The University Arms sits on Regent Street facing the open green of Parker's Piece, in a long-established building that has been extensively refurbished in recent years. It is the most polished address in the city centre, with public rooms that include a library, a bar and lounge, a coffee shop and Parker's Tavern, the on-site brasserie. Guests praise the staff and the location, and a rare feature for a city hotel is a set of free bicycles to borrow. A relaxation room, a 24-hour fitness centre and Aromatherapy Associates treatments round out the facilities, and live jazz is a Friday-night fixture. For a Cambridge splurge, it combines a historic setting with the comforts of an upscale modern hotel.
Location and getting around
The hotel is about a minute on foot from Parker's Piece and from Emmanuel College, and the central colleges, the Market Square and King's Parade are all within an easy ten-minute walk. The railway station is a longer walk of around twenty minutes or a short taxi ride, and free bicycles let you explore at your own pace. If you plan to drive, note that on-site parking is limited, so ask in advance or use a nearby car park.
Rooms and what to ask for
There are nine room types, from Classic rooms with a double bed or twin beds through Superior rooms to suites with views over Parker's Piece, and a few suites have a terrace. Park-view rooms are worth the supplement if you want to wake up facing the green, while the smaller entry-level rooms suit a short stay.
Some guests find the rooms a little dark or the pillows soft, so mention preferences when you book. A buffet or cooked English breakfast is available daily for an extra charge, and room service runs around the clock.
Who it suits and what to know: it is a natural choice for couples, anniversaries, graduations and anyone who wants the best-located upscale hotel in town. The bar and brasserie are popular with locals, so book a table for dinner, and the Friday jazz can add atmosphere. It is also wheelchair-friendly in its public areas. Prices are at the top end for Cambridge and rise sharply around graduation season and in the summer, so book early. It is an excellent base for the Fitzwilliam Museum, which is a short walk away along Trumpington Street.
Why stay here
- ✓Overlooks Parker’s Piece
- ✓Brasserie and library bar
- ✓Free bicycle loan
- ✓24-hour fitness centre
- ✓Relaxation room and treatments
- ✓24-hour room service
- ✓Park-view suites
- ✓Live jazz on Fridays
Good questions
How close is University Arms to the colleges?+
It is about a minute from Parker's Piece and Emmanuel College, and the central colleges are within a short walk. King's Parade and the Market Square are roughly ten minutes away.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is available daily but is usually an extra charge, so check your rate. A vegetarian option is available.
Can I park at the hotel?+
On-site parking is limited, so ask the hotel in advance. The city centre has public car parks nearby.
