University Arms, Cambridge: A Literary Canvas Above Parker’s Piece

From the moment you pass under the honey-stone porte-cochère and step into the lobby lined with books and warm wood, University Arms feels like a story unfolding. In the heart of Cambridge, this hotel is more than just a place to stay - it’s a celebration of academia, history, and thoughtful design.

Restoration & Reinvention

Although the hotel’s roots stretch to the 19th century, its transformation was carefully handled by John Simpson and Martin Brudnizki, who married the building’s Edwardian heritage with modern luxury. Every detail, from chandeliers in celestial shapes to the restored stonework, reflects Cambridge’s spirit.

Rooms & Literary Whispers

Choose from cosy rooms, superior rooms, and expansive suites. Each suite is named after a distinguished woman in academia - a thoughtful tribute to female figures who have shaped literary and intellectual history. For example, the Virginia Woolf Suite celebrates the writer who once gave lectures at Cambridge. Inside, guests find bespoke libraries, plush furnishings, and views over green spaces or city rooftops. Bathrooms include heated floors, rainfall showers, and carefully sourced toiletries by D.R. Harris.

Dining at Parker’s Tavern

Dining at Parker’s Tavern is a ritual. With original stained-glass windows featuring Cambridge college crests, leather banquettes, and oak panelling, the ambiance honors the university’s legacy. Executive Chef Tristan Welch crafts menus around regional produce and British culinary traditions, offering a tasteful mix of classic and creative. Don’t miss their “Rubbish Cooks” monthly supper club - a social initiative combining gastronomy and sustainability.

Spaces Made for Reflection

Curl up in the library beside the fireplace with a thoughtfully selected book from Heywood Hill. Later, ascend to the ballroom with its stained-glass windows and historic accents for meetings or celebrations. Meanwhile, a discreet fitness centre supports guests’ well-being needs.

Cambridge at Your Doorstep

Step outside and you’re within walking distance of the colleges, the River Cam, punting launches, the Fitzwilliam Museum, King’s College Chapel, the Senate House, and lively cafés and shops. The hotel’s location ensures both peace and convenience.

Official website: https://universityarms.com/