Discover Cambridge - Historic colleges and riverside calm
Hotels in Cambridge offer historic charm and academic atmosphere, from converted coaching inns overlooking Market Square to riverside retreats near the Backs and boutique stays tucked beside ancient college walls. You’ll find everything from Tudor-beamed guesthouses to contemporary hotels with chapel views, all within cycling distance of King’s College Chapel, punting stations, and independent bookshops lining cobbled lanes. Whether you’re here for university visits, exploring centuries of learning, or simply soaking up Cambridge’s timeless beauty, there’s a stay to match your visit.
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King’s College Chapel, Cambridge University
Where to Stay in Cambridge
Cambridge’s compact centre clusters around colleges and the River Cam, with distinct areas offering different access to historic quads, riverside walks, and market life. Your neighbourhood choice shapes your Cambridge experience.
City Centre and Market Square – The historic heart with ancient colleges, Great St Mary’s Church, market stalls, and pedestrianised shopping streets. Perfect for first-timers wanting everything within walking distance and immediate immersion in Cambridge’s academic atmosphere.
The Backs and River Cam – Riverside meadows behind the colleges with punting stations, Mathematical Bridge, and quintessential Cambridge views. Ideal for romantics and photographers wanting postcard-perfect settings and peaceful waterside walks.
Mill Road and Romsey Town – A multicultural area east of the centre with independent shops, international restaurants, vintage stores, and neighbourhood pubs. Appeals to foodies and travellers seeking local character beyond tourist areas.
Chesterton and Jesus Green – Residential areas north of the river with parkland, the Riverside pub, and quieter streets near Jesus College. Suits families and walkers wanting green space with easy centre access.
Trumpington and Station Area – Southern approaches near the railway station with modern hotels, Science Park, and convenient transport links. Great for business travellers and those prioritising train connections.
Cambridge’s historic city centre
Best Hotels in Cambridge
Cambridge’s hotel scene celebrates academic heritage with medieval coaching inns, college-adjacent boutiques, and riverside retreats. Whether you’re after chapel views, punting proximity, or simply a characterful base near ancient quads, there’s a stay to suit every traveller and budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in Cambridge
University Arms Hotel (5-star) – A Victorian landmark overlooking Parker’s Piece with contemporary interiors, rooftop bar, spa, and central location. Perfect for special occasions and luxury travellers wanting refined comfort near colleges.
Hotel du Vin Cambridge (4-star) – A converted Victorian townhouse with original features, bistro dining, and boutique elegance near the city centre. Ideal for couples and wine lovers seeking characterful luxury.
Gonville Hotel (4-star) – A family-owned hotel on Gonville Place with gardens, traditional comfort, and walking distance to colleges and punting. Suits leisure travellers and families wanting reliable quality with independent spirit.
Best Historic Hotels in Cambridge
The Varsity Hotel & Spa (4-star) – A contemporary hotel with rooftop terrace overlooking college roofs, river views, and modern design in a heritage setting. Appeals to couples and sightseers wanting panoramic Cambridge vistas.
Doubletree by Hilton Cambridge (4-star) – A riverside hotel in a former grammar school with original features, gardens, and Backs proximity. Great for history enthusiasts and families wanting characterful surroundings.
Regent Hotel Cambridge (3-star) – A Victorian townhouse near the Botanic Garden with period charm, friendly service, and residential atmosphere. Perfect for culture seekers wanting traditional Cambridge hospitality.
Best Riverside Hotels in Cambridge
Crowne Plaza Cambridge (4-star) – A modern hotel on the edge of the city centre with pool, business facilities, and easy college access. Suits business travellers and families wanting contemporary amenities.
Holiday Inn Cambridge (3-star) – A practical hotel near the station with reliable rooms, free parking, and straightforward comfort. Great for drivers and train travellers prioritising convenience.
Best Boutique Hotels in Cambridge
Tamburlaine Hotel (4-star) – A design-led hotel near the colleges with bold interiors, brasserie dining, and contemporary style. Ideal for design lovers and younger travellers wanting modern Cambridge.
Hotel Felix (4-star) – A Victorian mansion in landscaped gardens on Huntingdon Road with country house feel and Michelin-level dining. Perfect for gourmets and couples seeking elegant escape near the city.
Best College Area Hotels in Cambridge
The Lensfield Hotel (3-star) – A Victorian townhouse near the Fitzwilliam Museum with traditional rooms and walking distance to colleges. Suits culture lovers and sightseers wanting immediate access to attractions.
Royal Cambridge Hotel (3-star) – A central hotel near Trumpington Street with functional rooms and proximity to King’s College Chapel. Great for budget-conscious visitors prioritising location.
Best Budget Hotels in Cambridge
Premier Inn Cambridge City Centre (3-star) – A reliable chain near the Grand Arcade with family rooms, predictable quality, and central shopping access. Perfect for families and budget travellers wanting dependable comfort.
Travelodge Cambridge Central (2-star) – No-frills accommodation on Hills Road with compact rooms and walking distance to the station. Great for overnight stays and travellers prioritising price.
YHA Cambridge (hostel) – A friendly hostel near the train station with dorms, private rooms, and social atmosphere. Ideal for backpackers and solo travellers exploring East Anglia.
Top Things to Do in Cambridge
- King’s College Chapel – A Gothic masterpiece with fan vaulting, stained glass, and world-famous choir offering evensong services. A must for all visitors and architecture enthusiasts.
- Punting on the River Cam – Glide past college Backs in flat-bottomed boats with views of Mathematical Bridge, Clare College, and weeping willows. Perfect for couples and anyone wanting quintessential Cambridge experiences.
- The Backs and College Gardens – Riverside meadows behind colleges with manicured lawns, ancient bridges, and peaceful walking paths. Ideal for photographers and leisurely afternoon wandering.
- Fitzwilliam Museum – A world-class collection of art and antiquities in a neoclassical building with free admission. Great for culture lovers and rainy-day exploring.
- Cambridge Market Square – A daily market with food stalls, crafts, books, and local produce in the historic city centre. Appeals to browsers and those wanting local atmosphere.
- Trinity College and Wren Library – Newton’s college with Great Court, library designed by Christopher Wren, and impressive academic heritage. Suits history buffs and anyone exploring college architecture.
Punting on the River Cam, Cambridge
Getting to and Around Cambridge
By Train: Cambridge Station connects to London King’s Cross in 50 minutes, London Liverpool Street in 75 minutes, and across East Anglia with frequent services.
By Bus: Park-and-ride services operate from five sites around Cambridge with regular buses to the centre, while local buses serve colleges and suburbs throughout the day.
By Bike: Cambridge is Britain’s cycling city with dedicated lanes, flat terrain, and bike hire shops making two wheels the perfect way to explore like a student.
Getting Around: Cambridge’s compact centre is best explored on foot with most colleges within 15 minutes’ walk. Cycling offers authentic local transport between more distant attractions.
When to Visit Cambridge
Spring (March to May) – Blooming college gardens, boat race season, and warming weather make this ideal for exploring before summer tourists arrive. Hotel prices are moderate with daffodils and cherry blossoms enhancing the Backs.
Summer (June to August) – Peak season with graduation ceremonies, warm punting weather, and busiest college visiting though some close for exams. Expect highest hotel rates and advance booking essential for May Week and graduations.
Autumn (September to October) – Comfortable temperatures, new academic year energy, and golden light on ancient stone create atmospheric conditions. Mid-range hotel prices with fewer tourists and excellent walking weather.
Winter (November to February) – Cold months with Christmas markets, carol services at King’s College Chapel, and lowest hotel rates. Perfect for budget travellers and those attending festive evensong performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit Cambridge colleges from my hotel?
Most colleges allow public visiting during set hours, though times vary and some close during exam periods (May-June). Hotels near the centre put you within easy walking distance of main college entrances.
Do Cambridge hotels include parking?
City centre hotels rarely include free parking due to restricted zones and limited space. Many charge £15-25 per day or recommend park-and-ride services from the outskirts.
Are Cambridge hotels within walking distance of punting?
Most city centre and Backs-area hotels are 5-15 minutes’ walk from punting stations at Mill Lane, Magdalene Bridge, and Scudamore’s various locations.
Can Cambridge hotels arrange college tours?
Many hotels recommend official walking tours covering college highlights, though most visitors explore independently as colleges are easily accessible from central locations.
Do I need to book Cambridge hotels early for graduation?
Yes, graduation weeks in late June and early July see hotels fill months in advance with significantly higher rates. Book as early as possible if visiting during these periods.
Can I book Cambridge hotels through easyStay with free cancellation?
Yes, most easyStay listings include flexible cancellation. Look for “Free Cancellation” before confirming your stay.
Book Your Stay in Cambridge Today
From historic coaching inns to riverside retreats, hotels in Cambridge immerse you in centuries of academic excellence. Whether you’re chasing chapel views, punting adventures, or simply wandering ancient college quads, there’s a perfect scholarly base waiting.
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