Clayton Hotel Cambridge is a contemporary hotel close to the railway station, on the Station Road side of the city. The building is modern, with a clean, practical design, and it has been built around the needs of today's traveller: comfortable beds, good connections and simple, efficient service. It is not in the historic quarter, but it offers an easy arrival for anyone coming by train from London, Stansted or the north, and it keeps costs lower than the most central colleges-side hotels. Rooms are modern and varied, from standard doubles to larger rooms for families and groups, and the hotel has a bar and restaurant for breakfast and evening meals. Because it is a larger property, it can feel busier on weekdays when business visitors fill the rooms, and quieter at weekends. For many leisure guests it is a sensible, mid-priced base that works well for a short break, a graduation weekend or a night before an early train.
Location and getting around
The station is a very short walk away, which is the hotel's main advantage, and trains to London King's Cross and Liverpool Street take under an hour. The city centre and the colleges are roughly fifteen to twenty five minutes on foot, along Station Road and Hills Road, and frequent buses and taxis cover the same route. Cycling is the local way of getting around, and bike hire is available close by. Check parking arrangements before you drive.
What to do nearby
The Botanic Garden is a pleasant walk in the other direction, the Fitzwilliam Museum is about fifteen minutes away, and the colleges and the Backs are a straightforward walk or bus ride. The area around the station has restaurants, cafes and shops, and the new districts nearby have a different, more modern character from the old town. The hotel is also a good launch point for day trips to Ely, Duxford and Audley End by train or road.
Who it suits
Rail travellers, families, business visitors and anyone who wants good value and easy connections rather than a historic setting. It is less suited to guests who want to step out into the colleges or who value atmosphere above convenience. Practical notes: confirm breakfast terms, ask about quieter rooms away from the road, and book early for graduation weekends and the summer, when rooms in the city are scarce.
A weekday stay in winter can be very good value. Whatever the season, wear comfortable shoes, because Cambridge rewards slow exploring on foot and by bicycle, and carry a small umbrella for the changeable weather of the Fens.
Why stay here
- ✓Close to the railway station
- ✓Bar and restaurant
- ✓Modern rooms
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Breakfast (check rate)
- ✓Family room options
- ✓Parking (check availability)
- ✓Bus links to the centre
Good questions
How far is the hotel from the railway station?+
It is a very short walk, which makes it a convenient choice for train travellers.
Can I walk to the colleges?+
Yes, though it is a longer walk of roughly fifteen to twenty five minutes, so buses and taxis are also useful.
Is it good value?+
It is a mid-priced hotel in a practical location, but compare rates and check what is included when you book.
