressure. The bathroom was well appointed with plenty of hot water.
0 Helpful
|
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FAQs
About The Varsity Hotel & Spa
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is at 15:30 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is The Varsity Hotel & Spa from King's College Chapel?
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from King's College Chapel.
Does The Varsity Hotel & Spa have on-site dining options?
Dining options include the Riverside Steakhouse & Grill and SIX Panoramic Brasserie.
What unique features does The Varsity Hotel & Spa offer for events?
The Roof Terrace can host private or semi-private events and accommodates up to 140 guests.
What amenities are included in the rooms at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, and underfloor heating.
Is there a spa at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features an Elemis spa with a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool overlooking the River Cam.
What recreational activities are available at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy a full-size gym, daily fitness classes, cycling, and nearby punting on the River Cam.
What breakfast options are available at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.
How far is The Varsity Hotel & Spa from Cambridge train station?
The hotel is 2 km from Cambridge train station.
What kind of views can guests enjoy from The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the historic Cambridge skyline and college rooftops.
What languages are spoken by the staff at The Varsity Hotel & Spa?
The staff speaks English.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room