Cambridge’s oldest hotel, the University Arms: where the learned stay in luxury
- The property has just undergone a US$100 million refurbishment, working with architect John Simpson and interior designer Martin Brudnizki
- The city centre, with its historic colleges, are on the doorstep
What’s the story? The oldest hotel in Cambridge, England, the University Arms began life as a coaching inn in 1834 and has reopened following a four-year, £80 million (US$102 million) refurbishment.
That is a lot of money; what’s changed? Well, the original facade overlooking Parker’s Piece (a green space that was the scene of Queen Victoria’s coronation banquet) has been retained but the interiors have been rebuilt and an incongruous 1960s extension has been demolished. The building that has risen in its place is in keeping with the original style.
So it looks authentic? Architect John Simpson has worked on the palaces Buckingham and Kensington, as well as a couple of Cambridge University colleges, so he knows a thing or two about classical refurbishment. His design for the University Arms includes a striking porte-cochère – a columned, covered carriage entrance, for cars rather than horses these days – and a grand lobby. It’s hard to believe the new addition hasn’t been standing since the days of William IV.
What about the interiors? They’re down to Martin Brudnizki, designer du jour (responsible for the new Annabel’s clubhouse, in Mayfair, and the refreshed Ivy restaurant, in Covent Garden). The feel is of a contemporary private members’ club: Farrow and Ball-painted walls; reclaimed wooden floors; antique rugs; on-trend ottomans and armchairs; and sofas that beg to be sunk into.
What about the rooms? There are 192 of them and they span the range from cosy to superior), and include 12 suites named after Cambridge alumni; it’s not often you’re presented with the chance to get inside Charles Darwin, Virginia Woolf or Stephen Hawking. Bathrooms have black-and-white tiles and underfloor heating, while 26 of them boast (roll-top, claw-foot) baths as well as showers.
What’s the food like? The restaurant, Parker’s Tavern, takes inspiration from your typical college dining hall – stained-glass windows and leather bench seating – but the menu is a modern take on traditional British fare, East Anglian produce used to deliver dishes such as smoked trout, potted shrimp, a daily roast trolley and pie of the day. Cambridge burnt cream pudding is a local take on crème brûlée.