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JC Stays: University Arms, Cambridge

In a town full of history, this refurbished hotel is first class

October 29, 2018 12:55
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2 min read

There’s much to love about Cambridge for a short break. The university town has exquisite architecture, ancient colleges and a winding river. It’s also under an hour from London on the train. The only thing missing has been a destination hotel — until now.

First opened in 1834 as a coaching inn, the city’s oldest hotel, University Arms, has emerged from a four-year, £80 million refit to become one of the hottest new hotel openings in the UK.

It’s not hard to see why. Set midway between the station and the city centre, the entire front half of the hotel has been rebuilt by The Queen’s favourite architect, John Simpson, restoring its classic proportions and creating an imposing, pillared, drive-through portico entrance. Not only that, the interiors have been designed by man-of-the-moment Martin Brudnizki, who has worked his magic on Annabel’s in London and The Beekman in New York, to name a few. 

Pass through the hotel’s handsome front doors, and you’ll find a calm, scholarly feel and shaded corridors. The hotel is littered with literary and educational references — Wind in the Willows plays in the loos, the walls are painted in Cambridge blue, and even the carpet design looks like a school tie. Original copper turrets and fireplaces have been retained, while fun, contemporary touches, like the collection of artwork, have been added.